Dog Cancer Answers

Dog Cancer Answers

If your dog has cancer, this podcast can help. Vetted advice from real veterinarians who answer your questions. Call our listener line to ask your question: 808-868-3200.

  1. 3D AGO

    Chinese Herbs & More: Integrative Vet Gives Supplement Advice | Dr. Jessica Tartof

    Dr. Jessica Tartof explores the benefits of Chinese herbs, vitamin A, vitamin D, and various mushrooms like turkey tail and Myco-Forte. Dr. Tartof explains how testing guides her recommendations and why trusted supplement brands are essential. Tune in to learn how these supplements can help your dog fight cancer! Key Takeaways:  Chinese Herbs: A customizable approach depending on your dog’s condition.  Vitamins: Testing is critical before using vitamin D; vitamin A is used at safe levels.  Mushrooms: Myco-Forte and turkey tail mushrooms are trusted staples in cancer care.  Always consult your veterinarian before starting any supplements!  Your Voice Matters!   If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.   Related Videos:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9czPvOSrfoU  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kYLIbs1cFE   Related Links:  Check out our knowledgebase of supplements! https://www.dogcancer.com/supplements/   Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  00:30 - Listener Question: Supplements for Dog Cancer  00:45 - Dr. Tartoff’s Go-To Supplements: Chinese Herbs  01:15 - Synergistic Effects of Curcumin in Chinese Formulas  01:45 - Testing Vitamin D Levels Before Supplementing  02:15 - Safe Use of Vitamin A in Dogs  02:30 - The Role of Myco-Forte and Turkey Tail Mushrooms  03:00 - Adjusting Supplement Protocols Based on Testing  03:30 - Trusted Brands for Dog Cancer Supplements  04:00 - Closing Thoughts and Resources at DogCancer.com  04:15 - Disclaimer and Podcast Credits    Get to know Dr. Jessica Tartof: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/jessica-tartof-dvm-gdipvchmcivt-cva-cvsmt/   For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    7 min
  2. MAR 24

    New Dog Cancer Treatment? Ultrasound Cancer Treatment in Dogs Trial | Dr. Joanne Tuohy

    Recorded in late 2022 and aired in 2023, Molly Jacobson speaks with Dr. Joanne Tuohy about an innovative cancer treatment for dogs: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). Learn how this technology works, its potential benefits, and its current role in veterinary clinical trials. Dr. Tuohy explains how HIFU targets tumors with precision sound waves to destroy cancer cells. Bonus: it potentially relieves pain and stimulates the immune system to attack any tumor cells that are left! If you’re interested in cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials for your dog, this episode is a must-listen.  Key Topics Covered:  What is High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)?  How HIFU destroys tumors using sound waves.  Benefits and safety of HIFU compared to traditional treatments.  Clinical trials for dogs with osteosarcoma.  The potential for HIFU to provide pain relief and stimulate immune responses.  Future applications of HIFU in veterinary oncology.  Your Voice Matters!   If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.   Related Videos:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAZrPM1X8ww   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_92w6TTXM5c   Related Links:  https://vetmed.vt.edu/people/faculty/tuohy-joanne.html   https://www.fusfoundation.org/diseases-and-conditions/soft-tissue-tumors/  https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/osteosarcoma-in-dogs/  Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  02:00 What Is Ultrasound, and How Is HIFU Different?  06:00 How HIFU Destroys Tumors with Sound Waves  09:45 Safety of HIFU for Dogs and Technicians  12:30 Precision Targeting: Avoiding Damage to Healthy Tissue  18:00 Real-Time Monitoring and Engineering Behind HIFU  22:15 Potential Benefits: Pain Relief and Immune Stimulation  26:00 Clinical Trials for Osteosarcoma: What to Expect  31:45 Future Applications of HIFU for Other Cancer Types  37:00 Aftercare for Dogs Receiving HIFU  41:00 Cost and Availability of HIFU Treatments  46:00 Advice for Dog Lovers Considering Clinical Trials  50:00 Final Thoughts on the Promise of HIFU    Get to know Dr. Joanne Tuohy: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/joanne-tuohy-dvm-phd-dacvs-small-animal/  For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    50 min
  3. MAR 17

    Dog Cancer Success Story: Refusing Chemo for Lilli | John Mcleish

    Meet John Mcleish, a devoted dog lover who shares his journey with Lilli, his 12-year-old Cocker Spaniel diagnosed with adenocarcinoma. His heartfelt story begins with navigating her cancer treatment during the global pandemic—which presented unique challenges—from limited veterinary access to tough decisions about chemotherapy and surgery.  John opens up about:  Recognizing early signs of illness during the pandemic lockdown.  The difficulty of advocating for Lilli amidst restricted veterinary services.  His choice to forgo chemotherapy and prioritize Lilli’s quality of life.  The support and hope he found through The Dog Cancer Survival Guide and Apocaps.  How Lilli’s spirit inspired him to stay strong, despite the emotional toll.  John’s story offers valuable insights for anyone facing tough decisions about their dog’s cancer treatment.  Key Moments:  Discover how John recognized Lilli’s symptoms and took action.  Learn about the importance of trusting your vet and seeking second opinions.  Hear how adding a new puppy to the family brought joy during a tough time.  Your Voice Matters!   If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question. Related Videos:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqaofR4XtBU   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CL7qmJN8KHw Related Links:  The Dog Cancer Survival Guide: https://www.dogcancerbook.com  Apocaps: https://apocaps.com/   This chemotherapy article covers EVERYTHING! https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/drugs/dog-chemotherapy/  Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  00:30 First Signs of Trouble: Lilli’s Diagnosis  02:00 Navigating a Pandemic and Delayed Care  05:15 The Surgery and Initial Results  07:30 The Recurrence: Making Tough Choices  10:45 Choosing Quality of Life Over Aggressive Treatment  16:00 The Role of Intuition and Advocacy in Dog Cancer  21:15 How Puppies Can Bring Joy During Hard Times  26:30 Imprinting and Legacy: Stories of Connection  28:00 John’s Best Advice for Dog Owners Facing Cancer  34:00 A Heartfelt Thanks and Final Words of Hope    Get to know John Mcleish: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/john-mcleish/  For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    45 min
  4. MAR 10

    Where to Get Dog Chemotherapy: General Practice Veterinarians Can Do Chemo | Dr. Kristen Lester

    Dr. Kristen Lester has taken a unique journey as a general practitioner offering chemotherapy to dogs. Dr. Lester shares the inspiring cancer story of her "heart dog" Sue, the challenges of cancer treatment, and why she believes GPs can play a vital role in oncology. From safety protocols to overcoming the lack of local specialists, this episode is packed with insights for dog lovers and veterinarians alike.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode:  How Dr. Lester got into oncology through her heart dog, Sue  The role general practitioners can play in cancer treatment  Safety protocols for administering chemo in a general practice  Tools and resources for GPs interested in oncology  The pros and cons of choosing a GP versus an oncologist  Your Voice Matters!   If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.   Related Videos:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNbQ4mNx938  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6_fWtQbxfw   Related Links:  This chemotherapy article covers EVERYTHING! https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/drugs/dog-chemotherapy/  Looking at metronomic chemo? Here’s a great read: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/metronomic-chemotherapy-for-dogs/  Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  00:30 - Dr. Lester’s Background: General Vet Meets Oncology  01:15 - The Heart Dog Who Started It All: Sue’s Story  06:45 - What is Chemotherapy in General Practice Like?  08:30 - The Role of Palladia and Modern Cancer Drugs  12:15 - General Practitioners vs. Oncologists: Pros and Cons  19:00 - Safety Protocols for Chemo in General Practice  24:30 - Special Equipment Needed for Chemotherapy  30:15 - What Dog Owners Should Know About At-Home Chemo  35:00 - Common Cancers and Chemo Protocols GPs Can Handle  38:45 - How to Start Offering Chemo as a GP  45:15 - Resources and Support for General Practitioners  48:30 - Closing Thoughts: Fighting Cancer Together    Get to know Dr. Kristen Lester: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/kristen-marie-lester-dvm/  For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    53 min
  5. MAR 3

    Healthy Meat for Dogs: Venison, the Superfood and Powerful Protein! | Dr. Alexandra Ubell

    Dr. Alex Ubell and Molly Jacobson dive deep into the benefits and potential risks of feeding venison to dogs. Learn why venison is an excellent high-protein, low-fat option for dogs with cancer, overweight dogs, or those needing novel proteins.  Topics include:  What is venison and where does it come from?  Nutritional benefits of venison for dogs, including essential vitamins and minerals.  Why venison’s omega-3 and polyunsaturated fats are beneficial for cancer dogs.  How venison compares to other proteins like beef.  Potential risks, including allergies, microbial contamination, and chronic wasting disease.  Safe preparation and feeding tips for venison.  Dr. Ubell also shares tips for hunters and the importance of consulting a veterinary nutritionist before making significant diet changes for your dog.  Your Voice Matters!   If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.   Related Videos:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gLCvvwSwjg  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lSYmKVKw86o  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAgObIOhEMg   Related Links:  Dr. Ubell’s article on venison: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diet-and-lifestyle/venison-for-dogs/ Dog Cancer Diet Guidelines https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diet-and-lifestyle/dog-cancer-diet/   How to reduce cancer risk using food: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/how-to-reduce-cancer-risk-using-food/  Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  00:15 Welcome to Dog Cancer Answers  00:30 What Is Venison? (Types and Sources)  02:00 Is Venison Commercial or Hunted?  03:00 Why Venison Is Good for Dogs with Cancer  04:30 Nutritional Benefits: Protein, Vitamins, and Minerals  05:30 Omega-3s and Polyunsaturated Fats in Venison  06:30 Venison for Overweight Dogs: A Low-Fat Option  07:15 Balancing Venison in Home-Cooked Diets  08:30 Venison and Allergies: What to Watch For  09:30 Risks of Venison: Parasites, Bacteria, and Heavy Metals  10:15 Chronic Wasting Disease: What You Need to Know  11:30 Preparing Venison Safely for Dogs  13:00 Hunting Tips to Ensure Safe Venison Meat  14:00 Venison as a Sustainable Food Source  15:00 Feeding Tips: How to Start Venison in Your Dog’s Diet  23:30 Final Thoughts and Resources    Get to know Dr. Alexandra Ubell: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/alexandra-ubell-dvm/  For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    29 min
  6. FEB 24

    Can Acupuncture Really Help Dogs? Surprising Truths and Myth Debunking | Dr. Narda Robinson

    Dr. Narda Robinson dives into the science behind acupuncture for dogs with cancer. She explains how it works on the nervous system, dispels common myths, and highlights its benefits for managing pain, nausea, and inflammation. Dr. Robinson also offers advice for dog parents on choosing a scientifically trained acupuncturist and tips for using massage to help your dog at home. Topics Discussed:  What acupuncture is and how it works  The science behind acupuncture and the nervous system  Common myths about acupuncture for dogs  Practical tips for dog parents: massage and acupressure  How acupuncture complements conventional cancer treatments  Finding the right veterinary acupuncturist  Your Voice Matters!   If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.   Related Videos:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPVNBEy73iU   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fk-BtD9pgU  Related Links:  A great overview article on acupuncture: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/acupuncture-for-dogs/  About holistic veterinarians: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/building-your-team/holistic-veterinarians-and-cancer/  An article about integrative medicine: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/what-is-integrative-medicine/   Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  2:15 Dr. Robinson's Background and Qualifications  4:30 How Acupuncture Works on the Nervous System  9:00 Benefits of Acupuncture: Pain and Nausea Management  12:30 Myths and Misconceptions About Acupuncture  18:00 Acupuncture vs. Massage: What You Can Do at Home  23:15 Choosing the Right Veterinary Acupuncturist  28:00 Acupuncture and Cancer: Complementing Conventional Treatments  34:45 Proactive Approaches to Radiation and Chemotherapy Side Effects  40:00 Gentle Techniques: Reducing Fear and Stress in Dogs  46:30 Final Thoughts and Resources for Dog Parents  Get to know Dr. Narda Robinson: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/narda-g-robinson-do-dvm-ms-faama/   For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    55 min
  7. FEB 17

    Aggressive Dog Tumor? How Mitotic Index Reveals the Hidden Truth | Dr. Brooke Britton | Dr. Brooke Britton

    Dr. Brooke Britton joins James Jacobson to demystify the mitotic index—a critical factor in understanding your dog’s cancer diagnosis. Learn how this number, derived from a tumor biopsy, influences treatment decisions and prognosis for various types of dog cancers like mast cell tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, and melanomas. Dr. Britton shares her expertise in interpreting pathology reports and navigating the nuances of cancer care for your beloved pet. Topics Covered:  What is the mitotic index?  How pathologists calculate and report mitotic index.  When mitotic index is critical for treatment decisions.  The role of biopsies in cancer diagnosis and care.  Why tumors behave unpredictably and what that means for your dog.  Key Takeaway:  The mitotic index is just one of many factors in dog cancer care, but it can play a vital role in understanding tumor behavior and guiding treatment.  Your Voice Matters!   If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.   Related Links:  An article on mitotic index: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/mitotic-index/  Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  00:30 What is Mitotic Index?  01:30 How Mitotic Index Is Calculated   03:00 Tumor Heterogeneity   07:00 Mitotic Index and Prognosis   11:00 High vs. Low Mitotic Index   15:00 Biopsy and Treatment Decisions   19:00 Re-Biopsy Insights   21:00 Wrap-Up    Get to know Dr. Brooke Britton: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/brooke-britton-dvm-dacvim-oncology/  For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    28 min
  8. FEB 10

    Is Radiation Therapy Dangerous for Dogs? The Truth from A Vet Tech | Jenny Fisher

    In this in-depth expose, veterinary oncology technician specialist Jenny Fisher joins Molly Jacobson to explain the ins and outs of radiation therapy for dogs with cancer. Whether you're fearful as you consider radiation for your dog or just curious about how it works, this episode provides invaluable insights.  Topics Covered:  How radiation therapy works and the two types: diagnostic vs. therapeutic  The difference between teletherapy and brachytherapy  What to expect during radiation treatments, including anesthesia use  Short-term and long-term side effects of radiation therapy  When radiation therapy is recommended for dogs with cancer  How stereotactic radiosurgery like CyberKnife offers precision treatment  Tips for preparing your dog for radiation therapy and managing side effects  Your Voice Matters!   If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.   Related Videos:  Radiation for a dog with TCC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGoyn-1TBsA  What a veterinary technician does: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9m7pjiHLhGA   Related Links:  An overview of radiation therapy for dogs: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/radiation-for-dogs/  An in-depth article on stereotactic radiation: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/stereotactic-radiation-therapy-for-dogs/   Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  0:15 What Is Radiation Therapy for Dogs?  01:00 Types of Radiation: Teletherapy vs. Brachytherapy  02:45 Common Misconceptions About Radiation Safety  04:00 How Teletherapy Works for Dogs  06:30 The Role of Anesthesia in Radiation Therapy  08:45 How Radiation Targets Tumors  10:30 Curative vs. Palliative Radiation Intent  12:15 Stereotactic Radiosurgery Explained  14:00 Managing Side Effects: Short-Term and Long-Term Effects  18:00 Radiation-Induced Tumors: Risks and Realities  20:30 Preparing Your Dog for Radiation Therapy  23:00 How Technicians Create a Healing Environment  25:15 Tips for Dog Owners: What to Ask Your Vet  27:00 Closing Thoughts: Changing Perceptions Around Radiation    Get to know Jenny Fisher: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/jenny-cassibry-fisher-rvt-vts-oncology/  For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    56 min
4.8
out of 5
24 Ratings

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If your dog has cancer, this podcast can help. Vetted advice from real veterinarians who answer your questions. Call our listener line to ask your question: 808-868-3200.

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