The Memory of a Much Loved

•Unexplained bleeding: Bleeding from any part of the body that was not traumatized should be addressed with the vet. Other potential signs of illness include oral odor, lameness, blood in urine, and a non-productive cough.

Pet owners should discuss possible treatment plans if their pets are diagnosed with cancer. According to PetCure Oncology, in the past a cancer diagnosis may have left pet owners with little hope. However, research is now ongoing and there are new treatments that can improve quality of life and reduce the number of treatment sessions. The company says stereotactic radiation, or SRS/SRT, is an advanced form of radiation therapy. Compared to traditional radiation therapy, SRS/SRT is delivered with extreme precision and may be used for some forms of cancer considered untreatable due to sensitive locations in the body. This may be one part of a cancer treatment plan for companion animals. Other cancers may be treated with surgery or medications. Pet owners can discuss their options with their veterinarians. Cancer treatment in pets, much like humans, is based on the type of cancer, how large tumors are and if the cancer has spread, advises AVMA.

With support and treatment, it may be possible to prolong the life of companion animals that have been diagnosed with cancer.