The "C" word…Cancer

Chances are if you have a pet, you may potentially be facing a discussion and treatment of cancer.   We frequently hear, "why is there so much of it now"? That is a good question. One answer is another question, is there "more" of it or are we just better equipped to detect it earlier? Also, pet parents are much more in tune with their  pet's behaviors.  We have the technology to find the answers and the knowledge to recognize changes in our animals everyday patterns and behaviors. 

The Fox Valley Animal Referral Center is fortunate to have two Veterinary Specialist in Internal Medicine.  What does that mean? The term “ACVIM Diplomate” refers to a veterinarian who has been board-certified in veterinary internal medicine. Oncology is a subspecialty of internal medicine. Only veterinarians who have successfully completed the certification requirements of the ACVIM are Diplomates of the AmericanCollege of Veterinary Internal Medicine and have earned the right to be called specialists.

Cancer is something we see often and our specialist, our technicians, and our entire team work with clients and their pets to provide a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual. 

Dr. Elizabeth Breuhl recently provided us with some great educational brochures that follow individual survivor stories.  I will share one with you here and to read more visit www.ACVIMFoundation.org.

Meet Pistache Bermingham. 

Pistache was 17 when his owners noticed a large tumor under her tongue which was preventing her from eating and breathing as well as she had been.  After taking her to see a specialist, she was diagnosed with having a squamous cell carcinoma by her lower jaw area.  The specialist gave the owners their options and they took a weekend to think about their next course of action.  Pistache is a fighter and the owners knew she had more life to live.  They proceeded with therapy which included chemotherapy.  The owners remained optimistic.  The tumor shrunk and Pistache when into remission.  She is currently on a once a week dose of an oral form of chemotherapy and is doing well.  Sylvie Bermingham 

You can also check out our Facebook page for more stories submitted by our clients who have been through or are currently going through cancer treatment at: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.493986370648668.1073741825.133876333326342&type=3

Cancer is personal and it touches us all.