Oncology & Chemotherapy
At VSP, we believe every pet deserves a fighting chance against cancer, and every family deserves hope during this journey. With 1 in 4 dogs diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime and nearly half of all dogs over age 10 facing this challenge, early detection and expert care are important. That’s why our veterinary specialists use advanced diagnostics, innovative treatments, and compassionate care to support pets and their people at every step. From surgery and chemotherapy to targeted therapies, we provide comprehensive cancer care to give your pet the best chance for recovery and a better quality of life.
{Advanced Oncology}
Care for Pets
Expert Pet Cancer Care, Every Step of the Way
The VSP team specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer in dogs, cats, and other pets. Using advanced diagnostics like cytology, biopsies, and state-of-the-art imaging (CT scans, digital radiographs, and ultrasound), we can identify cancer early and create personalized treatment plans. Our goal is to provide compassionate, expert care while using innovative therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and minimally invasive procedures for improved outcomes and comfort.
If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer and you’d like to explore treatment options with a specialist, you can schedule an appointment with our Internal Medicine team.
{Why Choose VSP} for Pet Cancer Care
Trusted expertise, advanced technology, and compassionate care, all in one place for your pet’s cancer journey. Here’s what sets us apart:
Your Pet’s Team
of Experts
Our board-certified veterinary cancer specialists and internists collaborate to deliver seamless, multidisciplinary care.
Advanced Diagnostics
& Therapies
From staging to advanced imaging and targeted treatments, we use advanced tools to ensure precise diagnoses and effective plans.
Care for
Every Pet
We focus on your pet’s comfort and quality of life with customized treatment plans, emotional support, and guidance for families at every step.
{Complete Cancer Care} Under One Roof
At VSP, our canine oncology specialists offer a full range of advanced cancer services in both locations (Louisville, KY, and Evansville, IN), making it easier for pet parents to access the care their pets need. Whether your pet requires surgery to remove a tumor, chemotherapy for systemic treatment, or minimally invasive interventional procedures like urethral stenting or TURBT (Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumors), we are here to guide you.
Services include:
- Advanced imaging (CT, MRI, Ultrasound) for staging and planning
- Cytology and biopsy for accurate cancer diagnosis
- Chemotherapy protocols personalized to your pet’s needs
- Pain management and palliative care for comfort and quality of life
{Personalized Oncology} Plans for Every Pet
Every cancer case is unique, so our team creates custom treatment plans to meet your pet’s needs. From monitoring benign tumors to treating aggressive cancers, we focus on comfort and the best possible outcomes.
Our veterinary cancer treatments include:
Surgery, Chemotherapy & Immunotherapy – Pets often tolerate chemotherapy well, with 85% experiencing minimal side effects.
Interventional Therapies – Minimally invasive options like urethral/ureteral stenting and TURBT for urinary cancers.
Cryosurgery (Freezing) – Effective for certain tumor types with less invasiveness.
At VSP, we combine expertise and compassion to guide you through every step of your pet’s cancer journey.
When to See a {Veterinary Cancer Specialist}
Some signs of cancer in pets can be subtle, while others require urgent attention. Our veterinary oncologists are trained to evaluate these concerns and guide families through the next steps with clarity and care. If you notice any of the following symptoms, your pet should be evaluated as soon as possible:
- Abdominal swelling
- Bleeding from the mouth, nose, or other body openings
- Difficulty breathing or eating
- Lumps, bumps, or discolored skin
- Non-healing wounds
- Persistent diarrhea or vomiting
- Sudden changes in weight
- Unexplained swelling, heat, pain, or lameness
- Visible mass or tumor
What to Expect From Treatment Outcomes
Treatment success depends on the type of tumor, how far it has spread, and the options available. While outcomes can vary, many pets with cancer respond well to treatment and enjoy a good quality of life.
Benign tumors are often easier to manage if caught early, but they can still cause serious problems, like a brain tumor pressing on nearby tissue. For more aggressive cancers, treatment may not always provide a cure, but it can slow progression, ease symptoms, and give you more time with your pet. At VSP, we focus on balancing effective cancer care with your pet’s comfort and overall well-being.
Frequently Asked {Questions}
What is veterinary oncology and why might my pet need it?
A cancer diagnosis in a pet can feel overwhelming. Veterinary oncology focuses on understanding, diagnosing, and treating cancer in pets so that you don’t have to navigate this alone. At VSP, our specialists work with your primary veterinarian to create a personalized plan that balances aggressive care with comfort and quality of life for your beloved pet.
What kinds of cancer do pets commonly get?
Pets can develop many types of cancer, including lymphoma, mast cell tumors, soft tissue tumors, and bone tumors. Each case is unique, so early evaluation and staging help us understand the type and extent of the disease. This allows us to guide you to the best treatment approach for your pet.
Is chemotherapy safe for pets?
Many pets tolerate chemotherapy very well. At VSP, protocols are personalized to minimize side effects and focus on your pet’s comfort. The goal of chemotherapy for pets is often to slow cancer progression and improve quality of life, not just shrink tumors.
Can pets still enjoy a good quality of life with cancer?
Yes, many pets with cancer continue to enjoy life when their treatment is carefully managed. Our goal at VSP is to tailor therapies that balance effective care with comfort, helping pets stay happy and comfortable throughout treatment.
Do I need a referral to schedule an oncology appointment?
Lots of oncology appointments are scheduled through referral from your primary care vet, who knows your pet’s medical history best, but referrals are not required to meet with our veterinary cancer specialists. If you have questions or concerns about your pet’s symptoms or condition, feel free to reach out to us directly – we can help.
Will my primary veterinarian stay involved in my pet's care?
You don’t have to choose between specialty care and your trusted veterinarian. We work closely with referring doctors and share detailed findings and recommendations. This team-based approach ensures your pet receives consistent, coordinated care at every stage.
Your Partner in
{Pet Cancer Care}
At VSP, we know how overwhelming a cancer diagnosis can feel. Our team is here to support you and your pet every step of the way, with advanced treatment options, compassionate guidance, and hope for a better tomorrow.