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Oncology

Cancer is one of the most common diagnoses in companion animals, and it’s understandably frightening. At Portland Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Care (PVESC), we treat cancer as a condition that can be managed, often allowing pets to live comfortable, high-quality lives thanks to modern therapies, carefully selected protocols, and compassionate support.

Common Signs that May Indicate Cancer

If your pet is showing any of the following symptoms, and your primary veterinarian has diagnosed or is strongly concerned about cancer, a veterinary oncology consultation may help.

  • Lumps or swellings on the body or enlarged lymph nodes
  • Unexplained weight loss or muscle wasting
  • Appetite changes (reduced appetite or difficulty eating)
  • Lethargy, decreased activity, or behavior changes
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Increased thirst or urination
  • Lameness or difficulty moving

Early detection matters. The sooner cancer is identified, the more options are available to preserve quality of life.

What Life Looks Like During & After Treatment

  • Quality & quantity of life: Most pets undergoing cancer treatment are still able to enjoy favorite activities, meals, and routines. The goal is to extend both how long and how well.
  • Manageable side effects: We see far fewer severe reactions than many expect. Many side effects are mild and treatable at home; hospitalization is rare.
  • Adjustable protocols: If a therapy isn’t well-tolerated, we adjust or switch plans. Your pet’s comfort is always a priority.

Working with Your Primary Veterinarian

Collaboration is central to our approach:

  • Referral & history: We review all past workups, diagnostics, and existing treatments.
  • Communication: We keep your primary vet fully in the loop—on diagnosis, treatment plans, follow-ups, side-effect management.
  • Continuity of care: After your pet’s oncology treatment visits, your primary vet will continue routine care, coordinated with us so cancer treatments do not contradict or overlap routine care harmfully.

How to Get Started

If you suspect cancer in your pet (see above signs), talk to your primary care veterinarian or contact us directly. We’ll begin with diagnostics (imaging, biopsies, bloodwork) to understand what we’re dealing with, then map out a tailored care plan that balances treatment effectiveness with your pet’s comfort.

Treatment Options: What We Offer

At PVESC, your pet has access to a range of oncology therapies. Each plan is customized to the specific cancer type, stage, and your pet’s condition.

Treatment Modality

What It Involves / When It’s Used
Traditional Chemotherapy Drugs to kill or halt growth of cancer cells. Can reduce tumor size, slow progression. We prioritize regimens with fewer side effects.
Metronomic Chemotherapy Low-dose, continuous chemotherapy aimed at reducing tumor blood supply (anti-angiogenesis), limiting side effects, and improving quality of life.
Immunotherapy / Biologic Response Modifiers Treatments designed to help the pet’s immune system fight cancer more effectively, or to modify how cancer cells behave. Targeted options when appropriate.
Surgery Removal of masses or tumors when feasible. Our surgical team works in concert with oncology for best outcomes.
Supportive & Palliative Care Focus on comfort, symptom control (pain, nausea, weight loss), nutrition, and preserving daily enjoyment and function.

Resources

Canine and Feline Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a malignancy (cancer) arising from the lymphoid tissues involving the immune system as well as any organ. When the malignant cells are present…

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Canine Melanoma Vaccine

The oncologist recommended Canine Melanoma Vaccine for my dog. What will it do? How does it work? Canine Melanoma Vaccine alerts the immune system to…

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Canine Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer)

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone tumor in dogs. Large and giant dog breeds have the highest risk of this malignancy. This tumor is…

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Meet Our Oncology Doctors

Kelvin Kow

Kelvin Kow

DVM, DACVIM, Oncology
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Gail Mason

Gail Mason

DVM, MA, DACVIM, Oncology, Internal Medicine
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Brittanie Partridge

Brittanie Partridge

DVM, PhD, DACVIM, Oncology
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Frequently Asked Questions

No. It depends on tumor type, stage, overall health, and owner goals. Sometimes we suggest palliative care only; sometimes curative intent; often something in between.

Some side effects are possible, but we use protocols that minimize risk. Most pets tolerate treatment well. We’ll monitor carefully and adjust as needed.

Schedules vary. Chemotherapy might be weekly, biweekly, or less often depending on the protocol. Surgery schedules depend on recovery needs.

Oncology is not a small commitment. Costs depend on diagnostics, type of treatment, duration, follow-ups, etc. We provide cost estimates and discuss them openly so you can decide what makes sense for your pet and family.