Southwest Veterinary Oncology
Southwest Veterinary Oncology is an oncology practice in Tucson, AZ.
About
Southwest Veterinary Oncology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in animals, offering comprehensive oncology services. The clinic provides advanced diagnostic and medical capabilities, including an in-house laboratory, digital radiography, CT scans, ultrasound, radiation therapy, and I-131 radioactive iodine treatment. Their team includes board-certified veterinary oncologists and experienced technicians with over 75 years of combined experience in administering chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
As the only veterinary oncology clinic serving Southern Arizona, Southwest Veterinary Oncology accepts referrals from primary care veterinarians for specialized cancer consultations. They focus on providing customized treatment plans, which may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immune system support, with a primary goal of preserving the pet's quality of life. The clinic expanded in 2020 to accommodate more patients and reduce wait times.
Photos
Photos via Google · C. Haugo, Andre Koster, Ashley Aragon, Daniel Duncan
Frequently asked questions
- What types of advanced diagnostic imaging are available at Southwest Veterinary Oncology?
- Southwest Veterinary Oncology provides a range of advanced diagnostic imaging services. These include digital radiography, CT scans, and ultrasound, which are utilized to aid in the diagnosis and staging of cancer in animals. The clinic also offers an in-house laboratory for further diagnostic support.
- What credentials do the veterinarians at Southwest Veterinary Oncology hold?
- The veterinarians at Southwest Veterinary Oncology are board-certified veterinary oncologists. This means they have completed 3-4 years of additional training in veterinary oncology and have passed rigorous board examinations administered by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Some also hold certification in radiation oncology.
- How does Southwest Veterinary Oncology determine a pet's cancer prognosis?
- The prognosis for a pet with cancer is determined by the veterinary oncologist after reviewing the pet’s records, considering the specific tumor type, its stage, and its grade. This forecast of the disease's likely course is variable for each pet and informs discussions about expected outcomes based on different treatment options.
- What is the difference between cytology and biopsy procedures for cancer diagnosis?
- Cytology involves removing a small sample of tumor cells with a needle for microscopic evaluation, typically without sedation, and serves as an initial diagnostic step. Biopsy, or histopathology, involves removing a small piece of the tumor for a pathologist to assess tissue architecture, determine subtype, and grade, which is crucial for prognosis and often requires sedation.
- What is Southwest Veterinary Oncology's approach to maintaining a pet's quality of life during cancer treatment?
- Southwest Veterinary Oncology prioritizes the pet's quality of life as the foremost objective during treatment. While potential side effects exist, the team makes every effort to ensure they are mild, manageable, and resolve quickly. The goal is to maintain a strong risk-benefit ratio, focusing on providing extended, quality time for the pet.