Oncology and Chemotherapy

A cancer diagnosis is a lot to take in.  We sit with you, talk things through gently, and focus on options that keep your pet as comfortable and happy as possible.

Cancer treatment plans built around your pet’s everyday wellbeing

We offer oncology and chemotherapy services here in St Kilda, so cancer care can happen in a familiar clinic with a team you already know. Each case starts with a careful work‑up and clear explanation of the diagnosis, then we talk through the treatment paths that fit your pet and your family best.

Chemotherapy in pets is usually very different to what people picture. Doses and protocols aim for more good days, fewer side effects and a focus on comfort rather than aggressive treatment at any cost, and your pet’s quality of life stays at the centre of every decision.

“Veterinary cancer care isn’t about chasing every last day at any cost. It’s about giving your pet as many comfortable, happy days as possible, and supporting your family the whole way.”

Little changes that are worth checking for cancer

Some changes are small but still worth a second look. If you notice any of the signs below, a cancer check can either put your mind at ease or help us act early if something is wrong.

1

A new lump or bump, or one that’s growing or changing

2

Sores that don’t heal

3

Unexplained weight loss, or loss of appetite

4

Unusual bleeding or discharge from any opening

5

Persistent lameness or stiffness

6

Slowing down, loss of interest in walks or play

7

Difficulty breathing, eating, swallowing or toileting

8

Bad breath that’s suddenly different or much worse

A clear pathway through cancer treatment

Results, options and next steps are always explained clearly, with regular check‑ins so you know how treatment is going and how your pet is coping day to day.

Accurate diagnosis

Fine needle aspirates, biopsies, in‑house blood tests and imaging help us understand exactly what is going on. Clear results mean we can talk honestly about options and next steps.

Personalised treatment plans

Every cancer behaves differently, and so does every pet. We outline medical, surgical and chemotherapy options in plain English, including likely benefits, risks and visit schedules.

Quality-of-life focus

Pain relief, anti‑nausea support, nutrition advice and home‑care tips all sit alongside active treatment. Comfort, appetite and everyday enjoyment guide every adjustment we make.

Found a lump, or other worrying signs?

Book a consultation with our team. Together, we’ll take a look, explain your options in plain English and walk through whatever comes next.

A clear outline of the steps we take in cancer care

Cancer treatment feels less overwhelming when the path is clear. We set out each stage in plain language, check in often, and keep the plan aligned with your pet’s needs.
1

1

Initial consultation

We examine your pet, review their medical history and discuss the signs you have noticed, with time set aside for key questions.

2

Diagnosis & staging

Blood tests, samples, imaging and other investigations define the cancer type and assess how far it has progressed, so decisions are based on accurate information.

3

Discussion of treatment options

We outline appropriate options such as chemotherapy, surgery, referral, or a comfort‑focused plan, including likely benefits, risks and commitment for each approach.

4

Chemotherapy in-clinic

When chemotherapy is recommended, treatments are administered at the clinic with close monitoring and structured protocols designed for veterinary patients.

5

Ongoing review & support

Regular rechecks to monitor response to treatment, side effects and overall quality of life, allowing us to adjust medications or the treatment plan as needed.

FAQs about pet cancer care

It’s much gentler than chemo for people. Doses are lower, side effects are usually mild, and the goal isn’t cure-at-any-cost — it’s more for achieving a better quality of life. Most pets carry on eating, playing and sleeping normally throughout treatment.

It varies a lot depending on the type of cancer and the plan we agree on. We’re up-front about costs at every stage, including supportive-care-only options if treatment isn’t the right fit for your family.

Absolutely not. Surgery, palliative care, pain management, or simply keeping your pet comfortable at home are all valid choices, and we’ll respect whichever path you take.

That’s a kind and valid decision, and we’ll support it fully. Good palliative care includes pain relief, anti-nausea medication, appetite support and gentle daily plans can give pets a very comfortable last chapter.

Sometimes. For complex cases we work hand-in-hand with veterinary oncology specialists and refer when it benefits your pet, but most of the ongoing care stays here, with familiar faces.

We’re here for the worrying moments as well as the routine ones

If your pet has cancer or a change you’re unsure about, we’ll talk it through and work out a plan that feels right for you both.