Understanding Veterinary Oncology: What to Expect During Your Pet’s First Consultation in Philadelphia

Learning that your pet has cancer or may have cancer can bring many questions and uncertainties. At Philadelphia Animal Specialty & Emergency, our veterinary oncology team provides compassionate, evidence-based care while helping pet owners understand their options. Our goal is to protect your pet's quality of life while creating a treatment plan tailored to their diagnosis and individual needs.

Preparing for Your Veterinary Oncology Consultation

Before a new veterinary oncology consultation in Philadelphia, we need your pet's medical records. These records may include previous bloodwork, imaging, biopsy or cytology results, medications, and notes from your primary veterinarian. Having this information allows our oncology team to carefully review your pet's history and prepare for the consultation.

During the appointment, one of our veterinary technicians or assistants will review your pet's history with you. Your pet will then receive an examination from the attending veterinary oncologist, followed by a detailed discussion about the findings, diagnosis, and next steps.

What Will We Discuss?

Every cancer diagnosis is different, so veterinary oncology treatment is highly individualized. During your pet's first consultation, we may discuss:
 

•          Your pet's specific cancer diagnosis or suspected diagnosis
 

•          Whether additional diagnostic testing is recommended
 

•          Available treatment options and expected benefits
 

•          Possible side effects, prognosis, and quality-of-life considerations
 

•          Estimated costs and what ongoing monitoring may involve

We want you to leave the consultation with a clearer understanding of your pet's condition and the options available to your family.

Additional Testing and Treatment Options

Depending on your pet's diagnosis, further testing may help us understand the type or extent of the cancer. PASE Oncology offers diagnostic services such as cytology, bone marrow aspiration, flow cytometry, and PCR for Antigen Receptor Rearrangement (PARR). Treatment options include injectable and oral chemotherapy, intracavitary chemotherapy, immunotherapy options for certain cancers, and supportive care.

Cancer care may also involve collaboration with other veterinary specialists. Surgery, medical oncology, radiation therapy, and supportive treatments may be used individually or as part of a multimodal treatment approach depending on the type of cancer.

How Long Should You Plan to Be at PASE?

Our initial oncology consultation is scheduled for approximately one hour and 15 minutes. However, we recommend planning for a half day or, in some cases, a full day if your pet requires additional diagnostics, treatment, or coordination with another specialty service. Some testing or treatment may be completed the same day when appropriate and scheduling allows.

Throughout the process, our priority is maintaining your pet's comfort and quality of life. We take time to explain recommendations, answer your questions, and help you make informed decisions that feel right for your pet and your family.

Schedule a Veterinary Oncology Consultation in Philadelphia

If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer or referred for further evaluation, contact Philadelphia Animal Specialty & Emergency to schedule a veterinary oncology consultation and discuss the next steps in your pet's care. Call our office in Philadelphia, PA at (267) 727-3738 to book an appointment today.