Costs vary widely, depending on the type and stage of cancer, the number of treatments needed and the age and condition of the dog.
The initial visit, including diagnosis, discussion of prognosis and a treatment plan likely will cost $200 and up, depending on the location of the cancer, according to The National Canine Cancer Foundation[1] .
Major surgery to remove a tumor deep in the body, or that requires reconstruction, usually starts at about $1,500.
Chemotherapy depends on the size of the dog, and usually ranges from $200 to $2,000 and up, for three to six months of treatment.
Radiation therapy usually ranges from $2,000 to $6,000.
The treatment combination depends on the type of cancer. For lymphoma, the most common type of cancer in dogs, treatment usually consists of only chemotherapy. The average claim amount submitted to Veterinary Pet Insurance[2] for lymphoma is $479. Mast cell tumors usually are treated with only surgery, and sometimes radiation or chemotherapy, depending on the stage, and have an average claim amount of $604. Osteosarcoma is sometimes treated with amputation surgery and almost always with chemotherapy, with an average claim amount of $446.
After a diagnosis, a veterinarian will refer the dog to a veterinary oncologist or will draw up a treatment plan specific to the dog and the type and stage of cancer.
The University of Missouri-Columbia's veterinary oncology program provides overviews chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery.
Additional costs:
Healthypet.com[3] has an article on pain management. Pain medications can cost $25 to $50 a month.
Pets with cancer sometimes require antibiotics or other medications, which usually cost about $30 to $50.
Some owners of dogs with cancer choose to add complementary and alternative medicine to the treatment regimen. The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association[4] allows a search for holistic veterinarians by state.
Discounts:
Before committing to an expensive treatment, you may want to get a second opinion.
Tip: In some cases, it is possible to get free or discounted care by enrolling your dog in a clinical trial. The Veterinary Cancer Society[5] provides links to institutions currently holding clinical trials.
Shopping for dog cancer treatment:
Because there are more than 100 types of cancer seen in pets, and each one has its own set of problems and variations in treatment, it is important to learn as much as possible about the specific diagnosis. Good resources include: your veterinarian, the library and the internet. HealthyPet.com[6] has a primer on handling a cancer diagnosis and finding the best treatment.
VeterinaryPartner.com provides detailed articles on some of the more common types of cancer found in dogs: Osteosarcoma[7] , Hemangiosarcoma[8] , Lymphocytic Leukemia[9] , Lymphoma[10] , Mammary Tumors[11] , Mast Cell Tumors[12] , and Transitional Cell Carcinoma[13] .
To find a veterinary oncologist, use the by-state search offered by The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
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The most attentive doctor I've ever had. We wish he was still practicing. Expensive, but worth it. The doctors and staff working for him are the best in the business too. Not sure if he is still working or if he retired. We lost Bosun 2 years later, but we gave him the best extra 2 years we could have and feel eternally grateful for the opportunity. We were referred to MSU for followups but preferred to stay at Nickerson.
9 yo old female boxer diagnosed with lymphoma spread to lungs. Was given good prognosis w Chemo. After 2 weeks was declared in complete remission per tests, but that was misleading. She died 2 weeks later after stump pyometra emergency surgery (was spayed but still got pyometra). Surgery revealed she was full of masses. Could not regain a viable level of breathing/oxygenation after surgery. Vet said she was a rare case that did not respond well to chemo. I’m still not sure what happened but I regret putting her through all of the tests chemo and surgery, both due to cost and the truth about her real prognosis.
Some of these posts are old.I still hope I receive some valuable input. I found out today my 9.5 year old male chow chow's large tumor biopsy results were melanoma. The surgeon did a great job and removed most of the tumor. I have an oncology appointment later this week. The test results do not tell the stage of cancer it is. The miotic counts is 36 miotic figures per 10 high powered fields. I am not sure if I need to put a decimal point to make it a 3.6 to determine the stage or not. I read in a post here that there are foundations I can contact that could possibly assist me financially. I wish I had purchased pet insurance.
7 1/2 year old female Great Dane developed lump on her front leg distal radius. Regular vet did xrays and sent us to oncologist and surgeon. The surgery was $4500 plus another $1500 for a CAT Scan, $600 for xrays and $500 for various specialist appointments. Chemo estimate is $3,500 which we start next week
The total cost includes an MRI, CT Scan, and SRS Radiation Therapy. Not including the cost of $80/month medications for Cushing's Disease and various other meds. We are in the poor house, but worth every penny for our baby!
Riley has a a tumor inside of his cheek. I was told it is a very localized tumor and he needs radiation. The CT scan is 1,700. The radiation is 6,500. I have already spent 2k on testing and a surgery to remove his back tooth which led to a biopsy which has now led to upcoming radiation. I am still searching for an alternative to Blue Pearl. The vet is great and my dog has a great prognosis. Great bloodwork...a great appetite and no metastasis and it has not spread to his lymph nodes. I'm forced to choose between my losing pet or finding 8,500 which I don't have. I don't have access to over 8,000. Nobody should be in this situation. They force you to choose between your pet or money. No payment plan.... Just pay it up front.
Lucky crickets tumor at apex of bladder, (diagnosed January 2016)so operable. After surgery have followed up with one injectable chemo and anti-inflammatory combo. Some regrowth so switched to oral chlorophyll and anti-inflammatory. Worked again for about 6 months then again a little regrowth so switched chemo to oral Palladia and anti-inflammatory to deranged. Working since October 2016. It is March 2017 and cricket still enjoys a good quality of life.
My dog started acting weird wouldn't run around like he usually does when he sees it's time to go outside and then started having bloody stools . Took him to the vet they said his lymph nodes felt abnormal so they did a test on him and also gave me meds for his diarrhea. Diarrhea with the blood in it slowed down for 3 days but just went right back to how it was got the call from the vet saying he has lymphoma . I'm reading about all these treatment costs and I see how expensive they are , I'd give anything to have my dog for at least one more full month to see him at full energy but I'm a college student who pays bills and can't just come up with the money for chemo . My dog is a shih tzu only 6 years old his life span is supposed to be 10-14 years i can't lose him so soon he's the only real happiness I have if anyone can assist me please send me a email
My 10 year chi has two MCTs on his side. We are watching it for now but it's growing. He has a rash on his belly all the time and he is itchy which is why I put him on benedryl and hydrocortisone. When he starts to get uncomfortable or in pain, I will have him put to sleep. Chewy has had a great life and I refuse to spend thousands of dollars trying to save him. We're letting nature take its course.
My 11 year old Maltese had a tumor removed from her chest on June 21, 2016, and it is now returning along with two smaller lumps nearby. My vet had no previous experience with cases of inflammatory carcinoma and we didn't know until seeing the lab report after surgery, that this was her diagnosis. I would like to talk with anyone who has a dog with inflammatory carcinoma.
A large intestinal mass obstructing the small intestine was located in our 3 year old dog. Cost above includes everything: xrays, ultrasound, surgery, boarding, pain pills, and 5 rounds of carboplatin treatment. We completed round #1 and so far so good. SO blessed to have purchased pet insurance when he was 6 months old. We pay $25 a month in insurance and it will wind up covering approximately half of the total cost. Still expensive, but didn't think twice considering his age. Care Credit was also available as well as foundations online that can help with cost. A horrible experience but grateful for every extra day! Wishing all of you dealing with this disease and the decisions that follow all the best.
I am a dog lover, I de sated to hear my Dog have a large softball size lump in the stomach and also he have anal gland cancer. Vetenary in W.A. Are so expensive that I can effort to pay . My boxer is 10 year old is a hard breaking when you don't have choices in prices. If any one at there would like to help and working in any vetenary that do that type surgery, please contact me at my email [email protected]
My dog buddy 13yrs old needs to go to the vet asap but do to my financial situation im struggling to survive day by day please anyome willing to donate to save my fur baby I would appreciate it greatly I hate for it to have to get to this point but I've run out of options to save my baby.
Ongoing for about 5 years now. Initially noticed lump on Dagger's right front leg in 2011, after tests & biopsies, it's squamous cell carcinoma. Surgeon/specialist successfully removed with wide margins. Six weeks in a cast. 3 years later, tumor returned. Had our regular vet remove it again, with about a month in a cast. Here we are, about 18 months later and the tumor is back with a vengeance. Meeting with original specialist who did the first surgery to discuss options, hoping to remove entire joint capsule this time and replace with a steel rod of some sort? We do NOT want to amputate Dagger's leg because he is a senior dog. If anyone has ever experienced this, please tell me your story. I've had this sweet baby for almost 13 years and he is everything to me. So scared.
My 8 year old dinky was just diagnosed with cancer we are heartbroken. We don't have money for chemo. If anyone can help or make suggestions. Greatly appreciated. We are trying holistic Meds. [email protected] he has all lympnoids swollen but he plays eats good we are devastated
Tara, my 12 yr. old Doberman, developed osteosarcoma in her "elbow" of her left hind leg. Bone tumor was about 2 in. wide. above the joint. Researched treatment. Which was bone resection (cutting the cancerous part of the bone out then reconnecting the bone back together) followed by radiation/chemo. NO dog was cured of cancer. The dogs survived maybe a year more in great pain. Wouldn't do that to myself. Surely wouldn't do that to my girl. Tara was in very little pain. Limped a little by the end of the day. My greatest fear was since the cancer was eating thru the bone, her leg would weaken and break. So took apart a leg air cast of mine, used the velcro, hinges, and air pouches inside, plus a pack of casting strips from a hospital, and created a form fitted cast over the part of Tara's leg & joint that was compromised. Put it on in when she went out and took it off when she slept. She lived relatively pain free for another year and a half. When she stopped eating, I knew it was time.
First, NO complaints about the care, diagnosis, treatment of Atticus. Stellar team. Vet ER visit, cardiac tamponade, stabilized,ultrasound,xrays, herbal(yunna,phosphorous,arnemic montana) treatment, taken home to be with family,despair. Alternatives seemed to delay inevitable outcome, long enough to get his family together. Would have tried Neoplasene(Bloodroot)but no time.
There is this huge lump under my dogs bottom left nipple. And I am very afraid for her. This is the only dog i had for 9 years. It hurts so much. I have 0 income. My family is very poor and we have many financial problems. I wont be able to pay for my dog Peppys surgery, can someone please please help. Is there a way to get a discounted price near me? Someone please i cant let my dog left untreated. She is family. Contact me @ [email protected]
Our 4-year-old rescue girl, Montana was diagnosed with nasal endocarcinoma in July 2013 after tons of testing ($$$ - not included in "Amount Spent") to determine why she had stopped eating for the most part (VCA in Gaithersburg, MD). She has since been through three rhinoscopies. Her last one was June 13, 2014. She currently has a huge mass between her eyes that is causing her right eye to be obstructed almost entirely and extends down into the roof of her mouth. Surgery would be too invasive at this point and of little long term benefit. We just met with a new oncologist at SouthPaws VCA in Fairfax, VA. We learned about "palliative radiation" (5 days of radiation w/ no immediate side effects - side effects 2 years or so after treatment may occur in younger dogs) in combination with Palladia (chemotherapy drug); side effect is possible GI upset. She remains energetic, happy, and eating well throughout all of this so we continue to find ways to keep her pain free as long as possible.
After I came out with the news last June that a cancer doctor told me I had prostrate cancer and suggested a high frequency treatment that is not approved in America and could only be done in Mexico at the cost of $25,000, I immediately looked at alternatives. I contacted my nephew in Vancouver, who was about to become a doctor, and he suggested I meet with a Dr. Rick in Victoria, BC. That doctor changed my diet and put me on supplements, and within a year I brought my PSA numbers down drastically and eliminated the cancer threat. I also treated the condition with hemp oil (hash oil). With the diet, the supplements and the hash oil, plus a session with a world-renowned healer, Adam Dream-healer, I’m cancer-free. That’s right, I kicked cancer’s ass! So the magic plant does cure cancer with the right diet and supplements. I’m due for another blood test, MRI, etc., but I feel the best I’ve felt in years. And now for a celebration joint of the finest Kush for all cancer patient that live
My baby had swollen glands in his neck, was panting excessively,and did not want to eat. He was treated for an infection. The other vet suspected lymphoma and did an aspiration test which came back positive. He was referred to an oncologist for treatment. My vet went ahead and did the initial diagnostic tests (blood, urine, ultrasound). Cost was $1,100. I got an appointment with the oncologist the next day. She wanted to do an additional test on his bone marrow. He received his first treatment and everything that went with it. Cost was $1148. Future treatments have been estimated at $1076.68 to $1424.57 for each 4 week cycle going up to at least 24 weeks. My baby means everything to me and I will do whatever it takes to save him. I JUST CANT STAND THE THOUGHT OF LOSING HIM! I thought if he went into full remission he would have a regular lifespan but found out that dogs with lymphoma only live a year at best. The pain inside is horrible!
Lucy has always had a small abrasion under her right nostril. Occasionally it blisters, but always heals. Pigment on skin has changed. Right now, I can't afford a biopsy, so until then the vet gave her amoxicillin to clear up the blister. They'er saying she will need radiation. Can someone tell me what than entails? Will she be in pain if she has pain management? Thank you Jenny & Lucy
took to emergency vet did x-ray saw something they say so they sent it to radiology came back cancer so they took her leg.And leg was off to be tested.A week went by finally i call and the dr. says she has Histiocytic Sarcoma.100% Fatal.Im going to talk to the chemo dr. on Monday We took a loan out for half of what has been done already (Care program)Don't know what to do .We love her so much
My 7 yr old yorkie, recently diag. w/ MCT (6/7/14). Going to see Oncoligist tomorrow to discuss it further and then a treatment plan. So far i have read all the MCT stories from others (Thx for sharing) and i am just at awe of some of the prices (Initial visit, prognosis, etc) even the outcomes of the good and bad. so far i have paid $278 for visit and needle draw. Whats next is beyond me at this time.
I have read that chemo and radation is the last thing i should do to my lil buddy, for it sounds painful and horrible; and to always get a second opinion before commiting to a treatment. Currently he still spunky, same old cholo, no weight loss, eats like a shark, basically no signs of what he should be showing with MCT. I just hope thats a good sign for us both and this MCT is not as bad as i have read. Thank you all for sharing, you have given us hope and for giving us both a shoulder to cry on. Daniel & Pocholo (My Best bud)
Dogs die of cancer at 13 yrs old conpared to humans at 75 yrs. The reason is dogs have serum albumin levels averaging 30g/L (3%) compared to humans who have 45g/L. Serum albumin levels are the foundation of cell and DNA stability, the higher the level of serum albumin the lower the cancer rate. The level of serum albumin is linked to infammation and infections more than diet. Thus bath your dog properly once a week and inflammation will be low, they will live longer and have far lower cancer Risk.
My female 6 1/2 yr old Rottie was lame for most of the summer, in September found a mass on sternum. Major surgery performed mid October was a success, as soon as she was deemed healthy and healed by the surgeon she started chemotherapy. She will be starting radiation after her fourth chemo session. Add the remaining chemo and radiation and it will be well over $12,000. I don't care, she is priceless. Every day is a gift and I cherish every moment. She is a fighter and we will get through this and I will give my baby every chance. The costs incurred are only from diagnosis of the mass to the present, did not include summer lameness/pain visits/meds.
Came home and found my dog unable on his side and hesitant to walk. took him to the 24-hour emergency vet and he was diagnosed with pancreatitis. meds did not have the desired effect so we went to xray, then to ultrasound. these showed a mass in the small intestine and peritonitis. Emergency surgery to remove mass and drain infection. Biopsy=positive for lymphoma. I don't know yet what I'll do--chemo or prednisone only--but my goal will be to keep my baby comfortable.
Morgan diagnosed early March with stage 4 lymphoma. His nodes were so enlarged front to back and around neck he couldnt breathe. His liver was so large it stuck out the side of him. Started Chemo, second day the nodes went down. End of week no sign of swelling and the liver decreased by 3/4ths. He is on week 8, does have some back lymph node swelling but still going strong, no pain, eating etc. Treasure the time given so far by the wonderful care at Cacoosing.
12-year old Wilbur suddenly lethargic two weeks ago. Family vet: White cells elevated and shadow on spleen x-ray. Down 5 lbs. Specialist: Ultra- sound showed mass. Surgeon:Splenectomy. GREAT CARE from all,Family Vet, Ultrasound & Surgeon. Diagnosis lymphoma. Oncology consult next week. I don't want my boy to suffer, either. I don't want to let him go, but may have to....
I AM SO IN LOVE WITH MY 2ND CHANCE.CHANCE IS A WONDERFUL FRIEND MY BEST FRIEND HE IS IN LOVE WITH ME ALSO. I WAS DEVESTATED TO HEAR HE HAD CANCER AT SUCH A YOUNG AGE TO BOOT. I AM DISABLED AND MY INCOME ISNT MUCH. THERE IS NO AMOUNT THAT I WOULDNT SPEND TO KEEP HIM WELL. PLEASE IS THERE ANY ONE OUT THERE THAT CAN HELP ME. MY EMAIL IS [email protected] i have prayed for the lord to heal him as i know he can, i dont want to doubt but i keep finding more tumors. my heart is breaking
Ongoing treatment costs. $900 for diagnosis at oncologist. $250 x 3 for immunocidin treatments, $150 a week for 12 weeks for IV Vit C, and approximately $100/month for medications/herbs. Cost for an amputation was quoted at between $2500-3500 and chemo ran about $6000.
At this point, we're not going to amputate or do chemo and are hoping the new immunocidin and Vit C treatments will help our dog combat the cancer.
Opie presented with a lump over his eye in Nov. vet thought it was a bug bite and gave him iv predisone and the bump disappeared.
3 weeks later the area over his started to swell suddenly at night. The next day the lump had spread and doubled in size!
Got him to the vet and she said to get him to the vet school ASAP!
We did and after 2 days of tests we found out he had cancer and needed to have the site removed.
So the eye and mass was removed and next week we take him to find out about chemo.
So the amount of money will probably go up.
Marilla (she is now 10) has had Mast Cell for almost 2 years now. She has had 2 surgeries. Both surgeries were tramuatic (mostly for us) and she pulled has pulled through both very well.
After her 2nd surgery in Sept. 2012 our vet put her on predisone and she is also on Benedryl.
We made the decision to not do chemo.or radiation on Marilla. She is not in any pain and doing very well no problems with having Mast Cell....so why put her through it.
She is the head of our pack of 10 dogs and she still reigns supreme.
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