Oncology Services

Specialist-Guided Oncology Care

At Vets in Frankston, our oncology service combines personalised, local care with access to specialist expertise. Complex cancer cases and treatment plans are overseen remotely by the board-certified veterinary oncologists at Veterinary Oncology Consultants, ensuring your pet benefits from evidence-based recommendations and the latest advances in veterinary oncology while receiving treatment in the familiar environment of our clinic.

Working collaboratively with specialist oncologists allows us to provide comprehensive cancer care close to home. Together, we develop tailored treatment plans based on your pet's diagnosis, stage of disease, overall health, and your family's goals, giving you confidence that every decision is supported by specialist knowledge and compassionate care.

Compassionate Cancer Care for Pets at Vets in Frankston

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. At Vets in Frankston, we are committed to providing compassionate, personalised oncology care that focuses on both your pet's wellbeing and your family's goals.

Every pet and every cancer diagnosis is unique. Our approach is centred on developing an individual treatment plan that considers your pet's type of cancer, overall health, quality of life, and your wishes as their owner. We believe that informed decisions lead to the best possible outcomes, and we're here to guide you through every step of the journey.

Personalised Cancer Treatment Plans

Following a cancer diagnosis, we may recommend a range of diagnostic tests to better understand your pet's condition. These recommendations are tailored to your pet's individual circumstances and may include imaging, laboratory testing, biopsies or other procedures to determine the type and stage of the cancer.

Understanding the disease allows us to discuss the most appropriate treatment options, which may include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Surgical treatment
  • Referral for radiation therapy where appropriate
  • Palliative care and pain management
  • Ongoing monitoring and supportive care

Our goal is to provide honest, evidence-based advice so you can make confident decisions that are right for both you and your pet.

Safe Chemotherapy Administration

When chemotherapy is recommended, your pet's safety—and the safety of your family and our team—is our highest priority.

At Vets in Frankston, we use the PhaSeal™ Closed System Drug Transfer Device (CSTD) when preparing and administering chemotherapy. This advanced closed-system technology helps minimise the risk of exposure to chemotherapy medications by preventing the escape of hazardous drug vapours and liquids during preparation and administration.

Our veterinary team also follows strict cytotoxic handling principles and established safety guidelines at every stage of the treatment process. From the preparation and administration of chemotherapy to the handling and disposal of cytotoxic waste, we adhere to rigorous protocols designed to provide the highest standards of safety and care.

Before your pet begins treatment, we will provide you with clear instructions on safely caring for them at home following chemotherapy, including any temporary precautions that may be required.

Supporting You Through Every Stage

Choosing to meet with our veterinary team does not mean you are committed to pursuing intensive cancer treatment. For many families, simply understanding the diagnosis, prognosis, and available options provides valuable clarity.

Whether your goal is to pursue treatment, maintain your pet's comfort for as long as possible, or focus on palliative care, we will work closely with you to develop a plan that reflects your pet's needs and your family's wishes.

Our priority is always your pet's comfort, dignity and quality of life.

Common Types of Cancer in Pets

Some of the more common cancers we diagnose and manage include:

  • Lymphoma
  • Mast cell tumours
  • Mammary tumours
  • Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)
  • Skin cancers, including melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma
  • Oral (mouth) tumours
  • Haemangiosarcoma, commonly affecting the spleen

Early diagnosis often provides more treatment options and can significantly improve outcomes. Regular health checks are an important part of detecting disease early, but if you notice any of these signs between routine visits, we recommend booking an appointment as soon as possible.