Healthcare services
Veterinary Chemotherapy
Compassionate, evidence-based cancer treatment for dogs and cats — helping your pet live comfortably for as long as possible.
A cancer diagnosis isn't the end of the road
Receiving a cancer diagnosis for your pet is devastating news. But with advances in veterinary oncology, many pets with cancer can be treated effectively — often living comfortably for months or years beyond their diagnosis with a good quality of life.
At Vets in Frankston, we offer chemotherapy as part of a broader cancer management approach. Our goal is always to maximise your pet's comfort and quality of life, and we'll work closely with you to understand your wishes and make decisions that are right for your family.
How veterinary chemotherapy works
Veterinary chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells. It can be used as the primary treatment, or alongside surgery and radiation therapy as part of a multimodal approach.
Importantly, pets generally tolerate chemotherapy much better than humans do. Veterinary protocols are designed to maintain quality of life — doses are typically lower than in human medicine, and most pets experience minimal side effects and continue to eat, play, and enjoy their daily routines throughout treatment.
Cancers commonly treated with chemotherapy
Lymphoma
One of the most common cancers in dogs and cats, lymphoma often responds well to chemotherapy. Many dogs achieve remission and enjoy a significantly extended, good-quality life.
Mast cell tumours
Chemotherapy may be used alongside surgery for high-grade mast cell tumours, or as a primary treatment when surgery is not possible.
Leukaemia
Blood-based cancers affecting white blood cells can be managed with chemotherapy protocols tailored to the specific type and stage of disease.
Osteosarcoma
Bone cancer in dogs is often treated with a combination of surgery and chemotherapy to slow metastatic spread and extend comfortable life.
Transitional cell carcinoma
Bladder and urinary tract tumours can be managed with chemotherapy and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce tumour size and relieve symptoms.
Soft tissue sarcomas
Certain soft tissue sarcomas benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy following surgical removal to reduce the risk of recurrence or spread.
Our approach to treatment
Diagnosis & staging
Before recommending chemotherapy, we confirm the cancer type and stage through biopsy, cytology, blood work, and imaging. Accurate staging guides the most appropriate treatment protocol.
Specialist collaboration
We work closely with veterinary oncology specialists to ensure your pet receives the most current, evidence-based protocol for their specific cancer type. Referral to a specialist oncologist is discussed where appropriate.
Tailored protocol
Treatment protocols are individualised based on cancer type, stage, your pet's overall health, and your goals for treatment. We'll explain all options clearly so you can make an informed decision.
Monitoring & support
Regular check-ups, blood monitoring, and open communication throughout treatment allow us to adjust protocols as needed and address any side effects promptly.
Quality of life focus
At every stage, your pet's comfort and wellbeing come first. We incorporate pain management, nutritional support, and palliative care as needed alongside active treatment.
Side effects in pets
Pets undergoing chemotherapy generally experience far fewer and milder side effects than humans. The most common are mild nausea, reduced appetite, or temporary lethargy for a day or two after treatment. Serious side effects are uncommon, and our monitoring protocols are designed to catch any concerns early. Most pets continue their normal routines — eating well, going for walks, and enjoying time with their families — throughout the course of treatment.
When treatment isn't the right choice
Chemotherapy isn't the right path for every pet or every family. If you decide that active treatment isn't what you want for your pet, we fully support that decision. We offer compassionate palliative and supportive care focused entirely on keeping your pet comfortable, pain-free, and happy for as long as possible. There is no wrong answer — only the one that's right for you and your pet.
Common questions
Talk to us about your pet's diagnosis
If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer, we're here to help you understand your options and make the best decision for your family.