Recorded just before the holiday season, this episode is packed with inspiration and tips to make every day a celebration of your dog’s life. Whether your dog is young, old, healthy, or dealing with cancer, you’ll find actionable ideas to brighten their days—and yours.

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHWVGRjUjjc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAgObIOhEMg

Related Links:

A fantastic article about the very real dangers of stress in dogs: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/causes-and-prevention/stress-in-dogs/

Finding strength and coping with hard times with your dog: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/stress-and-finances/dog-has-cancer/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

01:00 - Why Emotional Well-Being Matters for Dogs

02:30 - The Power of Walks and Sniffaris

06:15 - Helping Mobility-Challenged Dogs

09:30 - The Joy of New Toys

11:15 - Eye Gazing: Bonding Through Love Hormones

14:00 - Grooming as a Relaxation Ritual

20:00 - Meditation with Your Dog

26:30 - Cheat Days and Favorite Treats

30:00 - Sharing Your Dog’s Life Story

35:00 - Fun Training and Clicker Tricks

40:00 - Hide-and-Seek Games

44:30 - Agility and Physical Fun

48:15 - Massage Techniques for Relaxation

52:30 - Enrichment: The Key to Happiness

56:00 - Wrap-Up: Celebrate the Bond with Your Dog

Get to know Kate Basedow: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/kate-basedow-lvt/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

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Dr. Narda Robinson, an osteopath (for humans), veterinarian, and integrative medicine researcher, joins us to talk about healing dogs with massage therapy. It’s not just petting! Massage for dogs has many benefits and can alleviate pain.

Dr. Robinson thinks we should all be helping our dogs every day with massage. She emphasizes the difference between simple petting and therapeutic massage, the role of myofascia, and how to identify and relieve pain. The conversation covers the lack of formal training in massage for veterinarians, the potential for hands-on learning, and how techniques such as effleurage, petrissage, and compression can be utilized at home.

Dr. Robinson also shares her views on the intersections of traditional and alternative medicine, the importance of reading an animal's body language, and contraindications for performing massage on dogs.

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2w5AyaLqrw

Related Links:

Our article about massage: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diet-and-lifestyle/massage-for-dogs/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:13 The Importance of Massage Therapy for Dogs

00:58 Veterinary Education and Integrative Medicine

04:47 Understanding Myofascial Techniques

05:55 The Role of Fascia in Animal Health

09:41 Practical Applications of Massage

17:16 Teaching Massage Techniques to Pet Owners

20:37 The Benefits of Massage Over Medication

21:52 Recognizing Signs of Pain in Pets

24:58 Transforming Veterinary Practice with Massage

27:32 The Importance of Nurturing in Veterinary Care

28:02 When and Where to Avoid Dog Massage

29:57 Risks and Guidelines for Dog Massage

30:37 The Role of Veterinarians in Dog Massage

31:46 Balancing Care and Overdoing It

33:15 Integrative Approaches in Veterinary Medicine

38:05 Understanding Animal Signals and Communication

46:15 Choosing the Right Veterinary Practitioner

50:00 Outro and Resources

Get to know Dr. Narda Robinson: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/narda-g-robinson-do-dvm-ms-faama/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

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A caller wonders if treating early with oral melanoma in dogs helps with outcomes. Dr. Brooke Britton says yes, this aggressive cancer can develop rapidly, but early detection and treatment can make a significant difference. Learn about the latest treatments, including surgery and the innovative melanoma vaccine, and how they can improve outcomes for dogs with this diagnosis.

👉 This episode is packed with helpful insights for any dog lover!

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSDO31dz4Vc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dc8eHjRZok 

Related Links:

Our article about oral melanoma: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/oral-melanoma-in-dogs/ 

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction

00:15 – Listener Question from Marjorie

01:00 – Early Detection and Why It Matters

02:30 – Surgical Options for Oral Melanoma

05:00 – Melanoma Vaccine Explained

09:00 – A Remarkable Success Story

10:30 – Managing Risk with the Melanoma Vaccine

12:00 – Chemotherapy’s Role in Melanoma Treatment

14:00 – Outro and Resources

Get to know Dr. Brooke Britton: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/brooke-britton-dvm-dacvim-oncology/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ultrasounds are a non-invasive way to diagnose and monitor various conditions in dogs. In this episode of Dog Cancer Answers, Dr. Adrienne Anderson explains what ultrasound is, how it works, what happens during an ultrasound appointment, and why it’s such a valuable diagnostic tool.

Learn about when ultrasounds are recommended, how much they cost, and what to expect during the process—all in plain, relatable terms. Plus, discover how ultrasounds can guide additional procedures like biopsies and fluid sampling.

👉 This episode is packed with helpful insights for any dog lover!

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Links:

Our article about ultrasound: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/ultrasound-examination-in-dogs/

Chapters:

0:00 – Introduction

1:00 – What Is Ultrasound?

3:00 – How Ultrasound Works in Veterinary Care

5:15 – Ultrasound vs. X-Ray: Key Differences

7:00 – What Happens During an Ultrasound Appointment?

10:45 – Common Uses for Ultrasound in Dogs

13:30 – When Ultrasounds Guide Procedures

16:15 – Availability of Ultrasound Services

18:30 – Cost of Ultrasound for Dogs

21:00 – Are There Risks to Ultrasound?

23:00 – Outro and Resources

Get to know Dr. Lauren Anderson: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/adrienne-anderson-ma-dvm/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barbara from Vermont is seeing a new veterinarian, and they want to perform surgery to remove her dog’s TCC. Is it a viable option for her 13-year-old dog who has been on NSAIDs? Dr. Britton unpacks the complexities of bladder cancer treatment, especially the risks and benefits of surgery, and explains why non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like piroxicam are often used to manage this disease.

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:           

Dr. Demian Dressler with an overview of Transitional Cell Carcinoma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5prSL7yn82E

Is bladder cancer a death sentence for dogs? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhUcJyme52Y

Using radiation for dogs with TCC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGoyn-1TBsA

Related Links:

Our article on bladder cancer, including transitional cell carcinoma: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/bladder-cancer-in-dogs-including-transitional-cell-carcinoma/

Our comprehensive surgery guide for you and your dog: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/your-dog-surgery-guide/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

00:30 – Listener's Question from Barbara

02:00 - Overview of Bladder Cancer in Dogs

03:00 - Why Surgery Is Rarely Recommended for Bladder Cancer

04:45 - Managing Bladder Cancer with NSAIDs

05:30 - The Risks of Surgery: Tumor Seeding and Recurrence

07:00 - Field Effect and Microscopic Tumor Cells in a “Snowglobe”

08:00 - Factors to Consider Before Opting for Surgery

09:15 - Conclusion: Weighing the Options

10:00 - Outro and Resources

Get to know Dr. Brooke Britton: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/brooke-britton-dvm-dacvim-oncology/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education, go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Molly Jacobson speaks with Dr. Lauren Barrow, a veterinarian who sees cancer in her patients and a mother whose son has a brain tumor. Are vets just after your money? She has some sage insights to offer!

Dr. Barrow offers heartfelt and compassionate advice for pet parents trying to make the best decisions for their dogs while dealing with financial limitations. Whether you're struggling to afford treatments or feeling guilt over cancer's impact on your family, this episode offers encouragement and practical tips to help you move forward with grace.

Key Takeaways:

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:           

This veterinarian thinks pet health insurance is well worth it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jPY3U2fRRas

Why dog cancer treatments are so expensive (from a veterinary oncologist): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6X82_irtOlE

How to handle guilt when you can’t afford to treat dog cancer – and how to find funds! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znb5nxqTHrU

Related Links:

Dr. Barrow’s article about being a team leader in dog cancer care: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/building-your-team/team-leader/

Our article about CareCredit: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/stress-and-finances/carecredit-for-dogs/

Dr. Barrow’s article about the costs of cancer treatments for dogs: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/stress-and-finances/cost-of-cancer-treatment-for-dogs/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Barrow and her own cancer journey

03:15 – The Emotional Burden of Cancer

06:45 – Understanding Financial Shame

10:30 – Why Vets Aren’t In It for the Money

14:45 – What Goes Through a Vet’s Mind When Giving a Cancer Diagnosis

18:00 – The Financial Spectrum of Cancer Care

22:30 – Asking Your Vet About Costs

25:00 – When to Involve a Veterinary Oncologist

28:15 – Partnering with Your Vet

30:00 – Final Thoughts on Navigating Cancer with Grace

19:30 – Outro and Resources

Get to know Dr. Lauren Barrow: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/lauren-harper-barrow-dvm-cna/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s dive into early cancer detection strategies for dogs with veterinary oncologist Dr. Brooke Britton. We discuss common cancers like anal gland cancer and lymphoma, share practical guidelines for screening, and emphasize the crucial role of pet owners and veterinarians in detecting cancer early. Looking to stay ahead of serious health issues? This is a must-watch.

Topics Covered:

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:           

Dr. David Vail on early detection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0S5qST7euWg

New early detection urine test from Oncotect: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFxo_ZsedG0

Related Links:

Our article on Why Dog Cancer Isn’t Caught Early: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/dog-cancer-isnt-caught-early/

Our article on the Symptoms of Dog Cancer In Dogs: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/symptoms-of-cancer-in-dogs/

And overview of Dog Cancer Diagnosis: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/dog-cancer-diagnosis/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

00:30 – Listener's Question from Janet

02:30 – Dr. Britton's Initial Thoughts

03:30 – Cancer Screening Guidelines by Age and Breed

05:00 – What Happens During a Wellness Check

07:15 – Signs of Cancer to Watch for at Home

08:45 – The Role of Pet Owners in Detecting Cancer Early

10:00 – Screening Frequency Recommendations

12:30 – Using Data to Improve Early Detection

14:30 – Limitations of Guidelines and the Importance of Individual Assessment

16:30 – The Challenges of Detecting Aggressive Cancers

18:45 – The Importance of Communication Between Owners and Veterinarians

19:30 – Outro and Resources

Get to know Dr. Brooke Britton: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/brooke-britton-dvm-dacvim-oncology/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Molly Jacobson interviews Dr. Dani McVety, founder of Lap of Love, a nationwide veterinary hospice and in-home euthanasia service. In this long conversation, the veterinary hospice expert and the dog mom explore tough and important decisions dog lovers face in terrible, heart-wrenching moments. Dr. McVety offers compassionate guidance on what to expect during the euthanasia process. If you're wondering about the right time to make end-of-life decisions for your beloved dog, this episode offers comfort, understanding, and practical advice.

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:           

The 26 signs a dog might be entering the dying process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LW0DJHJGZmc

Dr. Dressler’s answer to when to euthanize: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dj7ajAPhL0

A dog mom’s perspective on euthanasia versus natural death: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUXM_jMgkdI

Related Links:

Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice: https://www.lapoflove.com/

A great article on the signs your dog is near the end of life: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/hospice-and-end-of-life/signs-your-dog-is-dying/

Wondering about hospice? Read this: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/hospice-and-end-of-life/hospice-for-dogs/

Wondering about euthanasia? This article will help: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/hospice-and-end-of-life/dog-euthanasia/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

01:00 - The Birth of Lap of Love

03:30 - The Importance of Hospice for Pets

08:00 - Signs It's Time for Euthanasia

15:00 - The Role of Veterinary Hospice and Euthanasia

25:00 - Managing Emotional and Physical Burdens

35:00 - What Happens During Euthanasia

45:00 - Coping with Grief After Pet Loss

50:00 - Final Thoughts & Advice

Get to know Dr. Dani McVety: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/dani-mcvety-dvm/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Veterinary oncologist Dr. Brooke Britton answers a listener's question about a 10-year-old Golden Retriever diagnosed with an anal gland tumor. The dog recently underwent a CT scan and they saw a small tumor in the stomach lining and an enlarged lymph node. Is it spread? Or a new type of cancer? Dr. Britton discusses possible scenarios, the limitations of different diagnostic techniques, and considerations when deciding on invasive procedures. She also explains incidental findings, the metastatic process, anesthesia risks in older dogs, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and informed decision-making. If you’re dealing with a dog facing multiple potential cancer diagnoses, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you navigate complex choices.

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:           

Get a second opinion, especially if you’re confused! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FTSRun88ps

Your Dog Cancer Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOrT39LPcrU

Related Links:

Our article on anal sac cancer: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/types-of-dog-cancer/anal-sac-cancer-in-dogs/

An explainer article about CT scans: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/dog-ct-scan/

A great article explaining how dog cancer is diagnosed: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/diagnosis-and-medical-procedures/dog-cancer-diagnosis/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

01:00 - Darlene's Question

02:00 - Initial Thoughts on Multiple Tumors

03:15 - Incidental Findings vs. Metastasis

05:00 - Understanding Lymphatic Involvement

07:00 - The Metastatic Cascade

09:00 - Challenges with Minimally Invasive Diagnostics

11:30 - Weighing Invasive Procedures Against Quality of Life

13:15 - Explaining Incidental Findings in Plain Language

15:00 - Monitoring vs. Immediate Action

16:30 - Anesthesia Risks for Older Dogs

18:00 - Final Advice for Darlene

19:15 - Outro and Resources

Get to know Dr. Brooke Britton: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/brooke-britton-dvm-dacvim-oncology/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jenny Fisher, an experienced Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) specializing in oncology, shares tales of hope and inspiration, plus insight into the critical roles that vet techs play in the care and treatment of dogs with cancer. From the day-to-day responsibilities of veterinary technicians to emotional and physical demands, Jenny opens up about what it's really like to work in a veterinary oncology team.

She also shares a heartwarming story about Bear, a Labrador who beat the odds thanks to cancer treatment and a dedicated veterinary team.

Key Topics Discussed:

Your Voice Matters!

If you have a question for our team, or if you want to share your own hopeful dog cancer story, we want to hear from you! Go to https://www.dogcancer.com/ask to submit your question or story, or call our Listener Line at +1 808-868-3200 to leave a question.

Related Videos:           

Your Dog Cancer Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOrT39LPcrU

Prepare for your first oncologist visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9ONO8g_8C0

Related Links:

A great article about the “behind the scenes” people on your dog cancer care team: https://www.dogcancer.com/articles/building-your-team/meet-the-heroes-who-fight-dog-cancer-without-a-veterinary-license/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

01:00 - Meet Jenny Fisher, RVT & Oncology Specialist

03:00 - Understanding Vet Tech Credentials and Specializations

04:45 - The Importance of Title Protection for Veterinary Technicians

06:30 - Who’s Who in the Vet Practice: From Reception to Veterinary Technicians

09:00 - What Vet Techs Can and Can’t Do: Surgical Assistance, Anesthesia, and More

12:00 - Bear’s Story: A Labrador’s Inspiring Journey Through Cancer Treatment

16:45 - The Emotional Impact of Veterinary Oncology on Vet Techs

18:15 - Why Vet Techs Leave the Profession: Pay and Job Protection Issues

20:30 - The Physical and Emotional Demands on Veterinary Technicians

23:00 - Long-Term Health Risks for Vet Techs: Radiation and Hazardous Drugs

25:45 - Managing Client Expectations and Communication in a Busy Hospital

28:00 - How Veterinary Technicians Handle Emotional Labor and Client Judgement

30:00 - Why Vet Hospitals Need More Vet Techs and Assistants

31:45 - The Cost of Veterinary Care: Efficiency and Staffing Ratios

33:00 - Becoming a Veterinary Technician: Training and Certification Explained

36:00 - The Role of Vet Techs in Cancer Treatments: Chemotherapy, Radiation, and More

37:45 - Closing Thoughts: Jenny Fisher on the Future of Oncology Vet Techs

Get to know Jenny Fisher: https://www.dogcancer.com/people/jenny-cassibry-fisher-rvt-vts-oncology/

For more details, articles, podcast episodes, and quality education go to the episode page: https://www.dogcancer.com/podcast/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices