Service
Oncology
Evidence-based cancer care focused on quality of life, clear guidance, and individualized treatment decisions.
Where Exceptional Medicine Meets Genuine Compassion
Clear Guidance Through a Cancer Diagnosis
A cancer diagnosis brings uncertainty, not just about treatment, but about what matters most going forward. The role of oncology care isn’t only to treat disease, it’s to help families understand their options and make decisions that align with their goals for their pet’s quality of life.
At Upleash, oncology care is evidence-based, individualized, and grounded in clear communication. We focus on helping you understand what’s happening, what choices exist, and what each path realistically looks like, without pressure or unnecessary intervention.
The upleash approach
What an Oncology Consultation Looks Like
An oncology consultation is not a single decision point. It’s a process of gathering information, interpreting it carefully, and deciding what makes sense for your pet and your family.
An initial consultation may include:
- Comprehensive review of medical history, lab work, and prior imaging
- Thorough physical examination
- Thoracic and abdominal radiographs
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Fine needle aspirates with cytology, when indicated
- Oncology consultation with a board-certified oncologist, if elected
- Development of a treatment plan with multiple options
Our goal is not to push a single “right” answer, but to help you understand the range of reasonable options and choose a plan that feels appropriate for you and your pet.
Diagnostics: Understanding the Disease Before Treating It
Exceptional oncology care starts with accurate information. Diagnostics help us understand what type of cancer we’re dealing with, how advanced it is, and what that means for treatment and prognosis.
Digital Radiography (X-rays)
Radiographs allow us to evaluate the chest, abdomen, and skeletal system for evidence of cancer, spread to the lungs, or bone involvement. They are often part of the initial staging process and can also be used to monitor response to treatment over time.
Because digital radiographs are fast and non-invasive, they provide valuable information with minimal stress for most patients.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound allows real-time evaluation of internal organs and soft tissues. It is especially helpful for identifying masses, organ changes, or fluid accumulation and plays an important role in cancer staging.
Ultrasound also allows us to guide fine needle aspirates or fluid sampling with precision, helping us gather diagnostic information while minimizing discomfort.
Cytology & Biopsy
To diagnose cancer accurately, we often need to examine cells or tissue under a microscope. Cytology involves collecting cells with a fine needle, while biopsy provides a small tissue sample when more detail is needed.
These samples are sent to veterinary pathologists for expert interpretation, helping determine the type of cancer, how aggressive it may be, and which treatment options are most appropriate.
CT Imaging
CT imaging provides detailed, three-dimensional information that can be critical for cancer staging and treatment planning. It allows us to better assess tumor size, location, and potential spread, particularly in complex areas such as the chest or abdomen.
This level of detail helps guide decisions about surgery, medical therapy, or additional treatment options.
Treatment Planning: Options, Not Pressure
After diagnostic information is gathered, we work with you to develop a plan that considers:
- the type and stage of cancer
- your pet’s overall health and comfort
- potential benefits and risks of treatment
- your goals as a family
Depending on your pet’s diagnosis, multiple treatment options may be available. Our role is to help you understand your options clearly with the goal of the best quality of life for your pet.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is one tool used in veterinary oncology and can be administered in several ways, including injections, oral medications at home, or localized treatment. The goal is typically disease control, slowing progression while maintaining a good quality of life.
Most pets tolerate chemotherapy far better than people expect. Side effects are usually mild and closely monitored with recheck exams and lab work. Treatment plans are individualized and adjusted as needed to balance effectiveness and comfort.
Monitoring & Adjusting Care Over Time
Cancer care is not static. As treatment progresses, we monitor:
- your pet’s comfort and quality of life
- response to therapy
- bloodwork and organ function
- imaging findings, when appropriate
This allows us to adjust medications, dosing schedules, or overall strategy as needed. In some cases, maintenance therapy may be recommended once disease is stable, using lower-intensity treatment aimed at preserving good quality time.
Meet Our Skilled Team
Our team provides thoughtful, relationship-first care, combining advanced medical expertise with genuine compassion for every pet and family.
“Testimonials, as authentic endorsements from satisfied customers, serve as potent social proof, significantly inspiring trust in potential consumers.”
Collaboration With Your Veterinarian
We believe oncology care works best as part of a team. When your pet is referred to us, we communicate closely with your primary care veterinarian, sharing findings and treatment plans to ensure continuity.
Our goal is not to replace your regular veterinarian, but to complement their care and support you both through complex decisions.
Expert Care for your pet
A Focus on Quality of Life
Not every cancer can be cured. Not every treatment is appropriate for every patient. Our priority is helping you make informed decisions that reflect what matters most — comfort, time together, and dignity.
Oncology care at Upleash is about effective treatment options and realistic expectations, so you can move forward with confidence, whatever path you choose.
