Cost of Chemotherapy for Dogs

The cost of chemotherapy for dogs varies widely, depending on the type of cancer, the size of the dog and the type of chemotherapy drugs used. Costs may also be significantly different from one region to another, or even from one veterinary hospital to another. It can be expensive and many people don't do chemotherapy for a dog because of the price but there may be strategies to make it more affordable.

Size

The size of the dog is the biggest factor in determining cost, since chemotherapy drug doses are tailored to the dog's weight. There are several different chemo drugs and which ones used, and for how long, will depend on the type of cancer treated. Cancer can affect almost any system in a dog's body, from bones and connective tissue to organs and skin. As of 2008, a single cancerous lesion in a very small dog may cost as little as $200, while a systemic cancer like lymphoma in a giant breed can cost over $1000 a month.

Get Referrals and a Second Opinion

Your regular veterinarian will refer you to a veterinary oncologist for treatment. Discuss all options, including cost. This can be a very overwhelming time and it is wise to take notes and get at least one second opinion. Treatment regimens and costs can vary significantly from one facility to another.

Ongoing Studies

Cancer drugs are aggressively studied in veterinary teaching hospitals. Our pets are often the first "test subjects" for chemotherapy medications, before the medications are marketed for human use. Therefore, considerable funds and research is ongoing, with new drugs and treatment protocols emerging on an ongoing basis. Cancer treatment is not an exact science, which is why one oncologist may prefer a particular regimen over another as new drugs become available.

If a chemotherapy drug has been on the market long enough, the price may come down as it becomes available in generic form. Ask about the difference in cost and effectiveness between promising, emerging drugs and those with a track record.

Types

There are many different chemotherapy drugs, and often several are used together, and with other complementary medications, depending on the type of cancer involved. Some of the currently established drugs are Carboplatin, Cisplatin, Adriamycin and Leukeran.

Unlike humans, most dogs tolerate chemotherapy very well, with only occasional nausea and few serious side effects.

Clinical Trials

Because so many chemotherapy drugs (and other emerging cancer treatments) are being studied, veterinary teaching hospitals often have ongoing clinical trials. If your cancer dog fits their requirements, you may be able to enroll for little or no cost. Contact your nearest vet schools and ask, or check Resources for more ways to find clinical trials.

For those who find the cost of chemotherapy prohibitive, this can be a way to get affordable treatment and be part of the cure.

References

• Chemotherapy costs for dogs
• About chemotherapy for dogs

Resources

• About canine cancer
• Clinical trials and other resources