Southwest Veterinary Oncology
Southwest Veterinary Oncology is an oncology practice in Tucson, AZ, staffed by 3 DACVIM-credentialed specialists. Procedures include histopathology, lymph node evaluation, I-131 radioactive iodine treatment, and physical examination.
About
Southwest Veterinary Oncology in Tucson, AZ, is a specialty referral hospital dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in animals. The clinic provides access to advanced diagnostic and medical services, including an in-house laboratory, digital radiography, CT scans, ultrasound, radiation therapy, and I-131 radioactive iodine treatment. Their team includes board-certified veterinary oncologists who have completed extensive post-graduate training and rigorous examinations.
The clinic serves Southern Arizona, being the only veterinary oncology clinic in the region. They frequently participate in research studies to advance cancer treatment options and offer customized plans combining chemotherapy protocols, radiation therapy, and immune system support. The team prioritizes preserving the quality of life for pets and offers compassionate support to pet owners facing a cancer diagnosis.
About the team
-
Mary K. Klein
DVM, MS, DACVIM, DACVR
Dr. Mary K. Klein has focused her medical career on the diagnosis and treatment of animal cancer.
-
Caroline M. Wood
DVM, PhD, DACVIM
She has a special interest in cancer research and looks forward to advancing cancer knowledge both in the clinic and in the laboratory throughout her career.
-
Megan Duckett
DVM, DACVIM
She continues to foster a strong interest in the translation of research from the laboratory bench to the oncology clinic.
Services
- histopathology
- lymph node evaluation
- I-131 radioactive iodine treatment
- physical examination
- cytology
- immune system support
- biopsy
- radiation therapy
- Surgery
- chemotherapy protocols
Equipment
- in-house laboratory
- digital radiography
- CT scans
- ultrasound
- MRI scans
Photos
Photos via Google · C. Haugo, Andre Koster, Ashley Aragon, Daniel Duncan
Frequently asked questions
- What specialized diagnostic and treatment services are available for pets with cancer?
- Southwest Veterinary Oncology offers a range of specialized services including an in-house laboratory, digital radiography, CT scans, ultrasound, radiation therapy, and I-131 radioactive iodine treatment. They also provide customized treatment plans that may combine chemotherapy protocols, radiation therapy, and immune system support.
- How does Southwest Veterinary Oncology ensure the quality of its veterinary oncologists?
- The clinic's doctors are board-certified veterinary oncologists, meaning they have completed 3-4 years of additional training in veterinary oncology and passed rigorous board examinations by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Some also hold certification from the American College of Veterinary Radiation Oncology.
- What is the process for determining a pet's cancer prognosis at Southwest Veterinary Oncology?
- A pet's prognosis, which forecasts the likely course of the disease, is determined by the veterinary oncologist. This assessment is based on factors such as the tumor type, stage, and grade. The oncologist reviews the pet's records and discusses expected outcomes based on various treatment options.
- How does Southwest Veterinary Oncology approach the quality of life for pets undergoing cancer treatment?
- Preserving a pet's quality of life is the primary objective in their care. While treatments may have potential side effects, the clinic makes every effort to ensure these are mild, manageable, and resolve quickly. The goal is to maximize good days for the pet by maintaining a strong risk-benefit ratio.
- What is the difference between staging and grading a tumor?
- Staging determines if and where a tumor has spread from its primary site, influencing prognosis and treatment. This may involve physical exams, imaging like X-rays or CT scans, and biopsies. Grading, performed by a pathologist on a biopsy, predicts the tumor's aggressiveness and likelihood of recurrence or spread.