Recent advancements in our understanding of the biology of canine cancers highlight that not only dogs develop similar types of cancers as humans, but their tumors also behave and respond to therapies in similar ways. For example, the treatments available for dogs with lymphoma are very similar to those used for human lymphoma.
The vast majority of cancer drugs used on dogs are based on human protocols. In contrast to the goal of most human clinical trials which is to cure the patient, the purpose of veterinary chemotherapy is to extend an animal’s life and, also ensure a reasonable quality of life during treatment. Therefore, the doses given to dogs are often less intense when compared to the corresponding weight-based human dose to minimize the toxic effects.
Despite the vital progress obtained in the treatment of some pets’ malignancies, cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs. Clinical trials provide the opportunity for a dog with cancer to receive treatment with a new cancer therapy that could potentially be more effective than existing treatments. It is also an alternative that could help your dog after other strategies are no longer efficient.
By participating in a trial, you and your dog are helping doctors improve the detection and treatment of cancer, as well as improve the quality of care each pet receives. Clinical trials are essential because it is the best method to learn how to treat cancer more effectively. Participation in a clinical trial could help your dog, future dogs with cancer, and potentially other human cancer patients as well.
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