Cancer treatment and diagnosis is expensive… but why? And are there things you can do to help your dog on a budget?
Veterinary oncologist Megan Duffy joins us to explain and ins and outs of dog cancer economics. A consult with an oncologist can run a couple hundred dollars… but that money gets you the full attention of an expert who focuses on dog cancer and has reviewed your dog’s individual case ahead of time. The oncologist should also be giving you a rundown of different treatment options to help you figure out the option that will give your dog the most benefit while still staying within your budget.
Big takeaways? 1. Be honest about your budget so the oncologist can tailor treatment plans for you. 2. Ask about follow-up care and what that might cost. 3. Your vet does not take your treatment choice personally – it needs to be the option that YOU are comfortable with. 4. It is okay to choose a less expensive treatment option. 5. Dr. Duffy has tips for things you can do to save a little money during chemotherapy without cutting corners for your dog’s care.
Links Mentioned in Today’s Show:
- The X Factor in Dog Cancer: Your Personality Type podcast episode - https://dogcanceranswers.com/the-x-factor-in-dog-cancer-your-personality-type-molly-jacobson-deep-dive/
- https://www.dogcancerblog.com/
- Jenna Mahan: Weird Things Dogs Get Into at the Holidays podcast episode - https://shows.dogpodcastnetwork.com/show/the-long-leash-with-james-jacobson/jenna-mahan-weird-things-dogs-get-into-at-the-holidays-the-long-leash-40/
Related Links:
- Financial Assistance for Dogs with Cancer: Resources from The Dog Cancer Vet Team - https://www.dogcancerblog.com/articles/book-excerpt/financial-assistance-for-dogs-with-cancer/
- FETCH a Cure: Financial Help for Dog Cancer podcast episode - https://dogcanceranswers.com/fetch-a-cure-financial-help-for-dog-cancer-joanne-silverman-deep-dive/
About Today’s Guest, Dr. Megan Duffy:
Dr. Megan Duffy earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Michigan State University, then completed internships at University of Prince Edward Island and North Carolina State University, followed by earning her MS in Veterinary Science from Washington State University while also completing a residency in veterinary medical oncology. She is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Oncology). Her clinical and research interests include relapsed lymphoma, feline injection site sarcomas, canine osteosarcoma, and pain management/palliative care. Dr. Duffy enjoys giving continuing education lectures for her peers and has written several journal articles and a book chapter. Dr. Duffy is currently a practicing oncologist at BluePearl Pet Hospital Eden Prairie, MN.
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For episode notes, resources, guest bios and a transcript, please visit https://dogcanceranswers.com/
Have an inspiring True Tail about your own dog’s cancer journey you think would help other dog lovers? Share your true tail with our producers - https://dogcanceranswers.com/share-your-true-tail/
Helpful Resources: To join the private Facebook group for readers of Dr. Dressler’s book “The Dog Cancer Survival Guide” go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/dogcancersupport/
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