The Charleston Veterinary Referral Center (CVRC) in Charleston, S.C., opened a cancer center for pets throughout the region. The cancer center at CVRC can treat all species and is available to consult about cancer treatment with local veterinary practices. “The cancer center at CVRC is here to not only treat pets but educate pet owners,” said Alan Green, DVM, chief of staff, CVRC. “There’s a lot of misinformation out there about cancer and many people still think it’s a death sentence for their pets. The truth is, we can save and improve pets’ lives.” Kerry Rissetto, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM (oncology) will head the cancer center. Dr. Rissetto said she hopes to change people’s thinking of veterinary oncology because so many pet owners have a negative view of the issues due to human cancer. “We treat for quality of life here at CVRC,” Rissetto said. “Because of the progressive science and technology that we have available to us, in the majority of cases, cancer is a disease that can be lived with and managed much like diabetes or high blood pressure.” To help lessen the impact of cancer treatment Rissetto said one of the techniques she’ll utilize is immunotherapy, which boosts a pet’s immune system to help naturally fight cancer. Advanced imaging technology including CT scans will also provide early cancer detection and make treatment easier. <Home>
