Questions for My Dog’s Oncologist

Cleopatra, my Airedale Terrier, was diagnosed with nasal cavity adenocarcinoma with mucosal polypoid hyperplasia, hemorrhage and necrosis. The appointment at the oncologist is next week, and we would like to go armed with as many questions as possible regarding my pet’s diagnosis. Any help composing a list of questions would be so helpful to us.

– Gloria

Hi Gloria,

Good luck with Cleopatra’s cancer. Here are some questions to ask the oncologist.

Paw Print Bullet What are the treatment options for this type of cancer? Will she need chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, etc.?

Paw Print Bullet What is involved with each treatment? How long will she stay in the hospital? What are the costs involved? What will actually be done to Cleopatra? What is the success/failure rate of each treatment?

Paw Print Bullet Are there any side effects to the treatment and if so are they treatable?

Paw Print Bullet If she has surgery, will it disfigure her or will it be somewhat cosmetic? Do you have pictures of other pets who had simliar surgeries to show what it looks like at the end?

Paw Print Bullet What is the prognosis with treatment? How much time will we have with her? Will she have a good quality of life?

Paw Print Bullet What will happen if we decide not to treat the dog? How much time will we have with her? Will she have a good quality of life?

Paw Print Bullet If she goes into remission, what are the symptoms that will indicate the cancer has returned?

Paw Print Bullet Are there any non-invasive or less-invasive treatment options available with less severe side effects or less effects on her quality of life?

Paw Print Bullet What payment options are available?