Like people, companion animals develop cancer – they get brain, breast, bone & lung cancer; lymphoma and melanoma just to name a few and scientists have discovered that the malignant cells are biologically comparable.
Furthermore cats and dogs are exposed to the same environmental risks so if we hope to eradicate cancer there is tremendous potential in forming a partnership between pets and people.
Comparative Oncology
Just like humans companion animals, that is cats and dogs, naturally develop cancer and just like humans:
Pets are exposed to many of the same environmental risks as people
The cancer cells are biologically comparable
There is a large population of cats and dogs with pre-existing cases of cancer
Cancer occurs in pets within years compared to decades in humans
Benefits of Comparative Oncology
Veterinarian Oncologists believe there are between 4 and 8 million new cases of cancer in companion animals every year. Most of those never receive adequate care or treatment.
Increasing the number of comparative oncology studies means more and more cats and dogs will have access to the latest drug candidates.
Furthermore grants from private and public sources will help subsidize the costs helping more families afford treatment.
It’s important to note – comparative oncology studies are NOT animal testing. The companion pets that participate have naturally occurring cancer which means one of the potential long-term benefits of these studies could be reducing our reliance on animal testing.
Nearby are a few articles and links to resources to learn more about the potential of comparative oncology.
