My previous post gave you my opinion on well visits at the vet. Our 11 year old Newfoundland was recently diagnosed with an oral melanoma. It was fortunately small and completely removed.
Our vet, Red Bank Veterinary Hospital, is a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital and offers the most current treatment, in particular with diseases such as cancer. A DNA vaccine has recently been marketed for the treatment of melanoma – a breakthrough for this type of cancer. The human gene that is injected into the dog is considered foreign, and the dog's immune system recognizes it as such and mounts an immune response against it. The immune response then directs a continuous attack against the cancer cells.
Studies have noted excellent responses in dogs, with their survival extended by years in many cases. The vaccine involves 4 treatments on an every-other-week basis, with a booster every six months.
Emmett had his second shot today – how thankful we are to have this treatment available to us.
Linda --
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