Veterinary Emergency & Urgent Care
I Have An Emergency
Advanced Veterinary Oncology in Oakdale, MN
We know how stressful it can be when your pet develops unusual symptoms or doesn’t seem like themselves. At Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota (AERC), our veterinary oncology team is here to help. With specialized training and expertise in diagnosing and treating many types of cancer, we work with you to create a treatment plan focused on both effective care and quality of life.
Our promise is to provide unparalleled treatment and support every step of the way.
Understanding Cancer and Exploring Treatment Options
We offer consultations and chemotherapy treatments to support pets and their families through a difficult time. By arranging a consultation through your primary veterinarian, our team can carefully evaluate your pet’s condition and discuss the treatment options available.
Pet Cancer Services at AERC
Advanced Diagnostics
Because pets can’t tell us what’s wrong, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to understand their condition and determine the best treatment options. Diagnostics may include:
- Radiographs (X-rays)
- Ultrasound
- Blood testing
- Biopsy and cytology
- CT scan or MRI
Individualized Treatment Plans
Every pet has their own story, and their care plan should reflect that. Our board-certified oncology team develops personalized treatment plans based on your pet’s needs and your family’s goals. Options may include:
Chemotherapy
When pets receive chemotherapy, the goal is to preserve quality of life. Unlike human treatments, veterinary protocols use lower doses designed to minimize side effects while giving pet parents more good days together.
Electrochemotherapy
This targeted treatment combines chemotherapy with localized electrical pulses to help cancer cells absorb the drug more effectively. It’s typically performed in two sessions about a month apart and can be especially useful for tumors at a specific site.
Surgery
Our board-certified surgeons treat many cancers surgically, working to remove both the visible tumor and the surrounding microscopic cells that could spread or return. Advanced surgical techniques help reduce complications and support faster recovery.
Radiation
While AERC does not provide radiation therapy on-site, we partner with trusted facilities in the Midwest to coordinate treatment and guide pet parents through the referral process.
Advanced Imaging
Our oncology team works closely with radiology for cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment monitoring. Imaging, such as CT scans or X-rays, allows us to track tumor growth, evaluate treatment effectiveness, and plan next steps.
Immunotherapy
Currently, immunotherapy for pets is limited to a vaccine for dogs with oral melanoma. This treatment trains the immune system to fight cancer cells and can be combined with other therapies. Research continues to expand future options.
Hospice and Palliative Care
Oncology isn’t solely about treatment—it’s also about comfort. Our team provides palliative care to ease pain, improve quality of life, and support families, whether or not active cancer treatments are being pursued.
End-of-Life Care
If the tough days start to outweigh the good ones, our team offers peaceful and compassionate euthanasia services or referral to in-home providers. Our Pet Loss Support page is here to help—offering tools, group support, and caring advice to comfort you.
How to Make An Appointment
Oncology services are available at our Oakdale location.
- Pet Owner Appointments
If your pet has been diagnosed with cancer or you’re concerned about symptoms, we’re here to help. To learn more about oncology services or discuss treatment options, contact the team by phone, email, or through our online form. - Veterinarian Referrals
Veterinarians, please send referrals using the online form, email, or by calling, with patient history included for context.
