Animal Cancer Foundation

Dogs and cats frequently develop spontaneous cancer and, despite the obvious differences between people and pets, we share many of the same environmental and fundamental genetics that may lead to cancer. Increasingly, comparative oncology is affirming that only our domestic pets, and not laboratory animals such as mice and rats, are the true models for human cancer.

Pet owners who are not scientifically oriented are often surprised to discover that animals can even get cancer. So, in addition to the shock of the diagnosis, the thought that a beloved pet may have to undergo the animal equivalent of chemotherapy or radiation is overwhelming. Owners soon discover, however, that such treatments are humane, and better tolerated by pets than they are in humans. As in people, of course, response to therapy varies and, when currently available treatments prove ineffective or no treatment for the diagnosis exists, a pet may qualify for a clinical trial that could save or extend its life.

Until recent years, cancer therapies for pets were adapted from those used in the treatment of human cancer. All this is changing, however, as more gentle, less toxic therapies are being evaluated for the treatment of cancer in pets. As a consequence, therapies, which are initially developed to benefit pets, may ultimately lead to improvements in the prevention and treatment of human cancer.

The Animal Cancer Foundation (Norwalk, Connecticut 06854) develops and supports research that advances the prevention and treatment of cancer for people and pets. Specifically, its endeavors focus on furthering research in comparative oncology, which is the study of cancers that occur similarly in both pets and humans. In this way, ACF is committed to advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of such cancers, and becoming a preeminent resource in educating the public and scientific community.