My dog has mast cell tumors. What's radiation treatment cost & risks?

Question

I have a 11 year old pit beagle mix. She has had 2 mast cell tumors removed. What would be the cost and how invasive would radiation treatment be. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 49 lbs

Sara Farmer, DVM · Accepted Answer

Radiation is not necessarily invasive, but there are potential side effects. I'm assuming she would be having a definitive radiation treatment protocol due to incomplete margins (cancer cells left behind). With this type of radiation the side effects are dependent on where the radiation will be focused - hair loss and irritated skin are most common but there can be side effects with the mouth and eyes if they are in the field. Later effects can include secondary tumors but these are very rare in dogs and it would be very unusual for Ladybug to develop a new tumor in her lifetime from the radiation. One thing to keep in mind is that dogs do need to be under anesthesia for a short period of time for each radiation treatment. As far as cost goes it is highly variable on your area, but you or your veterinarian should be able to call the facility and get a cost estimate.

My dog has mast cell tumors. What's radiation treatment cost & risks?

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