Our state-of-the-art lab equipment allows us to perform many routine tests in-house and in a matter of minutes! Whether your cat or dog is sick and needs a complete blood count, kidney/liver values, & urinalysis, or if they’re healthy and simply need a heartworm test – we’ve got you covered.
OncoK9 Cancer screening
What are the latest developments in cancer screening for dogs?
There's actually a brand-new test available. It's called OncoK9, and it's a sample that can actually detect over 30 different types of cancers in dogs. It's available from a company called PetDx, and it uses the same genomic sequencing we have available in human cancer detection services. Right now, the test can only give us, "Yes, there is cancer," or, "No, there's not cancer," answer. But it is still really useful in helping us detect cancer much earlier than we have been able to previously meaning we can get started on treatments much sooner for our patients.
Which dogs should actually get this test?
So I recommend it for any of our breeds who are predisposed to cancer. So dogs like German Shepherds Boxers, Golden Retrievers, or any of our senior patients. PetDx has also made a really helpful tool online to help pet parents determine when they should actually start screening their specific dog. It is available on their website under their cancer safe tool.
If my dog tests positive, what's the next step?
Each case is going to be so different. What you're going to be doing is working very closely with your veterinarian to determine what your next best steps would be. PetDx also does have an available internal medicine specialist who will give your primary veterinarian a call to go over any previous clinical signs or lab work done. Usually, what we recommend as the next steps forward would be blood work, a thorough physical exam, and further imaging like an ultrasound or some x-rays.
Where can we go to find the test?
At West Coast Animal Hospital, we've been providing this service since early June, but this test is available from a prescription that your veterinarian can get through the PetDx company. And I would recommend anyone who has a senior pet or just feels that their personal dog would benefit from screening to talk it over with your veterinarian. You can also find more information online on petdx.com.
OncoK9 is a revolutionary laboratory test designed for the early detection of cancer in dogs. This quick blood test screens for 30 different types of cancer and can be used even in patients who appear to be symptom free. Early detection is the best way to manage cancer – when cancer is located at an advanced stage, treatment options become limited and the survivability rate sharply declines. This test is especially valuable to Patients over the age of 7 who have a 9-time higher risk of developing cancer and breeds like Labradors, German Shepherds who are predisposed to having cancer. OncoK9 detects the presence of cancer but not the type or location. It is available to dogs 3lbs and larger. We are offering this test for $599, including exam, as part of your pet’s wellness visit or if your pet is unwell without an obvious explanation.
Please visit the PetDx website for more information
