Posted by:
Linda B. and Dr. Brenda Phillips, DVM, DACVIM
Date: 07/05/11
Rudy
Rudy was a wonderful, happy-go-lucky yellow Labrador retriever; my best friend. When he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in May, 2010, I was shocked! How could this happen to a dog neutered at six months of age? Then I found out that the prognosis for this type of cancer is only about one month. With the help of our Board-certified veterinary internal medicine specialist, Dr. Ronald Hodges, we were able to have three quality months with him; I will always treasure each day. Even though Rudy is gone, others may have a chance because of the work being done at the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Foundation.
The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Foundation, a non-profit organization, supports and advances the work of Board-certified veterinary specialists by funding studies in oncology, cardiology, neurology, large animal internal medicine, and small animal internal medicine. These studies address the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases in animals, such as cancer, and may also lead to discoveries that can help humans with similar diseases. In addition, a vital part of our mission is to educate all pet owners that veterinary specialty medicine does exist and that even with a cancer diagnosis, there are treatments that may provide a high quality of life for your pet for months or even years to come.
Since 2002, the Foundation has funded over 60 studies, including 12 oncology studies, through the help of supporters like you. ACVIM Board-certified oncologists around the globe work hard every day to provide our pets with the most up-to-date treatment and preventative measures in order for animals to live longer, healthier lives. For more information on the work being done, or to make a donation to help support these grant opportunities, please visit our website at www.ACVIMFoundation.org.