Finding A Veterinary Specialist
After finding out that your pet has TCC, it is important to find a veterinarian that you can trust in treating your pet. Some primary care veterinarians have general knowledge of treating TCC, but do not have access to advanced treatments and could be using outdated protocols. Others are knowledgeable only in conventional medicine without any discussion of holistic treatments or, vice versa, will only treat using holistic options. Most importantly, you need to find a veterinarian that specializes in treating cancer, specifically transitional cell carcinoma. I personally, spoke to a variety of specialists before deciding on a treatment plan. I did phone consultations with out of state specialists, I visited local medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and a holistic oncologist.
The list below is not necessarily comprehensive, but should allow you to find a specialist in your area. I am listing my top specialists first with my reason for picking them. If you have a veterinary school in your area, I would definitely visit an oncologist there. Most veterinary schools are aware of the current studies and protocols and may be conducting their own studies. Also, refer to the clinical trial page to see where studies are being conducted as a potential center with a good source of knowledge and interest in TCC. Don’t be afraid to contact these facilities and inquire about a phone consultation if they are too far to travel. This is a link to some great questions to ask the specialist during your meeting.
My Top Picks: Veterinary Specialists for TCC
Purdue Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Oncology Services - specializes in bladder cancer treatments/research; West Lafayette, IN
This would be my first choice in seeking specialty care for TCC. Dr. Knapp is the world renowned veterinarian in treating and researching TCC.
2. Colorado State University, Flint Animal Cancer Center - cancer is their specialty using medical and radiation treatments; Fort Collins, CO
Flint Animal Cancer Center offers phone consultations at no charge and are very helpful.
3. North Carolina State University, Veterinary Hospital - they offer a robust medical and radiation oncology departments; Raleigh, NC
North Carolina State has state of the art radiation equipment along with a comprehensive Medical Oncology Department.
4. Honorable Mention: Vet Med Consultants - specializes in interventional radiology treatments such as high dose radiology brachytherapy for treating TCC; Holladay, UT.
Dr. Clayton Watkins, DVM has teamed up with Dr. John Hayes, a human radiation oncologist to provide some innovative treatment options for TCC.
5. Honorable Mention: Michigan State University, Veterinary Medical Center - integrated team of specialists including Radiation and Medial Oncology, Nutrition, Acupuncture; Lansing, MI
Radiation Oncology department offers one hour Zoom consultations to review pet’s medical records, imaging studies, patient’s history, and relevant medical findings. Set up Zoom call by Email: cvm.radonc@msu.edu include veterinarian’s name and phone number.
Specialists
Use the two main blue links below to find a School of Veterinary Medicine or a private practice specialist in your area.