Cancer is a leading cause of death in dogs, and chemotherapy can extend life while maintaining good welfare. Understanding side effects and quality-of-life assessment guides treatment decisions.
Cancer treatment decisions involve balancing potential life extension against treatment burden. Veterinary oncology has developed protocols that achieve good cancer control with manageable side effects in most dogs. The welfare goal is to maximise good-quality days rather than total days. Honest quality-of-life assessment, clear communication between owner and vet, and access to palliative care are central to welfare-conscious cancer management.