Is there a Vaccine for Dog Cancer?

Our question this week was:

Dr. Jon – have you heard about a vaccine for cancer for dogs?

Willie S. - Boston, MA

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. This year, a vaccine called Canine Melanoma Vaccine DNA by Merial was released to help treat stage II or stage III oral melanomas in dogs. The vaccine works by injecting a protein into the body that alerts the body's immune system to the presence of the melanoma tumor protein tyrosinase. Use of the vaccine has shown very promising results so far by increasing survival times. Research is ongoing and there are several studies under development.

Regards,


Dr. Jon




To read most recent questions Click here!

Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr.