Guest Review by Greg Upton, DVM, Houston, TX (Click on stars for an explanation)

You may purchase this book on Amazon.com.

When I first agreed to do review this book, I did so with some trepidation. Quite frankly, I didn't expect to gain much from spending the time to read it. I could not have been more wrong.

Dr. Villalobos does an excellent job of not only teaching the science of veterinary oncology, but - more impressively -- the art of dealing with cancer and terminal illness. She brings a unique perspective of looking at cancer patients from a client's viewpoint. She does this by using short clinical case reports of particular patients throughout the book. Each case report includes the patient name, and often the client's name.

This is a book that should be read, and not just used as quick reference. In my opinion, it should be required reading for current veterinary students and highly recommended for all companion animal practitioners.

As the title suggests, the basis for much of the book is the human-animal bond. The interaction between patient, client, and doctor is frequently discussed. Suggestions are spread throughout the book on how to improve our bedside manner. Pain control in the geriatric patient is emphasized. Client support is also a major focus, with handout templates and suggestions for support groups/websites. An entire chapter is devoted to Pawspice (pet hospice) palliative care of the terminal patient. Another chapter is on how to make the euthanasia experience better for the client and patient.

Chemotherapy protocols for different types of cancers are discussed. Methods to reduce side effects, and how to deal with them when they occur, are included. There is a lengthy discussion on how to avoid extravascular complications, and another on how to deal with them if they should occur. An appendix on Specific Tumor Protocols can help the practitioner quickly develop a plan for diagnosis and therapy. Another appendix of cartoon maps of the canine and feline bodies can be used to draw in tumors. Even pet aversion to frequent medicating is discussed.

The authors have made me rethink how I approach cancer patients and their owners. They have helped me, my patients, and my clients.

Blackwell Publishing (2007).

Hard cover, 381 pages, color photographs.

ISBN-13: 978-0-8138-0266-4.