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Veterinary technicians can play a significant role in diagnosing and treating canine lymphoma, as well as educating owners about their dog’s condition. Jenny Cassibry Fisher, RVT, VTS (Oncology), discusses 5 ways veterinary technicians can help manage canine lymphoma. Watch the video below to listen to the full conversation between Jenny and Sam Sacasa, CVT, in the Vet2Vet Tech Takeover video sponsored by Dechra.
Brought to you by Dechra • go.dechra-us.com/laverdia
- Perform tests to help diagnose canine lymphoma
Cytology is an important diagnostic tool for identifying canine lymphoma, since 80% of cases are multicentric lymphoma, which causes peripheral lymph node enlargement. Veterinary technicians can perform a fine needle aspiration and determine if the sample is diagnostic by evaluating the specimen’s integrity. - Explain what chemotherapy entails
Many pet owners associate chemotherapy with significant life-altering side effects. Veterinary technicians can explain the differences between human and veterinary chemotherapy to help owners realize that the treatment prioritizes their pet’s quality of life. - Educate pet owners about a novel treatment option
Laverdia®-CA1 (verdinexor tablets) is a treatment for canine lymphoma. The medication can be used as a standalone treatment, or as a bridge until clients can get a referral appointment. Veterinary technicians can help troubleshoot questions from clients about this medication. The most common adverse reactions are anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and lethargy. - Understand the pet owner’s perception
When an owner hears their dog’s diagnosis, they may reflect on a family member’s experience with cancer and feel reluctant to pursue treatment. Veterinary technicians can empathize during these situations and help owners work through the pros and cons of treatment. - Ensure pet owners handle medications safely
Canine lymphoma medications, including Laverdia-CA1, have important safety handling guidelines such as avoiding direct exposure to moistened, broken or crushed tablets or biological waste from the treated dog. Veterinary technicians can ensure pet owners are aware of these instructions and field questions about medication administration to ensure treatment is as effective as possible.