Virginia Tech Animal Cancer Care and Research Center celebrates continuing support from Petco Love for canine and feline cancer treatments

The Virginia Tech Animal Cancer Care and Research Center (ACCRC) will be able to continue offering financial assistance to pet owners thanks to the continuing support from Petco Love and a two-year grant totaling $150,000.

This partnership highlights the critical need for effective pet cancer care and emphasizes the ACCRC's commitment to pioneering research and clinical trials.

Established in August 2020 in Roanoke, Virginia, the ACCRC has been at the forefront of veterinary cancer care and research. Thanks to a collaboration with Petco Love and Blue Buffalo, the center will be able to continue to offer additional financial aid to pet owners, which extends beyond the compassionate care funds available through the college, allowing clinicians at the ACCRC to offer partial or complete coverage of treatment costs based on individual cases and available funds.

The impact of Petco Love's support is profound, as illustrated by the stories of pets like Star, a beagle owned by Judith Hixson. Star, who overcame numerous health challenges, including malignant melanoma, received critical treatment thanks to the Petco Love grant. This intervention enhanced Star's life and provided immense relief to her owner, who otherwise faced financial barriers to accessing this essential care.

Another touching example is that of Mona Lisa (Mony), a beloved cat of Gary and Rebecca Davis. Mony's battle with intranasal cancer was significantly eased by the treatment facilitated at the ACCRC, supported by Petco Love's funding. This assistance was a financial relief and a source of hope and comfort for the Davis family during a challenging time.

The ACCRC, with its state-of-the-art Varian Edge radiosurgery system, continues to push the boundaries of veterinary oncology, offering advanced treatments like fractionated radiation therapy. These technologies, combined with the generous support of Petco Love, are changing the prognosis for pets with cancer, allowing them to lead healthier, happier lives alongside their families.

Petco Love's contribution extends beyond financial support. It embodies a shared commitment to early cancer detection and effective treatment, aligning with the goals of veterinary professionals dedicated to improving pet health. The ACCRC, alongside Petco Love and its pet owners and lovers community, celebrates this enduring partnership and the countless lives it has touched.

In addition to the ongoing support from Petco Love for cancer treatment in pets, the ACCRC is actively involved in clinical trials and research to advance human and animal health. These trials focus on discovering new and improved methods for preventing, diagnosing, and treating various diseases. 

The ACCRC works with veterinary patients and their owners to facilitate these critical studies, contributing significantly to the field of veterinary medicine. For detailed information about these clinical trials and how to participate, visit the Virginia Tech Veterinary Clinical Research Office website.