AAHA Releases First-Of-Its-Kind Cancer Book for Pet Owners

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 7, 2000

Contact:      Derek Woodbury
            American Animal Hospital Association
            303-986-2800

AAHA Releases First-Of-Its-Kind Cancer Book for Pet Owners

DENVER-Veterinarians are treating a growing number of pets with cancer each year. According to the Morris Animal Foundation, cancer is the number one killer of dogs and cats, as well as the top concern of pet owners. Cancer can undoubtedly be one of the most challenging and emotionally upsetting of diseases that pet owners will face. However, it is also the most curable of chronic diseases. With treatments ranging from surgery to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, there are more options for pets and their owners than ever before.
Individuals who face the diagnosis of cancer in their loved pets have a new resource available to help address their fears. This April, the American Animal Hospital Association Press is releasing Pets Living With Cancer: A Pet Owners Resource. Authored by Robin Downing, DVM, the 154-page book is the first and only book that provides a single resource for owners of pets that have been diagnosed with cancer.
After confronting a cancer diagnosis in her dog, Murphy, Dr. Downing found there was no single source for all of the questions she faced. Her resulting book provides a resource that leads pet owners through treatment and care. Written with the positive but realistic view that cancer does not always mean death, Dr. Downing asks many questions confronted by pet owners and answers them in a comprehensive and caring manner.

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CANCER BOOK-page 2

The book begins with an overview of cancer and how it is diagnosed. Dr. Downing then highlights treatment options and provides a thorough discussion of surgical oncology, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, complementary therapies, as well as nutrition information for the cancer patient. Subsequent chapters cover hospice care for pets and euthanasia.
Pets Living With Cancer: A Pet Owners Resource will be available in major bookstores this April for $19.95.
The American Animal Hospital Association is an international organization of more than 17,000 veterinary care providers who treat companion animals. Established in 1933, the association is well-known among veterinarians for its high standards for hospitals and pet health care.
AAHA Press-the publishing arm of the association-is an internationally recognized publisher and distributor of titles for veterinary care providers and pet owners. Specializing in user-friendly references, AAHA Press publishes materials pertinent to the practice of small animal medicine.
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Editors Note:
For sales information contact Polly Wirtz, AAHA Press/Sales Office, 303-322-9797.

For review copies contact Michelle Armstrong, product marketing manager, AAHA Press, 303-986-2800.

Media inquiries: contact Derek Woodbury, AAHA public relations manager, 303-986-2800.