Animal Cancer Care and Research program

Researchers in the Animal Cancer Care and Research Program are working to understand what causes cancer and drives its behaviors—and to translate that knowledge into better treatment and, ultimately, fewer cases of cancer in animals and humans.

Our approach

Laborador retriever sitting

In partnership with the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Center, we are working to determine how cancers that occur in animals are similar to cancers that occur in humans. We will then be able to apply what we learn from companion animals to people, and vice versa. Through innovative research that is relevant and responsive to the needs of the people we serve and their companion animal family members, we are determined to achieve our vision of a world where we no longer fear cancer.

By testing what we hope will be more effective strategies for cancer treatment and prevention, clinical trials are an essential step in taking what we learn in the lab and putting that knowledge to work in the clinic. Partnering with the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center, we support their goal of providing compassionate, effective care for animals with cancer—restoring function and helping pets live as long as possible with the highest possible quality of life.

Support the ACCR Program

Animal patients

The Veterinary Medical Center's Oncology Service offers a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic options for pets with cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Clinical trials

The Clinical Investigation Center develops and facilitates veterinary clinical trials and translational research studies which may lead to new drugs, devices, procedures and treatments for the benefit of animals and humans alike.

Research

The Animal Cancer Care and Research program brings together researchers from different disciplines across human and veterinary medicine, who strive to learn more about the area of cancer where humans and animals interface.

Our faculty

Antonella Borgatti, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM (Oncology), Dipl. ECVIM-CA
Professor, Oncology
[email protected]

Erin Dickerson, PhD
Associate Professor, Oncology
612-626-5053
[email protected]

Mike Henson, DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVIM
Professor, Oncology
[email protected]

Jessica Lawrence, DVM, DACVIM, DACVR, DECVDI
Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology
[email protected]

Jaime Modiano, VMD, PhD
Perlman Professor of Oncology and Comparative Medicine
612-625-7436
[email protected]

Liz Pluhar, DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVS
Professor, Surgery
[email protected]