In 2007 my dog was diagnosed with canine melanoma. Everything I read about the disease stated that his life would be over in a matter of weeks, but thanks the folks at Animal Cancer Specialists, he was able to enjoy a full life that lasted more than two years after his diagnosis. I sincerely believe my dog actually enjoyed visiting this clinic (although he disliked going to the vet's in general). He loved the attention he received from everyone on the staff and the treats he was given by the doctors. Everyone, from the front desk to the veterinarians, treated us with the utmost professionalism. If I could give this place six stars, I would.

I have had three animals (1 cat and 2 dogs) that have been diagnosed with cancer over the years. I've brought all of them to Animal Cancer Specialists to see Dr. Meleo. I have always been impressed with the way she has handled each situation and wish it were possible for her to be my regular vet. During the initial visit, Dr. Meleo discusses all of the options available through her practice for your animal. She uses the white board in the examination room to chart three categories of each option: treatment, prognosis and cost. While describing the options, she also gives her opinion of what would the best choice for your animal. It's always situationally based, taking into account the type of cancer, grade, stage, general health and age of animal. Unlike other specialists I've seen, I never felt pressured or pushed to choose the most expensive option. In fact with one of my dogs, she recommended the least expensive option. Dr. Meleo has always taken great time and care with all of my animals and she has treated every one as if it were her own. She spends time making the animal comfortable before examining it to keep the animal's stress as low as possible. She's always been there to answer any question I have that comes up during the week. Because she's one of the few board certified oncologists in this area, her schedule is always packed which unfortunately means that her staff has to convey the answer instead of her. The question is always answered though and any others that comes up as a result. Given how prevalent cancer has become and how few oncologists are available to treat animals, I'd personally prefer that she spend her time helping as many animals as she can rather than spending the time to call me back. Her staff is knowledgeable, well-trained and compassionate. I've never had any issue with their service and am thankful for all of the help they've given me. I was happy that routine laboratory tests (for example, CBCs) can be done at your regular vet's office. Once the lab results are back, they are faxed to Meleo's office for interpretation. While these tests can be done by Meleo's office, I'd prefer to go to my regular vet. They are much closer to my house plus most people find that it's cheaper to do at their regular vet's office. I appreciate that Meleo doesn't try to make you bankrupt. They even give service dogs a 10% discount -- something that many vets don't do. Occasionally, one of my animals has needed a prescription outside of my scheduled visit. Whenever possible, they give you the option of picking up the drug(s) at their office, at your regular vet's office, or at your pharmacy. They let you choose what's most convenient and cost effective. Sometimes medications are available for animals only (e.g., some nausea medications) so you have to pick them up at the vet's. Her office sends you a copy of every report filed with your regular vet. I appreciated the fact that she does everything she can to keep both you and your regular vet in the loop. With situations like cancer, it's really important to work together as a team. Her office is only setup to deal with cancer issues, however, so if your animal experiences issues that don't have to do with cancer, they will refer you to your regular vet or to an emergency clinic. This is no different than any other specialist my animals have seen. When Dr. Meleo hasn't been available, I've seen her partner, Dr. Gillings. I have nothing but praise for her as well. I cannot say enough good things about Animal Cancer Specialists. I hope your animal never has cancer but if one of them is diagnosed with it, I'm glad they are around to help.

My dog was made very sick by the chemo and I could never get the intern to call back. I was told by staff members "call your regular vet". Her medical issues were never addressed and I could not get Dr. Meleo to call me back EVER. There was no follow up to the treatments and they continued chemo even though there was no improvements with the medecine. I continually had to take my dog to another vet just to control the nausea. At the end, the cancer had spread to an area that could have been treated, but was never even examined. Please don't do this to your pet. Search all options available and Veterinary schools. Cancer is Cancer, but the treatment should always be professional and the patient should be the main concern, not the dollar.