The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and feasibility of a novel form of radiation therapy (RT) called FLASH proton radiation therapy for head and neck cancers in dogs. It also aims to follow each dog’s response to FLASH to determine what potential long-term benefits exist, if any. This type of radiation therapy uses ultra-high dose rates (FLASH), and it uses protons instead of electrons or photons like standard radiation therapy. Preliminary studies suggest that FLASH may be a good alternative to standard palliative RT because it may be less damaging to healthy tissues while still having an effect on the tumor. Radiation therapy is often pursued when surgery is not feasible due to the location and size of head or neck cancers.

Eligibility

• Dogs with measurable malignant head or neck tumors such as melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, fibrosarcoma or other cancerous tumors
• Owner must be willing to proceed with radiation therapy instead of surgery
• Tumor location and size amenable to radiation therapy
• Dog must be able to undergo anesthesia safely
• Owner willing to follow study schedule consisting of 4 weekly visits at first and multiple follow up visits required up to 1.5 years 

Benefits

All study procedures financially covered once enrolled.

Contact

For inquiries regarding this trial, please call 215-573-0302 or email vcic@vet.upenn.edu