FidoCure Veterinary Team Blog

Lucas Rodrigues, DVM, MS, PhD
Head of Veterinary Research at FidoCure

Precision medicine has revolutionized human oncology by enabling treatments tailored to the unique genetic makeup of each tumor. Now, this same approach is being increasingly adopted in veterinary medicine, bringing a new level of sophistication to cancer care in dogs. Small molecule targeted therapies are at the forefront of this movement, offering the potential for more effective and individualized treatments. However, their success depends on a critical first step: identifying the genetic drivers behind each tumor. Without this information, the use of targeted therapies becomes a gamble, especially risky in aggressive cancers with diverse genetic profiles, where delays in effective treatment can have serious consequences.

Pet parents who hear the devastating diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma (HSA) in their beloved dogs face a grim timeline and limited options. Known as one of the deadliest canine cancers, HSA makes veterinarians' hearts sink when they discover it during examination.

Fighting cancer means making sense of complex patient data in real time. Artificial intelligence (AI) is helping doctors understand robust datasets in radically new ways. We’ve developed Fetch^TM, an AI-powered tool that delivers unmatched insight into dog cancer mutations and the effectiveness of treatments for each. It enables greater evidence-based treatment decisions for dogs battling cancer. The result is more individualized treatment plans that maintain a higher quality of life for each patient. 

When your dog is diagnosed with cancer, the amount of information can feel overwhelming. As veterinary oncology experts, we want to help you understand the treatment options available to your dog. Cancer treatments for dogs typically include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Your veterinarian will recommend the most appropriate course of treatment based on your dog's specific cancer type and overall health.

VMX is the world’s premier veterinary event, at this year’s gathering, two major themes stood out: AI and cancer. While diagnostics play a crucial role in cancer care, they only tell half the story. The other half is treatment, and in animal health, the cancer treatment space is still lacking. There is a significant need for targeted therapies for dogs with cancer.

We’ve always believed that dogs deserve the most advanced medical care possible. Today, we're excited to introduce Fetch™, our proprietary AI engine that is already transforming how we approach cancer treatment for dogs.

With 6 million new cases diagnosed annually in the United States alone, cancer is the leading cause of death for dogs. Cancer is a multifactorial and complex disease. For decades, the approach to treating canine cancer has been marked by limited options and a reliance on broad-spectrum treatments that often fail to account for the unique genetic profiles of individual cases. However, with our AI-driven precision medicine platform, we are positioned to shift the current canine cancer paradigm.

At FidoCure, we believe every dog deserves a chance to live their best life, even when faced with challenging diagnoses. The story of Romulus, a beloved Maremma guardian dog, is a testament to the power of personalized veterinary care.

For over nine years, Franklin has been a beloved member of the Noll-Mcclintock family—a funny, smart, and playful 8-year-old rescue dog. Two years ago, Franklin faced a challenging diagnosis: an incurable cancer originating in his spleen. Determined to give Franklin the best possible care, his mom Chelsea Noll-Mcclintock, and his veterinary oncologist, Dr. Dorothy Girimonte from Haven Animal Health, turned to FidoCure for help.

Meet Dexter, a lovable mixed-breed pup who’s been on a journey of resilience and love since his cancer diagnosis five years ago. His story, as told by his dedicated pet parent, shows how choosing the right care—and a little extra love—can make all the difference. With the support of FidoCure and his healthcare team, Dexter’s family found new ways to understand his health and keep his tail wagging. In this Q&A, you’ll hear how Dexter’s journey with cancer has brought his family closer than ever, proving that hope and connection go a long way.