A renowned multidisciplinary small animal hospital in London has launched an oncology service to treat patients suffering from cancer.
Linnaeus-owned London Vet Specialists, in Hammersmith, has appointed European diplomate in oncology Sofia Ramos to lead the new department and deliver high-quality, compassionate care.
Sofia will work with highly-trained RVN Inge Breathnach, who has achieved prestigious veterinary technician specialist status in oncology, as well as a team of dedicated nurses.
The talented team will work within a specially-designed unit in a low traffic area of the hospital, deliberately situated away from wards to ensure immunosuppressed patients are kept as safe as possible on their visits.
Meanwhile, the newly-equipped chemotherapy room provides a safe, calm and comfortable environment, tailored specifically for pets undergoing treatment.
Sofia said: “I am excited to be joining the team at LVS and launching the oncology service here, working alongside some hugely experienced and dedicated clinicians in other disciplines across the hospital.
“One of my key ambitions is to help build a well-structured and collaborative oncology service that integrates effectively within the wider hospital team.
“The team believes in a collaborative, supportive approach that puts the patient’s comfort and quality of life at the centre of everything we do.
“It’s a great opportunity for both myself and LVS to offer our referring vets, clients and patients a vital service.
“This includes diagnosing and treating cancer in pets, developing and offering owners tailored treatment plans according to their pets’ needs, along with supporting them through what can be a challenging journey.
“We also have the benefit of working within an excellent, multi-disciplinary hospital so can tap into the expertise and experience of nine other specialist-led departments, including small animal surgery and internal medicine, which ensures that the cancer care we provide is holistic and strategic.”
Sofia graduated from the University Lusófona in Portugal before moving to the UK, where she initially worked in primary care hospitals. This was followed by five years in a referral hospital where she completed internships and a residency to specialise in oncology.
Lead oncology nurse Inge has focused specifically on oncology care since 2015 and has valuable previous experience in creating a new unit.
Five years ago, she helped introduce a new oncology service at a vet practice in Buckinghamshire, and said personal loss has only heightened her passion for supporting pet carers and helping enhance patient quality of life.
Inge said: “I am extremely proud to be working with such a passionate and patient-focused team to provide such exceptional cancer care.
“I have a deep passion for helping enhance quality of life for our patients and their families, inspired by my personal experience of losing my beloved Chihuahua cross, Erik, to cancer in recent years.
“Erik underwent 15 months of chemotherapy and radiation therapy and remained comfortable and happy throughout – but the experience truly opened my eyes to just how much support pet caregivers need during every step of the cancer journey, support we aim to provide for our clients as well as their pets.”
LVS is the only veterinary hospital in London to offer a dedicated multidisciplinary referral service. For more information, visit: www.londonvetspecialists.vet/our-services/oncology
Sofia Ramos will lead the newly-launched oncology service at London Vet Specialists in Hammersmith.
