A dog has become the first pet in the UK to be treated for cancer using a high-tech radiation beam technique.

Ralph, a Gordon Setter, is now recovering back home in Lanarkshire following the new radiotherapy treatment for a tumour in his nose. Vets used a specialised precision radiation beam sculpted into the exact shape of his tumour, reports iNews.

The tumour had been causing breathing difficulties for five-year-old Ralph, and would soon have been life-threatening. His owners spotted the problem when he started suffering from nosebleeds, and vets spotted the cancerous growth.

He was treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which uses a machine that is capable of precisely targeting cancer cells. The Gordon Setter became the first pet in the UK to receive the innovative treatment.

The treatment was performed at the University of Edinburgh’s Hospital for Small Animals, and the technique was previously only available for human patients, but vets at the hospital have demonstrated that is effective on animals too.

The procedure only mildly affected the healthy tissue around the tumour, including the eyes and brain, which has significantly limited the side effects with standard radiotherapy treatment. The tumour has shrunk in size, and the nosebleeds have stopped, allowing Ralph to return home.

While there is a chance that the tumour may return, he has been given more time to enjoy life.

Ralph’s owner, Jenna Forbes praised the ‘dream team’ of animal cancer specialists at the university’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

Magdalena Parys, a radiation oncology specialist vet at the hospital, said: “We are fortunate to have cutting-edge technology available for our patients.

“We are delighted with Ralph’s progress and hope he will enjoy a good quality of life for a long time with his loving owners.”

If you’re looking for hydrotherapy for your pet, and need dog swimming services in London, get in touch with Dogtown today!