A new cancer center for pets will open in central Ohio in less than a week.
Even during a recession, some pet owners are willing to pay serious money for medical care for their pets.
Verna Ledger and her family drove from Clark County to Worthington to get medical treatment for their cat, Tiger. The stray cat worked his way into their hearts 12 years ago
"There are no words that can express the love we feel for him," Ledger said.
When Tiger was diagnosed with cancer last year and surgery didn't work, the family went to MedVet for advanced treatment.
Like most pet owners, the Ledgers do no have pet insurance. While some people might put a sick pet to sleep, Ledger said that was not an option for them. They gave up vacation plans and a new carpet.
"You're going to pay whatever it takes, and you'll do whatever it takes for them," Ledger said.
MedVet treats more than 3,000 pets a year for cancer - including radiation and surgery. The new cancer center is patterned after human treatment, with a team approach and a care plan for each animal.
"We decide what is best for that owner and that patient in the situation they're in," said veterinary radiation oncologist Dr. Deb Prescott.
Tumors in dogs and cats are similar to those in people, Prescott said. She hopes that what they learn as they save pets will also help save other lives.
Prescott said after radiation, Tiger will undergo surgery, which should boost his chances of survival by fifty percent.
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