Sue Downing, DVM, DACVIM (ONC)

Board Certified Oncologist

California Animal Referral and Emergency Hospital is pleased to introduce the newest member of our team, Sue Downing, DVM, DACVIM (ONC). Dr. Downing joined CARE Hospital in February 2007 as a specialist from the Veterinary Cancer Group. She received her Bachelor's degree from Arizona State with a DVM from Colorado State University. Thereafter, she went on a complete her small animal internship at Mesa Veterinary Hospital in Arizona and a residency in comparative oncology from Purdue University. Dr. Downing is a board certified oncologist.

Dr. Downing chose the specialty of oncology both for preserving the special bond between patients and their families as well as the challenge of understanding and defeating this complicated disease. She also volunteers at several area clinics to spay and neuter feral cats.

The C.A.R.E. Hospital Oncology service focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in dogs and cats. Once a pet is diagnosed with cancer, the Oncology team will work closely with owners to determine the clinical stage of disease and treatment options. We work closely with our Surgery, Internal Medicine, and Critical Care Departments to evaluate options on a case-by-case basis. We also strongly emphasize the management of cancer associated pain and believe in the philosophy of early intervention. Chemotherapy is utilized in cases as indicated, and radiation therapy is available through external referrals.

In keeping with C.A.R.E. Hospital’s goal of the best medical care available, we are delighted to be able to add Dr. Downing's expertise in the area of oncology. CARE Hospital also offers referral services in surgery, internal medicine, critical care and dermatology, as well as twenty-four hour emergency services. As always our specialty services are by referral only and we work closely with the patients’ primary care veterinarian to provide optimal medical treatment.