Immune therapies don’t kill tumors directly; they retrain the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. When the immune response kicks in, immune cells rush into the tumor, causing temporary swelling and inflammation. This is called pseudoprogression, and in both people and dogs, it can precede lasting tumor control.

The body’s immune system runs on a circadian rhythm, meaning the timing of treatments like immunotherapy or vaccines can influence how well they work. Studies in humans and animals show that morning administration often leads to stronger immune responses and better survival outcomes, a finding now being explored for canine cancer care.

Learn more about Elias Cancer Immunotherapy (ECI), a newly USDA-approved treatment for dogs with osteosarcoma. It explains how ECI works, its benefits, success rates, costs, and availability for families seeking new options in canine cancer care.

Dr. Jeffrey Bryan of the University of Missouri explains how the Elias Cancer Immunotherapy works, what the response rates look like, and the types of canine cancers it may treat. He also addresses eligibility, access, and potential side effects.

A new Ardent Animal Health trial is enrolling dogs with osteosarcoma to test a combination immunotherapy using a tumor-derived vaccine and a novel checkpoint inhibitor.

A New Promising Combination Immunotherapy Trial: Autologous Cancer Vaccine with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor (K9-ACV + ICI)

EGFR vaccine helped Dennis overcome osteosarcoma without losing his leg.

List of new immunotherapy treatments for dogs with osteosarcoma. Immunotherapy treatments may give dogs a chance for longer remission and survival, compared to standard therapies alone (e.g. surgery plus chemotherapy)

New treatment options for hemangiosarcoma.