Sue Downing

Welcome to the specialized practice of Dr. Sue Downing, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), a highly esteemed veterinary oncologist located at 1535 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 900253311, USA. As a board-certified specialist in veterinary oncology, Dr. Downing operates within the sophisticated environment of a larger specialty and emergency center, dedicating her expertise to the Pet Hospital category with a profound focus on cancer diagnosis, treatment, and compassionate care for beloved animal companions. For critical inquiries or to schedule a consultation, you can reach the center at (310) 473-5906 or via mobile at +1 310-473-5906.

The environment where Dr. Sue Downing practices is typically that of a highly advanced veterinary specialty and emergency center, such as VCA Animal Specialty & Emergency Center (VCA ASEC), with which she is associated. These facilities are characterized by their state-of-the-art equipment, multiple specialized departments, and a constant readiness to handle complex medical cases. The environment is designed to be highly functional, clean, and equipped to manage critical and complex pet health issues. While a specialty hospital can sometimes feel clinical, the numerous positive reviews about the staff in such centers often highlight a contrasting warmth and professionalism that helps to alleviate the inherent stress of specialized and emergency veterinary visits. This dual focus on cutting-edge medical capability and compassionate human interaction creates a supportive setting where pet owners feel that their beloved animals are receiving the best possible care, even in the face of serious diagnoses like cancer.

Dr. Sue Downing's services are highly specialized, focusing specifically on veterinary oncology, which is the study and treatment of cancer in animals. As a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) in the specialty of oncology, her expertise includes a comprehensive range of cancer-related services:

• Cancer Staging: Accurately assessing the extent and spread of cancer to guide treatment decisions.
• Chemotherapy: Administering various chemotherapy protocols tailored to the type of cancer and the individual pet's needs. This can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments.
• Oncological Surgery: Working in collaboration with surgical specialists for tumor removal and other cancer-related surgical interventions.
• Radiation Therapy Consultations: While not performing radiation herself, an oncologist like Dr. Downing would coordinate and consult on radiation treatment plans with specialized radiation oncology centers.
• Diagnostic Imaging: Utilizing advanced imaging techniques (such as CT, MRI, and specialized radiography) for precise diagnosis and monitoring of cancer.
• Pain Management: Developing comprehensive strategies to manage cancer-related pain, enhancing the pet's quality of life.
• Metronomic Therapy: A low-dose, continuous chemotherapy approach for certain cancers, often used to prevent new blood vessel formation in tumors.
• Bone Marrow Aspirate: Diagnostic procedure to evaluate bone marrow for cancer cells.
• End-of-Life Care and Palliative Support: Providing compassionate guidance and support for pet owners during challenging times, focusing on maintaining comfort and dignity for pets with advanced cancer.

The defining feature of Dr. Sue Downing is her exceptional skill and profound compassion, which clients describe as "saving" not only their beloved pets but also "all those who loved her." This powerful testimonial highlights her ability to provide not just medical intervention but also immense emotional support to families facing devastating pet health challenges. Dr. Downing is a graduate of the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and completed a residency in comparative oncology at Purdue University, earning her board certification as a Diplomate of the ACVIM in oncology. Her extensive background includes serving as Los Angeles Medical Director for a local veterinary oncology group before joining VCA ASEC. She is also a charter member of the ACVIM Foundation and has received recognition on the Veterinary Honor Roll by the Morris Animal Foundation. Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Downing is noted for her community involvement, serving as a Commissioner at the Los Angeles Zoo and regularly volunteering with organizations like Catnippers to sterilize feral cats. This demonstrates her broader dedication to animal welfare. While the provided reviews are concise, the repeated sentiment of "saving" a pet and their family speaks volumes about her expertise in critical situations and her empathetic approach during highly stressful and emotional times. Her specialized knowledge in oncology makes her an invaluable resource for pet owners dealing with cancer diagnoses, offering hope and expert guidance.

From a promotional standpoint, Dr. Sue Downing's practice thrives on its stellar reputation as a highly skilled and compassionate veterinary oncologist. The powerful testimonials from clients who credit her with "saving" their pets are invaluable, driving referrals from general practitioners and word-of-mouth recommendations. Her board certification in oncology is a significant draw, as pet owners often seek out specialists for complex and life-threatening conditions like cancer. Her affiliations with reputable organizations and her history as a Medical Director further enhance her credibility. While specific promotional campaigns are not detailed, the visibility of her practice within a large specialty and emergency center (like VCA ASEC, which operates 24 hours) ensures accessibility for urgent oncology needs. Her active participation in professional organizations and volunteer work in animal welfare also subtly promotes her dedication and expertise within the veterinary community and to the public. For pet owners in Los Angeles and beyond who are facing a cancer diagnosis for their furry family members, Dr. Sue Downing represents a beacon of hope and expert care, offering advanced treatments and unwavering support during one of life's most challenging journeys.