Dr. Sue Downing: A Top Veterinary Oncologist in Los Angeles, CA

Sue Downing Introduce

In Los Angeles, a city where pets are truly considered family, facing a serious diagnosis like cancer for a beloved animal can be one of the most difficult and emotional challenges a pet owner can endure. During such a time, having an expert who can provide both advanced medical care and compassionate support is invaluable. In the heart of Los Angeles, pet owners have access to a highly specialized professional, Dr. Sue Downing. As a board-certified veterinary oncologist, she is a leading authority in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in companion animals. Her expertise is not just in medical procedures, but also in offering hope and guidance to families navigating a complex and stressful health journey. Dr. Downing’s dedication is to providing the highest level of care to improve the quality of life for her patients, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment options available.

Dr. Sue Downing’s professional background is a testament to her commitment to her field. A graduate of the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine, she went on to complete a small animal medicine and surgery internship, followed by a rigorous three-year residency in comparative oncology at Purdue University. This extensive training culminated in her becoming a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) in the specialty of oncology. This board-certified status signifies a rare level of expertise and dedication to her field. Her work extends beyond her clinical practice; she is recognized on the Veterinary Honor Role by the Morris Animal Foundation and has a history of volunteering to provide wellness services to underprivileged animals. She represents a truly compassionate and knowledgeable resource for pet owners in California facing the challenge of a pet cancer diagnosis.

Dr. Sue Downing practices at the VCA Animal Specialty & Emergency Center, conveniently located at 1535 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025. This location is easily accessible for residents throughout the Los Angeles area and surrounding communities. The facility is designed to be fully accessible, understanding the needs of all clients. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring a smooth and easy entry for everyone. Additionally, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot is provided, eliminating the common hassle of finding suitable parking. For the convenience of all visitors, there is also a wheelchair-accessible restroom on-site. The center operates on a 24-hour basis for emergency and critical care, but it is important to note that appointments are recommended for specialized care with a specific veterinarian like Dr. Downing. This ensures that you and your pet can receive the dedicated time and attention needed for a thorough consultation and treatment plan.

As a specialist in veterinary oncology, Dr. Sue Downing’s services are highly focused on providing advanced care for pets with cancer. Her expertise and the state-of-the-art facility where she practices allow for a comprehensive approach to treatment. While her specialty is oncology, her work is often integrated with other veterinary services to provide a complete care plan. The services and treatments available in her practice include:

Cancer Staging: An essential part of oncology, this service involves determining the extent of the cancer to create the most effective treatment plan.
Chemotherapy: The administration of specialized medications to target and destroy cancer cells.
Surgery: Surgical procedures to remove tumors and cancerous growths as part of a multi-modal treatment strategy.
Metronomic Therapy: A form of chemotherapy that uses lower, more frequent doses to control tumor growth.
Diagnostic Imaging: The use of advanced imaging techniques to visualize tumors and assess their response to treatment.
Emergency and Critical Care: Access to immediate care and intensive support for pets experiencing cancer-related emergencies.
Pain Management: Providing comfort and relief to pets to improve their quality of life throughout the treatment process.
Bone Marrow Aspirate: A diagnostic procedure used to assess blood disorders and certain types of cancer.

Dr. Sue Downing and the VCA Animal Specialty & Emergency Center offer several key features that make her a highly sought-after professional for pet owners in California. These highlights underscore her unique expertise and the compassionate environment she provides.

Board-Certified Oncologist: Dr. Downing holds the prestigious DACVIM certification in oncology. This designation means she has undergone extensive training and is a leading expert in her field, providing a level of care that is rare to find.
Personalized and Compassionate Care: As highlighted in a poignant customer review, Dr. Downing’s care is deeply personal and impactful. She not only focuses on saving the animal but also on supporting the family. The review notes that she “saved my beloved dog” and “saved all those who loved her,” which is a powerful testament to her empathy and dedication.
Collaboration with a Full-Service Hospital: Practicing at the VCA Animal Specialty & Emergency Center means she has direct access to other specialists, advanced diagnostic tools, and 24-hour emergency and critical care services. This collaborative environment ensures a holistic and comprehensive approach to each patient’s health needs.
Focus on Quality of Life: A core tenet of her practice is effective pain management and providing comfort. This focus ensures that pets undergoing challenging treatments can still enjoy a high quality of life.
Experienced and Highly Respected Professional: Dr. Downing's extensive background, including her work as a Los Angeles Medical Director for a veterinary oncology group and her volunteer work, demonstrates her leadership and commitment to both the profession and the community.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, you can contact Dr. Sue Downing's office at VCA Animal Specialty & Emergency Center using the following information:

Address: 1535 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA
Phone: (310) 473-5906

Since Dr. Downing is a specialist, it is highly recommended to call ahead and schedule an appointment to ensure she is available to see your pet and can prepare for your visit. The center itself operates 24/7 for emergency services.

When it comes to facing a pet cancer diagnosis, choosing a veterinarian is about more than just finding a clinic; it's about finding a partner in the fight for your pet's life. Dr. Sue Downing is a veterinarian worth choosing for her exceptional and specialized skills. Her board-certified status as a Diplomate of the ACVIM in oncology immediately sets her apart, signifying a level of expertise that is critical for managing complex and serious conditions. Her deep understanding of cancer and its treatments, including chemotherapy, surgery, and pain management, ensures that your pet is in the hands of a true expert.

However, what truly makes Dr. Downing a standout professional is her approach to care. The heartfelt review from a client who felt that Dr. Downing saved not only their pet but also the family itself speaks volumes. This level of compassion is what separates an excellent doctor from a truly life-changing one. She understands that a pet's health is intrinsically linked to the well-being of their owners. The fact that she practices within a 24-hour specialty and emergency center provides an additional layer of confidence, as it ensures immediate access to critical care, advanced diagnostics, and a team of other specialists who can collaborate on a comprehensive treatment plan. For California residents seeking a compassionate, skilled, and highly specialized veterinarian to help their pet through a cancer diagnosis, Dr. Sue Downing is an exceptional choice, offering both medical expertise and genuine emotional support during a challenging time.