The Atlanta Journal Constitution has an interesting article today about an experimental treatment for brain tumors in canines. The treatment may help in developing an effective therapy for humans.

On Aug. 5, Batman was the first patient to get an experimental therapy that researchers at the University of Minnesota hope will cure his brain cancer, which is the same kind that Sen. Ted Kennedy has. If it works for Batman and other dogs, they say, it holds enormous promise as an effective treatment for people, too.

Batman has joined a relatively new field of research called comparative oncology, where researchers leverage what they learn from pets for both animals and people. Advances in molecular and genetic testing show that many diseases in animals don’t just look the same in humans, they are the same, said Dr. Jaime Modiano, professor of comparative oncology at the university’s veterinary school.

It seems we have more in common with our pals than was previously thought.  The great thing about the therapy if it works?

That means the Bakers will know within three to seven months, rather than years, whether Tuesday’s surgery and the experimental treatment will prevent Batman’s cancer from returning

I urge you to read the entire article as it goes into further detail of Batman’s parents’ decision to enroll him in this program.

Going to the vet these days can cost a fortune.  In the last four months alone we have spent over $2000, something I consider to be a substantial amount of money.  Why do we do it? Because we love our pets and will do anything to keep them safe and healthy. So when I came across this article on tips to take the bite out of pet health costs I knew it was worth taking a look at.

Americans spent more than $10 billion on veterinary care last year, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.

If you’re anything like our family, you probably feel like you’re contributing a good amount towards that $10 billion.  Hopefully, the following tips will help bring down your out of pocket costs.

Following are just three of the twelve tips suggested by non-profit animal groups, industry watchdogs and veterinarians.

Look for vet specials. In-office clinics can offer price breaks on vaccinations, teeth cleanings and other procedures. Also, there are senior citizen discounts and package plans for puppy or kitten care.

Go online. If a medication is not needed immediately, you can sometimes save money by ordering it online rather than buying at a veterinarian office. Suppliers include Petmed Express (www.1800 petmeds.com), PetCareRx ( www.petcarerx.com) and Foster and Smith (www .drsfostersmith.com).

Consider insurance. Because of substantial deductibles and exclusions in pet policies, according to the Consumer Reports study, pet owners might be better off putting what they pay in monthly premiums into a savings account. But coverage could play a major role in covering bills for very expensive conditions.

While every suggestion may not be suitable for you, I think there’s a little something in the article for everyone.