We are excited for our NEW specialist Oncology department launching at Wear this April, headed by Aaron Harper, MA VetMB CertAVP (SAM) DipECVIM-CA (Onc), MRCVS RCVS Specialist in Veterinary Oncology (Small Animals) and EBVS Oncology (Small Animals), Oncology Consultant.
What does this mean for Wear Referrals?
Cancer is a significant concern of pet owners and is commonly diagnosed in older dogs and cats. At Wear, we are committed to both the care of these animals and supporting the owner through the cancer journey.
Aaron’s number one priority is to maintain the quality of pets’ lives and ensure the pet receives the very best care and up to date treatment. Consultations are a very important aspect of the service that Aaron will provide for clients; he will discuss every treatment option with clients before recommending the best plan for their pet.
We will accept cancer cases in dogs and cats, including common conditions such as lymphomas, mast cell tumours and sarcomas. The Oncology service can also offer investigations of suspect cancers (e.g abdominal masses) and colleagues in Diagnostic Imaging and Internal Medicine. We can also offer help with treatment (e.g. chemotherapy, immunotherapy) for cancers diagnosed in practice and offer shared care if practices prefer to carry out some treatments themselves. The Oncology Service will work closely with the excellent surgery team to ensure top-quality cancer care for patients with solid tumours.
Let’s get to know Aaron
After graduating from the University of Cambridge in 2008, Aaron spent five years in general practice in North West England. In 2016 he completed a residency in small animal oncology at the University of Liverpool and during that time he completed the Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (Small Animal Medicine). Aaron achieved the European Diploma in Veterinary Internal Medicine (Oncology) in 2017 and became a European and RCVS recognised Specialist in Oncology.
After completing his residency, he worked as a Lecturer and Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Oncology at the University of Liverpool. He joined Southfields Veterinary Specialists in May 2018 and established the Oncology Residency program before becoming Head of Medical Oncology in 2020.
Aaron’s main areas of interest are in haematological cancers and the medical management of these conditions. He is also interested in novel therapies for dogs and cats with cancer, along with the management of side effects in these cases and his research to date has been on this subject.
From these interests, he has further developed a particular interest in treating feline lymphoma. Aaron has spoken extensively on a variety of medical oncology topics at local and national CPD events. He currently sits on the BSAVA Congress Programme Committee and the ECVIM Oncology Exam Committee.
Outside of work, Aaron’s spare time is taken up entertaining his two cats, Rou and Mischief and his mini-Dachshund, Penfold.
We look forward to welcoming him in April this year!
