Bone marrow transplant (BMT) is an advanced medical procedure offering hope to dogs with certain blood cancers, like lymphoma and leukemia. It may also benefit dogs with other serious, non-cancerous blood disorders affecting bone marrow. This procedure involves replacing a dog’s diseased bone marrow with healthy cells.

Bone marrow is the soft tissue inside bones where blood cells—including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets—are made. When bone marrow becomes diseased, it disrupts the body’s ability to produce these essential cells. A bone marrow transplant can help by introducing healthy marrow cells into the dog’s body to restore proper blood cell production.

The process typically starts with chemotherapy to eliminate cancer cells and create a “clean slate” for the transplant. Afterward, healthy marrow cells, either from the dog or a donor, are collected. These cells are transplanted into the dog, where they “engraft” and produce healthy blood cells. This requires careful preparation to ensure the best possible outcome.

BMT offers the potential to cure certain blood cancers, providing a chance for long-term remission that is rarely achievable with chemotherapy alone. For dogs whose cancers aren’t cured by BMT, this treatment can still significantly extend life expectancy and improve their quality of life, giving them more meaningful time with their families. 

BMT is a complex process that requires detailed planning and expert veterinary care. Dogs undergo several steps, including stem cell harvesting and radiation therapy, followed by post-transplant monitoring. They remain in the hospital for observation after the procedure to ensure their new healthy bone marrow can regenerate.  

While BMT carries some risks and requires a commitment from both owners and veterinary professionals, it remains one of the most promising treatments in the fight against blood cancers in dogs. 

BMT has seen increasing success rates thanks to advances in veterinary medicine. Success depends on factors like the dog's overall health, the type of cancer, the effectiveness of prior treatments, and the ability to find a donor if possible. If you or your primary care veterinarian has any questions about BMT, please contact Veterinary Care & Specilaity Group.