Ralph was presented to the University of Edinburgh's Hospital for Small Animals suffering from repeated nosebleeds.

Technique had previously only been available in human medicine.

A five-year-old dog from Lanark, Scotland, has been successfully treated for an aggressive form of cancer thanks to a state-of-the-art treatment used in the UK for the first time.

Gordon setter Ralph is said to have responded well to high-tech radiation therapy for a tumour in his nose. Vets used a specialised technique in which a radiation beam is shaped to the exact shape of the tumour.

Ralph was presented to the University of Edinburgh's Hospital for Small Animals suffering from repeated nosebleeds. Tests confirmed a growth in his nose that was affecting his breathing.

Ralph received a technique called Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT),  delivered by a linear accelerator machine called Vital Beam. Until now, IMRT has only been available in human medicine.

IMRT works by delivering precise radiation to tumours while minimising risk to the surrounding healthy tissue. In Ralph's case, the technique only had a mild effect on the surrounding eye and brain tissue, and side effects were limited when compared with standard treatment.

Since undergoing the therapy, Ralph's nosebleeds have stopped, and he is back home enjoying being with his family. The team says that while his tumour may return, the treatment has ensured the best possible quality of life.

Magdalena Parys, a radiation oncology specialist vet from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: “We are fortunate to have cutting-edge technology available for our patients. This advanced technology allows us to spare much more of normal healthy tissue and gives us the ability to increase radiation doses to tumours.

“Our primary goal is to fight cancer, but at the same time, improve or maintain a good quality of life. We are delighted with Ralph’s progress and hope he will enjoy a good quality of life for a long time with his loving owners.”

Jenna Forbes, Ralph’s owner said: “The Dick Vet team were reassuring at a scary time and had such determination to fight for Ralph. We knew he was getting the best care possible, and after his treatments, we always brought home a dog that had been well cared for.

"His condition is significantly better now. We have such confidence in everyone at the Dick Vet, they are a dream team.”

Image (C) University of Edinburgh.