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Meet Our Oncology Team

Sam Hocker, DVM

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Oncology)

Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Oncology)

Dr. Hocker grew up on a farm in central Illinois which instilled a love for animals early on.  He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Political Science at Illinois State University and then obtained his veterinary degree at Kansas State University.  After veterinary school, he furthered his training with a small animal rotating internship at the University of Missouri. He then returned to Kansas State University to complete a medical oncology residency. Prior to joining CVSG, he served as faculty at the Mona Campbell Centre for Animal Cancer at the Ontario Veterinary College and Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine.  Dr. Hocker enjoys all aspects of oncology, but particularly enjoys guiding clients through the treatment of their pet’s cancer.  His special interests within oncology are personalized medicine, palliative care options, and immunotherapies. He has published numerous manuscripts in the veterinary literature and enjoys participating in the ever evolving world of veterinary oncology.

Dr. Hocker enjoys spending his free time fishing, hiking, cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs, and relaxing with his wife and dogs.

Just like people, pets can develop cancer at any stage of life.
At CVSG, our Oncology Service is here to provide expert, compassionate care—partnering closely with a team of veterinary specialists and your primary care veterinarian to support you and your pet every step of the way.

During the initial consultation, our oncology team will review your pet’s medical history, perform a thorough physical examination, and discuss the cancer type in detail. We’ll go over any recommended diagnostic tests, available treatment options, and the expected prognosis. Our goal is to ensure you fully understand your pet’s condition and care plan so that you can make informed, confident decisions about the next steps.

To confirm a cancer diagnosis or determine how far it has progressed (a process known as staging), we may recommend a variety of diagnostic tests. Different types of cancer vary in how likely they are to spread (metastasize), where they tend to spread, and how quickly. As a result, staging tests are tailored to each case and may include imaging of the chest or abdomen (such as X-rays, ultrasound, or a CT scan), as well as lymph node evaluation—often by feeling the nodes and taking a small sample of cells with a needle. Staging is usually done before beginning treatment because the results can influence the recommended care plan. In some cases, if the cancer has spread significantly, certain curative treatments may no longer be appropriate, and we may instead recommend palliative (comfort-focused) care. Staging tests are also commonly used after treatment to monitor your pet’s condition and check for any signs of progression or recurrence. At CVSG, we offer a wide range of advanced diagnostic tools to help us better understand your pet’s condition and develop the most appropriate treatment plan and prognosis

Once a diagnosis and stage of cancer have been confirmed, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Cancer treatment in pets often involves one or more approaches, depending on the type and extent of the disease.

Common treatment modalities may include:
• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Pain management
• Palliative or hospice care

Our goal is to provide the most effective care while prioritizing your pet’s comfort and quality of life.