In animals as in humans, the main role of the body’s immune system, is to protect against foreign invaders – abnormal cells that invade or attack it. Veterinarians increasingly believe that by harnessing the power of the immune system, more effective and innovative approaches can be developed to control cancer in pets. Dr. Sandra Bechtel, an associate professor and chief of the medical oncology service at UF, will discuss ways in which veterinarians are currently using immunotherapy to treat cancer patients, what’s on the horizon for future treatments and how studies in humans have benefited veterinary medicine and vice-versa. ​