It is important to maintain professionalism, yet demonstrate personal concern for the client, especially when you are dealing with an animal with a terminal disease. Several of you appropriately expressed empathy for the fact that a diagnosis of cancer was made. Be cautious that you are referring to the animal in the correct gender. One group offered Ms. Erickson a hand-out after describing their treatment and prognosis. This is a very good client communication tool to allow them to weigh pros, cons and facts before they make decisions about treatment.
Clients appreciate honesty and usually come back to the primary practice after the referral.
Don't insert personal biases as to whether you think chemotherapy is of value or not. Present the facts and give the owners some options of referral practices which may have available these diagnostics or treatment and let the clients decide for themselves.