New veterinary oncology practice expands access to specialized cancer care for dogs and cats across San Diego County
LA MESA, Calif. (Sept. 3, 2026) — Thrive Pet Healthcare has expanded access to veterinary oncology services with the opening of
Veterinary Cancer Group La Mesa, the specialty practice’s fifth location in California and first in the San Diego area.
Co-located with Pet Emergency and Specialty Center at 5232 Jackson Drive, Suite 101, Veterinary Cancer Group La Mesa provides specialized cancer diagnosis and treatment for dogs and cats. The practice serves families in La Mesa and throughout San Diego County.
“Cancer can be an overwhelming diagnosis for a pet owner, and having specialized care close to home can make a difficult time a little easier,” said Dr. Tokaj Kozak, veterinary oncologist at Veterinary Cancer Group La Mesa. “I want families to understand what their pet’s diagnosis means, what treatment options are available and how we can work together to support their pet’s quality of life.”
Veterinary cancer treatment in La Mesa
Veterinary Cancer Group La Mesa develops individualized treatment plans based on each pet’s diagnosis, overall health and family circumstances. Treatment options may include:
Chemotherapy may be used on its own, following surgery or radiation therapy, or as part of palliative care. The medication, method of administration and treatment schedule depend on the pet’s type of cancer and individual needs. Veterinary Cancer Group works closely with primary care and referring veterinarians to evaluate each patient and coordinate care.
“Every patient and family comes to us with different needs and goals,” said Dr. Kozak. “My approach is to develop a plan that makes sense for that individual pet while keeping the family and referring veterinarian informed throughout treatment. Those relationships are an important part of helping families make decisions about their pet’s care.”
Veterinary Cancer Group has five locations in California: Culver City, La Mesa, Torrance, Tustin and Woodland Hills. The group also operates a practice in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Veterinary Cancer Group La Mesa is accepting new patients and referrals. Pet owners and referring veterinarians can call (619) 573-1776 or email
lm.info@thrivepet.com for information or to schedule an appointment. Appointment hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
About Tokaj Kozak, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)
Originally from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Tokaj Kozak earned her Bachelor of Science in animal science from the University of Alberta and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from St. George’s University. She completed her clinical year at Cornell University, followed by a rotating internship at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Kozak then completed a three-year medical oncology residency at Iowa State University.
Dr. Kozak values supporting pet owners as they make decisions about their pets’ cancer care. She especially enjoys developing long-term relationships with clients and their pets throughout treatment.
