Christine Sesanto
Oncology
BVM&S, MRCVS, Oncology
Hi, my name is Dr. Sesanto, and I am a veterinary oncologist. I am passionate about providing compassionate, high-quality cancer care and helping pet owners navigate treatment decisions with confidence and clarity.
Personal Hobbies and Interests
Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, linocut printmaking, scuba diving, and foraging for mushrooms. I also love spending time with my fox red Labrador, Fynn.
Favorite Part of My Job
The most rewarding part of my work is being a trusted partner to pet owners and referring veterinarians during what can be a very challenging time. Whether I am guiding a family through treatment options or collaborating with a colleague on a complex case, the connections I build and the ability to make a real difference in an animal's quality of life is what drives me every day.
Why I Chose This Profession
I grew up in the coastal town of Pacific Grove, California, surrounded by a deep love for animals. Veterinary oncology drew me in because it sits at the intersection of cutting-edge medicine and deeply personal, compassionate care — giving me the opportunity to truly advocate for both patients and their families during some of the most difficult moments they face together.
Education
I completed my undergraduate training in Animal Science at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, before earning my veterinary degree (BVM&S) from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. I later returned to the University of Edinburgh to complete a combined companion animal oncology residency and Master of Science degree (MSc).
Professional Background
I am a residency-trained veterinary oncologist with particular interests in targeted drug therapies, palliative care, and oncology education. I am passionate about helping pet owners make informed treatment decisions and supporting referring veterinarians in the management of oncology patients. My clinical approach focuses on thoughtful, compassionate care while prioritising quality of life and building meaningful relationships with pets and their families.
Memberships
I am a Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (MRCVS) and am Board Eligible through the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine — Companion Animals (ECVIM-CA) in oncology.
Work History
Following graduation, I completed a rotating internship at VCA West Los Angeles before returning to the University of Edinburgh for my oncology residency. I subsequently spent two years working in England, followed by a year in Brisbane, Australia, where I established and managed a new oncology service across three referral hospitals. After more than a decade living and working abroad, I am excited to be returning home to California.