Business Profile: Woodridge Animal Hospital

For this week's business profile, we spoke with Dr. Amy Van Tassel, veterinarian at Woodridge Animal Hospital. We not only found what inspired the passionate doctor to pursue her dream, but she also shared great tips for keeping our pets healthy.

Patch: What inspired you to become a veterinarian?

Van Tassel: When I was young, my sister and I brought home stray kittens, hoping to convince our parents to let us keep one. Ultimately, they gave in and our first kitten was a beautiful, calm kitten we named Tabitha. Turns out Tabitha was a sick kitten and continued to have illnesses throughout her life. As a result, I spent a lot of time at our family veterinarian. I realized my passion in life was caring for animals and their people.    

Patch: What do you like about having the hospital in Woodridge?

Van Tassel: My husband and I are new to the Woodridge area. After spending 11 years at our previous hospitals, we came to Woodridge Animal Hospital in the middle of April. Having dogs ourselves, the first thing we noticed was the forest preserves and natural areas we could walk with them. Having a dog park right down the road gave us the impression that the Woodridge area is a pet-friendly community, which is very important to us.    

Patch: What is pre-adoption counseling?

Van Tassel: It’s an opportunity for people, whether it’s their first pet or an additional pet, to discuss how to go about evaluating the pet they’re considering bringing into their home and to talk to me about any concerns they have. If someone has their heart set on a golden retriever puppy, we discuss ways to find reputable breeders, questions to ask the breeder and what to expect from a good breeder. I also want to make sure they know generally about the breed and what to expect with having a puppy. My goal is to help people make an educated choice that will result in many years of happiness for both the owner and the pet.   

Patch: You mention on the website that preventative care is important in giving your pet the best chance for a longer, healthier life. How can we do that?

Van Tassel:  Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly will prevent tartar and gum disease, which can have very serious consequences on your pet’s overall health and comfort. If you haven’t brushed your pet’s teeth before or have had difficulties trying, ask your vet for suggestions. It’s well worth the effort. 

Second, studies have shown keeping your pet at a healthy weight can extend their lives up to almost 2 years. Feed your pet an appropriate amount of a good quality food and exercise them regularly. A regular routine that includes obedience exercises and one-on-one interaction with you will strengthen your relationship with your pet and improve their mental health. All pets should receive a monthly heartworm and intestinal parasite preventative all year round.

And finally, because pets age so much faster than people, a good quality physical exam should be performed at least yearly by your veterinarian along with administration of appropriate vaccinations.  

Patch: We have several trails and a great dog park in Woodridge.  Is there anything dog owners should do before taking their pets to these places?

Van Tassel: Before enjoying nature with your dog or taking part in social activities, make sure they’re fully protected with a flea and tick preventative and heartworm and intestinal parasite preventative. Talk to your veterinarian about appropriate vaccinations, including lyme disease and leptospirosis.