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Tender Loving Care

Animal Hospital

Online Pharmacy

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(815) 235-1401

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Dog with head out window

Going on a trip doesn't mean that you have to leave your pet behind.

Are you planning a trip, but can't decide whether to bring your pet? Going on a trip doesn't mean that you have to leave your dog behind. That's right! Bringing your dog on a trip is a great way for them to get exercise, experience new sights and smells, and spend quality time with you.

Although vacations are fun for both you and your pet, you should be aware of the responsibilities as well as precautions involved with bringing along your furry friend. In this section you will find information that will help you and your pet have a fun and safe trip.

  • Camping with Pets
    Category: Living With Your Pet, Travel

    Camping with pets presents its own challenges. Skunks, raccoons, porcupines, snakes, and other wildlife can bite or otherwise injure your pet. Keep your pet within sight and on a leash. Be considerate of other campers. Be sure to ask your veterinarian about flea, tick and heartworm prevention.

    Read more
  • Planning and Preparation
    Category: Living With Your Pet, Travel

    Planning and preparation are necessary when traveling with family pets. Consider whether your pet is comfortable when traveling. Some animals, like some people, function better in familiar surroundings. A car-sick animal can make a trip miserable for everyone. Some ill or physically impaired dogs and

    Read more
  • Travel by Airplane
    Category: Living With Your Pet, Travel

    Air travel is of most concern to pet owners. You can minimize the chances of an unpleasant experience by following a few guidelines. Federal regulations require that pets be at least 8 weeks old and weaned at least 5 days before flying. Generally, a health certificate (which is not more than 10 days

    Read more
  • Travel by Car
    Category: Living With Your Pet, Travel

    Pets should not be allowed to ride with their heads outside car windows. Particles of dirt can enter the eyes, ears, and nose, causing injury or infection. If your pet is not accustomed to car travel, take it for a few short rides before your trip. Cats should be confined to a cage or crate to allow

    Read more
  • Travel by Bus or Train
    Category: Living With Your Pet, Travel

    Most states prohibit animals from riding on buses and similar regulations restrict travel on trains. Exceptions are made for guide and service dogs accompanying blind and disabled persons. Consult your local carriers in advance for information.

    Read more
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  • "I have taken my fur babies to Tender Loving Care Dr. Heitzman for over 12 years now and won't go anywhere but! Dr. Heitzman and staff have ALWAYS been so caring, gentle and compassionate with my animals as if they were their own! Not only putting animals health first, but listening to my concerns as pet owner. Every concern or question is addressed with the utmost compassion, even silly questions are answered with the same sincere care! Thank You Dr. Heitzman and staff for your compassion, concern and truly caring for my babies as you have from day one many years ago and continuing thru the present to the future!!!!"
    Colleen M
  • "Dr. Heitzman and his staff are so wonderful and caring! They understand that our furry friends mean so much to us. They listen and care about what we tell them. To me and my four legged friends they are truly the best around! Thank you so much!"
    Melissa C.
  • "Super Vet...calm, caring and conscientious! Office staff are efficient and courteous."
    JoLique P.
  • "This is the place to take your pet! I love that when I call them, say who I am, they remember me and my dog. Dr. Heitzman is wonderful and I totally trust him in the care of my furry baby. He also took care of both of my cats before they passed away. I won't take my pet any where else."
    Amy P.

Featured Articles

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    Noticed a sudden change in your cat's grooming habits? Over- or under-grooming can be a sign of trouble. ...

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  • August Newsletter: How Spaying or Neutering Your Pet Can Prevent Health Problems

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  • August Newsletter: How Your Veterinarian Can Help with Pet Separation Anxiety

    Does your pet hate being alone? A visit to the veterinarian could help. ...

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  • July Newsletter: The Benefits of Daycare Services for Your Pet

    Is daycare right for your pet? ...

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  • July Newsletter: Do Pocket Pets Need Regular Exams?

    How often should you take your pocket pet to the veterinarian? ...

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  • June Newsletter: How X-Rays Can Help Detect Early Stages of Dental Diseases

    Could X-rays protect your pet oral health? ...

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  • June Newsletter: How Often Should Cats Be Vaccinated?

    Do you know how often your cat needs to visit the veterinarian for vaccinations? ...

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  • May Newsletter: How to Keep Your Cat at a Healthy Weight

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