Your First Visit

Generally, no

For most adult dogs, we recommend fasting for approximately 12 hours before their visit unless otherwise instructed. Puppies are excluded from this recommendation, as are cats and kittens.

An empty tummy can:

• Help reduce nausea during the car ride
• Allow for laboratory tests that require fasting
• Make our buffet of treats during the visit more motivating and enjoyable

Absolutely

We love using treats to help create a positive, rewarding experience. If your pet has favorite snacks or is a picky eater, feel free to bring special high-value treats they already enjoy. We want pets to associate their visit with comfort, kindness, and lots of positive reinforcement.

Yes - comfort items are welcome

Bringing a familiar item from home can help reduce stress and help your pet feel more relaxed during their visit. We encourage you to bring:

• A favorite toy
• A blanket or towel
• A t-shirt or bedding with your scent on it

Have a plan

A calm trip to the hospital can make a big difference in your pet’s overall experience.

We recommend:

• Heating or cooling your car to a comfortable temperature before bringing your pet inside
• Playing calming classical music during the drive
• Transporting cats in a carrier; transporting dogs in a crate or with an appropriate dog seat belt whenever possible
• Driving smoothly by avoiding sudden stops, fast acceleration, or sharp turns

Speaking calmly and confidently can help reassure your pet throughout the trip.

Minimize stress, maximize comfort

Upon arrival, you and your pet will be brought directly to a private examination room whenever possible. This allows your pet time to settle in comfortably, explore the space, and enjoy a little playtime before the exam begins.

If your pet would feel more comfortable waiting in the car or taking a short walk before the appointment, feel free to call us from the parking lot.

For everyone’s safety, please keep dogs on a short leash when entering and exiting the hospital.

Anything pertinent - information is key

To help us provide the safest and most accurate care possible, please bring:

• Current medications and supplements in their original containers
• Previous veterinary records, if available
• Photos of your pet’s current foods, treats, and supplements

This information helps us better understand your pet’s medical history, nutrition and ongoing care needs.

A calm, patient approach

Pets are incredibly perceptive and often mirror our emotions. If we are rushed, anxious, or stressed, they may feel the same way.

Our team is trained to minimize fear and anxiety. Because every pet is unique, we may try different approaches to determine what makes your pet feel most comfortable, including:

• Exams on the floor, table, or in a carrier
• Different room set-ups or spaces
• Having owners nearby or giving pets a little extra space

We take detailed notes about what helps your pet feel safest and most comfortable for future visits.

We care deeply

Your pet’s emotional wellbeing and safety are extremely important to us. We never want to force a fearful pet into a situation that feels unsafe. If your pet is experiencing significant stress, we will discuss options with you, which may include:

• Taking breaks during the visit
• Trying pre-visit calming medications
• Adjusting the treatment plan
• Rescheduling when appropriate

Our goal is always to create positive experiences while keeping both pets, owners and staff safe.

Positive and stress-free

Our goal is to make veterinary care as positive and stress-free as possible.

We want every pet to feel safe, supported, and cared for - and we strive to build trust with each visit so Healthy Paws feels like a familiar, welcoming place for your furry family member.

We are proud to partner with the families of Lake in the Hills, Crystal Lake, Algonquin, Huntley, and the surrounding communities. Your pet deserves care that takes nothing for granted.