A Note From Janice Brown, Founder

I did an interview with well-known veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker a few years ago after his book, The Healing Power of Pets was released. He spoke eloquently about the bond between animals and people, and one particular observation has always stuck with me. He shared that in his lifetime he has seen animals go from sleeping in the backyard, to the porch, to the basement, to the kitchen, to the upstairs, and into our beds. While there may still be some who believe animals belong only outside, they are certainly in the minority. Judging from the jewelry, clothes, strollers, and day-care centers that our pets enjoy today, it is clear that the way we treat our animals has changed dramatically in the last few decades.

Healthcare is defi nitely a subject that is important to  people, whether it relates to their own health or that of their animals. We have seen veterinary care evolve and grow, and the focus on wellness and prevention is stronger than ever before. I have had personal experience with the advanced technology available for our pets. In the fall of 2001, our oldest dog, Luna, tore her cruciate ligament. She had trouble walking, gave up running and playing, and her quality of life was greatly impacted. She needed tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) surgery. Even though it cost us more than $2,000, there was no doubt in our minds that our then- 3-year-old, otherwise completely healthy dog needed this surgery to enjoy the rest of her long life without pain. Not only were all of her healthcare providers wonderful, but we even found an online TPLO message board where others dealing with similar situations were communicating. Here people who were just learning about the options could get insight, advice, and support. It’s just another sign of how far we’ve come.

We have also been through urinary-tract infections with our cats, having to induce vomiting with our youngest dog after she snuck into a houseguest’s suitcase and ate a dutyfree- sized chocolate bar, and countless other scares. From talking to other pet guardians, I know we are not alone. Most people with a companion animal have made trips to the emergency vet, or dialed frantic calls in the middle of the night for advice. Having a pet today is like having a human child, and the responsibility for keeping them happy and healthy falls solely on our shoulders.

This issue is dedicated to the health and well-being ofour pets, and we know it will only continue to grow andexpand as we see more rehab clinics, specialty vets, cancercenters, and other “human-like” services become availableto the animal community.

We encourage you to continue researching what’s best foryour four-legged family members. Be sure vaccines are up-todate,and talk to their vet about all of the different options available to keep them as healthy and happy as possible.

We have received lots of feedback from our readersasking us about veterinary-care providers in the Chicago area, so please enjoy the Animal Care Directory we havegathered for you, and don’t forget to tell them you found them in Chicagoland Tails. It is our advertisers who enable us to continue bringing you all the great information you fi nd in each issue…and we’re sure you’ll be keeping this one for a while!
I wish you and your animals a happy and healthy New Year —

Janice Brown
jb@ChicagolandTails.com