Halloween Pet Safety: Keep the Frights Fun

halloween pet hazards

Halloween is a time for costumes, treats, and celebrating with neighbors. But some holiday favorites can create risks for dogs and cats. Our team at West Loop Veterinary Care shares a few simple ways to help your pets enjoy a safer Halloween. 1. Keep Candy Out of Reach Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats,…

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Is Your Senior Pet Slowing Down? Changes Worth Checking

Is Your Senior Pet Slowing Down? Changes Worth Checking

A slower walk or a missed jump onto the couch might seem like a natural part of getting older. But changes in your pet’s routine can also signal discomfort or a health concern. At West Loop Veterinary Care, we help you understand those changes and find ways to support your pet’s comfort as they age.…

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Rabies Awareness in Illinois: What Chicago Pet Owners Should Know

rabies-spike-nbc5

Rabies may feel like a concern limited to wildlife or pets that spend a lot of time outdoors, but exposure can happen closer to home than many people realize. Illinois health officials have reported higher-than-normal rabies-related call volume and bat submissions this year. As of September 9, 61 animals had tested positive for rabies in…

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Why Is My Cat Pooping Outside the Litter Box? 5 Common Causes Explained

orange cat at home on a sunny day

Cats pooping outside the litter box is most often caused by a dirty box, a medical issue, litter box aversion, stress, or an underlying behavioral problem. Figuring out which one applies usually starts with ruling out health concerns first. It’s a frustrating issue for many Chicago cat owners, but it’s also one of the more…

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Cat Vomiting: How to Tell If It’s Serious and What to Do Next

cat-vomiting-near-plant-inside

Cat vomiting is considered serious when it happens repeatedly, contains blood, or is paired with lethargy, appetite loss, or weight loss. Occasional vomiting from hairballs or a fast meal is usually less concerning. Distinguishing between the two is one of the more common questions West Loop Veterinary Care hears from Chicago cat owners, and it’s…

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Dehydration in Dogs: How to Spot It Before It Becomes Serious

pug dog sitting outside near portable water bowl

Dog dehydration shows up early through signs like dry gums, loss of skin elasticity, and lethargy, and catching it in these early stages is key to preventing a more serious medical situation. Chicago’s hot summer months and active dogs make dehydration a relevant concern for many pet owners, especially after long walks, playtime outdoors, or…

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Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken? What Every Pet Owner Should Know

dashchund dog dressed as chef sniffing raw chicken on the kitchen counter

Dogs can technically eat raw chicken, but veterinarians generally advise against it due to the risk of bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can make both dogs and their owners sick. While some pet owners feed raw diets intentionally, raw chicken carries real risks that are worth understanding before it becomes part of…

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Celebrating Our AAHA Practice of the Year Nomination

Pet Blog (5)

We’re excited to share that West Loop Veterinary Care Streeterville has been nominated for AAHA Accredited Practice of the Year 2026. We’re incredibly proud of the recognition, but what does it actually mean for you and your pet? First, What Is AAHA? AAHA stands for the American Animal Hospital Association. Unlike human hospitals, veterinary practices…

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