“Stay at home order” policies & procedures

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veterinary technician and a dog standing outside of the animal hospital

On March 20, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker issued a proclamation requiring all Illinois residents to stay at home. This order does permit essential activities, including seeking veterinary medical care for your pets. Veterinarians play an important role in good public health, so West Loop Veterinary Care will maintain its regular business hours.

To be flexible in the event of future governmental requirements, and to protect clients and team members, there will be NO NEW wellness appointments scheduled at this time. Already scheduled wellness appointments WILL be honored.

Appointments WILL be scheduled for sick, urgent and emergency care patients and for the services listed below. This difficult decision will be reviewed periodically to determine when new wellness appointments can be scheduled. Until Monday, April 6, though, West Loop Veterinary Care will see patients only for the following services:

  • Urgent or emergency care for sick or injured pets
  • End-of-life care for terminally ill pets
  • Surgery, including spay/neuter
  • Puppy and kitten vaccinations
  • Rabies vaccinations
  • Level 2 dental care for the health and comfort of the pet
  • Refill of prescriptions and food

If a pet has vaccines, other than rabies, that have lapsed or will lapse soon, please be aware that it will still be protected from the more serious viruses for at least a few more weeks, possibly longer. For pets that must have updated vaccinations for situations such as air travel and apartment leases, please contact a Patient Care Coordinator.  Rabies vaccines, which are required by law, will be administered to help the pet owner maintain compliance with the law. All cats and dogs in Illinois are required by law to have up-to-date rabies vaccinations. 

West Loop Veterinary Care has also adopted the following policies:

  • No clients are allowed inside the building, with the exception of special circumstances such as end-of-life care.
  • Curbside pickup and drop-off is available for food, medication and laboratory samples.
  • Curbside pickup and drop-off is also utilized for pet patients. Clinic leashes will be used for dogs, and cats must be brought in the owner’s carrier.
  • Tele-health appointments are available, as necessary.
  • Veterinarians and staff will communicate with clients via telephone or an online service.

West Loop Veterinary Care is committed to the health and well-being of patients, families and team members, and appreciates your understanding during this stressful time. As always, the team is here for you and your pet.

Remember, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there is no indication that pets can become ill from or spread COVID-19. Details and the latest updates are at:

Centers for Disease Control: www.CDC.gov

World Health Organization: www.WHO.int

World Organisation for Animal Health: www.OIE.int

We extend our best wishes to you and your family during this difficult time. If we can be of assistance to you or your pet during this difficult time, please let us know.

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West Loop:
(312) 421-2275

Streeterville:
(312) 766-5959