McAfee Animal Hospital in Valparaiso is continuing to serve its community of pets and owners despite the obstacles of current events. Recovering from the pandemic, the increase in working from home, and overall lifestyle transitions have impacted patients of local practices, just like at McAfee.
With the increased need for a furry friend while in quarantine, many pets have been added to families because of the pandemic. According to the owner Larry McAfee, the team is putting its best foot forward when catering to its patients, and he hopes that new pandemic pet owners are doing the same.
“With COVID, lots and lots of people got cats, dogs, and other pets, so I think the most important thing is that now that the pandemic is winding down, don’t forget your pets,” Larry McAfee said.
He stressed that this message is for those returning to the workplace after a hiatus of being in the office and after hearing about an increase in pets back in shelters.
McAfee has also had additions to its staff in order to accommodate the influx of pet patients at the animal hospital, according to Larry McAfee’s daughter, Dr. Brooke McAfee.
“Dr. Anna Sacco and Dr. Jessica Clements have been a wonderful addition,” Brooke McAfee said. “All of us doctors work together to make a great team atmosphere.”
Brooke McAfee also mentioned that the clinic is keeping its eye on other pet illnesses other than COVID-19. The parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that can affect all dogs according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Coming from bordering states, Brooke McAfee says this has raised concerns.
“The new strain of parvovirus is in Michigan as well, so that’s something we’re keeping a close eye on as well,” Brooke McAfee said. “We’re getting updates on a day-to-day basis.”
While staying alert for viruses as well as regular visits and check-ups, Larry McAfee said in over 42 years of work, the animal hospital has been buzzing, but operations have been successful because of the team’s service.
“The practice is the busiest it has ever been,” Larry McAfee said. “I am very happy with the work of the team now.”
Brooke McAfee agrees and said that although the animal hospital has been busy, the team has been brainstorming for some events.
“We are hoping to do something for our 80th year, we just have not done it yet,” Brooke McAfee said.
Through the transition from pre to post pandemic, Brooke McAfee wanted to thank the patients for all their loyalty to McAfee Animal Hospital.
“We love the fact that we’re a family-run business and we’re able to provide great service to the community,” Brooke McAfee said. “We love working with community members.”
To learn more about Dr. Brooke McAfee, Larry McAfee, or the animal hospital, visit its website here.