Providing Superior Care to Companion Animals

Same-Day Urgent Care Appointments

Since 1959

Free Nutrition Counseling

Same-Day Urgent Care Appointments | Canine Rehabilitation | Since 1959 | Orthopedic Surgery & Ultrasounds

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Outstanding Pet Care, Canine Rehabilitation, Nutrition, and Surgical Services

Since 1959, Bethany Animal Hospital has been providing superior service for your pets’ health and well-being. You can trust our full-service animal hospital to provide outstanding services, including preventative care, diagnostic and surgical services, exotic pet medicine, and a canine rehabilitation center. Call us today to get started.

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120 Years+ of Combined Experience

Diagnostics, Preventative Maintenance, and Surgery


Meet Our Bethany Animal Hospital Team of Veterinarians

Mike Schelkopf

Mike Schelkopf

DVM, Owner

Second-generation owner of Bethany Animal Hospital, which his parents, Berni and Russell, purchased in 1959. Earned his DVM from the University of Illinois in 1978.


Along with Dr. Charles Schelkopf and Dr. Deborah Schelkopf, Dr. Mike has driven the clinic’s growth and success for decades. He began in large animal practice before specializing in swine health.


Member of AVMA, AAHA, and ISVMA. Passionate about team development and delivering welcoming, high-quality care for clients and patients.


Enjoys time with his adult children, two young granddaughters, and extended family.



Deborah Schelkopf

Deborah Schelkopf

DVM, Retired

Dr. Deborah Schelkopf joined Bethany Animal Hospital in 1978 as its first small animal veterinarian. She played a key role in expanding the part-time companion animal service into today’s respected four-doctor practice with strong community ties. She helped design the current hospital facility (opened in 1979) and achieved AAHA accreditation in 1980.


Dr. Schelkopf dedicated her entire career to Bethany Animal Hospital, with special interests in internal medicine, clinical pathology, client education, and rehabilitation medicine. A member of AVMA, IVMA, and AAHA, her commitment to high-quality care, continuing education, and client service remains the foundation of the practice.



Carlos Dominguez

Carlos Dominguez

DVM

Dr. Carlos Dominguez is a family pet general practitioner who has served at Bethany Animal Hospital since January 2000. He earned a BS in Biology (along with associate degrees in animal science and animal nutrition) from Kansas State University in 1987, followed by his DVM from Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 1991, where he received the George W. Catt Memorial Scholarship.


His special interests include orthopedic and soft tissue surgery, small animal and exotic medicine, and pain management (with continuing education certification in the latter). He is a member of the AVMA, AAHA, and the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association.


Dr. Dominguez is a proud father of four—Alexandra, Marcus, Javier, and Manuel—and shares his home with two beloved dogs, Basil and Ivy. Outside of work, he enjoys sports, reading, and especially jazz music.



LeAnn Gruber

LeAnn Gruber

DVM

Member, Feline Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. LeAnn Gruber is a general practitioner at Bethany Animal Hospital, where she began her career after earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 2001. She holds a B.S. in Biology (minor in Chemistry) from Western Illinois University (1997).


Her professional interests include preventive medicine, nutrition/weight management, and end-of-life care. She is Fear Free certified and a member of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association.


Dr. Gruber lives with her husband, two daughters, two cats (Lanie and Olive), a dog (Stella), and a flock of chickens. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking, crafts, gardening, and serving as a team captain for Relay for Life.



Heather Brown

Heather Brown

DVM

Dr. Heather Brown joined Bethany Animal Hospital in June 2010 after earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. She holds a B.S. in Animal and Veterinary Sciences from Clemson University (2006).


Originally from Buffalo, New York, and northern New Jersey, she relocated to Illinois in 2004. Her professional interests include dermatology, preventative medicine, ultrasonography, and exotic mammal medicine. She is a member of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association, and she regularly attends continuing education conferences.


Dr. Brown enjoys spending time with her husband, Dan, their two children (Cheyenne and Jack), and their lab mix, Swinney. In her free time, she loves baking and cake decorating, cheering for Clemson football, participating in book clubs, and staying active in her church.



Jon Mason

Jon Mason

DVM

Dr. Jon Mason graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Veterinary School and previously practiced in Lodi, Wisconsin, before joining Bethany Animal Hospital. His interests include wellness/preventive medicine, surgery, and ultrasonography. He is pursuing certification in canine physical rehabilitation through the University of Tennessee and aims to advance his orthopedic surgery skills.


He and his wife, Savannah (also a veterinarian), share two cats: Buck (a Siamese named after Bucky the Badger) and Bourbon (a domestic longhair). They plan to add a dog soon!


In his free time, Dr. Mason enjoys fishing, hiking, cooking, golfing, and renovating their farmhouse.



Alan Hertz

Alan Hertz

DVM

Dr. Hertz graduated from Iowa State University in 2005 and has practiced mixed animal, production, and companion animal medicine. He is passionate about building long-term relationships with pets and enhancing their quality of life.


He and his wife have two boys. Their family pets include Jude (1-year-old Basset Hound), Lucy (3-year-old wire terrier mix), Animagus (6-year-old cat), and Shadow (7-month-old cat)—with the kids helping name and bond with the younger ones.


The family enjoys outdoor adventures, music, games, travel, and exploring their community.



Exceptional Care for Family Pets

Visiting the vet is key to providing long and healthy lives

From routine checkups to dental procedures and lab tests, Bethany Animal Hospital can handle all your pet care needs. In order to make your pet's visit stress-free, we have a number of team members who are Fear-Free certified. We'll make your pet as comfortable as possible.

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In-House Lab Diagnostics

 Providing your pet with the best treatment options


Give your pet the best in diagnostics by relying on our experienced veterinarians at Bethany Animal Hospital for lab services, radiography, and more. We use the latest veterinary techniques and best practices in veterinary care to diagnose your pet.

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Our Services

Ensure your pet's lifelong health and happiness with our outstanding services at Bethany Animal Hospital.

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Ultrasound Services

At Bethany Animal Hospital, our ultrasound services provide non-invasive imaging to accurately diagnose health issues in pets, ensuring effective treatment plans and promoting overall wellness for your beloved companions.

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Bethany Animal Hospital

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Vet Surgical Services

Whether your pet needs major or minor surgery, you can trust our caring vets to complete the surgery safely and get your pet back to your home in no time.

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📸 Paw-some Moments Captured! 🐾 Browse our Instagram Gallery for a glimpse into the daily joys and cuddles at Bethany Animal Hospital. 🐕🐈💕

🐾Paw-sitively Healthy Tips for Your Furry Friends -

The Bethany Animal Hospital Blog Spot🐶😺

By The Bethany Animal Hospital Team January 21, 2026
If your furry companion is struggling with mobility issues, post-surgery recovery, or chronic pain like arthritis, you're not alone. Pet owners are turning to canine rehabilitation therapy to help their dogs regain strength, vitality, and joy. But where do you find expert care that's compassionate, effective, and tailored to your pup's needs? Look no further than Bethany Animal Hospital—the premier local destination for canine rehab in Sycamore, IL. With certified specialists, state-of-the-art facilities, and a low-stress environment, Bethany makes canine rehabilitation not just accessible, but transformative. In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into what canine rehabilitation therapy entails, its incredible benefits, and why Bethany Animal Hospital stands out. What Is Canine Rehabilitation Therapy? A Tailored Path to Recovery Canine rehabilitation therapy, often called dog physical therapy or veterinary rehab for dogs, is a specialized branch of veterinary medicine designed to improve your dog's mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. Just like human physical therapy, it uses evidence-based techniques to address injuries, surgeries, age-related conditions, and chronic issues. From underwater treadmills to laser therapy, these treatments are customized to your dog's breed, age, and health status. At Bethany Animal Hospital, canine rehab isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. It's a personalized journey led by experts who understand the unique challenges faced by dogs and pet owners alike. Proven Canine Rehabilitation Services at Bethany Animal Hospital What sets Bethany Animal Hospital apart? It's our commitment to cutting-edge, compassionate care delivered in a dedicated rehabilitation suite. With a private entrance and exit, your dog enjoys one-on-one sessions in a calm, low-stress space—perfect for anxious pups. Our services include: ● Arthritis Consulting: Expert guidance on managing joint pain and inflammation, helping senior dogs stay playful longer. ● Underwater Treadmill Therapy: Low-impact exercise that builds strength and endurance without straining joints—ideal for post-op recovery. ● Laser Therapy: Non-invasive laser treatments that accelerate healing, reduce swelling, and alleviate chronic pain. ● Balance and Strength Exercises: Targeted workouts to improve coordination and muscle tone, and boost your dog's confidence. These aren't just services; they're lifelines for dogs facing mobility challenges. And with same-day appointments often available to establish care, Bethany Animal Hospital ensures quick access to care—no more waiting weeks for relief. The Life-Changing Benefits of Dog Rehabilitation Therapy Why invest in canine physical therapy? The results speak for themselves. Canine rehabilitation therapy isn't about quick fixes—it's about sustainable improvements that let your dog live fuller, happier lives. Key benefits include: ● Enhanced Quality of Movement: Watch your pup bound up stairs or chase balls with renewed ease. ● Faster Recovery Times: Cut down healing after surgeries or injuries, getting your active dog back to DeKalb's dog parks sooner. ● Effective Weight Loss Support: Combine rehab with our free nutrition counseling to help overweight dogs shed pounds safely. ● Increased Muscle Mass and Strength: Build lean muscle to prevent future injuries and support aging joints. ● Improved Daily Function and Quality of Life: From easier car rides to pain-free cuddles, rehab restores the joy in everyday moments. Meet Our Canine Rehab Expert: Jodie Jeskie, CCRP At the heart of Bethany's success is Jodie Jeskie, our dedicated Rehabilitation and Arthritis Professional. Since joining Bethany Animal Hospital in 2009, Jodie has transformed countless lives with her passion and expertise. Certified as a: ● Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) ● Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) ● Certified Canine Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCC) ● Certified Canine Arthritis Management Practitioner (CAMP) Jodie's qualifications ensure the highest standard of care for canine rehabilitation. She collaborates closely with our veterinarians to create holistic plans that integrate rehab with medical treatments. Why Choose Bethany Animal Hospital for Canine Rehab in DeKalb & Sycamore? In a sea of veterinary options, Bethany Animal Hospital emerges as the clear frontrunner for canine rehabilitation. Here's why we're the obvious choice: ● Decades of Trusted Care: Serving Sycamore since 1959, we know the local pet community inside and out—from DeKalb's farm dogs to Sycamore's urban adventurers. ● Convenient Location & Accessibility: Nestled in Sycamore, IL, we're just minutes from DeKalb, with easy parking and flexible scheduling. ● Holistic Support: Pair rehab with our complimentary nutrition counseling (call 815-756-8925) for comprehensive wellness. ● Proven Results in a Fear-Free Environment: Our private rehab suite minimizes stress, maximizing cooperation and outcomes. ● Affordable Excellence: Competitive pricing without compromising quality—because every tail wag matters. Don't settle for less when your dog's mobility is on the line. Bethany's blend of expertise, empathy, and innovation makes us the go-to. Ready to Get Your Dog Back on Track? Start with a Simple Step Embarking on canine rehabilitation therapy has never been easier. Before your visit to Bethany Animal Hospital, download and complete our Canine Rehabilitation Referral Form . Prefer electronic? Text or email our team for a digital version. Contact us today at Bethany Animal Hospital to schedule your consultation. Call (815) 756-8925 or visit our website for more details. Let's team up to unlock your dog's boundless energy—because a wagging tail is the best reward. Serving DeKalb, Sycamore, and beyond with compassionate veterinary care since 1959. Follow us on Facebook for tips on canine rehab in DeKalb and heartwarming success stories!
By Carly Stadie March 2, 2025
March 23rd is a double celebration for pet lovers! It’s National Puppy Day AND Cuddly Kitten Day—a day to honor our furry friends, promote pet adoption, and share some tips for raising a happy, healthy pet. Whether you have a playful pup 🐶 or a curious kitten 🐱, Bethany Animal Hospital is here to help you give them the best start in life! ________________________________________ 🐶 Tips for Raising a Happy, Healthy Puppy 🐾 Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Here’s how to ensure your new best friend grows into a well-rounded, healthy dog: 🏥 1. Start with a Vet Visit ✅ Schedule a puppy wellness appointment as soon as you bring them home. You can even schedule before you have your pup if you know their arrival date! ✅ Discuss vaccinations, deworming, and parasite prevention. These services are critical to keeping your puppy healthy and protected from risks they may encounter as they start to explore the world around them. ✅ Ask about spaying/neutering options. Your vet can explain the benefits of spaying and neutering at particular ages, and help you determine the best time for your particular pet. 🍖 2. Feed Them Right ✅ Choose a high-quality puppy food for proper growth. Your vet is happy to discuss nutrition to help you decide the best option for your pet. ✅ Follow a feeding schedule to help with digestion and training. While puppies need more calories, they can still become overweight. Discussing the appropriate amount to feed with your vet helps them get on track for a happy, healthy life. ✅ Avoid table scraps & toxic foods (no chocolate, onions, or grapes!). The ASPCA is a great resource for determining what foods are dangerous. You can access their Animal Poison Control portal here: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control 🏡 3. Socialization & Training ✅ Introduce them to new people, pets, and environments early on. Until your pet is fully vaccinated, you may want to restrict your puppy to only visiting with other vaccinated pets in controlled environments, like training classes or a friend’s home. Socialization is key to creating confidence in puppies. ✅ Use positive reinforcement for training (treats & praise work wonders!). Not sure where to start? See our next tip! ✅ Enroll in puppy training classes for social skills & basic commands. Even if you think you know how to train a puppy, there are always new things to learn, and being around other puppies can be a great resource. 🐾 4. Exercise & Playtime ✅ Puppies have tons of energy, so daily play and walks are a must! ✅ Give them age-appropriate toys to stimulate their minds. Enrichment can be as simple as feeding food in a puzzle bowl or allowing your pet novel scents to smell - a little goes a long way! 🦷 5. Dental & Grooming Care ✅ Get them used to brushing their teeth early on. 🦷 ✅ Keep their nails trimmed and coat brushed to prevent matting. Regular, positive nail trims as a puppy can make the process much easier for years to come! ✅ Schedule regular vet check-ups to ensure they stay in top shape. ________________________________________ 🐱 How to Raise a Happy, Healthy Kitten 🐾 Kittens may be tiny, but they need just as much care and attention as puppies! Here’s how to set your little feline up for a purr-fect life: 🏥 1. First Vet Visit ✅ Get your kitten vaccinated & dewormed early. Your vet can discuss the appropriate schedule and vaccines for your pet. Additionally, your vet can help you determine the best parasite prevention for your pet. Even indoor only cats can become infected with parasites like fleas! ✅ Test for feline diseases like FIV and FeLV. This can be done with a simple, in-house blood test. ✅ Discuss spaying/neutering options with your vet. 🍗 2. Nutrition & Hydration ✅ Choose a high-protein kitten food to support growth. Your vet can help you determine which diet is best for your pet. ✅ Provide fresh water at all times to prevent dehydration. Many kittens love running water and will be more likely to drink if offered a water fountain. ✅ Avoid giving them cow’s milk—it can upset their stomach! Weaned kittens do not need milk in their daily diet. 🏡 3. Litter Training & Socialization ✅ Most kittens instinctively use the litter box, but they may need to be frequently shown and prompted to visit it when adjusting to a new home. ✅ Provide a clean, quiet space for their litter box. 🚽 Multiple litterboxes is always best, and it can be beneficial to try different style to see which your kitten prefers. ✅ Handle them gently and introduce them to new experiences & people early. 🧶 4. Playtime & Mental Stimulation ✅ Provide scratching posts to protect your furniture. Redirect kittens to scratching posts if they scratch in inappropriate locations, and reward them for scratching where you prefer. Some cats may prefer horizontal scratching, while others prefer a vertical post. ✅ Offer safe toys like feather wands & crinkle balls. Be mindful of small pieces and strings for kittens especially, as consuming them can cause life-threatening issues. ✅ Kittens love to climb, so consider a cat tree for enrichment. Cat shelves can also be a fun addition to increase vertical space. 🐾 5. Veterinary & Grooming Needs ✅ Brush their fur regularly—especially if they’re long-haired. ✅ Trim their claws to prevent painful overgrowth. ✂️ Frequent, positive nail trims at a young age can make the process easier for years to come! ✅ Schedule annual wellness exams to keep them in tip-top shape. ________________________________________ 🐶🐱 Looking to Adopt? Give a Puppy or Kitten a Loving Home! ❤️ National Puppy Day & Cuddly Kitten Day are also about pet adoption! Shelters and rescues are full of adorable pets looking for forever homes. Before adopting, consider: 🐾 Do you have time to care for a new pet? 🐾 Can you afford vet care, food, and supplies? 🐾 Is your home pet-proofed and ready? 🐾 Are you ready for a lifetime commitment? If the answer is yes, adopting a puppy or kitten can be one of the most rewarding experiences! 🥰 We recommend www.petfinder.com to find local shelters and rescues. ________________________________________ 🐾 Happy National Puppy Day & Cuddly Kitten Day from Bethany Animal Hospital! 🎉 Whether you’re celebrating with a new furry friend or your longtime companion, we’re here to support your pet’s health every step of the way! Need to schedule a puppy or kitten check-up? Call us today! 📞 815-756-8925 | 🏥 Bethany Animal Hospital - Sycamore, IL
July 19, 2024
The Benefits and Risks of Online Pharmacies for Pets: Introducing Blue Rabbit Online Pharmacy

Bethany Animal Hospital Serving Sycamore and the Surrounding Areas including: