People You Should Know: Dr. Helen Dane – Danada Veterinary Hospital
Posted by Laura Nelson on October 2, 2009
By Sherry Nelson
When Dr. Helen Dane started up her own veterinary practice in 1989, she could hardly have envisioned leading a team of eight doctors and twenty three support staff into a new $2.7 million free-standing building twenty years later. But that’s exactly what she did.
The new Danada Veterinary Hospital on Wheaton’s West Loop Drive opened September 8. The hospital features treatment rooms for each doctor, and state-of-the-art equipment to improve diagnoses and care for each pet. A new digital X-ray machine gives precise bone detail, while enhanced ultrasound equipment gives a better view of soft tissues. There is also a separate treatment room for dental procedures, one designated for exotic pets, and an isolation unit for pets with communicable conditions.
“Preventative medicine has been the cornerstone of our business,” says Dr. Dane. “We’ve been successful because we focus on communicating how to provide what’s best for pets.” Pets are living much longer today than thirty years ago, according to Dr. Dane. It’s not unusual to see dogs live to seventeen or eighteen years. The oldest cat patient is twenty three years old. Dr. Dane attributes longevity to better diagnostics, improved diet, and better preventive measures.
“Just like humans,” says Dr. Dane, “many animals need nutritional supplements.” Also, like humans, much more attention is given to pain relief for pets. There are arthritis medicines to keep older pets comfortable.
The new hospital also has pet boarding quarters–with separate areas for cats, dogs, and exotics. New “doggie turf” is set to be installed soon in the outdoor exercise area. “It’s great, as we can hose it down, it stays green all year, and is more comfortable for pets than gravel,” says Dr. Dane.
Danada Veterinary Hospital is at 10 West Loop Road, Wheaton. (630) 665-6161, www.danadavet.com.
