Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Veterinarian in Caledonia, WI
North Shore Animal Hospital has been dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care since 1970. As an AAHA-accredited facility since 1979, we combine advanced medical technology with compassionate service to ensure the well-being of pets in Caledonia, Racine, and surrounding Wisconsin communities. Our comprehensive services include preventative care, laser surgery, digital radiography, and dental diagnostics, supported by a team of experienced veterinarians and Fear Free Certified professionals.We prioritize client education and personalized treatment plans, treating every pet as if they were our own. With extended hours and emergency care partnerships, we strive to meet the needs of busy pet owners while maintaining the highest standards of veterinary medicine.
Services
Preventative Care
Laser Surgery
Digital Radiography
Dental Radiography
Emergency Care
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- AAHA-accredited hospital since 1979
- Veterinarians with decades of combined experience
- Fear Free Certified staff for reduced pet stress
- MLS laser therapy for pain management
- Digital radiography with immediate image access
Associations and certifications
- American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
What people say
Friendly, caring and efficient
Knowledgeable staff
Respect and kindness
Fear free certified
Exceptional senior pet care
Services
Preventative Care
Our preventative medicine program includes customized vaccination schedules, nutritional counseling, and parasite prevention tailored to your pet's lifestyle. Annual wellness exams help detect early signs of disease, while our team provides guidance on dental care and behavioral training for puppies and kittens. With a focus on long-term health, we help pets maintain optimal wellness through every life stage.
Laser Surgery
We utilize CO2 surgical lasers for precise incisions that minimize bleeding and post-operative pain. This technology reduces recovery times and lowers infection risks by sealing nerve endings during procedures. Common applications include spaying/neutering, mass removals, and soft tissue surgeries, performed by our experienced veterinary surgeons using advanced monitoring equipment.
Digital Radiography
Our digital radiography system provides immediate high-resolution images for rapid diagnosis of internal conditions. This technology enables quicker treatment decisions and allows secure image sharing with specialists when needed. Compared to traditional film, it reduces radiation exposure by up to 90% while maintaining diagnostic quality for both routine and emergency cases.
Dental Radiography
Digital dental radiography reveals hidden oral health issues below the gumline, including tooth root abscesses and bone loss. This essential tool guides treatment decisions for extractions, periodontal therapy, and restorative procedures. Our veterinarians use these images to develop comprehensive dental care plans that prevent systemic infections from oral disease.
Emergency Care
We offer urgent care six days weekly with experienced veterinary teams available for critical cases. For after-hours emergencies, we coordinate with Blue Pearl and WVRC specialty hospitals. Our staff triages cases promptly, providing stabilization and treatment for trauma, poisoning, and acute illnesses during regular business hours.
People
Dr. Thomas Torhorst
Veterinarian and Founder
Founded North Shore Animal Hospital in 1970 after graduating from Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Specialized in zoo and wildlife medicine during his 25-year tenure at Racine Zoo. Now performs surgeries part-time at NSAH.
Dr. Linda Axnick
Veterinarian and Co-Owner
Practicing at NSAH since 1999 with expertise in preventative medicine and surgery. Co-owns the hospital with her husband Dr. Todd Whitney. Competes nationally in canine agility and dock diving with their four retrievers.
Dr. Todd Whitney
Veterinarian and Co-Owner
Joined NSAH in 2012 as co-owner after graduating from UW-Madison in 1995. Focuses on client education and puppy/kitten behavioral training. Active in canine sports competitions with his family's three retrievers.
Dr. Heidi Jahn
Veterinarian
Veterinarian at NSAH since 1991 with special interest in internal medicine. Graduated from UW-Madison's second veterinary class. Enjoys traveling, photography, and caring for her four cats at home.
Dr. Deb Hollis
Veterinarian
Practicing since 1998 with focus on feline/canine dentistry and senior pet care. Previously worked with horses before transitioning to small animal medicine. Owns multiple animals including dogs, cats, and horses at her home.
Questions
What services does North Shore Animal Hospital offer?
We provide preventative care, laser surgery, digital radiography, dental diagnostics, and emergency treatment. Our services also include wellness exams, vaccinations, and specialized care for chronic conditions.
Are you open for emergency visits?
Yes, we handle urgent care cases six days weekly during regular hours. For after-hours emergencies, we recommend Blue Pearl or WVRC specialty hospitals with direct transfer coordination.
Do you accept exotic pets?
While our primary focus is dogs and cats, select veterinarians treat rabbits and pocket pets. Please call ahead to confirm availability for exotic animal care with our team.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept major credit cards, cash, and CareCredit financing. Payment is required at the time of service, with estimates provided for extensive treatments or hospitalizations.
Is North Shore Animal Hospital accredited?
Yes, we've maintained American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accreditation since 1979, reflecting our commitment to exceeding veterinary care standards through regular facility and protocol evaluations.
How can I access my pet's medical records?
Our online Pet Portal at Petly.com provides 24/7 access to your pet's medical history, vaccination records, and diagnostic results. Staff can assist with portal registration during your next visit.
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