It has been twenty years, a name change, two renovations and a new building since Dr. Pat Pagel purchased the practice that became Cole Park Veterinary Hospital. And for twenty years, she and her staff have been working with pet owners to ensure that their pets attain and maintain good health through progressive preventative medicine, alternative therapies and up-to-date client education.

“The goal is for there to be a partnership between the doctor and client based on knowledge and trust,” Pagel said. Veterinarian and owner work together to develop a plan to keep the pet healthy or, in the case of illness, to devise and pursue a treatment plan.

Such a plan might involve a variety of methods. “We have an integrative practice that values and offers both traditional and alternative treatments,” Pagel went on to say. “We have over 30 years combined experience in acupuncture. We also offer warm laser therapy and some Chinese herbology.”

According to Pagel, all the folks at Cole Park Veterinary Hospital value compassionate care of patients. “We have a well-trained staff that includes registered veterinary technicians. We are a practice that believes in pain management.”

They also share a concern for the care and treatment of older dogs: “Older pets slow down for specific reasons—not just because they are old. We can help, in many instances, to regain their health. Growing old does not destine them to being on a chronic state of aging with pain,” she said.

If you are seeking information on the health of your pet, Dr. Pagel advises: “Go to official veterinary school websites designed to give accurate information in an understandable format. Avoid like the plague chat rooms—they are filled with inaccuracies and are generally fueled by fear.”

And when professional help is needed, Cole Park Veterinary Hospital can provide advice and care in an atmosphere of respect for both the pet owner and the pet.