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50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Veterinarian in Dixon, IL
Since 1939, River Ridge Animal Hospital has been a trusted provider of comprehensive veterinary care in the Sauk Valley area. Our mission is to deliver compassionate, cutting-edge care for pets, treating each animal as a cherished family member. With over 80 years of local experience, we utilize advanced diagnostic technology and veterinary techniques while maintaining a personalized, community-focused approach.

Our team of skilled veterinarians and specialists offer a broad range of services from preventative care to emergency treatment, ensuring complete healthcare solutions for pets. We demonstrate expertise through continuous investment in staff education and state-of-the-art medical equipment, establishing ourselves as a reliable authority in the veterinary field.
Services
Pet Preventative Health Dog Dentistry Pet Pain Management Pet Pharmacy Pet Imaging Pet Surgery Dog Daycare Pet Boarding Pet Grooming Pet Chemotherapy
Details
  • Year established: 1939
Highlights and features
  • Decades of experience since 1939
  • Advanced veterinary technology and diagnostics
  • Comprehensive range of services under one roof
  • Experienced team of veterinarians and specialists
  • Community-focused, personalized care approach
What people say
Excellent care Knowledgeable staff Compassionate team Top-notch services Professional and friendly
Services
Pet Preventative Health
Our preventative health program emphasizes early detection and proactive care. Annual wellness exams track your pet's health, while vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental checkups maintain optimal well-being. Nutritional counseling and spaying/neutering services complete this comprehensive approach to maintaining long-term health.
Dog Dentistry
We provide complete dental services including routine cleanings, dental exams, tooth extractions, and digital radiography. Our advanced periodontal care prevents and treats gum disease, while our pain management protocols ensure patient comfort throughout dental procedures. Preventative dental care helps avoid systemic health issues.
Pet Imaging
Our diagnostic imaging services include digital radiography and ultrasound for accurate diagnosis. X-rays evaluate skeletal and internal organ health while ultrasounds provide detailed soft tissue imaging. These non-invasive techniques enable early detection of conditions like tumors, heart disease, and urinary tract issues.
Pet Pain Management
We offer multi-modal pain management strategies combining medications, laser therapy, and nutritional supplements. Our approach addresses acute post-surgical pain and chronic conditions like arthritis. Personalized pain management plans help pets maintain mobility and enjoy improved quality of life.
Pet Pharmacy
Our in-house pharmacy provides immediate access to essential medications and preventive products. Stocking antibiotics, pain relievers, chronic disease medications, and parasite preventatives allows for swift treatment implementation. Expert guidance on medication use ensures proper administration for your pet's safety.
People
Dr. Nathan McClain
Veterinarian
Graduated from University of Illinois in 2004. Local Dixon native with deep community ties. Specializes in small animal medicine while maintaining outdoor interests in hiking and fishing.
Dr. Chris Gunnon
Veterinarian
US Navy veteran with over 30 years experience. Active in Northern Illinois Veterinary Medical Association. Specializes in small animal medicine and surgery while raising his family in Dixon.
Dr. Phil Fassler
Veterinarian
Veterinary graduate from 1989 with expertise in surgical oncology and orthopedics. IL State Veterinary Medical Association leader. Combines medical research background with hands-on surgical specialization.
Dr. Erin Graves
Veterinarian
Former U.S. Army Veterinary Corps officer with focus on dentistry. Practicing since 2004 graduate with special interest in dental procedures. Brings military precision to small animal medicine.
Dr. Trisha Cooper
Veterinarian
Mixed animal medicine specialist from Bradley University graduate. Combines small animal practice with DIY expertise. Enthusiastic about preventive care while maintaining active outdoor lifestyle with multiple pets.
Questions
Is your anesthetic safe for my pet?
We use modern anesthetic monitors and pre-surgical blood testing to ensure safety. Tailored anesthetic doses based on individual pet health assessments minimize risks during procedures.
Will my pet experience pain after surgery?
Pain management plans use advanced medications tailored to each pet. Dogs receive anti-inflammatories while cats benefit from improved pain control options. Post-operative comfort is prioritized.
How do you handle after-hours emergencies?
We provide CareCredit financing for emergency treatments and accept urgent cases during regular business hours. Established patients have access to after-hours care guidance.
What additional services are offered during surgery?
While under anesthesia we can perform fecal testing, ear cleanings, microchipping, and discuss presurgical bloodwork options. Complete dental evaluations may also be conducted.
What payment options exist for veterinary care?
We accept CareCredit financing for both routine and emergency care. Payment plans and cost estimates can be arranged for major procedures and ongoing treatment plans.
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