Business Details
39 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Partner for Veterinary Care in Rockford
Animal Medical Clinics of Rockford has been a trusted provider of veterinary care since 1987, founded by Dr. Cary Thompson. Our team of experienced veterinarians, including Dr. James Buhl and Dr. Alicia Guarino, brings over 100 years of combined clinical expertise to pet care. We are committed to advancing veterinary medicine through cutting-edge diagnostics, surgical technologies, and compassionate treatment approaches. Our three full-service locations in Rockford, Machesney Park, and CherryVale offer comprehensive medical, dental, surgical, and wellness services for companion animals. Affiliated with professional organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association, we maintain rigorous standards of practice while fostering a family-friendly, Fear Free environment.Our staff prioritizes client education, preventive care, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each pet's unique needs. With climate-controlled boarding facilities and specialized day care services at Waggin' Tails, we accommodate diverse pet care requirements beyond routine veterinary visits. Our on-site pharmacy and diagnostic laboratory ensure timely access to critical medications and test results. Through continuous staff training and technological investments, we maintain leadership in regional veterinary care. Our legacy of excellence continues under current ownership, upholding the values established during our decades of service to Rockford communities.
Services
Veterinary Medicine
Surgical Services
Dental Care
Boarding Services
Vaccine Programs
Doggie Daycare
Exotic Animal Care
Preventative Health
Pet Pharmacy
Microchipping
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- Three convenient locations serving Rockford and surrounding areas
- Veterinarians with over 100 years combined clinical experience
- Fear Free Certified professionals specializing in low-stress pet care
- Advanced diagnostic capabilities including digital radiology and ultrasound
- Comprehensive services from surgery to climate-controlled boarding
Services
Vaccine Programs
Our comprehensive vaccination protocols follow AAHA guidelines while addressing individual pet needs. We offer core and non-core vaccinations for dogs and cats, including rabies, distemper, and feline leukemia. Our annual wellness exams include personalized vaccine recommendations based on age, lifestyle, and health status.
Surgical Services
We perform routine and complex surgical procedures using modern anesthetic monitoring systems. Our surgical capabilities include soft tissue, orthopedic, and dental surgeries with comprehensive pain management protocols. Pre-operative diagnostics ensure patient safety during procedures like cruciate repairs and dental extractions.
Doggie Daycare
Waggin' Tails offers supervised play sessions for small and medium dogs in secure indoor facilities. Pets receive socialization opportunities with appropriate playmates and scheduled rest periods throughout the day. All participants must meet vaccination and behavioral requirements for safety and comfort.
Dental Care
Our dental services include comprehensive oral exams, professional cleanings, and digital imaging. We address periodontal disease, tooth extractions, and oral health maintenance using specialized equipment. Preventative education helps pet owners maintain their animals' dental health between professional cleanings.
Exotic Animal Care
Specialized care for reptiles, birds, and small mammals is available at select locations. Our veterinarians provide species-specific wellness exams, nutritional counseling, and treatment for exotic pets. Specialized equipment and expertise support care for unusual animals in controlled environments.
People
Dr. James Buhl
Practice Owner
A Rockford native with veterinary degree from University of Illinois, top 10% of class. Fear Free Certified with interests in internal medicine and surgery. Owner of border collie Sadie and cat Charles.
Dr. Alicia Guarino
Practice Owner
Veterinarian with expertise in small animal medicine and exotic care. Graduated from University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. Enjoys outdoor family activities and wildlife exploration with sons in northern Wisconsin.
Dr. Mary Stromberg
Surgeon
Veterinary pathologist with surgical specialization, Fear Free Elite certified. Holds Master's degree from University of Nebraska, balances clinical practice with family life and various pet companions including guinea pigs and cats.
Dr. Ariana Sjuts
Veterinary Acupuncturist
Certified veterinary acupuncturist with Fear Free training since 2020. Completed biology studies at Elmhurst College and veterinary medicine at Iowa State University. Practices integrative care approaches alongside family life in Rockford.
Questions
What types of pets do you treat?
We primarily care for dogs and cats, with specialized exotic animal services at select locations for birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
Do you offer after-hours emergency care?
For urgent needs outside our regular hours, we recommend Animal Emergency Clinic of Rockford at 815-229-7791, our trusted referral partner.
What boarding services are available?
Our climate-controlled boarding includes large runs, daily exercise, and optional day care at Waggin' Tails. Dogs must meet health and behavioral requirements.
How can I schedule appointments?
Our computerized system allows efficient appointment booking via phone or online for wellness visits, surgeries, and urgent care consultations.
What payment options do you accept?
We accept cash, checks, major credit cards, and CareCredit financing. Payment is required at service delivery with prior estimates available upon request.
Are your staff Fear Free Certified?
Multiple team members including doctors hold Fear Free certifications to minimize pet stress during veterinary visits using specialized handling techniques.
