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Brookview Animal Health Center

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Mason City, IA
Brookview Animal Health Center

Brookview Animal Health Center We are a family based Veterinary Practice that cares for small pets and exotics. Our goal is to provide quality loving care for your best friend.

At Brookview, we are more than just a hospital. We are here to listen, as well as educate. Our staff’s goal is to make your pet’s experience as stress and pain free as possible. Our exam rooms and waiting area are spacious and have comfortable chairs or loveseats in each. The pets are all cared for by compassionate, loving technicians. Dr. Smith and Dr. Rachael have unbelievable “bedside manners”

and a great love for animals. The office has three clinic cats that love everybody: Ices, a snow white cat, Tica, a petite calico, and Dante, a huge black cat who plays the role of office greeter. All of our clinic cats are rescues who now lead very charmed lives. In our waiting room you will meet our Umbrella Cockatoo, Juliet, who loves attention. She will let most everyone pet her and will sometimes even go on your shoulder. Dr. Smith is her favorite person though, so don’t be offended if she leaves you when she sees him. We also have a Russian Tortoise named Boris in one of our exam rooms and a variety of fish in our Koi pond and large tank.

03/10/2025

Jasmine is our pretty Pet of the Week! A 17 week old Doberman, Jasmine was the spunky runt of her litter, but you wouldn’t know it looking at her now! Her dad tells us Jasmine is super smart! In fact, she has already taught herself how to unlock her kennel!

03/05/2025

We’re “Getting to Know Your Breed” the Turkish Angora!

The Turkish Angora is believed to come from the Turkish capital of Ankara, which was formerly known as Angora. The Turkish sultans bestowed these prized cats as gifts to European nobility in the 16th century. Once feared to be extinct, Ankara Zoo officials have maintained a breeding program to protect and preserve this breed since 1917. The first Turkish Angora arrived in the United States in 1963.
The Angora displays a silky, medium-length coat that comes in a variety of colors, including lavender and chocolate. Their almond-shaped eyes can be blue, green, amber or even odd-eyed (one blue and one amber). An elegant looking cat, the Turkish Angora has a slender build, fine-boned legs and silky tail plume that resembles a fox tail. With no undercoat, the Angora’s fur can be maintained by brushing once or twice a week with a fine-toothed comb or slicker brush to remove excess hair and prevent mats. During the summer, it is recommended to brush them more often to prevent hairballs.
Turkish Angoras are known for being grace, elegant and totally devoted to their owners. Exceptionally intelligent and athletic, they are curious and thrive on learning commands and tricks. This breed especially enjoys riding around on people's shoulders or surveying the scene from high perches. Extremely extroverted, this breed may boldly greet newcomers, but may also become quickly upset with sudden changes. Typically, Angoras will welcome the companionship of other pets, including dogs.

03/03/2025

This sweet Pet of the Week is Bertha! Bertha is an 11 week old Golden Retriever puppy. Like her big sister, Bertha is in training to be involved in the Nora Springs school district. Her dad tells us Bertha is working hard on learning tricks and loves to eat!

02/26/2025

We’re discovering more about the Chesapeake Bay Retriever in our “Getting to Know Your Breed” segment today! Share any photos of your Chessies in the comments!

Wealthy owners of duck clubs that lined both shores of the Chesapeake Bay during the 19th century set the basic breed type of the Chesapeake Bay Retriever. Newfoundlands, Irish Water Spaniels, and hounds of undetermined origin were among the dogs thought to be in the genetic mix. These sportsmen built a retriever well suited to the bay's frigid waters. The thick, oily double coat of the Chessie is both insulating and waterproof. Their broad chests act a plow against ice and powerful hindquarters and large webbed feet enable Chessies to swim tirelessly against slashing winds.
Chesapeake Bay Retrieves are perceptive and sensitive, which can make them excellent therapy workers. Their sturdy build and acute scenting ability are highly valued by K-9 handlers in the fields of search-and-rescue work and drug and bomb detection. The good looks and athleticism of the Chesapeake also give them a great advantage in show rings and in a variety of dog sports.
The Chesapeake Retrievers’s distinctive breed trait is a wavy brown coat that is oily to the touch. Typically, Chessies don't require much grooming or bathing. This is a shorthaired breed with a soft undercoat and a harsh outer coat. They do shed, and a good brushing about once a week will keep the dead hair on your floor to a minimum.
An intelligent, high-energy breed, Chessies need a job and plenty of exercise. Hiking, running, hunting, and swimming are what they love to do. They excel in all the dog sports, such as obedience, tracking, and agility, and the hunting and field work they were bred for.
Obedience training is a must for the Chesapeake. Young puppies should start out with early socialization and puppy training classes. These help to ensure that the Chesapeake will grow into a well-adjusted, well-mannered companion. Chessies take to training, but they have a mind of their own and can tenaciously pursue their own path. They are protective of their humans and polite, but not overtly friendly, to strangers. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers make excellent watchdogs and are versatile athletes. A well-socialized Chessie is a confident and excellent hunting companion.

02/24/2025

Meet our Pet of the Week, Gus! Gus is a 4 year old Chihuahua mix who LOVES attention! His family tells us his favorite toy is his Lamb Chop. Gus may be the smallest dog in his house, but his canine sisters will let him take their toys without a fuss.

02/19/2025

We’re highlighting the Rhodesian Ridgeback as our “Getting to Know Your Breed” feature this week!

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a unique creation from Southern Africa bred to hunt large game and lions, resulting from crosses between the native ridged Khoikhoi dog and European breeds, including Greyhounds and various Terriers. These ridged dogs excelled at confronting and confounding lions, giving the hunter time to sight in his rifle and dispatch his prey. Also used to fend off other dangerous animals such as leopards and baboons, the Ridgebacks could trot effortlessly alongside horse-mounted riders all day and protect the homestead from all intruders. They were known then, as they are today, for their devotion to family.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback’s most distinguishing trait is the ridge, or stripe of backward-growing hair, on their back. Though the breed was made famous in its native Africa for its skill at tracking lions, today Ridgebacks are cherished family dogs whose owners must be prepared to deal with their independence and strong prey drive. Ridgebacks are fast and powerful athletes who can weigh between 70 and 85 pounds, and oftentimes more. They come in only one color, wheaten, with either a black or, less commonly, brown nose. The Rhodesian Ridgeback does shed, but overall their grooming needs are minimal. A regular weekly brushing will help to remove loose hair and keep the coat glossy, and an occasional bath will help to keep the Ridgeback clean and looking his best. The nails should be trimmed often if not worn down naturally, as overly long nails can cause the dog discomfort and problems walking and running.
Athletic dogs who require a moderate amount of exercise, Ridgebacks can adapt well to various living situations when provided with daily outings such as long walks and play sessions. They love to run, and they need physical activity to help keep them healthy and happy. The breed can also exercise mind and body by participating in canine sports like tracking, agility, and other activities that dog and owner can enjoy together.
With a naturally strong prey drive, the Ridgeback can be strong-willed, independent, and sometimes domineering. Ridgebacks must be guided with a firm but a fair hand from puppyhood. A Ridgeback can be too much for hound for a novice owner, but are faithful friends, protective of their loved ones, and affectionate with those whom they trust.

02/17/2025

Our Pet of the Week is Georgia! Georgia is a 4 year old Goldendoodle. This perfect little lady loves her kids and will even let them dress her up to show off to the neighbors!

02/12/2025

During this cold weather season, we feel it is important to discuss hypothermia in pets for our “The More You Know” segment.

Hypothermia which is a medical condition that occurs when a pet’s body temperature drops below 100 degrees. A healthy pet’s body temperature is normally much higher than a human’s, ranging from 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Thinly haired, underweight, and very young or very old animals are at greater risk of developing this condition. Pets with chronic health problems, such kidney or heart disease, also have an increased risk of developing hypothermia. Exposure to frigid temperatures or freezing cold water are the most common causes of hypothermia in pets.
The most effective way to diagnose hypothermia is by measuring a pet’s re**al temperature using a standard digital thermometer. Depending on the underlying cause of your pet’s low body temperature, clinical signs may include shivering, lethargy, muscle stiffness, shallow or difficulty breathing, pale skin, muscle stiffness, disorientation, low heart rate, and dilated pupils.
If your pet is exhibiting clinical signs consistent with hypothermia or their body temperature has dropped below 100 degrees, bring them inside immediately and cover them with warm blankets or towels. Never wrap a pet in a heating pad or submerge them in hot or warm water as warming them too quickly could cause further injury or illness. On occasion, mild hypothermia can be treated at home by checking your pet’s temperature every 10 minutes, and providing warm blankets until their body temperature reaches 100 degrees. However, immediately bring your pet to a veterinarian if their temperature has dropped below 98 degrees, they are showing signs of severe hypothermia, or they have not improved after 30 minutes of home-warming treatment. A veterinarian may recommend warm IV fluids, run bloodwork to check for organ damage, respiratory and heart monitoring, and hospitalization with warming pads and special blankets.
To prevent hypothermia in pets, limit prolonged exposure to extremely cold temperatures during the cold winter months. Generally, it is too cold for your pet if it is too cold outside for you. Consider a coat and protective boots to help them stay warm if your pet does need to go outside briefly. Additionally, ensure your pet’s fur is dry before going outside to prevent their body temperature from dropping quickly and keep them away from bodies of water.

02/10/2025

Hank is one happy Pet of the Week! This handsome guy is a 6 month old Boxer who loves to play with his squeaky toys!

02/05/2025

Today on “Getting to Know Your Breed” we will be highlighting the West Highland Terrier! Remember to show off your Westie furkids in the comments!

The breed we know today as the West Highland White Terrier comes into historical focus in 1700s, when the Malcom clan began breeding little white dogs on their Scottish estate, Poltalloch. Smart, confident, and always entertaining, the adorable West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, has charmed owners for over 300 years. This small but sturdy dog is among the most popular of the terriers. With dark piercing eyes, compact body, and a carrot-shaped tail wagging with delight, the Westie's looks are irresistible. Beneath their plush-toy exterior, though, is a true working terrier. Bred to hunt rats and other underground rodents, Westies are surprisingly strong and tough.
The Westie’s all-white double coat is hard to the touch, not soft and fluffy. Regular grooming is necessary to keeping the Westie looking his best. Stripping (or plucking) the old, dead hair is the traditional way of taking care of the terrier coat, and is the grooming method that must be used if you're interested in showing a Westie. Pet owners usually schedule a visit to a professional groomer every 4 to 6 weeks will keep a Westie well trimmed. Because the Westie has a hard coat, bathing too often can do more harm than good. A Westie's teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste formulated for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life. Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity.
Westies love to romp and play, and they enjoy a nice walk. Since their breeding suggests that they run after anything that moves, the breed does best in a fenced area or on a leash. With their intelligence, energy, and positive attitude, Westies excel in a variety of canine sports and activities, including obedience, rally, and agility.
Alert and active, Westies exhibit traits of a plucky and self-reliant ratting terrier: They require no pampering, they will chase after anything that moves, and their independence can make training a challenge. But, thanks to their faithfulness and intelligence, Westies will train nicely with time and patience. Amusing, spunky, and portable, the Westie has been a popular companion dog in America for well over a hundred years.

02/03/2025

Daisy is our pretty Pet of the Week! A 16 month old rescue Boxer, Daisy loves wrestling with her sisters at home. This adorable little lady also loves crunchy treats!

01/29/2025

Our “Getting to Know Your Breed” segment is highlighting the Oriental Shorthair today!

Developed in the UK in the 1950’s the Oriental Short Hair is effectively a Siamese cat of a different colour - in fact any colour except the traditional ‘pointed’ colours of the Siamese. These exotic looking cats have a long head, tall ears, and long, slender legs.
Oriental Shorthairs are lively, elegant, and highly intelligent cats with high levels of energy and curiosity. They bond well with family members and thrive on attention and affection. A very active cat, they enjoy supervising and being “helpful”. Orientals are slightly less chaotic and talkative than the Siamese. The nutrition must be carefully controlled for this breed. Their long, slim legs are not made to hold a heavy body.
Orientals are great jumpers and love heights. For this reason, perches and cat trees should be provided. Oriental cats love to play and appreciate toys around the house for their pleasure. While their coat needs little care, the Oriental Shorthair associates brushing with affection and will enjoy being groomed. As elegant as the Oriental looks, they can be quite a lap cat and extremely affectionate with their family.

01/27/2025

This cutie is Pet of the Week, Miso! This little man enjoys his Sheba, anything warm, and cuddling with his kitty sister. Miso’s mom tells us he also comes to “Soup” and loves his heating pad and playing with toys!

01/20/2025

Royal is all smiles as our Pet of the Week! This 3 year old American Bully is as sweet as she looks! Royal’s mom tells us this pretty girl loves apples and her toy alligator.

01/16/2025

We’re discussing the Maltese for our “Getting to Know Your Breed” segment! Remember to share photos of your Maltese pups with us!

It is believed that the Maltese originated in Malta, a tiny island south of Sicily. It is only fitting that such a noble dog be established in Malta, whose civilization was known for its sophistication and opulence. Maltese appear often in Greek and Egyptian history as adored companions of higher society.
Famous for their show-stopping, floor-length white coat, Maltese are playful, charming, and adaptable toy companions. Affectionate toy dogs weighing less than seven pounds, the Maltese are alert watchdogs who are fearless in a charming toy-dog way. Although they may be small in stature, they are also competitive little athletes on the agility course. Maltese are low-shedding, often long-lived, and happy to make new friends of all ages.
Their naturally long white coat requires daily gentle brushing and combing to prevent mats and tangles if not groomed regularly. Maltese should also have regular baths and coat conditioning to keep their hair looking its best. They have fast-growing nails that should be trimmed monthly. Prone to dental disease, their teeth should be brushed frequently, preferably each time their coat is brushed. The white coat can show excessive tear-staining around the eyes.
Maltese are full of energy but require only occasional exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Daily walks with their owner or bouncing around in their fenced yard, or even indoors, will usually keep them fit. Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so owners should be conscious of their dog's calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. A very intelligent breed, Maltese are also known to be stubborn and determined, which can make training a challenge without consistency and positive reinforcement.

01/13/2025

Little Daisy is our Pet of the Week! This adorable pup is a 9 week old miniature Dachshund weighing in at a whole 2 pounds for her first appointment! Her mom says Daisy loves her tug of war toy and taking naps buried in her blankets!

01/08/2025

Our “The More You Know” topic for discussion is Rabies. Read along to learn more about this dangerous virus.

Rabies is one of the most devastating viral diseases affecting animals and humans. It is a fatal disease caused by infection with the rabies virus. Rabies virus is found throughout the world. The infection is transmitted through saliva when one infected mammal bites another. In North America the skunk, fox, raccoon, coyote, and bat are important sources of rabies infection. After the bite occurs, the rabies virus reproduces in the tissues near the wound, then uses the nerves to travel to the spinal cord, and then it moves to the brain. After the virus enters the brain, it spreads to the salivary glands and organs. Once in the salivary glands, the virus can be shed in the saliva. Rabies virus does not survive long outside a mammal's body.
Following a bite from a rabid animal, the disease progresses in stages. In the first phase, the animal undergoes a marked change in temperament. Quiet pets become agitated and active pets become nervous or shy. This phase can last 2-3 days. Following this stage, there are two recognized forms of the clinical disease: furious rabies and dumb rabies. Furious rabies occurs when the rabid animal becomes aggressive, highly excitable, and displays evidence of an altered appetite. Paralysis eventually sets in and the rabid animal may be unable to eat and drink. Hydrophobia (fear of water) is a feature of human rabies, but is not a sign in dogs.
Dumb rabies is the more common form in dogs. There is progressive paralysis involving the limbs, distortion of the face and difficulty swallowing, causing excess drool to be noted. Owners will frequently think the pet has something stuck in the mouth or throat. A noted feature of rabies in cats is the widely dilated pupil throughout all stages of the disease. In both forms of rabies, the animal eventually becomes comatose and dies.
Rabies can only be diagnosed by direct examination of the brain, meaning it is not possible to diagnose this disease in a living animal. This makes vaccinating pets for rabies the cornerstone for prevention. Vaccination promotes the production of antibodies but is only effective if given before the virus enters the nervous system. Modern rabies vaccines for dogs, cats, horses, and ferrets are extremely safe and effective. Most states require a rabies vaccine at 16 weeks of age for dogs and cats since the virus is transmissible to humans. The frequency of re-vaccination is dependent on individual state laws. Because there is no treatment for a pet with rabies, a 10 day quarantine of the pet will be observed following a bite. A pet shedding the rabies virus in the saliva will develop clinical signs within that time frame. A pet that is normal or healthy after the quarantine period is not considered contagious at the time of the bite.

01/06/2025

Our Pet of the Week, Vi, is one pretty kitten! At 13 weeks old, Vi loves to irritate her older feline sister. Her family tells us that while Vi may be a crazy kitten, she brings all sorts of fun to their house!

Address

1453 4th SE Suite B
Mason City, IA
50401

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm

Telephone

+16414211811

Website

http://brookviewvets.com/

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Videos

Our Pet of the Week is handsome boy, Winston! Winston is a 2 year old Great Dane who loves his mom, water, and going for rides in the truck!

We love happy tales (and tails)! Enjoy this heartwarming story and video we received last week! “Hi all! I just wanted to take a minute to thank you so much! Chloe, our 15 year old Labradoodle is doing amazing thanks to the wonderful prescription meds you put her on. She went from barely walking and sometimes just falling over....to this!!! She could hardly sit...she would just plop down on her. She is acting like a puppy again and constantly wagging her tail. We have had many happy tears over her progress. We are overjoyed!❤️❤️ Thank you!!” Chloe’s family asked us to share their story with the hope that it will inspire others with senior pets to schedule a consultation regarding comfort care options and be open to the doctor’s recommendations. Every day with our pets is a gift and they rely on us to help keep them as happy and healthy as possible. Thank you for sharing Chloe’s experience with us!!

We can’t forget about our kitty patients! @Watreallyhappensatthevet portrays some of our favorite feline antics! Do any of these look familiar to you?

Who can relate during their dog’s visit!? 🙋🙋‍♀️ @watreallyhappensatthevet is an LVT at an ER in Texas, but we can attest to the accuracy in our clinic too! We hope her video brought a smile to your faces too!

Since our bird bath is frozen, Tica has to settle for watching indoor “kitty tv” this time of year! Any channel recommendation for her!?

Juliet loves showing off for Dr. Smith! What song do you think gets her grooving?

Make sure to check out our story (by clicking on our profile picture with the blue ring) and get your vote in! (And to see the cute picture of our “King” of course!)