Hidden Toxins in Your Home

by | Mar 16, 2022 | Pet Health

Hidden Toxins in Your Home

Is your home a safe space for your pet? Unfortunately, many everyday items in your home can pose a significant risk to your pet’s health.

Here are a few dangers that may be lurking in your home and steps you can take to help keep your pet safe.

Cleaning Products

You probably spend plenty of time cleaning up messes in your home. Unfortunately, some of the ingredients in your cleaning products can be toxic to your pet. Some of these harmful ingredients include

  • Bleach
  • Ammonia
  • Formaldehyde
  • Chlorine
  • Phenols

When using products with these ingredients, read the label carefully and follow the manufactures instructions regarding appropriate use and dilution.

While cleaning, it’s best to keep your pet out of the area. This will help limit your pet’s exposure and prevent your furry friend from getting into cleaning products while you’re not looking. When cleaning the toilet bowl, consider putting the lid down to reduce your pet’s risk of drinking the toilet bowl cleaner. Likewise, avoid spraying aerosols in your pet’s presence.

Not only can cleaning products be toxic if consumed, but they can also cause chemical burns. It’s best to avoid using harsh cleaning products in areas that your pet frequents. When you are done cleaning, make sure all cleaning products are safely stored out of your pet’s reach.

Plants

Whether they are in your home or around your yard, many plants and flowers can put your pet in danger. The ASPCA’s Toxic Plant Guide is a phenomenal resource for identifying dangerous plants in your home. Their site offers photos to help you identify the plant and discusses what kind of symptoms your pet may experience if exposed.

While removing toxic plants from your home is the best way to keep your pet safe, accidents can happen. If you believe your pet has consumed a toxic plant, please give us a call. We can help you decide what additional treatment may be necessary. If you are unable to identify the plant, a plant clipping or picture can help us determine an appropriate treatment plan and get your pet the essential care they may need.

Personal Care Items

Have you ever noticed your pet licking your lotion after you’ve applied it? From lotions to toothpaste, Personal care items are a commonly overlooked danger in your home. Even though you may not use these products on your pet, your furry friend may still be exposed to the toxic ingredients.

Lotions often contain artificial fragrances that can be irritating to your pet’s sensitive nose. Additionally, some lotions and creams contain medication, including anti-inflammatory agents, that can be toxic. When using these products, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly and avoid letting your pet lick any product off of your skin.

Another personal care item of concern is toothpaste. Xylitol is a common ingredient in human toothpaste and is extremely toxic to pets. Even if you’re not using your toothpaste to brush your pet’s teeth, it’s essential to be mindful of its potential danger and keep your toothpaste out of your pet’s reach.

Give Us a Call!

Identifying the hidden toxins in your home is an essential part of keeping your pets healthy and safe. If your pet is exposed to a toxin or is experiencing symptoms such as vomiting or lethargy, please give us a call as soon as possible.

We hope this information will help make your home a safer place for your furry friends.

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Our Mission

We are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for our clients. Lake Country Veterinary Services PA strives to offer excellence in veterinary care to Albany, MN as well as St. Cloud, Freeport, Avon, and other surrounding areas.

Find Us

Dr. Dennis Bechtold

Dr. Dennis Bechtold

Dr. Dennis Bechtold joined Lake Country Veterinary Services in 2024, bringing with him a wealth of expertise and a deep passion for animal care. He obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota in 2005, laying the foundation for his distinguished career in veterinary medicine.

Beyond the confines of the clinic, Dr. Bechtold finds joy in the company of his family. His wife, Rachel, is a certified veterinary technician, and together they raise their two sons. Their shared interests extend to gardening and cultivating a variety of plants on their hobby farm, where they endeavor to sustainably produce much of their own food.

The Bechtold household is bustling with the presence of their beloved pets. Alongside their loyal German shepherds, Chief and Major, a harmonious coexistence is shared with their feline friends. Demonstrating a deep-rooted commitment to animal welfare, their farm becomes a sanctuary for a diverse array of creatures, from chickens and peacocks to emus and geese, and an eclectic mix of other animals including goats, sheep, cows, pigs, a cockatiel, parakeets, and a llama named "Dolly," rescued by Dr. Bechtold during his veterinary school years.

Dr. Colleen Kutzler

Dr. Colleen Kutzler is the newest veterinarian at Lake Country Veterinary Services. She graduated from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2022 and began practicing at LCVS in June 2022.  Dr. Colleen was raised in Oregon on a 2- acre hobby farm where her family owned a few ponies as well as raised and showed camelids on a national level. She has been around veterinary medicine her entire life following her mother, Dr. Michelle Kutzler from a young age. Dr. Colleen has many years of experience with dairy and beef cattle through her family’s farm in Dodge Center, MN. Much of her small animal experience was gained through breeding Miniature Dachshunds since she was in the 6th grade. Dr. Colleen practices large and small animal medicine and has a particular interest in reproduction. She loves to educate and work alongside dog breeders as well as consult on breeding management in large animals. When Dr. Colleen is not at the clinic, she enjoys spending time with her family, improving her new home, and playing with her two miniature dachshunds (Ruby and Raven).

Randi Robasse, Kennel Staff Manager/Receptionist

Started June 2021.

Has always enjoyed working with animals and has worked with several rescue organizations. Randi and her significant other Dustin have 2 kids - Landon and Kaylie

Dog - Finley
Cat - Princess

Sami Young, Certified Veterinary Technician

I grew up on my family's dairy farm and I help out every day. I am a Stearns County Dairy Princess and enjoy doing many events and parades. This past year, I graduated from Ridgewater College with my AAS degree in Veterinary Technology. I started working at Lake Country Vet in 2020 and have been working as a CVT since this year. When I am not helping out on the farm or doing my Dairy Princess duties I enjoy reading and spending time with family and friends or spending time with our family dog, Buddy.

Amy Dobmeier, Receptionist

Started working at the clinic in 2020.

I have always had a love for animals of all kinds, making this a job easy to enjoy.

Look forward to seeing clients with their wonderful pets every day, sneaking in a quick pet when it isn’t too busy.

In my free time, I enjoy caring for my many house plants and watching nature documentaries. I look forward to when I get a chance to travel with my husband, Brad. Our two children, Carter and Karlyn, are grown, but we still spend quite a lot of family time together. I also have two fur children who keep me on my toes. A Poodle Mix named Charlotte and a Shih Tzu Mix named Calvin.

Megan Olmscheid, Receptionist

Megan Olmscheid joined Lake Country Veterinary Service in 2019 and brings a warm and caring approach to her role as receptionist. With a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from St. Cloud State University, Megan has a natural passion for helping people—especially when it comes to supporting clients in caring for their beloved pets.

In her free time, Megan enjoys riding horses with her sister, making memories on every trail. She has two horses, Georgie, who is always curious and eager for adventure, and Jette, a young horse with a quirky personality she loves watching grow. Megan also shares her life with Miley, an Australian Shepherd/Red Heeler mix who’s happiest when chasing things or swimming in the family pond. Her favorite animal movie is Flicka, reflecting her lifelong love of horses.

Emily Achman, Certified Veterinary Technician

Emily joined our team in 2007 and has enriched our practiced with her skills and kindness. She’s one of our talented veterinary technicians who thrives on variety and excels when faced with challenges. In 2014, Emily graduated from the Minnesota School of Business with an Associate of Science degree. Her favorite part of working here is that each day she gets to see and help a wide variety of animals. Abscess appointments and similar issues tend to be her favorite. Koda, Emily’s dog is her pride and joy. He loves food, going for a swim, and taking naps. Even though Koda is not lightweight (he’s 90-pounds!), he thinks he’s a lap dog. During her downtime, Emily loves spending time with her family and friends. And her favorite hobby is reading. How much does Emily like reading? She and her friends regularly participate in a book club!

Rachel Haider, Certified Veterinary Technician

Rachel has been a valued member of our team since 2015. Her favorite part of working in veterinary medicine is that every day brings new experiences and challenges. She loves that our clinic offers care for a wide variety of pets, allowing her to make a positive impact on their lives.

Rachel graduated from the Ridgewater College Veterinary Technology Program in 2019, equipping her with the skills and knowledge to provide exceptional care to animals.

In her spare time, Rachel enjoys photography, sewing, and crafting, which allow her to express her creativity and capture the beauty around her.

Rachel shares her home with a mixed breed dog named Jezzy, two harlequin rabbits named Asher and Clementine, and two domestic shorthair cats named Alan and Waylon. She also lovingly serves as the retirement home for Chip, the clinic cat, ensuring he enjoys his golden years.

Janelle Schlangen, Receptionist

Janelle Schlangen has been a valued team member at Lake Country Veterinary Service since 2015, where she warmly welcomes clients and their pets every day. Outside of the clinic, Janelle and her husband, Scott, are taking on an exciting new adventure: managing his family’s chicken barn and planning to raise farm animals. This transition to farm life is especially exciting for their three children—Carson, Cameron, and Cali—who are thrilled to be a part of it.

At home, Janelle’s family includes two beloved Cocker Spaniels, Boston and Dakota, along with several farm cats, each affectionately named by her daughter. Janelle’s dedication to animals and her community makes her an invaluable part of Lake Country Veterinary Service.

Tammy Lehner, Receptionist

Tammy has been with us since 2017 and is a fixture here at Lake Country Veterinary Services. She greets clients on the phone with her friendly voice or in-person with her glowing smile. She loves each pet that walks through the door, and her favorite part of being part of our team is interacting with clients and their pets. When she’s not at work, she loves cooking and spending time with her family, including her Chocolate Lab, Daisy.

Janice Hommerding, Certified Veterinary Technician

Janice Hommerding, our adept and caring certified veterinary technician has provided our clients with her kindness and skill since 2011. Janice dreamed of working with animals long before becoming a vet tech, and she excels at, and thrives on, the variety of tasks her position requires. Janice earned her Associate of Applied Science degree in Veterinary Technology in 1999 from Ridgewater College in Willmar Minnesota. After Janice clocks out, she tries to find as much time as possible to dive into her many hobbies. From reading to gardening and scrapbooking, Janice stays busy. And when she’s not tending to her garden, you might find her horseback riding, deer hunting, fishing, baking, napping, walking, or spending time with her husband and kids. Janice’s pet family includes Annie, a 14-year-old Bernese Moutain Dog, Josie, a 10-year-old Blue Heeler mix, and her three cats: Elmer, Candycorn, and CC. Her household isn’t complete without her hobby farm creatures, which include horses, sheep, chickens, and calves.

Addie Moeller, Lead Certified Veterinary Technician

Addie Moeller brings energy and enthusiasm to our practice. As our lead certified veterinary tech, she cares for each pet that she meets. You often find her performing her favorite duties: helping clients and educating them about the care of their pets. She also loves the variety of day-to-day duties she is tasked with. Addie has been with us since 2007 and holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the Minnesota School of Business.  When Addie gets a day off, she loves spending time with her loving husband, Bob, and two boys, Logan and Jaxon. She also enjoys biking and walking her sweet dog, Emma. In addition to Emma, Addie has a bird named Bobo and two cats: Sophie who is 11 and Kalle who is one of the oldest kitties around at 20-years-old.
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Dr. Neal Womack

Dr. Neal Womack has practiced veterinary medicine in Albany since 1996 and founded Lake Country Veterinary Service in 2003, and is co-owner of the clinic. He thrives under pressure and loves creating a positive outcome in difficult situations. 

In 1992, Dr. Womack graduated from North Carolina State with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. Before attending veterinary school, Dr. Neal Womack graduated from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English.

Dr. Neal Womack has southern roots that lead back to Missouri where he was born and raised. He enjoys hunting, fishing, and gardening on his days off. He describes his pet situation as “a house of misfits.” 

Dr. Sam Beech

Dr. Sam Beech has been with Lake Country Veterinary Service since May of 2019. He is a graduate of the University of MN for both his undergraduate work as well as his veterinary degree. His favorite part of veterinary medicine is working in both large and small animal services and being involved in the variety of care offered to our patients throughout the day. From surgical care to anesthesia, preventive medicine, and pet behaviors, his day is filled with challenges he enjoys.

Dr. Sam is Fear Free Certified. In his spare time, Dr. Beech enjoys spending time with his wife, Ashley, two sons, Bennett and Dawson, and their two Black Labs, Willow and Hazel. Dr. Beech has greatly enjoyed training both dogs, as they are true companions in the Beech household. Outside of the clinic, you may also find Dr. Beech hunting, fishing, golfing, or hiking on the north shore.

Dr. Wendy Womack

Dr. Wendy Womack has helped make Lake Country Veterinary Services the practice you know and love. She’s been helping pets from all around Albany since 2004 after renovations that included adding small animal services. Dr. Womack cares for a wide range of animals and founded the small animal side of our practice, enjoying making a positive difference in the lives of pets and their owners. Dr. Womack earned her undergraduate degree in chemistry at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, in 1986. She then went on to study veterinary medicine at North Carolina State College, graduating with her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine in 1992. When Dr. Womack isn’t providing pet parents with advice or caring for their beloved pets, you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or enjoying a great book. She knits like a pro, spends time with her friends, and goes on walks. Her pet family includes a Brittany named Rowdy and a 2.5-year-old yellow Lab named Tess. Dr. Womack also shares her home with two 2.5-year-old cats named Fred and Ginger (for Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers), with Ginger being a charming orange tabby.

+49 856 9568 95

info@vetcare.com

39 Lion Street
London-Lutton

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Dr. Jenny Revermann

Dr. Jenny has been an owner of Lake Country Veterinary Service since 2018. She graduated from the University of MN with her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and then graduated in 2009 from the University of MN College of Veterinary Medicine. In addition to traditional veterinary methods, Dr. Jenny is a CVA (Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist) and is currently studying Osteopathy to help provide additional treatment options to the clients she serves.

In her spare time, Dr. Jenny enjoys scrapbooking, reading and spending time with her family, which includes her husband, six children, and pets - Zora - a German Wirehair, Coonie - who joined her family after she was found injured, Cy - a stray kitten adopted from the clinic in summer 2019, and Bolt - joining the Revermanns in summer 2019.