For nearly 60 years, Westonka Animal Hospital has been a trusted name in pet care for the Mound, Minnesota community. Led by Dr. Jackie Piepkorn and her husband, Dr. Craig Piepkorn, and their dedicated team, the hospital provides comprehensive veterinary services, from advanced surgeries to dentistry, all under the high standards of AAHA accreditation, a distinction held by only 12-15% of animal hospitals in the United States.
“We offer numerous services so our guests don’t need to go see specialists often outside of our care,” says Dr. Piepkorn. “Being able to provide both advanced dentistry and surgeries is more economical for our guests.”
Beyond medical care, the Westonka team is committed to guiding pet owners through everyday decisions that promote long-term health. From nutrition and exercise to routine check-ups, they offer expert recommendations to help ensure every pet lives a happy, comfortable life.
Nutrition, Treats & Food Storage Tips
When it comes to nutrition, the team recommends sticking with reputable, research-backed brands. “The best food for your pet is the one they’ll eat and thrive on,” says Dr. Piepkorn, who feeds her own dog Purina EN, a complete and easy-to-digest formula. While some pet parents explore boutique or raw diets, Westonka encourages them to ensure any food—raw or home-cooked—is nutritionally balanced and handled safely.
One common oversight? Food storage. To keep kibble fresh and appetizing, Dr. Piepkorn advises using airtight containers and minimizing air space to prevent oxidation. And while pets don’t crave variety like humans due to their lack of taste buds, unhealthy human treats should be strictly avoided—especially toxic ingredients like grapes and macadamia nuts. Instead, reach for carrots or a peanut butter-stuffed Kong for a healthy, engaging snack.
Play, Exercise & Safe Accessories
Mental stimulation and exercise are key to a healthy, happy pet. Westonka recommends interactive toys, like Busy Buddy or Kong products, that make pets “work for their food.” When heading outside, especially during Minnesota’s brisk winters, the team suggests bundling pets in jackets or booties and using a harness—particularly for dogs with sensitive tracheas. Choke chains are discouraged, while Easy Walk or Gentle Leader harnesses offer safer alternatives.
Checkups, Dental Care & Behavioral Wellness
Routine care for pets goes far beyond just vaccines. According to Dr. Piepkorn, one of the most commonly overlooked aspects of pet health is weight management and dental care—both of which are essential to long-term wellness. “These areas are often missed, but they play a major role in your pet’s overall health,” she explains. Regular veterinary checkups are key to catching subtle changes early, allowing for timely intervention with issues like weight, arthritis, hypothyroidism, or other age-related conditions.
“Pets go through distinct life stages,” adds Dr. Piepkorn. “We typically see them often in their first year, yearly during their healthy adult phase, and more regularly again as they enter their senior years and begin to develop chronic health concerns.” No matter the life stage, Westonka’s guiding philosophy remains constant: “We treat our patients’ pets the way we would treat our own.”
When it comes to behavior, Westonka Animal Hospital encourages pet parents to be both proactive and compassionate. “Fear and anxiety aren’t a reflection of you as an owner. The most important step is acknowledging the issue and working through it,” says Dr. Piepkorn. While medication can be a helpful tool when needed, the team prefers to start with more natural solutions such as nutrition and environmental enrichment—always with the pet’s comfort and well-being as the top priority.
Final Advice from the Experts
Westonka Animal Hospital encourages all pet owners to plan ahead and focus on early socialization—it’s one of the most impactful things you can do for your pet’s long-term well-being. “Socialize, socialize, socialize—then maybe socialize some more,” laughs Dr. Piepkorn. Paired with routine exercise, consistent feeding schedules, and a good dental care regimen, these small habits can make a big difference.
Whether you’re a new pet parent or caring for a senior companion, Westonka Animal Hospital’s expert advice underscores that the path to pet wellness starts with intention, information, and heart.