Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Veterinarian in Bethesda, MD
Benson Animal Hospital has been a family-run small animal hospital serving Bethesda and the Washington, DC area since 1953. Our multi-generational practice combines decades of veterinary expertise with personalized care, offering comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental services for pets. We prioritize client education, ensuring pet owners fully understand treatment processes and outcomes while maintaining a conservative yet modern approach to veterinary medicine.With free onsite parking and discounts for first responders and active-duty military, we strive to make high-quality pet care accessible and convenient. Our team of experienced veterinarians and technicians treats every pet with the same compassion and dedication we apply to our own animals, upholding a legacy of trust and excellence recognized through seven consecutive 'Best Veterinarian' awards from Montgomery Magazine.
Services
Primary Care
Advanced Imaging
Surgery & Anesthesia
End of Life Care
Dental Work
Health Certificates
Details
- Year established: 1953
Highlights and features
- Family-run practice with three generations of veterinary expertise since 1953
- Comprehensive care including advanced imaging and emergency services during business hours
- Personalized treatment plans with thorough client education at every step
- Free onsite parking and discounts for first responders and military personnel
- Award-winning team recognized as Bethesda's best veterinarian for seven consecutive years
What people say
Exceptional staff
Compassionate care
Thorough explanations
Reasonable pricing
Knowledgeable veterinarians
Services
Primary Care
Yearly wellness visits, preventative check-ups, and disease management form our core primary care services. Our veterinarians diagnose and treat common illnesses while emphasizing preventive care to maintain pet health. This service includes walk-in availability for urgent non-emergency cases during business hours.
Advanced Imaging
Digital x-ray, ultrasound, and endoscopy services provide immediate in-house diagnostic capabilities. These advanced imaging tools enable accurate diagnosis of internal conditions without requiring external referrals, ensuring timely treatment decisions for your pet's condition.
Surgery & Anesthesia
Routine and complex surgical procedures including spays/neuters, soft-tissue surgery, and orthopedics. Scheduled surgeries occur Tuesday and Thursday mornings with emergency surgical capabilities available at all times through our fully equipped facility.
End of Life Care
Compassionate guidance through end-of-life decisions for pets. Our team provides emotional support and practical advice during difficult times, focusing on maintaining pet comfort while addressing family needs with empathy and understanding.
Dental Work
Preventative cleanings, dental x-rays, extractions, and oral surgeries performed by experienced veterinarians. Regular dental maintenance prevents systemic health issues while addressing immediate oral health concerns through comprehensive dental care services.
People
Dr. Albert Benson
Founding Veterinarian
Graduated from University of Georgia in 1953, established Benson Animal Hospital in Bethesda. Practiced for 60 years before retiring. Recognized for founding the practice that became a community institution.
Dr. Randy Benson
Lead Veterinarian
Practicing since 1985, third-generation veterinarian. University of Georgia graduate. Manages daily operations while maintaining hands-on patient care. Active in continuing veterinary education and community outreach.
Dr. Sophia Benson
Associate Veterinarian
Third-generation veterinarian, graduated University of Florida 2024. Specializes in anesthesia and pain management. Completed internship at Friendship Hospital. Brings modern expertise to the family practice tradition.
Dr. Dan Murphy
Associate Veterinarian
Oklahoma State graduate with 30+ years experience. Former Capitol Hill practice owner. Provides continuity of care through extensive knowledge of local pet health patterns and community needs.
Dr. Wendy Guingrich
Associate Veterinarian
Ohio State graduate with 20+ years experience. Focuses on preventative medicine across multiple species. Part-time practitioner maintaining active clinical skills while mentoring newer veterinary professionals.
Questions
What services does Benson Animal Hospital offer?
We provide comprehensive veterinary care including primary care, advanced imaging, surgery, dental work, and end-of-life support for small animals.
Are emergency services available after hours?
We handle emergencies during business hours. After-hours emergencies should visit Metropolitan Emergency Animal Clinic, Friendship Hospital, or Veterinary Referral Associates.
What are the hospital's operating hours?
We're open Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM, Saturday 8AM-11AM. Closed Sundays and major holidays for routine care.
Do you offer discounts for specific groups?
Active duty military and first responders receive discounted services as our way of thanking you for your service to the community.
How to prepare for a first veterinary visit?
Bring prior medical records and complete our New Client Intake Form available on our website before your appointment.
Is onsite parking available?
Yes, we offer free onsite parking for client convenience at our Bethesda location.
Reviews (5)
Johnny Hernandez
Sep 14, 2021
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The staff is so personable and knowledgeable. The veteranarians really love what they do, take the time to explain things and will answer your questions. They may be pricier than other places, but it is worth it, given the personal attention they give all their patients and the good job they've done caring for my pets.
Nancy W.
Aug 02, 2021
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My 17 year old cat Emily developed nasal congestion and drainage on a Sunday. She stopped eating and drinking. I called Bensons Monday am and was given an immediate appointment. She was seen promptly and Dr Benson was kind, knowledgeable, a great diagnostician, and thoughtful in customizing her work up and treatment. Within 6.5 hours of receiving fluids and an injectable antibiotic she started eating and drinking and hanging out on my lap (her usual behavior). Emphasizing the need for follow up by phone for test results and an update signaled to me that Dr Benson and colleagues care about their
Sean Duggan
Jun 27, 2021
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These people are so compassionate. The assistant came out to the car to notify me when they were ready as there were still pandemic guidelines in place. They also understood that I was at the moment, iut of work and they kept costs down by doing only what was necessary, which I certainly appreciated. Great show.
Frenchie Pierogi
Mar 28, 2021
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Positive:Responsiveness
They are very pawsitive with me. The vet office can be scary, but this one is okay! I like the techs. I am sad my owner can't come in with me because of COVID.
They are very pawsitive with me. The vet office can be scary, but this one is okay! I like the techs. I am sad my owner can't come in with me because of COVID.
Allyson Drysdale
Jan 29, 2021
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My dog started presenting with ear infection symptoms on a Thursday night, and when I called Benson on Friday morning they were clear about when I should arrive and that I would likely need to wait due to their first-come first-serve policy. We arrived and waited in our car, and got lucky and my dog was seen right away. The veterinary technician and Dr. Benson both came outside (in the FREEZING cold) and answered my questions and were very helpful. I appreciate that this hospital is willing to take emergencies, even if you have to wait.
