Business Details
37 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Comprehensive Pet Care Services in Franklinton, NC
Established in 1989, Tar River Veterinary Hospital has dedicated over three decades to providing exceptional veterinary care in Franklinton, North Carolina. Our full-service hospital offers comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for small animals, supported by in-house diagnostics and partnerships with specialized professionals. We prioritize both treatment and preventive education to help pets live longer, healthier lives while maintaining a team with deep-rooted experience and a passion for animal welfare. Our facility features a pharmacy, surgical suite, x-ray capabilities, and supervised boarding, ensuring holistic care for pets and peace of mind for owners. 
Services
Wellness Exams
Microchipping
Vaccinations
Surgery
Grooming
Boarding
Dental Care
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience serving Franklin County and surrounding areas.
- Our hospital provides full-service care including diagnostics, surgery, and dental treatments.
- We offer supervised boarding and professional grooming services for pets.
- Our team includes experienced veterinarians and certified technicians.
- We emphasize preventive care to help pets maintain optimal health.
Services
Wellness Exams
Our comprehensive wellness exams assess pets' health through physical evaluations and diagnostic testing. Tailored to each animal's age and needs, these checkups detect early signs of illness and ensure vaccinations are up-to-date. Preventive care plans help owners maintain their pets' long-term health and vitality.
Surgery
We perform routine and complex surgical procedures using advanced equipment and techniques. Our team specializes in spay/neuter operations, soft tissue surgeries, and emergency interventions. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork and post-operative monitoring ensure patient safety and successful recovery outcomes.
Boarding
Our indoor boarding kennels provide a secure, climate-controlled environment for pets when owners travel. Daily exercise and personalized attention ensure comfort, while trained staff monitor health needs. Boarding includes access to outdoor walking areas and immediate veterinary care if required.
Dental Care
Comprehensive dental services include cleanings, extractions, and periodontal treatments to maintain oral health. Digital x-rays and specialized tools address issues like tartar buildup and tooth decay. Regular dental care prevents systemic infections and extends pets' lifespans.
Grooming
Professional grooming services include bathing, coat trimming, nail clipping, and ear cleaning. Our groomers handle various breeds and coat types, using gentle techniques to reduce stress. Regular grooming improves skin health, reduces shedding, and enhances pets' overall comfort.
People
Dr. Elyse Goldman
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Goldman founded Tar River Veterinary Hospital in 1989 after earning her DVM from North Carolina State University. With over 35 years of experience, she leads a team dedicated to compassionate animal care while balancing family life with her husband, sons, and multiple pets.
Tamryn Coots
Lead Nursing Staff
Tamryn brings 20+ years of veterinary technology expertise, including ICU and surgical roles. She manages nursing operations at Tar River while raising dairy goats, cattle, and certified mastiffs. Her hands-on experience ensures high-quality patient care standards.
Jamie Doran
Grooming Specialist
Jamie has specialized in pet grooming for 16 years, combining technical skill with animal handling expertise. She operates Tar River's grooming services while managing a farm with diverse animals, including endangered American Cream Draft Horses.
Eileen Armstrong
Office Manager
Eileen has managed hospital operations since 1990, progressing from kennel tech to office manager. With 30+ years of institutional knowledge, she oversees administrative functions while balancing family life with her husband, children, grandchildren, and rescue pets.
Gabby Doran
Receptionist
Gabby joined the team in 2022, bringing lifelong animal experience as the groomer's daughter. She assists clients at the front desk while caring for her Great Dane and Frenchie. Her friendly demeanor supports Tar River's welcoming environment.
Questions
What services does Tar River Veterinary Hospital offer?
We provide wellness exams, vaccinations, surgery, dental care, grooming, boarding, and diagnostic testing. Our full-service hospital addresses both routine and urgent pet care needs.
Do you offer emergency veterinary care?
Yes, we partner with Triangle Veterinary Referral and Animal Emergency Hospital for 24/7 urgent care. Contact us for after-hours emergency clinic locations and numbers.
Can I board my pet at your facility?
Our supervised boarding kennels offer secure indoor lodging with outdoor exercise areas. Pets receive daily monitoring, and medical needs are addressed immediately by our trained staff.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call us at (919) 494-5500 during business hours to book appointments for wellness exams, vaccinations, or other veterinary services.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Franklin, Wake, Granville, and Vance counties in North Carolina, providing accessible pet care for local communities.
Reviews (6)
Robert Cherry
Oct 20, 2021
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Was apprehensive having my dog get a major surgery, but the doctors and staff at Tar River made it that much easier. All appointments, despite being busy, have been quick and efficient. They provided the meds and information needed and despite paying slightly higher than the estimate, the pricing was more than fair for what was done. I feel lucky to have them so close to home and you should be using them if youre looking for a vet.
Jessica Gecsey-Ray
Oct 14, 2021
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Thank you to Dr. Goldman and staff for caring for my companion dog after she was attacked! We were worked into a busy Friday schedule and the Vet techs were efficient in caring for our girl. We're very grateful for Dr. Goldman and the great staff at Tar River!!
Deborah Ann Hampson
Aug 21, 2021
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Our cat spent four days in their care. He was discharged at 12:30pm, and we were told he was much better and fine to come home. Not even 6 hours later our cat was crying out in pain and unable to move. After rushing him to an emergency vet who was open, we were told he never should have been discharged from tar river vet hospital. Had we not taken him in, he would have died in horrible pain during the night. We had no choice after spending $1,500 on his care at tar river but to have him put to sleep to end his pain and suffering. We will NEVER bring tar river vet another pet.
Seth Perry
Jul 30, 2021
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Wonderful! absolutely wonderful! this vet put down my best friend jackie, and they did a great job and were very kind and sweet to both me and my dog. the people who work there are both caring and deliver quality treatment to animal patients. we have boarded a dog here, gotten various treatments and come for many checkups and every visit was a delight. 0 complaints, 100% recommend to anyone looking for a vet for their pets.
Brittney Bursey
Apr 26, 2021
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Fantastic care provided by staff. They take excellent care of our Persian kitty and French Bulldog. We switched from youngsville animal hospital, and have been very happy with our decision!
Jessica Gecsey-Ray
Apr 02, 2021
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The vet is operating under pandemic protocols. Thus meaning, as pet parents, a vet tech comes out and takes your animal while you are made to wait outside the building. I would rather be with my pets. In fact, it's extremely nerve racking as this was our first visit to this vet as we've moved. I have to entrust strangers for my pet's wellbeing when these arrangements are made. FYI, you may want to call your vet and ask them about their pandemic procedures. Overall, I felt good with the visit. It's just I find it absurd that pet owners can't accompany their pets, but in the time of the pandemic
