Business Details
Emergency
services
Trusted Veterinarians in Little River, SC
Saint Francis Animal Hospital is a trusted full-service veterinary hospital dedicated to providing top-level medical, surgical, and dental care for small animals in Little River, SC. Our facility includes a well-stocked pharmacy, in-hospital surgery suite, healing laser, digital x-ray capabilities, and a supervised hospitalization area. We offer a broad spectrum of diagnostic procedures through in-house testing and external laboratories while collaborating with local practices for specialized diagnostics. Our team prioritizes annual physical examinations and preventive care to address potential health issues proactively.We are committed to compassionate care, treating every pet as part of our own family. With decades of combined experience, our veterinarians specialize in internal medicine, surgery, dentistry, and geriatric care. We emphasize transparency, ethical standards, and client education to ensure informed decision-making. Our reputation as one of the highest-rated veterinary hospitals in the region reflects our dedication to excellence and client satisfaction.
Services
Pet Geriatric Care
Puppy/Kitten Exams
Diagnostic Services
Wellness Exams
Pet Ultrasound
Laser Therapy
Pet Dentistry
Vaccinations
Microchipping
Pet Surgery
Highlights and features
- We offer 24/7 emergency veterinary services for urgent pet care needs.
- Our team includes specialists in internal medicine, surgery, and geriatric care.
- We utilize digital x-ray technology and in-house diagnostics for rapid results.
- Our veterinarians have decades of combined experience in small animal care.
- We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each pet's unique needs.
What people say
Compassionate care
Skilled staff
Knowledgeable doctors
Friendly team
Excellent service
Services
Pet Geriatric Care
Our geriatric care program addresses age-related changes in senior pets through customized nutrition plans, gentle exercise routines, and preventive healthcare measures. We focus on early detection of conditions like arthritis and organ dysfunction while maintaining quality of life through pain management and mental enrichment strategies tailored to aging animals.
Puppy/Kitten Exams
We provide comprehensive initial exams for young pets including vaccination scheduling, parasite prevention, and developmental assessments. Our team offers guidance on proper nutrition, litter box training, and early dental care to establish lifelong health foundations while monitoring growth milestones and addressing behavioral concerns during critical development stages.
Pet Ultrasound
Our ultrasound services offer non-invasive internal organ evaluation using sound wave technology. This diagnostic tool helps identify abdominal abnormalities, cardiac issues, and reproductive concerns while guiding treatment decisions through real-time imaging. The procedure requires minimal restraint and provides immediate results for timely medical interventions.
Pet Dentistry
We deliver complete dental care including professional cleanings, periodontal treatments, and oral surgery. Our services address tartar removal, tooth extractions, and gum disease management while providing home care education. Advanced equipment enables digital dental x-rays for comprehensive assessment of tooth root health and jawbone integrity.
Diagnostic Services
Our in-house laboratory performs bloodwork, urinalysis, and parasite screening for rapid diagnosis. We utilize external reference labs for specialized testing while maintaining strict quality control. Diagnostic imaging includes digital radiography and ultrasound for internal organ evaluation, supporting accurate treatment planning and monitoring of chronic conditions.
People
Dr. Trudy Swanda-Foley
Medical Director
Dr. Swanda-Foley specializes in internal medicine, ophthalmology, and dermatology. She graduated from Auburn University and maintains certifications in human-animal bond research. With over 20 years of veterinary experience, she focuses on comprehensive care for companion animals.
Dr. Robert Bruner
Veterinarian
Dr. Bruner brings extensive surgical expertise, specializing in soft tissue and orthopedic procedures. A Washington State University graduate, he has practiced veterinary medicine for 30+ years and leads international veterinary aid missions through World Vets.
Dr. Morgan Houde
Veterinarian
Dr. Houde focuses on surgery, dermatology, and dentistry after graduating from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. She combines clinical practice with community outreach, emphasizing preventive care and client education.
Dr. Andrea Sisk
Veterinarian
Dr. Sisk specializes in companion animal rehabilitation and swine medicine. With dual degrees in physiology and biotechnology, she integrates advanced therapeutic techniques like laser therapy with traditional veterinary practices for holistic patient care.
Bill
Hospital Administrator
Bill manages hospital operations with engineering precision. A mechanical engineering graduate from the University of Nebraska, he applies systems thinking to veterinary practice management while supporting client relations and staff coordination.
Questions
What services does Saint Francis Animal Hospital offer?
We provide comprehensive veterinary care including geriatric care, puppy/kitten exams, diagnostic imaging, dental services, surgery, vaccinations, and emergency care for small animals.
Do you offer after-hours emergency care?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency veterinary services for urgent pet care needs outside regular business hours.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Book appointments online through our website or call us directly at (843) 249-1988 during business hours.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, cash, and CareCredit financing for veterinary services and products.
Are your veterinarians specialized in specific areas?
Our team includes specialists in internal medicine, surgery, dentistry, dermatology, and geriatric care for comprehensive pet treatment.
Do you serve areas beyond Little River?
We primarily serve Little River, SC and surrounding areas including North Myrtle Beach, Longs, and Calabash.
Reviews (5)
Sean Arnold
Nov 04, 2021
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First time going to this animal care facility. Very thorough evaluation of our cat Hemi. After that staff gave good advice on what we should do to keep our boy healthy and happy. A word to the wise. You cannot go in with your pet. Arrive in the parking lot call the office and staff will come out and meet you. This is a common occurrence as we experienced this same thing with our previous vet in another state.
Debbie Orlando
Oct 02, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Reliability,Responsiveness,Value
I am very happy that I chose St Francis as the vet for my two cats.
I am very happy that I chose St Francis as the vet for my two cats.
Christine Roche
Sep 23, 2021
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We have been going here for almost 10 years now and would never take our boys anywhere else. Our boys walk in like they own the office which tells us how kind and loving everyone is there The entire staff has been there for us from the passing of our precious Bear years ago to now when our boy George is having some health issues. They are compassionate, knowledgeable and have always provided the best of care for our pups
Michele Bryant
Aug 17, 2021
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Kind and caring. Explained everything in detail. Answered all my questions. I appreciate the covid restriction and the staff coming outside to pick up my cat. GREAT experience!
Kathryn Montgomery
Aug 06, 2021
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Best animal care EVER!! We have tried many clinics but the search was well worth it. I will never trust another Animal clinic again. Saint Francis is the ONLY one for our babies
