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Comprehensive Veterinary Care in Palmerton, PA
At Little Gap Animal Hospital, we have dedicated ourselves to providing exceptional veterinary care rooted in compassion and personalized attention. Our practice believes that pets are family, and we work closely with pet owners to ensure their animals receive the highest standard of medical care. With nearly three decades of experience serving the community, our team combines diverse expertise with a deep understanding of the human-animal bond to deliver comprehensive services ranging from wellness care to complex surgical procedures.

We pride ourselves on offering transparent communication, individualized treatment plans, and emergency support, ensuring pet owners feel confident in their choices. Our commitment extends beyond clinical care through community initiatives that address animal welfare and support local service animals.
Services
Wellness Exams Dentistry General Surgery Orthopedic Surgery Laser Therapy Radiology Parasite Prevention
Highlights and features
  • We combine 30+ years of veterinary expertise with personalized patient care.
  • Our team offers advanced diagnostics and surgical services on-site.
  • 24/7 emergency support for urgent pet health needs.
  • Transparent communication and treatment cost estimates provided upfront.
  • Active involvement in community animal welfare initiatives.
What people say
Exceptional veterinary care Extremely friendly staff Fair emergency pricing Financially considerate treatment Gentle with animals
Services
Wellness Exams
Our preventive care program includes comprehensive physical exams, vaccinations, and health screenings tailored to your pet's age and lifestyle. We emphasize early disease detection through regular monitoring of weight, dental health, and behavioral changes. This proactive approach helps maintain optimal health while minimizing long-term medical costs for pet owners.
Orthopedic Surgery
Specializing in fracture repairs, joint treatments, and ligament reconstruction, our orthopedic services combine surgical expertise with post-operative cold laser therapy. We address conditions like hip dysplasia and cruciate injuries using techniques refined over three decades of clinical practice. Each case receives individualized pain management and rehabilitation planning.
Dentistry
Our dental program includes digital radiography, scaling, polishing, and complex extractions. We diagnose and treat periodontal disease while offering oral tumor removals. Preventive plans incorporate home care guidance and regular cleanings to maintain oral health, which directly impacts your pet's overall well-being and longevity.
Laser Therapy
Cold laser treatments enhance recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration. This non-invasive option benefits pets with arthritis, post-surgical wounds, or soft tissue injuries. Complimentary sessions are included for orthopedic surgery patients to accelerate healing without pharmaceutical side effects.
Emergency Care
We provide immediate veterinary attention for accidents, poisoning, or sudden illness. Our team handles trauma cases with continuous monitoring of vital signs during critical procedures. Pet owners can call our emergency line after hours for urgent situations requiring prompt intervention to stabilize their animal companions.
People
Dr. Benjamin J. Shelly
Veterinarian
Third-generation veterinarian specializing in surgery and emergency care. Graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. Active community member and advocate for animal welfare programs.
Dr. Jodie Santore
Veterinarian
Compassionate practitioner focusing on preventive care and client education. Brings energetic approach to pet wellness planning and medical consultations.
Dr. Carol Filchner
Veterinarian
Veteran clinician with 20+ years of local practice experience. Specializes in internal medicine and senior pet care.
Dr. Kelly Crawford
Veterinarian
Internationally trained veterinarian with expertise in chronic disease management and exotic animal care. Active participant in continuing education programs.
Questions
Do you accept emergency cases after hours?
Yes, we provide emergency services outside regular hours. Call our main line for immediate assistance.
What species do you treat?
We care for dogs, cats, small mammals, and backyard poultry. Our team handles avian cases as well.
Are payment plans available?
We offer flexible payment options for urgent care situations. Financial discussions occur upfront.
Do you offer dental care?
Yes, including digital radiography, cleanings, and oral surgery with pain management plans.
Can I get prescription refills?
Refills require prior consultation. Contact our pharmacy through the online portal or office phone.
Reviews (6)
Tria MacLeod
Nov 24, 2021 Report
Cannot recommend highly enough. They were there for us when our regular vet was not. The doc and his staff went above and beyond to tend to our 12 year old dog. Everyone in both offices have been kind, polite, understanding while remaining professional.
Considering the extent of care he received, their prices are very reasonable. The only drawback is the small size of their waiting room, but that is easily worked around by either waiting in the car or by walking your pet in their large front lawn until they call for you.
Kelly Jordan
Nov 07, 2021 Report
I took my 2 cats to Little Gap Animal Hospital today and had a wonderful experience. The staff was so thorough and friendly. They took excellent care of my kitties who had not been to the vet in a very long time and were quite scared. I would highly recommend them to anyone who loves their pet! My daughter takes her 2 cats to a clinic in Reading Pa and comparably their prices are quite reasonable.
Antoinette Labarre
Nov 01, 2021 Report
Very knowledgeable
Very caring. Explains conditions of animals and instructions so the adverege person can understand
Default
Sep 14, 2021 Report
The doctor and nurses are really nice and know what they're doing even with my dog who has a rare condition
Lidia Tinelli
Jun 19, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Reliability,Responsiveness,Value
I love Little Gap , they are so caring and sympathetic with our babies . Whenever I need them they always make time for them . I have tried many in the area but I wont go anywhere but there !
Cheryl Perkins
Apr 21, 2021 Report
Dr. Ben took excellent care of my Shih Poo Millie. The staff is extremely friendly, helpful and explains everything in detail. It's a long drive, but worth it for me!