Business Details
14 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Advanced Veterinary Care in Southport, NC
At River Road Animal Hospital, we prioritize low-stress, proactive veterinary care designed to extend the healthspan of pets through preventive medicine and advanced diagnostics. Our team focuses on longer appointments to ensure thorough examinations and personalized wellness plans tailored to each pet's unique needs. We offer on-site diagnostic tools like digital X-rays and ultrasound, complemented by in-house laboratory capabilities for rapid results. Specialized services including veterinary oncology, cardiology, and dermatology are available locally, eliminating the need for long-distance travel. Our facility incorporates cat-only intake systems and calming techniques to minimize stress during visits.We utilize innovative therapies such as therapeutic laser treatment and PRP therapy to enhance recovery. The hospital maintains strict safety protocols for surgical procedures and partners with wildlife rehabilitation specialists for regional conservation efforts. Our three dedicated veterinarians provide consistent care, ensuring deep familiarity with each patient's medical history. We emphasize transparent communication and pre-visit consultations to prepare pet owners for appointments. Community engagement remains central to our mission, reflected in our wildlife medicine initiatives and educational outreach programs.
Services
Preventive Care
Diagnostic Imaging
Veterinary Oncology
Dental Procedures
Surgical Services
Therapeutic Laser
Wildlife Medicine
Acupuncture
Penn Hip Evaluations
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We implement low-stress handling techniques and cat-only intake systems for patient comfort
- Our facility offers on-site digital X-rays and ultrasound for rapid diagnostic capabilities
- Specialty veterinary services like oncology and cardiology available locally without travel
- Three dedicated veterinarians provide consistent, personalized care for every patient
- We utilize therapeutic laser and PRP treatments for advanced pain management options
What people say
Loves coming here
Prompt emergency response
Compassionate and professional
Knowledgeable and up to date
Lifelong customer
Services
Preventive Care
Our preventive care programs focus on early disease detection through comprehensive physical exams and tailored vaccination schedules. We develop customized wellness plans considering each pet's breed, age, and lifestyle factors. Regular check-ups help identify potential health issues before they become emergencies, reducing long-term treatment costs while extending pets' quality of life.
Diagnostic Imaging
We utilize digital X-ray technology for rapid, high-resolution imaging and ultrasound for detailed internal organ evaluation. These tools enable accurate diagnoses of conditions ranging from fractures to abdominal abnormalities. Our in-house laboratory complements imaging capabilities by providing immediate bloodwork and urinalysis results during initial consultations.
Veterinary Oncology
Our cancer treatment services include early detection through advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans. We offer chemotherapy protocols and pain management strategies tailored to each patient's condition. The approach combines medical intervention with quality-of-life considerations, supported by our team's experience in managing various pet cancers.
Therapeutic Laser
This non-invasive treatment reduces inflammation and promotes healing for pets with arthritis, skin conditions, or post-surgical wounds. The therapy stimulates cellular regeneration without requiring sedation, making it suitable for anxious patients. Multiple sessions often yield cumulative benefits for chronic conditions.
Wildlife Medicine
We provide medical treatment for injured or ill native wildlife through partnerships with licensed rehabilitation specialists. The service includes initial triage, diagnostic evaluation, and stabilization before transfer to appropriate care facilities. This program supports regional conservation efforts while maintaining strict protocols for zoonotic disease prevention.
People
Dr. Steelman
Veterinarian
Compassionate and knowledgeable veterinarian with expertise in canine and feline care. Demonstrates calm demeanor that helps anxious pets feel at ease during examinations. Maintains consistent communication with pet owners about treatment plans.
Dr. Travis
Veterinarian
Skilled in diagnostic evaluations and persistent problem-solving for complex pet health issues. Provides thorough examinations and follows up with detailed post-visit consultations. Recognized for exceptional bedside manner with both animal patients and their owners.
Dr. Jones
Veterinarian
Emergency care specialist known for compassionate response during critical situations. Demonstrates professional expertise in urgent medical interventions while maintaining clear communication with concerned pet owners during high-stress scenarios.
Questions
Do you offer emergency veterinary services?
Yes, we provide emergency care during regular business hours. For after-hours emergencies, we recommend contacting local 24-hour facilities.
What specialty services are available on-site?
We offer veterinary oncology, cardiology, and dermatology services locally, eliminating the need to travel to larger cities for advanced care.
How do you handle anxious or aggressive pets?
Our staff uses low-stress handling techniques, calming aids, and separate cat-only intake to minimize stress during visits for anxious animals.
Are follow-up consultations included in treatment plans?
We provide post-visit follow-ups to monitor progress and address any concerns about your pet's treatment or recovery process.
Can I request a specific veterinarian?
Our three doctors work collaboratively, but we prioritize consistent care from the same veterinarian whenever possible for established patients.
Reviews (6)
Jenna Blahovia
Nov 07, 2021
Report
Dr Kirby is awesome. Cant even tell our female cat...got spayed. Amazing sutures and surgery. Even the aftercare...was tailored to help Mila out kitty...to relax...be still..sleep..and most importantly heal. Thanks DR. Kirby
Laura White
Aug 18, 2021
Report
I had an emergency with a bunny who was paralyzed. I was not a client but need assistance. This vet made time. The technician who helped was great. She was understanding and patient. We felt comfortable with our decision and were able to take a few minutes to fully accept the situation. After this experience, I would recommend them to anyone.
Nancy Janovetz
Jul 24, 2021
Report
Been here 23 years & found that they are the best vets in the area. All staff are focused on your companion, no matter if turtle, bird, dog or cat. Comprehensive testing available & thorough reporting to customers.
Ashley Newton
Apr 25, 2021
Report
The staff and vets at River Road are everything you would hope for! They are kind, warm and friendly and always helpful. Even more important, they are also professional and skilled! We love taking our ferrets and our cats to the vets there because we know they get excellent care and they treat them like beloved, unique pets. As a bonus, they have chickens and a duck that my toddler LOVES to visit!
Lisa Kor
Apr 01, 2021
Report
Our Sadie loves going to River Road Animal Hospital. The warmth, compassion, and excellent care from everyone are amazing. Whether she has a regular check up or the.emergency situation that happened a year ago where she stayed overnight, Dr. Allie Travis, veterinarian extraordinaire, and her crew are the ONLY people we want Sadie with and River Road is the ONLY place we want her to be. Its just the best!
Angela Cribb
Feb 22, 2021
Report
Zephyr loves going to River Road Animal Hospital! He gets super excited to see the doctors and all of the Vet techs. I don't blame him either because they are always so happy to see him and he gets top notch service! I chose RR because Dr Travis also ownes great danes and I wanted a doctor who knew the needs of the breed. I keep going because of the wonderful service by Dr Travis, Dr Derby and the team. He absolutely loves it there and I appreciate the expert advise and time that is given to me at every single visit.
