Make an Appointment Become a Part of Our Family Today
Independence Veterinary Hospital, a local family-owned animal hospital in Virginia Beach, has been serving the community for over 30 years. Our compassionate and experienced team of veterinarians and staff are dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized care for every pet and their owners. We believe in building lasting relationships with our clients through empathy, kindness, and a commitment to understanding your pet's unique needs.
Meet the Team
Dr. Derrick Kier and Dr. Karen Smithwick, a husband-and-wife duo, are the proud owners of Independence Veterinary Hospital. They are dedicated to working alongside their capable team to provide comprehensive and compassionate care across all stages of life. Their expertise and genuine concern for animals are evident in their personalized approach to every consultation.
Our Philosophy
We treat every animal as a valued member of the family. We prioritize preventive care to keep your pet healthy and offer a wide range of services to address their specific needs. We utilize advanced medical technology and maintain the highest standards of care to ensure the best possible outcomes for every case.
Our Services
Wellness Care: Regular checkups and vaccinations are essential for maintaining your pet's health and catching any potential issues early.
Vaccinations: We tailor vaccination schedules to your pet's age, lifestyle, and risk factors to provide optimal protection against contagious diseases.
Dental Care: We offer comprehensive dental care services, including professional cleanings and preventative treatments to keep your pet's teeth and gums healthy and strong.
Surgery & Medical Care: Our experienced veterinarians perform a variety of surgeries, ranging from routine spay and neuter to more complex procedures under strict safety protocols.
Additional Services: We also provide dermatological care, diagnostics, grooming, microchipping, pain management, and emergency care services.
Joining the Independence Family
We believe in building strong relationships with our clients. As a new client, you can expect:
- Personalized attention and thorough consultation
- Transparent communication and clear explanations
- Access to a dedicated team of experts committed to your pet's well-being
- Compassionate and gentle care for your furry companion
Overall Experience
The majority of reviewers had a wonderful experience at Independence Veterinary Hospital, praising the kindness, expertise, and care provided by the staff and veterinarians.
Staff and Veterinarians
Reviewers raved about the friendly, personable, and caring staff, including the front desk, technicians, and veterinarians. They were described as kind, amazing, and fantastic, with some reviewers even stating that they were the best they had ever encountered.
Facility and Cleanliness
The office was described as clean and well-maintained, with one reviewer stating that the patient experience was amazing.
Communication and Bedside Manner
Reviewers praised the veterinarians for taking the time to listen to their concerns, explaining everything clearly, and having a great bedside manner.
Negatives
One reviewer had a negative experience with the receptionist, stating that they were rude and lazy. They also had issues with getting records sent over and a script filled.
