When your pet suddenly isn’t themselves, whether they skip a meal, limp after playtime, or just seem “off,” we’re here to help without the long wait. At Big Lick, we offer urgent appointments during our normal business hours because we know health concerns don’t follow a schedule.
Frequent vomiting may signal anything from dietary indiscretion to infection or gastrointestinal obstruction and shouldn’t be ignored.
Diarrhea can result from parasites, dietary changes, or stress and can quickly lead to dehydration.
A sharp drop in energy could be a red flag for pain, infection, or systemic illness.
These behaviors can point to discomfort, anxiety, or internal distress.
If your pet skips more than one meal, especially if it’s unusual for them, it may be a sign of illness or oral pain.
Drinking or urinating more than normal could indicate kidney disease, diabetes, or a hormonal imbalance.
Mobility issues may stem from injury, arthritis, or nerve or spinal conditions and warrant prompt evaluation.
Sudden changes in demeanor like aggression, hiding, or clinginess, can reflect physical or cognitive issues.
Mucus or pus from the eyes, ears, or nose can signal an active infection that needs treatment.
Excessive drooling may be due to nausea, dental disease, or accidental toxin exposure.
Labored, shallow, or rapid breathing should always be treated as an emergency.
If your pet may have eaten something harmful (human food, plants, chemicals), call us or a pet poison hotline immediately.
Chronic coughing or gagging can be caused by respiratory illness, heart disease, or an airway obstruction.
Especially in male cats, difficulty urinating could mean a blockage—this is a true emergency.
Red, itchy skin or bald spots could mean parasites, allergies, or underlying health problems.
Any new growth or swelling should be examined to rule out infection, cysts, or cancer.
Puffiness, hives, or swelling may indicate a serious allergic reaction that requires immediate care.
Open wounds should be professionally cleaned and evaluated to prevent infection or complications.
Health isn’t just about reacting to problems; it’s about preventing them. At our Roanoke animal hospital, our proactive approach to pet wellness includes tailored care plans based on your pet’s age, breed, lifestyle, and emotional needs. We focus on building strong relationships so we can catch issues early and support lifelong health.
We adjust our wellness visits to fit each pet’s personality and health risks, whether they’re a high-energy puppy, a senior with a chronic condition, or somewhere in between.
Every pet has a different level of risk. We’ll craft a vaccination schedule that keeps your pet protected without giving them more than they need.
We’ll guide you toward the safest, most effective options to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and more.
A quick procedure with lifelong peace of mind, microchips help reunite pets with their families faster.
Routine lab work and diagnostics give us a deeper understanding of your pet’s health, even when they seem perfectly fine on the outside.
Whether your pet needs to lose a few pounds, manage a chronic condition, or achieve their best health, we’ll offer personalized advice you can trust.
If your pet needs more than routine care, Big Lick Veterinary Services is equipped to diagnose, treat, and support their healing, both inside and out. From advanced diagnostics to integrative therapies, we’re your Roanoke veterinarian for total care under one roof.
Our experienced surgical team and visiting specialist perform a range of soft tissue and orthopedic procedures with a focus on safety, comfort, and communication.
Healthy mouths lead to healthier lives. We offer full oral exams, cleanings, extractions, and dental X-rays to treat and prevent disease where it starts, below the gumline.
Time matters when your pet is sick. With on-site bloodwork, urinalysis, digital X-rays, and ultrasound, we can quickly pinpoint the problem and start treatment.
This gentle, drug-free therapy supports healing, pain relief, and mobility. It’s especially helpful for arthritis, nerve issues, and chronic discomfort in pets of all ages.
Our rehab services, such as laser therapy, help pets bounce back after surgery, manage joint conditions, and build strength through therapeutic exercises tailored to their needs.
We are committed to helping you and your puppy or kitten begin your long and healthy relationship together. The first year of your pet’s life is important to his future health and wellness. We have developed a series of recommendations of preventative care to attain our mutual goal of wellness for your puppy or kitten.
Yes! We’d love to welcome you and your pet to our Big Lick family. Mention this website offer to receive $50 off your pet’s first wellness visit.
Please bring any previous records, a list of medications, a stool sample, and your pet’s favorite treats or toy—we love helping them feel right at home.
We offer full-service grooming as well as basic bath and brush services. We do not currently offer boarding.
Happy Visits are gentle, no-pressure appointments designed to help pets, especially puppies and nervous patients, build confidence and feel more comfortable at the vet. These visits involve cuddles, treats, and positive reinforcement, with no pokes or procedures, so your pet learns to associate us with safety and fun.
