Dr. Rebecca Houck

My interest in helping animals developed when I was eight years old and a kind veterinarian allowed me to watch him remove porcupine quills from our family dog after he got a little too adventurous during a camping trip. Ever since, the veterinary profession fascinated me and I devoted myself to earning a degree in it, starting with graduating from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 2003 with undergraduate degrees in Biology and Chemistry.

After that, I was accepted to and attended the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, graduating in 2007 and joining a companion animal practice in Houston, Texas shortly after that. Three years later, I moved to Virginia and have been here ever since, loving the Blue Ridge Mountains and the more temperate weather my native New York state possesses.

My favorite part of my job is partnering with clients on their pets' health, whether for a question about an odd new behavior or to address a scary bout of bloody diarrhea. Be it a cat or a dog, a hamster or a guinea pig, my goal is to soothe your worries and help you make the best decision for your furry, scaled, or feathered friend.

** Please be advised** After getting a more thorough history of your pet, I may recommend you see a veterinarian in a brick-and-mortar setting. Telemedicine is very convenient but has limitations. Some situations require a more hands-on approach and diagnostics to guide a treatment plan to be safe for your pet's health. I will use the information you provide to give you the best advice I can regarding potential at-home treatments, medications, seeing your veterinarian, or an ER visit. In addition, chronic medication refills are often best suited to be performed by your regular veterinarian.

My professional interests are dermatology, behavior, and end-of-life care. Outside of work, I enjoy writing creative fiction and riding the faster roller coasters I can find. If I'm not spending time with my mother, I'm fighting my three cats for space on the couch while catching up on a fantasy or Asian TV series.

Please reach out if I'm available, and I'll do my best to assist you!