Business Details
9 Years
experience
Comprehensive Veterinary Care in Derby, CT
River Valley Veterinary Hospital has been dedicated to providing exceptional veterinary care since its establishment in 2017. Our team of experienced professionals, led by Dr. Melissa Moore and Dr. Christopher Celentano, combines advanced medical expertise with a compassionate approach to animal care. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including surgical procedures, dental care, vaccinations, and diagnostic imaging, all performed in our state-of-the-art facility. Our Fear Free Certified professionals prioritize reducing stress for pets through specialized techniques, both in-hospital and during home visits.With a focus on preventative care and personalized treatment plans, we serve clients across Connecticut, including Milford, Orange, and West Haven. Our commitment to continuous education ensures we remain at the forefront of veterinary advancements, while our mobile services extend quality care to pets who may struggle with traditional clinic visits. We pride ourselves on transparent communication, ethical practices, and fostering long-term relationships with both pets and their owners.
Services
Veterinary surgery
Dental care
Vaccinations
Home visits
Diagnostic imaging
Parasite prevention
Nutritional counseling
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Fear Free Certified professionals reduce pet stress during visits
- Combines mobile home visits with full-service hospital capabilities
- Experienced veterinarians with advanced surgical and dental expertise
- In-house digital radiography and dental imaging equipment
- Personalized treatment plans with transparent cost explanations
Associations and certifications
- Fear Free Certified Professionals
- American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP)
What people say
Fear Free techniques
Knowledgeable staff
Gentle with pets
Home visit convenience
Clear communication
Services
Veterinary Surgery
Our in-hospital surgical suite provides spaying, neutering, mass removals, and complex procedures. Board-certified specialists perform surgeries using modern techniques and equipment. Patients receive comprehensive pre-operative assessments and post-operative care plans to ensure optimal recovery outcomes.
Dental Care
Full dental services include cleanings, extractions, and digital dental radiography. Our Fear Free approach minimizes stress while maintaining oral health. Regular dental care prevents systemic infections and maintains overall pet wellness through early detection of oral diseases.
Home Visits
Concierge Critter Care brings veterinary services directly to homes across Connecticut. This service benefits pets with mobility issues or anxiety. Home visits include wellness exams, vaccinations, and basic diagnostics in the pet's familiar environment.
Diagnostic Imaging
Advanced diagnostic capabilities include digital radiography and ultrasound. These tools enable accurate diagnosis of internal conditions. Imaging services support treatment planning for both acute injuries and chronic conditions in a non-invasive manner.
Fear Free Care
Certified Fear Free professionals implement specialized techniques to reduce animal anxiety. Methods include pheromone therapy, calming environments, and gentle handling. This approach benefits pets with previous traumatic experiences or sensitivity to clinical settings.
People
Dr. Melissa J. Moore
Veterinarian
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Tufts University with 15+ years of experience. Specializes in canine and feline medicine. Fear Free Certified with expertise in surgical procedures and patient communication.
Dr. Christopher Celentano
Veterinarian
Graduated from Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Completed ASPCA internship with experience in exotic animal care. Fear Free Certified with specialization in small animal medicine.
Sarah
Certified Veterinary Technician
Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Science with Fear Free certification. Manages patient care and client education. Special interest in senior pet care and animal behavior.
Morgan
Concierge
Veterinary industry professional with 10 years of experience. Coordinates home visits and client services. Fear Free Certified with expertise in animal handling and client communication.
Nina
Veterinary Technician
Associate degree in Veterinary Technology with focus on equine care. Provides technical support during procedures and patient monitoring. Committed to continuing education in veterinary nursing practices.
Questions
What services are available during home visits?
Home visits include wellness exams, vaccinations, and basic diagnostics. Surgical procedures and advanced imaging require in-hospital appointments.
Do you treat exotic animals?
Our primary focus is dogs and cats. We recommend specialized exotic animal clinics for birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
Are evening appointments available?
Yes, we offer evening appointments on Thursdays until 6:00pm and limited weekend hours for convenience.
How do you handle emergency situations?
While we don't provide 24/7 emergency care, we can refer you to local emergency clinics and provide urgent care during regular business hours.
What payment options do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, cash, and CareCredit financing. Payment is required at the time of service.
Can I request a specific veterinarian?
Yes, you may request Dr. Moore or Dr. Celentano when scheduling your appointment based on availability.
