What started as a small evening practice out of Dr. Hollifield's home has grown into one of Montgomery County's most trusted veterinary hospitals. While serving full-time at the National Institutes of Health and raising a young son, Dr. Hollifield began seeing patients after hours to ensure local exotic pets had access to local quality care. Word spread quickly, and before long, Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital opened its doors in Gaithersburg.
Today, the practice has cared for animals on Lindbergh Drive for nearly three decades, building lasting relationships with families and treating everything from cats and dogs to birds, reptiles, rabbits, fish, arthropods, and other exotic pets.
From routine wellness exams and vaccinations to surgery, dental care, advanced diagnostics, boarding, and emergency appointments when space allows, the hospital provides comprehensive care tailored to each animal's unique needs. One of the things that sets the practice apart is its expertise in exotic pet medicine, an area many veterinary hospitals do not offer.
Behind every appointment is a team dedicated to compassionate care. Dr. Hollifield, a graduate of Tuskegee University's College of Veterinary Medicine and former commissioned officer with the U.S. Public Health Service at the NIH, works alongside Hospital Manager Sabrina Ponton, Assistant Hospital Manager and Client Success Manager Angelina Brannigan, Lead Technician Mia Brannigan, and a talented group of veterinary assistants and technicians, many of whom are pursuing careers in veterinary medicine.
For Dr. Hollifield, serving the community is about much more than medicine.
"Many of the families who walk through our doors have been with us for decades," she says. "I've cared for their first pets, their children's pets, and now even their grandchildren's pets."
That connection extends beyond the hospital walls. Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital partners with local shelters, rescue organizations, and adoption programs while also helping educate future veterinary professionals.
Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for veterinary care. Heat-related illnesses, allergies, parasites, and injuries from outdoor adventures are among the most common concerns seen by the team. Whether families are staying close to home or traveling with their furry companions, Dr. Hollifield encourages pet owners to remain vigilant and prioritize safety during the hottest months of the year.
Five Summer Pet Safety Tips
1. Walk During Cooler Hours
Take dogs out early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid extreme heat and hot pavement that can burn sensitive paw pads.
2. Keep Fresh Water Available
Hydration is essential during the summer months. Always make sure pets have access to clean, cool water.
3. Know the Signs of Overheating
Heavy panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, vomiting, pale gums, or unusual behavior can all signal heat exhaustion and should never be ignored.
4. Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car
Even a few minutes inside a vehicle can become dangerous. This advice applies to all species, including rabbits, birds, and other exotic pets.
5. Travel Smart
Pack medications, regular food, and favorite toys, and keep identification tags and microchip information up to date. Frequent breaks and proper ventilation can make all the difference.
Families can also look forward to several special events throughout the year. The hospital's annual Blessing of the Animals takes place each October, where every pet receives an individual blessing, commemorative charm, and blessing card. During the holiday season, Pictures with Santa returns every Saturday morning through December 19, creating memories that have become cherished traditions for many local families.
Whether it's treating a beloved dog, helping a first-time reptile owner, or supporting the next generation of veterinarians, Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital continues to live up to its name by treating every patient like family.
Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital
7600 Lindbergh Dr., Suite H
Gaithersburg, MD 20879
(301) 977-1881
https://bestfriendsvethosp.com