Proving itself to be a vital part of Fluvanna County, a member of Fork Union’s business community once again welcomed the public. Fork Union Animal Clinic, which has served the public since 1992, opened its doors to allow a close-up view of what they do, and in the process have a good time doing it. The open house on Nov. 4 was not only an opportunity to show how caring professionals help Central Virginians and their pets, but it was also a fun day to have a hot dog, play in a moon bounce, and meet some animals—both future pets and local wildlife, including a show on how to care for them.

The open house was a full day for all ages with a variety of fun and educational exhibits. The star of the show was the veterinary hospital’s modern facility, which is powered not only by the latest in equipment, but by veterinarians that harken back to the days of the country vet. The clinic opened its back room to show the public how it employs the latest in high-tech equipment to care for any medical problem that might befall a dog, cat or other small animals. The friendly staff gave short talks on animal care and health and demonstrated some of the things that a pet owner might be forced to deal with, such as fleas, ticks and parasitic worms that have been preserved for reference.

One of the clinic’s most-prized technologies is its laser surgery process whereby the incisions are closed without using stitches, cutting down on a pet’s recovery time from an operation. Another piece in the clinic’s arsenal of diagnostic equipment is the portable ultrasound machine, which is no bigger than a laptop. In fact, it is a laptop. The entire working of this marvel is contained in a modified Mac Book Pro.

Fork Union Animal Clinic consists of four veterinarians: Sam and DeNae Babbitt, DVMs (founders), Kendra Philman, DVM, and Ashley Rethmeyer, DVM. The veterinarians, along with their technicians, made sure to mingle with the visitors and were eager to share how they do their work, which they consider to be a very important to the local community.

The atmosphere from the parking lot created what could be called an animal fair. People of all ages, with dogs of all breeds in tow, roamed from one booth to another, taking in all of the sights. Animal rescue organizations, Caring for Creatures and Peaceful Passings, brought along some pets in need of homes in the hopes of getting them adopted. There was even an obedience demonstration, showing off the skills of some canine athletes. Pet photos, a moon bounce and face painting were also offered. Homemade baked goods were sold to benefit the clinic’s emergency treatment fund. Door prizes were given away throughout the day. 

It wasn’t all cats and dogs, though, as an avian representative, a majestic Red-Tail Hawk from Phoenix, a Wildlife Alliance, thrilled the animal-loving crowd. Even Sam Babbit, DVM, showed off one of his other talents to the group, playing in a Bluegrass combo that set up in the parking lot of the clinic.

Fork Union Animal Clinic came into being nearly 20 years ago, according to DeNae Babbitt, DVM, when she followed her mentor, Dr. John Hayes to this area, who told her that “you should go to Fluvanna County. There is no veterinarian in Fluvanna County.” That was the beginning of the clinic which started out across the street from what is now the Fork Union Community Market. It is now established just on the outskirts of the little village in its own independent building.

“We love the rural area,” she said. The four veterinarians and their staff see their work here as a service that helps not only Fluvanna, but also extends into Louisa, Albemarle and Buckingham counties.

In speaking of everyone that has come through their doors, DeNae Babbit stated, “I would like to thank the community. We’ve always had the nicest clients.” Also, she made sure to give gratitude to the techs and front office people. “Our staff is our best asset.” The team wants only to give the best care to the four-legged friends that share a home and a family with their human caretakers.

Fork Union Animal Clinic is in Fork Union at 6690 James Madison Highway.  The phone number is (434) 842-8387 and office hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The clinic does not have emergency hours.