New clinic brings eye care services in focus to more Hampton Roads pets

(Hampton Roads, Va., Aug. 31, 2022) – Animal Vision Center of Virginia is now bringing ophthalmic care services to more animals in Hampton Roads, with the launch of its second practice in Chesapeake. Located in the Great Bridge area at 228 Mt. Pleasant Road, the clinic offers a full array of animal eye care services, including exams and diagnosis, medical therapies, genetic testing for ocular conditions, and surgery.

“We are excited to expand our reach in the region,” said Dr. Heather Brookshire, owner and operator of Animal Vision Center of Virginia. “Between our new Chesapeake practice and our original Virginia Beach location, we can provide more appointment times and scheduling options for pet owners throughout Hampton Roads and to the northeastern North Carolina border.”

Since Animal Vision Center of Virginia opened in 2015, the practice has grown in size and service offerings. The Virginia Beach location has undergone two expansions, added ophthalmology residents and interns and increased its veterinary support staff.

In addition, Brookshire has engaged the general veterinary community in Hampton Roads by offering free continuing education courses and credits for referring veterinarians and providing ophthalmic resource guides to help veterinarians identify and diagnose eye conditions for their own pet patients.

Brookshire is also known for her volunteer work. She serves on the board of directors of the Coastal Virginia Veterinary Medical Association, Tidewater Community College Veterinary Assistant and Technician programs, and Virginia Beach Animal Control and Adoption Agency.  She is also a frequent presenter at regional and national veterinary conferences. Her practice offers free ocular exams for service animals throughout the year, including the City of Virginia Beach Patrol horses, Virginia Beach Sheriff Department K-9 dogs and therapeutic riding horses at Untamed Spirit.

With the opportunity to see and treat more pets, Brookshire looks forward to educating their owners about the long-term benefits of eye health.

“An animal’s vision is the key to their living a full, active and healthy life,” she said. “But, just as with humans, accidents, disease and age-related conditions can affect a pet’s sight.”

Signs that a pet might have eyesight problems can include eye redness, swelling, discharge, cloudiness, squinting or bumping into objects at home.

“If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have your animal’s eyes examined,” Brookshire said. “And we are here to help.”

For a complete listing of ophthalmic services and information, visit www.animalvisioncenterva.com.