Mount Airy Animal Hospital

Mt. Airy Animal Hospital provides trusted, personalized veterinary care with a focus on treating pets like family. The team emphasizes clear communication, compassion, and collaborative care for animals and the people who love them.

History

• Founded: 1947, establishing a long-standing tradition of quality, personalized veterinary care in the Mt. Airy community.
• Growth and leadership:
• In 1967, the founding veterinarian retired and a new practitioner continued the hospital's commitment to excellent care.
• In 1970, another change in ownership brought modernization, renovations, and expansion of the hospital.
• Andorra Veterinary Clinic:
• In 1975, a satellite office, Andorra Veterinary Clinic, was opened in the Lafayette Hill area to serve additional patients and continues to operate today.
• Expansion and renovation:
• Over time, the reception, treatment, surgical, and kennel areas were restructured, and two additional exam rooms were added to support growing demand.

Accreditation and standards

• In 1988, Mt. Airy Animal Hospital earned accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), a distinction held by fewer than 15% of veterinary practices nationwide.
• AAHA accreditation reflects the hospital's commitment to high standards of veterinary medicine and ongoing quality improvement.

Current practice

Under its current leadership, Mt. Airy Animal Hospital:

• Continues to invest in modern equipment and medical advances.
• Reflects and serves the diverse and welcoming community it is part of.
• Remains dedicated to improving the lives of animals, their families, and the broader community through compassionate, collaborative care.

Examples of behavior issues that may be evaluated and treated include:

• Anxiety and fear-based behaviors – such as separation anxiety, noise phobias, or fear of strangers and other animals.
• Aggression – growling, snapping, or biting toward people or other animals, often linked to fear, pain, or resource guarding.
• Compulsive behaviors – repetitive actions like excessive licking, tail chasing, pacing, or shadow chasing.
• House soiling – inappropriate urination or defecation in the home, which may have medical, behavioral, or stress-related causes.

Importance of early intervention

Behavioral issues often worsen over time if they are not addressed. Seeking help early can:

• Improve treatment outcomes.
• Prevent behaviors from becoming more severe or ingrained.
• Protect the safety and well-being of both pets and family members.
• Strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Owners are encouraged to contact the hospital promptly if they notice sudden aggression, excessive fear, changes in bathroom habits, or other concerning behavior changes.

Evaluation and treatment

Behavioral medicine visits typically include:

• A detailed review of your pet's medical history, daily routine, environment, and specific concerns.
• Assessment to determine whether the issue is primarily medical, training-related, or linked to emotional distress.
• An individualized treatment plan that may include:
• Behavior modification and training strategies.
• Environmental and routine changes.
• Stress-reduction techniques.
• Nutritional support where appropriate.
• Prescription medications, when needed, to support behavior modification.

The veterinary team works with owners over time to adjust the plan as needed and provide ongoing guidance.

Common questions

• What types of behavior problems can be treated?

A wide range, including aggression, anxiety, excessive vocalization, destructive behavior, compulsive habits, fear-based behaviors, and house soiling.

• Can medical problems cause behavior changes?

Yes. Pain, illness, or neurological conditions can contribute to behavior changes, so medical causes are considered and addressed first.

• Will medication always be required?

No. Some pets benefit from medication as part of a broader behavior plan, while others improve with behavior modification and environmental changes alone.

• How long does treatment take?

Timeframes vary by pet and condition. Some improve quickly, while others need steady, longer-term support.

Mt. Airy Animal Hospital and Andorra Veterinary Clinic provide a wide range of veterinary services for dogs, cats, and small mammals.

Preventive and wellness care

• Wellness – routine exams and ongoing preventive care to support lifelong health.
• Early veterinary care – wellness exams, core vaccinations, and guidance during your pet's first months of life.
• Essential pet vaccinations – recommended vaccines tailored to your pet's age, lifestyle, and risk factors.
• Parasite prevention and control – customized plans to prevent fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other parasites.
• Senior care – specialized care plans to support aging pets.

Dentistry

• Dentistry – professional dental exams, cleanings, and treatment to help maintain your pet's oral health.

Surgery and procedures

• Surgery – a range of procedures performed with a focus on safety, comfort, and compassionate care.
• Microchipping – permanent identification to help reunite you with your pet if they are ever lost.

Diagnostics and in-house care

• Diagnostics and X-rays – in-house digital imaging and diagnostic testing to identify health issues and guide treatment.
• Laboratory – fast, in-house lab testing for quick, accurate results.
• Pain management – personalized plans to keep your pet as comfortable as possible before, during, and after treatment.

Nutrition, behavior, and ongoing support

• Nutritional counseling – guidance on diet and nutrition to support better health and longevity.
• Behavioral medicine – help with issues such as anxiety, fear-based behavior, aggression, compulsive behaviors, and house soiling.

Medications, refills, and supplies

• Pharmacy – on-site and online pharmacy options offering veterinarian-approved medications with convenient refills and delivery.
• Online store – prescriptions, food, and products available to order and have delivered to your door.

For details about a specific service, see the dedicated service pages or contact the hospital directly.

Hours

• Monday–Friday: 8:30am – 7:00pm
• Saturday: 8:30am – 4:00pm
• Sunday: 10:00am – 1:00pm

The hospital is closed daily from 1:00pm – 2:00pm for lunch.

Andorra Veterinary Clinic (Lafayette Hill)

• Location: Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
• Phone: 610-825-6622

Hours

• Monday: 9:00am – 3:00pm
• Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday: 9:00am – 7:00pm
• Thursday: 9:00am – 3:00pm
• Friday: 9:00am – 4:00pm
• Saturday–Sunday: Closed

Many pets show signs of dental disease by age three. Untreated dental problems can cause pain, infection, tooth loss, and may affect major organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Regular dental care helps keep pets comfortable and healthier over the long term.

Professional dental services

Dental services may include:

• Teeth cleaning (scaling) – removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gumline.
• Polishing – smoothing of tooth surfaces to help slow future plaque buildup.
• Dental X-rays – imaging below the gumline to detect problems such as bone loss, root resorption, or abscesses.
• Periodontal treatment – treatment of gum inflammation and infection to help preserve teeth and support structures.

Signs of dental disease in pets

Owners are encouraged to contact the hospital if they notice:

• Bad breath.
• Difficulty eating or chewing.
• Swollen, red, or bleeding gums.
• Excessive drooling.
• Pawing at the mouth.
• Yellow or brown buildup on teeth.
• Loose or missing teeth.
• Swelling around the mouth, jaw, or under the eyes.

Benefits of routine dental cleanings

Regular professional cleanings can:

• Help prevent painful dental disease.
• Reduce the risk of infections spreading from the mouth to other organs.
• Improve breath and day-to-day comfort.
• Preserve your pet's ability to chew and eat normally.
• Support a better quality of life.

Anesthesia and safety

Most dental procedures are performed under general anesthesia. This allows a thorough oral exam, cleaning under the gumline, X-rays, and treatment while keeping pets still, safe, and comfortable.

At-home dental care tips

Owners can help support their pet's dental health at home by:

• Brushing their pet's teeth with pet-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
• Using veterinary-recommended dental chews and toys to help reduce plaque and tartar.
• Using dental gels, sprays, or wipes designed for pets when appropriate.

Common questions

• How often are dental cleanings recommended?

Many pets benefit from annual professional cleanings; some may need them more often depending on age, breed, and home care.

• Do all pets need anesthesia for dental cleaning?

Anesthesia is typically required for a thorough and comfortable cleaning below the gumline.

• Can at-home care replace professional cleanings?

At-home care is important but does not replace professional exams and cleanings.

• Over 15 years of veterinary experience.
• Veterinary degree (VMD) from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (2010).
• Holds a BS in Public Relations and Biology from Syracuse University.
• Special interests include client education, shelter medicine, and forensic veterinary medicine.
• Advocates for animals and their families and is passionate about speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Dr. Emily Seymour – Veterinarian

• Graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.
• Has personal ties to the Mt. Airy community and is excited to serve local pet families.
• Enjoys hiking, birding, gardening, and chess outside of work.
• Speaks both English and Spanish, allowing her to communicate directly with a wider range of pet owners.

Dr. Crystal Lauderdale – Veterinarian

• Studied biochemical technologies at Spring Garden College.
• Earned her VMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in 1993.
• Has been with Mt. Airy since the 1980s and began practicing there after graduation.
• Member of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
• Enjoys teaching, painting, and spending time with her family, and visits local schools to encourage students to pursue science and veterinary careers.

Dr. Andrea Niggemeier – Veterinarian

• Veterinary degree from the Free University of Berlin, Germany (1994).
• Completed a fellowship in transfusion medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.
• Experience in emergency medicine and private practice before joining Mt. Airy.
• VetStem certified and a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
• Special interests include orthopedic surgery, physical therapy, and sports medicine.
• Lives in Philadelphia with her daughter, dog, and cat, and enjoys running, hiking, and camping.

Dr. William Slaymaker – Veterinarian/Medical Director

• Raised in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, and currently lives in Germantown.
• Biology major and art minor from the University of Virginia (1982).
• VMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine (1987).
• Practiced in the Harrisburg area from 1987–1997 and joined Mt. Airy in 1997.
• Owner of the practice since 1999.
• Member of the American Animal Hospital Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, and Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association.
• Enjoys sailing and once sailed his boat from Cape Cod to the Caribbean.

This team works together with experienced technicians and support staff to provide compassionate, thorough veterinary care.

Ask anyway — the agent will say plainly that it is not published rather than guess.