Anicira Veterinary Center of Manassas

06/10/2026

Several months ago, Crandon’s veterinarian discovered a mass on his spleen along with several nodules on his liver. While findings like these can understandably be frightening, the only way to know exactly what they are is to send samples to a pathologist for testing. A pathologist is specially trained to examine tissue under a microscope, making biopsies the most accurate and reliable way to determine whether masses are cancerous or benign.

Wanting clear answers and the best possible care for their boy, Crandon’s Mom scheduled a splenectomy and biopsies with Dr. Ayre at Anicira. Thankfully, surgery went smoothly and was a success, allowing the team to safely remove the spleen and send samples out for testing.

The wait for results can feel endless, but the day Crandon returned for his staple removal, he got to reunite with the care team who had been cheering him on every step of the way. It was during that visit that his Mom finally received the incredible news they had been hoping for: negative for cancer!

Seeing him back with his team (pictured), tail wagging, made the moment even more special. We are so incredibly happy for this sweet boy and grateful we could be part of his journey. Here’s to many more happy, healthy years ahead for Crandon! 🐾

If you'd like to learn more about splenectomy procedures, please visit: https://anicira.org/splenectomy-lp-manassas/

06/08/2026

Almost a year ago, sweet little Mila injured one of her ni***es. Despite careful monitoring and bandaging, the area continued to become irritated over the following months, so her family made the loving decision to have the affected tissue surgically removed. While she was under anesthesia, Mila was also spayed!

Spaying is such an important part of preventive care for dogs, helping reduce the risk of mammary tumors, uterine infections, and other reproductive health issues later in life.

We’re so happy to hear Mila is recovering well! Her mom also shared, “Your team rocks!! We appreciate you guys!!” And we couldn't agree more!

If you'd like to schedule your pet to be spayed or neutered, please call 571-208-0199 or email us at [email protected].

06/05/2026

We’re thrilled to announce that Megan Simmons, Lead Veterinary Nurse at our San Diego hospital, has been named the June 2026 American Animal Hospital Association/CareCredit Employee of the Month, a national honor recognizing outstanding individuals in veterinary medicine!

A veterinary professional since 2017, Megan brings both exceptional skills and genuine compassion to every patient and family she serves. Her nominator describes her as “highly dependable, detail-oriented,” and someone whose “leadership, work ethic, and willingness to step in wherever needed make a meaningful difference to the team every day.”

Megan’s dedication is best captured in her own words: “I love my job because it gives me the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of both animals and their families every day.” We’re so proud to have Megan on our team, and we know pets and their families are in exceptional hands when they walk through our doors. To learn more about Megan, please visit: https://anicira.org/blog/aniciras-megan-simmons-chosen-aaha-employee-of-the-month/

06/03/2026

Last month, Anchovy’s family brought her to Anicira for a dental procedure. We are an American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) accredited hospital, meaning we voluntarily meet some of the highest standards in veterinary medicine for patient safety, anesthesia monitoring, staff training, and quality of care. AAHA accreditation is not required; it is earned through regular, rigorous evaluations to ensure hospitals consistently follow best practices.

Dr. Sands performed a thorough exam and pre-anesthetic bloodwork to confirm Anchovy was healthy for anesthesia. While her results showed only mild changes, she was cleared for the procedure, especially given her prior smooth anesthetic history.

Shortly after the procedure began, her care team noticed Anchovy’s temperature was rising dangerously. The procedure was immediately stopped, her anesthesia was reversed, and she was placed on IV fluids and active cooling measures. She was then transferred to a 24-hour emergency facility, where she recovered well.

Her mom later shared that Anchovy is “doing really well, almost like nothing happened - we are super grateful!” This case is a powerful reminder of how important vigilant monitoring and quick decision-making are during anesthesia, and how having a highly trained team in an AAHA-accredited hospital can make all the difference.

Read on for a review Anchovy's Mom left us:

"Dr. Sands caught the episode early, provided immediate treatment and supportive care, then called me to loop me in and pick her up. Dr. Sands and her staff called MULTIPLE local ERs to coordinate with one that could admit her. I ended up selecting an ER closer to home, and they even coordinated care with that facility very efficiently when I requested it.

Every single person at the facility was kind and patient. Because this facility caught the hyperthermia early, my dog is home with me safe within the day. The ER facility commended Anicira for their quick reaction and care. While my dog couldn’t get the dental, I can’t recommend this place more for their caution and efficiency in medical treatment that ended up saving my dog!"

To learn more about AAHA accreditation, visit: https://anicira.org/blog/anicira-earns-accreditation-from-top-veterinary-association/

06/01/2026

Niko was rescued on a hot summer day in 2022. At first, his rescuer thought the tiny gray lump on the ground was a squirrel, until he got closer. That little lump turned out to be a kitten in need of help. Since then, Niko has spent the last few years being the center of attention and helping his family through even the toughest days.

Recently, Niko’s family noticed some concerning urinary changes and rushed him to the emergency vet, where they learned he was blocked and unable to urinate, a life-threatening emergency in cats. To help prevent future blockages, a PU (perineal urethrostomy) surgery was recommended. This procedure creates a new, wider urinary opening, allowing urine to pass more easily and greatly reducing the risk of dangerous obstructions in the future.

Dr. Ayre performed a successful PU surgery, and Niko recently returned to have his sutures removed. During his visit, he was even reunited with one of the CSRs who helped nurse him directly after surgery, spending extra time gently petting his head and humming to him.

If you'd like to learn more, please visit https://anicira.org/can-perineal-urethrostomy-surgery-in-manassas/

05/29/2026

Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes aren’t just annoying; they can pose serious health risks to your pet. That’s why consistent, year-round prevention is so important.

Fleas can cause intense itching, skin infections, and even transmit tapeworms. Ticks can carry diseases that affect both pets and people. And mosquitoes spread Heartworm disease, a potentially life-threatening condition that affects the heart and lungs and is much harder (and more expensive) to treat than it is to prevent.

The tricky part? You won’t always see these parasites, and it only takes one bite to cause a problem.

Keeping your pet on monthly preventatives protects them from these hidden dangers and helps avoid costly, stressful medical issues down the road. Even indoor pets aren’t completely safe; mosquitoes and fleas can easily make their way inside!

Prevention is simple. Treatment is not. Learn more here: https://anicira.org/resources/the-importance-of-year-round-flea-tick-heartworm-preventatives/

05/27/2026

We’re excited to welcome Dr. Ally Baldassari to our Manassas team!

With more than 12 years of experience in veterinary medicine, Dr. Baldassari brings extensive knowledge, compassion, and a passion for helping pets live happier and healthier lives.

She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Texas A&M University and completed an internship in Emergency, Critical Care, and Surgery at the Animal Emergency Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She is also Fear Free Elite certified and a certified Cat Friendly professional through the Feline Veterinary Medical Association.

After beginning her career in emergency medicine, Dr. Baldassari discovered her passion for general practice and preventative care, with a special focus on client education, enrichment, and positive reinforcement.

Outside of Anicira, Dr. Baldassari enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, paddling on the water, and visiting the ocean. She also shares her home with two rescue dogs, Leia and Luke, and a rescue cat.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Baldassari to Anicira! Read more about Dr. Baldassari and all the veterinary professionals at our Manassas hospital here: https://anicira.org/manassas-team/

05/22/2026

"Peaches is well-loved everywhere she goes, and she's been doing really well post-surgery!" This was the happy update we received a few weeks after her COHAT (Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment) procedure.

During her dental surgery, sweet Peaches was fully anesthetized so Dr. Signorino could safely perform a complete oral exam and take full-mouth radiographs of her tiny teeth. Those images revealed significant dental disease that couldn’t be seen above the gumline, and ultimately, twelve of her teeth needed to be extracted to relieve pain and prevent further infection.

Dental health is about so much more than just the mouth. Untreated dental disease can lead to chronic pain, difficulty eating, and even allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Addressing these issues not only made Peaches more comfortable but also supports her overall health and quality of life moving forward.

Interested in scheduling your pet for a dental procedure? Call 571-208-0199 or email [email protected]!

05/20/2026

Pit Bulls & Pit Bull mixes are often overlooked in shelters, despite being loving, loyal companions. One of the biggest barriers they face is preventable overpopulation.

We’re still offering FREE spay/neuter surgeries thanks to the generous $25,000 ASPCA grant!

Who qualifies:
• Pit Bulls & Pit Bull mixes
• Residents of Manassas, Manassas Park, Prince William County, Harrisonburg, and Rockingham County (proof such as a license is required)

Where & when:
• Available at our Manassas and Harrisonburg, VA hospitals
• Through the end of the year or until funds run out

Not sure if your dog qualifies?
• Email a photo to: [email protected] or [email protected]

Each appointment includes:
• Pre-surgical exam
• Spay/neuter surgery by a licensed veterinarian
• Pain medication
• Aftercare instructions

Please note:
• Rabies vaccine must be current, or can be given day-of for a small fee

Learn more or schedule: https://anicira.org/pit-fix/

05/19/2026

Two years ago, we celebrated Kayla’s acceptance into Northern Virginia’s Veterinary Technician Program, and today, we’re thrilled to celebrate her graduation! 🎉 Check out her graduation photo with her adorable bestie in the comments!

Next stop: the VTNE! Kayla’s dedication, hard work, and passion for becoming an LVT have truly stood out every step of the way.

We are beyond proud of you, Kayla, and can’t wait to see all you accomplish next! 🩺🐾

In March of this year, we introduced you to Kayla, one of our veterinary nurses in the process of finishing prerequisite classes prior to applying to NoVA's veterinary technology program.

Huge CONGRATULATIONS are in order for Kayla, who found out she was accepted into the program a few weeks ago! Her dedication and passion to continue her path towards her LVT credentials have not gone unnoticed. We are SO proud of you, Kayla!