Frequently Asked Questions

We offer both intradermal skin testing and blood-based allergy testing at Ark Veterinary Services LLC in Sumter. Our veterinary team selects the best method based on your pet’s symptoms and medical history. If you’re concerned about allergies, call us at (803) 403-7788 to discuss your options.

The cost of allergy testing varies depending on the type and complexity of tests needed. Most appointments last 30-60 minutes. For a personalized estimate and to discuss payment options, contact our team at (803) 403-7788. We accept CareCredit, Scratchpay, Cherry, and more.

Preparing your pet may involve stopping certain medications before the appointment. Our team will give you specific instructions based on your pet’s case. Always follow our guidelines for best results. If you have questions, call (803) 403-7788 before your visit.

Allergy testing can identify triggers for chronic itching, skin infections, ear problems, and digestive issues. By finding the cause, our veterinarians can create a targeted management plan to relieve your pet’s symptoms and improve their quality of life.

To schedule allergy testing, call Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. Visit us at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We welcome pets from Sumter and nearby communities.

A Coggins test is a blood test that screens horses for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), a serious and contagious disease. State law and most equine events require a negative Coggins test for travel, boarding, and competitions. Our veterinary team at Ark Veterinary Services LLC makes Coggins testing in Sumter simple and reliable, call (803) 403-7788 for details.

Pricing for a Coggins test varies depending on travel and service needs. Results are typically available within a few business days. For up-to-date pricing and turnaround times, contact Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788. We offer transparent fees and flexible payment options.

No special preparation is needed for Coggins testing. Please have your horse’s identification and records ready for our veterinary team. If you have questions or special handling concerns, call (803) 403-7788 so we can make the process as smooth as possible for you and your horse.

The Coggins test exclusively detects Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA). While it does not prevent the disease, regular testing is essential for early detection and stopping the spread. Our veterinarians help keep your horse and the entire Sumter equine community safe through annual Coggins testing.

Scheduling is easy, call Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788 or visit us at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm, serving Sumter and nearby communities. Same-day appointments may be available.

Our semi-annual comprehensive exam includes a full physical assessment, review of vaccination and parasite prevention status, dental health check, and personalized recommendations. We also discuss nutrition, behavior, and any concerns you may have. For some animals, diagnostic testing may be recommended for early disease detection. Call (803) 403-7788 to learn more.

The cost of a semi-annual comprehensive exam can vary depending on your animal’s species and any additional testing needed. Most exams take about 30-45 minutes. We offer flexible payment options, including CareCredit, Scratchpay, and Cherry. For a detailed estimate, please call (803) 403-7788.

Bring any medical records, a list of medications, and note any changes in your animal’s behavior or health. For large animals, ensure they are safely contained and accessible for the exam. If you have specific concerns, let our team know when scheduling. Contact us at (803) 403-7788 for preparation tips.

Semi-annual comprehensive exams help detect issues like dental disease, weight changes, metabolic disorders, infections, and early signs of chronic illness. Preventive care also protects against parasites and common infectious diseases. Our veterinarians will tailor the exam to your animal’s risk factors and needs.

To schedule, call (803) 403-7788 or visit 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We are open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, and serve Sumter and surrounding communities.

Ark Veterinary Services LLC provides comprehensive diagnostic laboratory testing, including bloodwork, urinalysis, fecal exams, and specialized tests for pets and large animals. Our in-house equipment and trusted reference labs ensure accurate, timely results for a wide range of conditions. Contact us at (803) 403-7788 for more details.

Most routine diagnostic lab results are available within 24 hours, thanks to our in-house equipment. Costs vary by test type and animal, and we offer flexible payment options. Please call (803) 403-7788 for specific pricing or to discuss your pet’s needs.

Preparation depends on the test; some require fasting while others do not. Our veterinary team will give you clear instructions before your visit. If you have questions, call (803) 403-7788, we’re here to help ensure accurate results and a smooth experience.

Diagnostic laboratory tests can detect early signs of kidney or liver disease, diabetes, infections, parasites, and more. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and better outcomes for your pet or livestock. Our veterinarians can recommend the right tests for your animal’s health.

To schedule, call (803) 403-7788. Ark Veterinary Services LLC is located at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm, and welcome patients from Sumter and nearby communities.

Digital radiology at Ark Veterinary Services LLC can detect fractures, joint problems, tumors, dental issues, internal organ changes, and foreign objects. It is invaluable for diagnosing both acute injuries and chronic health conditions in pets and large animals. For specific concerns, please call (803) 403-7788.

Costs for digital radiology in Sumter vary depending on the number of images and the animal’s needs. Most X-rays are completed in minutes, and results are available immediately. For current pricing, contact our team at (803) 403-7788.

Preparation is usually minimal. Bring any relevant medical records and let us know if your pet is anxious or has special needs. Our team will guide you through the process and answer questions when you arrive at 1038 Broad Street.

Yes, digital radiology allows our veterinarians to detect issues like arthritis, tumors, dental disease, and internal organ changes before symptoms worsen. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes for your pet or livestock. Contact us if you have concerns.

To schedule digital radiology at Ark Veterinary Services LLC, call (803) 403-7788. We are open Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm, at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. Same-day appointments may be available.

A CVI is an official health certificate, completed and signed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian, showing that an animal has been inspected and meets the entry requirements of the state it’s traveling to. Each state sets its own entry requirements. Source: USDA APHIS.

We provide USDA-APHIS, interstate, export and international health transport certificates.

Contact us as soon as you know your travel date and destination. Many certificates are only valid for a limited time and some destinations require tests or vaccinations first, so early planning helps.

Usually, yes. South Carolina requires horses and other equids 6 months of age or older to have a negative Coggins (EIA) test from within the previous 12 months when they are imported into the state, moving within the state to a public assembly, or at a public assembly, such as a show, a boarding stable or a pasture shared by horses from different owners. Every state requires proof of a negative Coggins test for horses crossing state lines. We offer Coggins testing as part of our preventative care. Source: Clemson University Livestock-Poultry Health; Penn State Extension.

Yes. Our ambulatory large-animal service makes farm calls across Sumter, Columbia, Florence, Lugoff and Camden. Tell us how many animals are traveling and where they’re going when you book.

Heartworm testing is essential because heartworm disease can be life-threatening if left untreated. Early detection allows our veterinary team to begin treatment promptly, improving your pet’s chances for a healthy recovery. Even pets on preventives should be tested annually to ensure full protection. For questions, call (803) 403-7788.

Heartworm testing at Ark Veterinary Services LLC is affordable and efficient. Most tests are completed in-house with results available within minutes. Costs vary based on your pet’s specific needs. For an estimate or to schedule, contact us at (803) 403-7788.

No special preparation is usually needed for heartworm testing. Our veterinary team will collect a small blood sample with minimal stress. After testing, we’ll review results and guide you on next steps. For more details, call (803) 403-7788.

Heartworm testing detects heartworm infections early, helping to prevent heart and lung disease in dogs and some other pets. Timely testing also protects the wider pet community in Sumter. If you’re concerned about your pet’s risk, reach out to our veterinary team.

To schedule heartworm testing, call (803) 403-7788 or visit 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We’re open 9am-5pm Monday through Friday for your convenience.

A herd health program is a planned schedule of routine check-ups, diagnostic testing and preventive measures for a group of animals. It helps prevent disease and its spread and keeps animals in optimal condition. Source: NDSU Extension.

Our herd services include health plans, reproductive analysis, parasite control, neonate protocols, vaccine protocols, infectious disease screening and nutrition, along with detailed herd health write-ups.

Yes. Our ambulatory large-animal service makes farm calls across Sumter, Columbia, Florence, Lugoff and Camden. Look for our hot pink pickup trucks.

Yes. We provide USDA-APHIS, interstate, export and international health transport certificates. See our Health Transport Certificates page for details.

Give us a call to tell us about your herd or flock and what you’d like help with. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, and we accept cash, credit and debit cards, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, CareCredit, Scratchpay and Cherry.

A detailed herd health write up from Ark Veterinary Services LLC includes a comprehensive on-site assessment, review of animal records, diagnostic testing as needed, and a written report with tailored recommendations. Our veterinary team ensures you receive actionable insights for your herd in Sumter and surrounding communities.

The cost of a herd health write up depends on herd size, species, and testing required. Most evaluations are completed within one visit, and reports are typically delivered within a few days. For a personalized estimate, call (803) 403-7788.

Gather individual animal records, vaccination histories, and note any concerns before the visit. Ensure animals are accessible and facilities are safe for examination. Our veterinary team will guide you through the process and answer questions before arrival.

Herd health write ups help detect early signs of infectious disease, nutritional deficiencies, reproductive challenges, and management risks. Regular assessments by our veterinarians support disease prevention and long-term herd success.

To schedule your herd health write up, call (803) 403-7788 or visit us at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We are open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm for your convenience.

Routine hoof trimming prevents pain, lameness, and infection in hoofed animals. At Ark Veterinary Services LLC, our veterinary team provides expert hoof care to keep your animals healthy and mobile. Contact us for hoof trimming recommendations tailored to your herd or individual animals.

Hoof trimming costs can vary depending on species and herd size. Most appointments take 30–60 minutes per animal. For a personalized estimate, please call our team at (803) 403-7788. We offer flexible payment options for your convenience.

Before your hoof trimming in Sumter, ensure your animal is clean and accessible. If possible, keep them dry and in a safe area. Our veterinary professionals will handle restraint and care during the appointment. Call (803) 403-7788 with any preparation questions.

Professional hoof trimming helps prevent lameness, hoof abscesses, infections, and joint strain. By keeping hooves balanced, you support your animal’s comfort and long-term health. For more details about hoof care in Sumter, reach out to our veterinary team today.

To schedule hoof trimming in Sumter, call Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788. We’re located at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm, and serve Sumter and nearby areas.

Internal medicine is the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of problems in an animal’s internal body systems, such as the digestive, respiratory, urinary, endocrine and nervous systems. Source: American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

Our internal medicine services cover skin diseases, neurology, gastrointestinal diseases, respiratory diseases, eye diseases, urogenital conditions and endocrine diseases.

Yes. Ark is a mixed-animal practice that sees all species, and our ambulatory large-animal service makes farm calls. Give us a call to tell us about your animal.

We accept cash, credit and debit cards, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, CareCredit, Scratchpay and Cherry. We don’t accept checks.

Call us right away. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, and we do our best to fit in same-day emergencies during business hours. We don’t have a dedicated after-hours emergency line.

Our diagnostic testing includes digital X-ray, bloodwork, biopsy and histopathology, ultrasound, urinalysis and microscopic evaluation.

Ark is a mixed-animal practice that sees all species, from dogs and cats to horses, cattle and pigs. Tell us your animal’s species when you book, and let us know if you need a farm call.

A urinalysis is a test of a urine sample. It helps a veterinarian check kidney function and look for signs of infection, crystals, diabetes and other problems. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual.

A biopsy removes a small tissue sample, such as from a lump. Histopathology is the microscopic examination of that tissue, which helps identify what the abnormal tissue is and guides treatment. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual.

Costs depend on the tests your animal needs, so ask our team when you book. We accept cash, credit and debit cards, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, CareCredit, Scratchpay and Cherry. We don’t accept checks.

A McMaster fecal test is a quantitative laboratory technique used to count intestinal parasite eggs in animal feces. This test helps our veterinary team at Ark Veterinary Services LLC identify the type and severity of parasite infestation, guiding targeted treatment and supporting your herd’s overall health.

Costs can vary depending on herd size and sample numbers. Most McMaster fecals are completed within 24-48 hours at Ark Veterinary Services LLC. For a price estimate and scheduling, please call (803) 403-7788.

Collect a fresh sample from each animal, avoiding contamination with bedding or dirt. Place samples in clean, sealed containers and refrigerate if not delivered immediately. Our team at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150 can provide additional guidance.

McMaster fecals primarily detect intestinal parasites such as strongyles, roundworms, and coccidia. Regular testing helps prevent outbreaks, supports targeted deworming, and maintains overall herd health. Contact Ark Veterinary Services LLC for more information about parasite risks in Sumter and surrounding communities.

To schedule a McMaster fecal test, call (803) 403-7788 or visit us at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, for your convenience.

During a comprehensive physical exam at Ark Veterinary Services LLC, our veterinarians check your animal’s eyes, ears, mouth, skin, heart, lungs, abdomen, and more. We assess weight, mobility, and overall condition, then discuss findings and answer your questions. For species-specific needs, we tailor the exam accordingly. Call (803) 403-7788 to learn more.

Fees for comprehensive physical exams at Ark Veterinary Services LLC vary depending on your animal’s species and specific needs. Exams typically take 30 to 45 minutes. For a personalized quote or details about payment options, please contact us at (803) 403-7788.

Bring any medical records, a list of current medications, and information on recent changes in your pet’s health. For livestock, ensure safe handling and access. If you have questions, call our veterinary team at (803) 403-7788 for guidance.

Comprehensive physical exams help detect early signs of illness, such as dental disease, heart or lung issues, skin conditions, weight changes, and more. Our veterinarians use these exams to identify concerns and recommend next steps for your animal’s health.

To schedule a comprehensive physical exam, call Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm. Visit us at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150.

Each plan is personalized to your animal’s age, breed and lifestyle. Depending on the species, it can include laboratory screening tests, Coggins tests, hoof trimming, fecal analysis, dental floats and dental prophylaxis, plus advice on nutrition, dental health and wellness.

All of them. Ark is a mixed-animal practice that sees all species, from dogs and cats to horses, cattle and pigs. Tell us the species when you book, and let us know if you’d like a farm call.

A Coggins test is a blood test that screens horses for equine infectious anemia (EIA). Proof of a recent negative test is commonly required to travel with, show or board a horse. Source: Penn State Extension.

Floating is the routine filing of a horse’s teeth to smooth the sharp points that form as the teeth wear, which helps the horse chew comfortably. Source: UF/IFAS Extension.

Give us a call or request an appointment online. We’re at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150, across the street from Sumter Mall, and we’re open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. We’re closed on weekends.

Veterinary ultrasound at Ark Veterinary Services LLC can help diagnose organ issues, tumors, fluid accumulation, pregnancy, and more. It is useful for pets, horses, and pigs. For specific concerns, contact our team at (803) 403-7788.

Ultrasound costs vary based on the animal and complexity of the exam. Most scans take 20–45 minutes. Please call (803) 403-7788 for a personalized estimate and more details about our veterinary ultrasound in Sumter.

Most animals do not require special preparation. Sometimes, fasting may be recommended; our team will advise you ahead of time. Bring your pet or livestock to 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150 for your scheduled visit.

Yes, our veterinary ultrasound in Sumter is ideal for herd health monitoring and reproductive evaluations, including pregnancy checks in horses and pigs. Contact our veterinary team to discuss your specific needs or herd management goals.

To schedule a veterinary ultrasound in Sumter, call Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788. We are open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150.

Our veterinary team at Ark Veterinary Services LLC recommends vaccines based on your animal’s species, age, lifestyle, and risk factors. Core vaccines for dogs and cats include rabies, distemper, and parvovirus, while livestock may need vaccines for clostridial diseases, rabies, and others. Contact us at (803) 403-7788 to discuss your animal’s specific needs.

Vaccination costs vary depending on the animal species and vaccines required. Most appointments take 20–30 minutes, including a health exam. For a detailed estimate or to schedule, call (803) 403-7788. We offer flexible payment options including CareCredit, Scratchpay, and Cherry.

Bring any vaccination records you have. Ensure your animal is healthy and has not shown signs of illness recently. If you have concerns about stress or handling, let our team know ahead of time. We’ll make the visit as comfortable as possible for your pet or livestock.

Vaccines protect against diseases like rabies, distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and clostridial infections. Dr. Blackwell and our veterinary team create customized vaccine plans to prevent threats specific to your animal. Call (803) 403-7788 for more information about disease prevention.

You can schedule your pet’s vaccination appointment by calling (803) 403-7788 or visiting us at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm, and serve Sumter and surrounding areas.

X rays can detect broken bones, joint issues, foreign objects, dental problems, and internal organ changes. At Ark Veterinary Services LLC, our veterinarians use digital radiology to diagnose a wide range of conditions for all species.

Costs for x rays can vary depending on your pet’s needs and the number of images required. Most x ray appointments at Ark Veterinary Services LLC are completed within a single visit. For an estimate, call (803) 403-7788.

Most pets do not need special preparation for x rays. Sedation may be used for anxious pets or to ensure clear images. Our veterinary team will let you know what to expect based on your pet’s needs.

Yes, our digital x rays are effective for large animals, including horses and pigs. Ark Veterinary Services LLC is one of the only practices in Sumter offering advanced radiology for all species, including livestock and exotics.

To schedule your pet’s x rays, call (803) 403-7788. We are located at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. Our clinic is open Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm, right across from Sumter Mall.

Amputation surgery involves removing a limb or part of a limb due to severe injury, disease, or cancer. Our veterinary team recommends amputation only when it is the best option to relieve pain or restore quality of life. Each case is carefully evaluated at Ark Veterinary Services LLC to ensure the best outcome for your animal. Please contact us for a personalized assessment.

The cost of amputation surgery varies based on the animal’s size, species, and complexity of the procedure. Most surgeries are completed in a few hours, with your pet or livestock typically able to return home the same day. Ark Veterinary Services LLC offers flexible payment options and will provide a detailed estimate during your consultation. Call (803) 403-7788 for more information.

Preparation may include fasting before surgery and following any instructions from our veterinary team. After surgery, your animal will need rest, wound care, and medication as prescribed. We provide detailed home care instructions and are always available for follow-up support. Contact Ark Veterinary Services LLC if you have any questions about your pet’s recovery.

Amputation surgery is performed to treat severe trauma, non-healing wounds, infections, cancer, limb deformities, and some congenital conditions. It can prevent the spread of disease and relieve chronic pain. Our veterinary professionals will discuss all options and determine if amputation is the best solution for your animal’s health.

You can schedule an amputation surgery consultation by calling (803) 403-7788 or visiting our clinic at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We are open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, and proudly serve Sumter and nearby communities.

If you think your pet has a fracture or dislocation, keep them as still and calm as possible. Avoid moving the injured area. Contact Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788 for immediate guidance and to arrange an examination.

The cost depends on the type and severity of the injury, diagnostics required, and treatment approach. Our team will provide a clear estimate after assessment. We offer flexible payment options, including CareCredit and Scratchpay, to make care accessible.

Keep your pet calm and restrict their movement until your visit. Bring any medical records or information about how the injury occurred. If you have questions before your appointment, call us at (803) 403-7788 for advice.

Ark Veterinary Services LLC treats fractures and dislocations in all species, including dogs, cats, livestock, and pigs. Our team is experienced with both companion animals and large animals. Contact us if you have questions about your animal’s needs.

To schedule, call (803) 403-7788 or visit us at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm, and accept patients from Sumter and surrounding areas.

The ideal age for gelding or castration is typically between 6 months and 2 years, but this can vary based on species, breed, and health. Our veterinary team at Ark Veterinary Services LLC will advise you on the best timing for your animal during your consultation. Call (803) 403-7788 to discuss your animal’s needs.

The cost of gelding or castration depends on the animal’s age, size, and specific needs. Most procedures are completed in less than an hour. For a personalized estimate, contact Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788. We offer a variety of payment and financing options for your convenience.

Before the procedure, ensure your animal is healthy, up-to-date on vaccinations, and has fasted if instructed. Our team will provide detailed pre-surgical instructions specific to your animal. If you have questions, call (803) 403-7788 for guidance.

Gelding or castration can reduce aggression, prevent unwanted breeding, and lower the risk of certain health issues like testicular cancer. It also helps animals integrate better into herds. The Ark Veterinary Services LLC team will discuss benefits and expected outcomes during your appointment.

To schedule an appointment, call Ark Veterinary Services LLC at (803) 403-7788. We are located at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. Our office is open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Our veterinary team performs internal surgery in Sumter for a range of conditions, including gastrointestinal blockages, internal tumors, organ disease, and abdominal injuries. Every case is assessed individually using advanced imaging and diagnostics to determine the safest, most effective surgical plan. If you have concerns about your pet’s symptoms, please contact us at (803) 403-7788.

The cost and duration of internal surgery in Sumter depend on your pet’s condition, the complexity of the procedure, and any required aftercare. Our team will provide a clear estimate and time frame after a thorough consultation and diagnostics. We offer flexible payment options and accept insurance to help make care more accessible.

Before internal surgery, our veterinary team will give you detailed instructions, which may include withholding food or water and adjusting medications. After surgery, pets usually need rest, medication, and monitoring for complications. We provide comprehensive aftercare guidance at Ark Veterinary Services LLC and are always available to answer your questions.

Yes, timely internal surgery can prevent severe complications such as infection, organ failure, or life-threatening blockages. Early intervention by our team improves your pet’s prognosis and comfort. If you notice symptoms like persistent vomiting or abdominal pain, contact us at (803) 403-7788 promptly.

To schedule an internal surgery consultation, call (803) 403-7788 or visit us at 1038 Broad Street, Sumter, SC 29150. We are open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, serving Sumter and surrounding communities.

Our surgical services include gelding and castration, mass removal, tarsorrhaphy, tail docking, needle teeth removal, dehorning and disbudding, C-sections, casting, laceration repair, enucleation, spay and neuter, and trocar and cannula procedures. Give us a call to ask about a specific procedure.

Yes. Our veterinarians thoroughly discuss the procedure and recovery expectations with you before your animal’s surgery.

Yes. Ark is a mixed-animal practice that sees all species, and our services include large-animal surgery. Tell us your animal’s species when you call so we can plan the right visit.

We accept cash, credit and debit cards, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, CareCredit, Scratchpay and Cherry. We don’t accept checks.

Call us right away. We’re open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, and we do our best to fit in same-day emergencies during business hours. We don’t have a dedicated after-hours emergency line.