Meet Dr. Linda Ryder

Providing compassionate in-home end-of-life care for cats and dogs throughout Richmond and the surrounding communities.

Why Companion Animal House Calls

After more than 44 years in veterinary medicine, Dr. Linda Ryder retired from regular small-animal practice in 2025. While retirement marked the end of one chapter, she quickly realized she missed the relationships she had built with pets and their families throughout her career.

Companion Animal House Calls was founded to provide compassionate guidance and in-home end-of-life care for cats and dogs during one of the most difficult moments a family can face.

Dr. Ryder believes every pet deserves a peaceful and dignified goodbye in a familiar environment, surrounded by the people who love them most.

A Career Dedicated to Animal Care

  • 44+ Years of Veterinary Experience

  • Virginia Tech Graduate

  • University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine

  • Since 1982 Helping Pets and Their Families


Dr. Ryder's Philosophy

"Am I doing the right thing?"

Dr. Ryder understands that deciding when to say goodbye is never easy. Her role is not simply to provide a service, but to help families understand their options, answer their questions, and navigate the process with confidence and compassion.

Her goal is to create a warm, calm, and supportive experience for both pets and the people who love them.

Dr. Ryder met her husband while working in a veterinary clinic in Williamsburg in 1984. They married in 1987 and have shared their lives with many beloved cats and Golden Retrievers over the years.

Her personal experiences as a pet owner help shape the understanding and compassion she brings to every family she serves.

Dr. Ryder
Companion Animal House Calls

Learn more about Dr. Ryder's approach to helping families through the end-of-life journey for their pets.

Questions About Your Pet’s Quality of Life?

If you're unsure about the next steps, Dr. Ryder is available to answer questions and provide guidance.

Request an Appointment

Companion Animal House Calls does not provide general veterinary care, wellness visits, vaccinations, or emergency treatment. Dr. Ryder specializes exclusively in end-of-life care for cats and dogs.