Nd:YVO4 single-crystal fibers of various compositions were grown by the laser-heated pedestal growth (LHPG) method. During the crystal growth, a thermal imaging radiometer was used to observe the thermal radiation emitted by the melt, ceramics and crystals. Parameters of the LHPG method, such as powder compositions, ceramic process, and crystal-growth conditions are discussed. With the higher pulling rates during the LHPG process and proper ceramics-production control, the decomposition of V2O5 could be reduced and a-axis Nd:YVO4 crystal fibers were grown. Lattice constants of the grown crystal fibers were measured.