I have been taking my dog to Dr. Richter at Burnaby Veterinary Hospital for several years now and the level of care is amazing. She is so great with my dog, who can be a handful, and always explains carefully what procedures need to be done and why. I've never felt overcharged, and I've gone there for everything from routine vaccines to dental surgery to emergency care. Whenever I drop off my dog for a dental cleaning or x-rays, she's actually excited to be in the clinic and to see Dr. Richter, who seems equally happy to be licked all over by her -- a true animal lover. The staff are helpful and friendly, and there are never any long waits for appointments. The clinic is large, clean and bright, with lots of space so that I can keep my slightly anti-social dog apart from other pets if necessary. Bonus: there is clinic parking right outside the door, and they are open 7 days a week. read more

This hospital is overpriced. Its NOT an SPCA hospital - that is located in Vancouver. I telephoned to pickup flea medication for my dog and was told they will only sell me the over the counter topical medication (the kind you apply to the neck) if I also pay $$ for an appointment/visit. Whaaat? Check other Burnaby vets my friends. read more

I am highly disapointed at this hospital. After they wrote me two e-mail giving me a date for my dog's senior check up, I call to confirm the date and they give me a 10:20 appointed for the day they sent to me in two different e-mails. . I arrived earlier to the appoitment and after waiting more than 1/2 hour they told me that I do not have an appoitment. I believe this is highly unprofessional, especially because I travel all the way from Powell River. I cannot believe how uncompetent this hospital is. all they want is your money. I do not recomend this hospital to anyone. read more

Please for the sake of your animals, DO NOT take your beloved animals here. I used to take my dog here and we have had horrific experiences. They used to call us persistently almost every day when it was time for our dog's check-up. It's one thing to call once or leave a voicemail for a friendly reminder which is very much appreciated along with the postcard, however it's another to continuously call and be pushy to the point where it was borderline harassment. Dr. Richter who I once thought was a respectable doctor turned out to be very judgemental which was very disappointing. I often felt this place was more about profit than the actual care and compassion for our fellow animals or atleast thats the vibe I felt. To be fair I have had pleasant experiences with some of the other staff members but it boils down to who is managing the place and what kind of values they have that sets the tone. read more

Profit driven and unethical practice. Overdiagnosed and overtreated my dogs on a number of occasions just for monetary gain. Never did I leave the clinic without at least two or three extra charges for exams, lab works or further testing. They performed negligent, sub-par treatment on my dog that resulted in her needing more treatment and undergoing more anesthesia, which can have serious consequences on a senior dog. Charged me $60 for refusing to buy medications that I already had at home and kept my dog hostage until I settled the fees. In the end, Dr Kuan threatened to report me to spca when I refused to accept treatment she suggested and changed vets. They are straight out of a horror movie. Keep you pets away from them. read more

My puppy went for a spay and hernia repair and the staff was great. They quoted me a lot higher than the actual cost of the procedure and I was very pleased when I went to pick up my puppy to find it was almost half of what the quote was. The staff was so amazing to my dog and treated her like their own. I was nervous as she is my first puppy and this was her first procedure but the staff made it the most positive experience possible. read more

I had been to this location four times since moving nearby. Staff was great and friendly but my last time there was not very satisfying, largely customer service. My dog had a sudden illness and I had to take him on a walk-in for an emergency. They took him in right away, but advised I was to be charged an emergency fee for $125. I thought it was a bit steep but I accepted it for the sake of my dog. What bothered me was the fact that the vet spent one minute with us and charged us the extra $125. I asked the Vet if it can be spread over the cost of all the charges (meds, exams) so I can still claim it all on pet insurance, and she told me it was fraud, which didn't make sense to me. I then asked her if she was governed by any bodies on regulation for prices and she said no it's just a guide line. So how is this fraud if they make up prices as they wished anyway without a governing body? Sounded more like a money grab in my opinion. Anyway, I usually get an email to give my feedback. I took the time to write to them, and they didn't even bother to acknowledge my response, and it has been a month now. Overall, I was not pleased with their client service and I will be looking to go elsewhere with my pet. read more

We have used this clinic for years. Have noticed a change since Dr. Richter left. We arrived for an appointment on Tuesday. At first told we couldn't accompany our dog because of COVID restrictions. Then got a call saying our dog was anxious and could one of us come into the clinic during the exam. Our dog was nervous and scared. I held her while one of the staff attempted to take blood. It seemed to take a long time. Our dog was scared and jumped and the needle feel out. The staff member said she thought she had enough blood. We tried to get more but the dog wouldn't have it. Upon leaving we were told the blood sample would cost $270. We asked what if there wasn't enough blood. Was told we could back and take another sample but would be charged for both. We objected and said no blood sample. Still charged the $27 fee. We talked to the vet on the telephone and she was very nice and seemed well informed. Overall the experience left us frustrated. read more

My cat injured his leg and I landed on Burnaby Vets. After booking an appt, I called back to ask how much an X-ray would cost. The receptionist refused to quote the price range for a single X-ray. This policy is very specific to this clinic, as several vet's without flinching where able to give a price range for an x-ray, but unfortunately were booked out for the next 1-2 weeks. I asked to speak to the manager in hopes there would be more flexibility, again an out right refusal to give a price range for a single X-ray. This leaves me as a customer feeling dis-empowered to move forward and prepare financially so I can help my cat get better. I was left unsupported and no longer felt safe bringing my injured cat to them.This policy clearing shows it does not have the clients best interest at heart, instead are looking after themselves first and for-most. Beware of places that rigidly refuse transparency, more often than not, there's something fishy is going on. read more

Very Happy with the the Hospital . The staff are friendly and very explanatory. The Veterinarians are caring and trustworthy. I feel very comfortable coming here. They took very good care of my little doggie. I have gone to other places before and never trusted any of the other hospitals . The care of my animal is very important to me and I have no complaints here what so ever. Great staff and Great Vets! read more

I took my new pup there for the second round of vaccinations. The stuff was overall pleasant. The Vet did a general check up (while pressing my dog muzzle against his face to "bond" - which personally I found disturbing and uncalled for) and in the process started to mention multiple procedures that I might consider - like dewclaw removal and multiple other ones that he might be able to do at the same time as when we would need to neuter our pup. He also suggested we can fix the tiny hernia our pup has (vet failed to mention that hernia repair would turn neutering into a major procedure that will be much longer and harder recovery). I brushed those suggestions off as something to consider later down the road. Then he noticed that pup's K9 was chipped and suggested we check with a dental professional just to make sure it doesn't affect the adult tooth when time comes. He referred us to a dentist and when I called to set up an appointment they notified me that it would cost $170 - JUST for the exam! I decided to do additional research and found Bby New West Animal Hospital that has a dentist on staff as well as the access to lab on premises for all of the testing. We have another dog living in the house, and had the same experience of overcharging and recommending unnecessary procedures. I would not recommend this hospital to anyone and will never set my foot there again. read more

Staff always take time to make sure my animals are feeling comfortable. Vet visits are no longer stressful with my cats and I am so thankful to everyone for that. The doctor is amazing and explains everything throughly and includes you in the medical decisions for your pet. Would 100% recommend to all. read more

Hello my name is Adrien, i am a new dog owner, my dog name is micco he is 1 years old and i have a cat that is a senior. This clinic is very understanding and nice, they went above and beyond when they were taking care of my dog micco when he was getting his surgery. I highly recommend anyone as the customer service is outstanding and the doctors are very nice. read more

I went to this vet for my dog a few times with almost every check up being over $200 the final straw was when I almost paid $600 + medicine and other fees on spaying my dog thats until i convinced myself that their had to be somewhere more affordable and what do you know ... I found about 5 or 6 vets who all did the same procedure for literally less than half the price .. My total at central city animal hospital for the spaying, micro chip and all pain medicine etc.. came out to $220 AFTER TAX. I am a first time pet owner and this practise was right next door to my house. I am telling you now alot of other vets do the same procedures if not better for half the price compared to these guys . read more

Poor service. We have been very loyal and have brought my dog here for every check up, urgent issues and over all trusted they had my dogs best interest. Not now, they were short a very important drug that we pay through the roof monthly but my dog urgently needs it to prevent very itchy breakouts that leads to infections . For weeks they did not call us because they were in back order... my poor dog developed the worst scars and hot patches especially with this extreme weather it worsened. Not one call from the vet, so I called around and other vets had plenty and required a fax from our vet. Why on earth would they not do this for us????? Why would they not take care of my dog? I called them and let them know that we needed it and four days passed NOTHING! The receptionist not caring and cold. I finally had to recall and leave a not so happy message once again ... they finally called and miraculously had pills! Not stating that they would look at my dog for no charge after he developed all these symptoms because they dropped the ball. So my dog had to double up his meds and he is currently having all the nasty side effects... diarrhea , bad stomach issues etc. nope not cool!!!! Not happy!!!! Vets are expensive and we should be able yo know they have our pets best interest. Looking for new caring, on the ball, vet. Ps get someone to answer your calls that sound a bit nicer and professional. Two thumbs down! read more

Procedures are supersized I feel. Just make sure you do your due diligence and check if all the recommended procedures are needed and the pricing is fair. They do persist in calling to remind you of their recommendations and reminders of follow up visits. Bit annoying when it persists for weeks or months if unable to make contact. Perhaps if a call is not returned by the client after a couple calls, they are no longer interested in using your services? I understand that the vet business is competitive and revenues need to grow but I think they are too aggressive. read more

Our dog Roxie has been very special to all of us for almost 12 years. Poor Roxie suffered many challenges during her life and this vet clinic was always AMAZING!! Yesterday we had to put down Roxie the dignity provided for Roxie during this very rough time by Burnaby Vet Clinic was nothing short of incredible. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!! read more

we are very happy with this veterinary practice. the vets have always taken time to truly figure out the issue with our dogs and offer not just a prescription but also advice leading to a better understanding on our part. we switched here decades ago when our previous vet office referred us for a dental cleaning. after the thorough and informative pick up appt with Dr Mac (now retired), well, we never returned to the old vet. Dr Richter, Dr Mantler, and colleagues have maintained this standard. the staff at all stations are genuinely helpful. read more

It costs over $500 for your dog to be spayed or neutered. Not only is it overpriced but the doctors will make you buy unnecessary items such as 6 months worth of parasite repellent when you didn't even ask for.. The staff was great but the vets were very pushy and just strange.. I felt obliged to buy everything they recommended, thinking they were trustworthy.. Which was stupid of me to do.. Every time I brought my dog in, I spent a minimum of $100.. The last visit was when they kept pushing me to have my dog's canine teeth removed (which I found to be unnecessary, ultimately they came off after 8 months...) when she was going to be spayed and found out that it was over $500 at their clinic when it was $150 at another clinic and it was the same procedure!! That was the last straw and never again will I go there or recommend others to go.. Overall, it's a business to them and that's it. Absolutely unacceptable.. read more

Just took my cat there for a checkup after I just recently adopted her. Staff was very friendly and helpful and I could not fathom how there could be bad reviews of this place. It was a wonderful experience. read more

I had a horrible experience at Burnaby (BBY) Vet hospital (Springer) and I will NEVER EVER put my pet in their care again. It was my first and last experience with this hospital. The vet told me that my 14 yr old dog was very ill and suggested that I consider putting him to sleep. I was sadden to hear that I may have to make that decision. Its the hardest thing to do. I left my dog over night for observation and returned the next morning. The vet said he was very ill and suggested further testing. I had mention to her that he looked better but she didn't take notice of my comment. She then did an ultrasound on him and said he may have problems in the intestine. Like any pet owner I trusted her because she was a vet but felt that she didn't fully assess his condition and her assessment didn't sit well with me so I immediately sought a second opinion at Canada West. They were extremely professional, experienced and caring unlike the experience i had at BBY Vet hospital on Springer. Canada West performed another ultrasound and had the radiologist review the records and found nothing wrong with him and released him the same night. I consulted with other professionals and was told that radiologist have the expertise in interpreting ultrasounds, not vets. He started eating again that night and recovered within a day or two. In my opinion, taking him to Canada West was well worth it but could have been avoided. I was so happy to hear that he was fine but I was also upset that i could have lost him if i chose to put him to sleep as suggested by the vet from BBY Vet hospital on Springer. It would have been the biggest mistake that I would have made. Having the vet at BBY Vet Hospital tell me to consider euthanizing him and a day or two later Canada west telling me he was alright. It was like night and day. I called Burnaby Vet Hospital to file a complaint and asked to speak to the person in charge. The receptionist advised that the owner who is also a vet at the hospital will speak to me but that there would be a fee to speak to him. I was appalled when i was told that i would need to pay in order to speak to him over the phone regarding my complaint. From my own personal experience, i find it very difficult to find a vet that truly does care about animals and not in it for monetary reasons. In order to make an informed decision ensure you do research and always consider a second opinion. I would hate to have a pet or owner go thorough what I had experienced. Vets are human and like everyone else makes mistakes but I will never put my pet in the care of someone who does not take accountability for their actions and believe their was no negligence on their part which happened in my case. With any profession, all because they have a designation doesn't mean they know better. Go with your gut feeling and always seek a second opinion. In the end, I m just happy that I made the right decision and listened to my heart and sought a second opinion. To me choosing the right vet is critical therefore please do research before you leave your precious one in a vets care. read more

The bedside manner at this clinic is like no other. When our little dumpling needed to get blood taken, the vet techs/assists were amazing, patting her, speaking softly and giving her kisses as if she were their own cat. I really appreciated it. It's also been a challenge trying to get her to lose weight, and Kelsi was kind enough to send us a website with a bunch of ideas for DIY puzzle feeders. I have never had a veterinary clinic be so attentive and caring. read more

This is honestly the best veterinary hospital I have ever been too. Dr. Richter and staff are so thorough and professional! this was my 3rd visit and again such a wonderful experience. My dogs were both calm and loved being held by the staff! I would highly recommend them to anyone! Thank you all! read more

TL; DR Dr. Richter and this entire practice seem to be about scaring you with diagnoses without actually giving you any information. At no point do they give you time to process the information, think about what it is you've learned and ask questions. They throw terrifying words at you, shove expensive procedures down your throat and expect you to quietly pay their exorbitant fees. I have no doubt that Dr. Richter actually cares about animals, but it seems like she cares about money a lot more and Dr. Radnic is just an ass. Never going back here again. We started taking our pets Dr. Radnic and Dr. Richter about 5 years ago. For the first few years, everything was fine until our cat became ill after we adopted our dog. The cat didn't adjust very well to having another animal around and, shortly after moving to a new apartment, stopped eating. We took our cat in to the vet and saw Dr. Radnic. I have never met a less caring, less compassionate individual in my life. Not only did he not seem to give a crap that our cat was sick, but he recommended over $3000 worth of treatments and then said that it probably wouldn't even work. We declined the treatment and tried force feeding him on our own. After a few days, we took our cat back and saw Dr. Richter. She told us that he was too far gone to treat by that point and she recommended putting him down. After seeing the robotic Dr. Radnic, Dr. Richter was a ray of sunshine but my feelings about her have changed. We decided to only see Dr. Richter for our remaining pet and things have been fine until recently when she diagnosed our dog with a heart murmur. 3 months after the initial diagnosis, she had us bring him in for a follow-up to see how he was doing. Surprise, surprise, his heart murmur had progressed from a grade 1 to a grade 2, possibly 3. At no point did she explain what that even meant. After using a lot of scary words like "heart disease", "serious complications", and "rapid deterioration", she recommended that we do a panel of blood work (including testing his thyroid...), and chest x-rays. Once those had been done and she had reviewed the results, she would see if an ultrasound then needed to be done. She handed us a quote for almost $500 for the tests along with some very expensive monthly parasite pills ($155 for 6 months) and a spray for a possible allergic reaction ($55). Total bill for this one visit was over $200 and she hadn't even done anything. We made the appointment for a technician to do the testing and left. I decided to get a second opinion on our dog's condition so I took him to another vet clinic that we had been to before when our regular vet was fully booked. The second vet examined him, said he had a grade 1 murmur and recommended a cardiac ultrasound for some peace of mind. If it were her dog, that's what she would do. She explained what the grades meant, how many there were, what the impact of a heart murmur could be on his life expectancy and quality of life, and actually gave me some hope by saying that it most likely would just need to be monitored, but if intervention was required, medication could do it. She gave us a referral to a different clinic for the ultrasound (so they don't even get the fee for it!) and sent me on my way. Just for my own reference, I called Burnaby Vet to ask how much a cardiac ultrasound from them would be. $530 without sedation and $650 with. At the other place, it was $370. Typical. read more

I have nothing but good things to say about this hospital. My pets have been treated with excellent care over the years and I trust their opinions and recommendations 100%. I am surprised by the negative reviews here about cost. As with anything, you generally get what you pay for and I can see that Burnaby Veterinary hospital takes great care to ensure their equipment and hospital is kept up to a high standard. I also see that they take the time to give back to the community through volunteer work with the SPCA etc. For me, top quality care, service and the knowledge that my pets are seeing someone who truly cares about the well being of animals in a broader sense is worth every penny and I cannot recommend them enough. read more

I visited this vet because it was in our neighbourhood and what a mistake that was. We had scheduled a grooming appointment. We offered to stay throughout the grooming to ensure our dog felt comfortable. Monica is the groomer who insisted we did not stay. We asked that she contact us immediately if there were any concerns. When we came to pick up our dog, he was shaking in the corner of the cage. He was bleeding behind the ears AND he was given the most ridiculous hair cut - half was cut and half was not. We asked what kind of grooming service this was. The vet demanded we pay the bill and we refused. When they told us they used a rabies pole, I almost lost it. We asked why they did not call us immediately - no answer. We asked why they did not finish the grooming - she responded she gave up. So why would you attempt to groom an animal you do not think you could handle when the owner clearly advised a phone call would suffice if it would be too difficult. read more

We were long term clients, through two cats who lived to an old age. Dr. Mary Plishke and Dr. Macintyre were wonderful. After Dr. Macintyre retired, though, things went downhill. Our elderly second cat started to react really frantically to vet visits, and we attributed this to her shy nature until we observed that the groomer had put a note on her file that she was a "vicious" animal that had to be handled as such. After I witnessed my girl being "subdued" by two adult humans who charged at her as she crouched in her carrier in terror, and threw a towel over her as though she were a snarling wild animal (she was just curled in a tight fearful ball), I came to understand why she was so frightened. This cat was a gentle soul who never bit or scratched anyone. After this experience, I made sure that she was treated by two of the other vets in the clinic, neither of whom had to resort to any such measure. They handled her with gentleness and she was gentle and compliant in return. Veterinary staff who don't know how to handle frightened animals should look for another line of work. read more