I really can't put into words how grateful I am to the team at this clinic, and Dr Deegan in particular, my cat would not be alive without them. I noticed my cat struggling to breathe Friday morning and brought her in around 5-6 am, there was no wait and they took her straight back to get her stable on oxygen. After an ultrasound they found a concerning mass and told me she needed to stay the night for observation and further testing, they weren't sure what was wrong and her condition was very critical. Dr Deegan was extremely thorough in her explanations of what could be wrong, what we should prepare for and i could tell she cared deeply about helping my cat. We left the office and waited for an update, which came very soon after. They had found the issue, a diaphragmatic hernia which had her stomach pushing into her chest cavity compressing her lungs and she needed immediate emergency surgery and medical transport to whatever hospital might be able to take her, and they estimated the bill could be upwards of 20k or more, plus the ambulance fees. We were shattered, we couldn't process and took some time to try to weigh options but the amount was just impossible, especially without any guarantee she would make it or insurance would cover it. Dr Deegan waited patiently for us to come to our decision, but continued to call back and let us know that we were running out of time, and most hospitals were closed for the weekend and soon her condition would be too unstable for her to be moved. Just as we had resigned to letting her go, she called us back with the most incredible offer: she was willing to try to perform the surgery herself at the clinic, saving us the transport and hospital bills and at a drastically reduced cost as it would be her first time and she would be learning from it. She told me she understood the theory and had seen it done, and i trusted her based on how engaged and caring she had been this entire process. Her boss also approved a payment plan for us, and they didn't ask for any further deposit to be put down, just to eliminate any delays to her getting treatment. Dr Deegan stayed almost 9 hours beyond her shift end to perform the surgery, and my baby is home recovering, eating normally and purring for pets only 3 days after i thought i was going to lose her forever. Absolutely mind blowing experience. In the end our costs were closer to 6-6.5k versus 20k+ . I just can't believe we got so lucky read more

I waited 3 hours. They said they didn't want to examine my cat because he hissed at them. Then they charged me $175. There was a woman in before me whose cat ate her drugs. They fixed him up and gave her a discount when she started shouting. I guess I should have made a scene. Edited to add If you are concerned about patients maybe don't have cats and dogs in the same waiting room. And if you allowed owners to go back with their animals when they are examined they can soothe them. My cat was terrified after sitting in a waiting room with dogs for nearly 3 hours. He's never been around dogs before. And I could have calmed him or picked him up if the vet was too afraid. Yes you did offer to sedate him at a very high cost to me so he could be examined. He has never needed to be sedated at the vet before to be examined. read more

I had an almost identical experience to Kimberly R., who months ago endured the same appalling treatment I just did. I brought my cat, Nala, in because she wasn't eating. Instead of focusing on her condition, Horizon Veterinary Specialists immediately handed me an estimate for $950- with no diagnosis whatsoever (see attached photo of the cost breakdown). When I expressed that I couldn't afford $950 and asked for clarity about Nala's actual prognosis, Dr. Kristi L. Peterson, DVM, told me the only option was to euthanize my cat. When I said I was absolutely not comfortable with this, Dr. Peterson escalated the situation by claiming she would refuse to let me take Nala home- essentially holding my pet hostage- unless I agreed to their terms, which included euthanasia. As I stood in the lobby trying to process the shock and distress of what I'd just been told, I was cornered into believing I had no choice but to either hand over nearly $1,000 or consent to euthanize my otherwise treatable pet. Even after insisting I was taking Nala home, I was still handed an invoice with euthanasia included. I had to argue again to get a revised estimate that reflected only the basic care I was requesting. This experience was manipulative, predatory, and profoundly unethical. No loving pet owner should ever be coerced into unnecessary procedures- or worse, pressured to put their animal down- because a clinic is more concerned with billing than with compassion. I would never recommend Horizon Veterinary Specialists to anyone who cares for their pet. If I could give them zero stars, I would. read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Breakdown of vet bill for....what, exactly? Still not sure. - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California

So grateful to Dr Peterson and the entire evening team last night for the amazing care for our dog. We had an emergency poison concern and from our first phone call to exit everyone was calm, helpful, communicated clearly, showed genuine compassion and utmost professionalism. Thank goodness the treatment he received did assist and stabilize him. We are happy to recommend Horizon and will continue to use the services read more

We needed a specialist according to my regular Vet, as our Labrador was showing signs of Cushing's disease. I went online and asked for recommendations, and quite a few people suggested Horizon. After visiting the facility, we saw three different doctors within two weeks and conducted various tests, only to find out that our boy had numerous cancerous tumors. Every single person we came in contact with was caring, helpful, understanding, warm, compassionate, and sympathetic, giving us all the time we needed to say goodbye to the best boy we've ever had. I highly recommend Horizon and all the good people who work there. read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California

A Beacon of Compassion and Care--Forever Grateful When our little guy Burrito took a turn for the worse, we were devastated and scared. After being transferred to Horizon Veterinary Specialists from our regular vet (All Vet Care), we didn't know what to expect--but from the moment we walked through their doors, we felt something we hadn't in days: hope. Every single person we've come into contact with--reception, nurses, techs, doctors--has been incredibly kind, gentle, and genuinely invested in not just Burrito's care, but our well-being too. Their attentiveness, patience in answering our questions, and emotional presence has made all the difference during this incredibly hard time. This morning, they even sent us a video update of our sweet boy, and I cannot begin to explain how much that meant to us. It's the small, thoughtful touches like that--layered on top of their top-tier specialty and emergency care--that make Horizon feel like more than just a veterinary hospital. It's a sanctuary of healing, love, and unwavering support. Thank you, Horizon team, for holding us through this storm. We're praying Burrito makes a full recovery, and knowing he's in your hands brings us so much comfort. With endless gratitude, --Paola M. & Family read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Sharing screenshot of the video update they sent of my little Burrito. Seeing his upbeat energy calmed my heart and gave me so much hope. - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

My wife and I both think Horizon Veterinary Specialist are outstanding. Our 10 year old Rottie, Nala has been very sick for nearly 3 months, liquid stool, loosing weight, inflamed intestines and stomach, and now we know likely, cancer. But after first going to Western Vetinerian Hospital in Agoura Hills who overcharge, never return calls, we wound up going to Horizon and have been extremely happy with their service, their knowledge and their fairness in billing. And, Dr Rhoades is outstanding, very understanding and very, very knowledgeable. We know our time may be limited with our Nala, but Dr Rhoades has been straightforward, kind and communicates so that we always know what is going on. Highly recommended to anyone who needs help with their very best friend. AAA+++ Thank you Dr Rhoades and staff for your kindness , fairness, communication and understanding. read more

Excellent care! Dr Scott and her team were amazing Dr Second shift front desk. Didn't get her name but she was very sweet. Nancy? What I appreciated most: communication w Dr Scott was amazing as well as her assistance. They all spent a long time explaining what was going on with Beans. We were unfortunately in Hawaii when all of this happened. Dr. Scott even FaceTimed us so that she could explain the X-rays. I called in every 3 hours or so and the tech's took time with me and were very patient. read more

The staff and Doctors were very concerned, caring and sensitive to my kitty's needs. They were also very informative about her condition and helped me to make a decision to put her down after giving her all the care we could to save her life. I appreciate that because I would be totally financially devastated if we continued with trying to save her and her body unable to respond. Now I am only devastated at the loss of my little friend. Every one that handled Blondie was super. The Doctors were like someone you yourself would go to UCLA or Stanford for! What I appreciated most is the honesty of my kitty's condition and the kindness of everyone that was shown to me and my girl. read more

Extremely disappointed and heartbroken My experience with Horizon Veterinary Services in Ventura was incredibly frustrating and disheartening. I took my dog Canela in because she was very sick, and the very first thing they did was charge me $950 just to admit her -- without even running any real tests or starting treatment. They told me they needed to run more tests and gave me an outrageous estimate of $4,000 just for diagnostics. When I explained that I couldn't do that, Dr. Franziska A. Degen, DVM told me that the best thing I could do was to put my dog down -- without even knowing what was wrong with her or whether she could recover. How can you suggest euthanasia without giving the animal a real chance? It became very clear to me that this place doesn't care about animals -- they care about making money. They take advantage of people's pain and desperation and charge ridiculous prices for basic care. I felt pressured, dismissed, and completely devastated. Thankfully, I didn't give up. I took Canela to Fillmore Animal Hospital, where Dr. Snyder, Mayra, and the entire team treated her with true compassion and professionalism. They ran tests, gave her medication, food, and all-day care -- and reasonably priced . They even cleaned her eyes and her private area, and when I picked her up, she was being lovingly carried in a little pet sling, cozy and well cared for. They truly treated her like family. It was the complete opposite of the cold, money-driven experience I had at Horizon. Thanks to Fillmore Animal Hospital, Canela is recovering and doing better. They genuinely care about animals and saving lives. I absolutely do NOT recommend Horizon Veterinary Services or Dr. Franziska A. Degen, DVM. If you love your pet, please go somewhere that treats animals with love, dignity, and respect -- not just a price tag. read more

We love this place! We have taken Savvy here a couple of times and they have been so helpful! Yesterday I panicked when my dog was licking her growth on her back paw. We rushed her to horizon and they had a pretty long wait. Sam was so helpful and calmed me down. He gave me some options to keep her comfortable until she sees her vet on Monday. Sam was so caring, sweet and patient. Sydney helped me pick out the right cone for savvy to wear when she got home. Those two employees are in the right field. They both were so kind and made me feel so much better! Thank you Horizon for always being there for us when we need you the most!! read more

Unfortunately I had to put my 18 year old ginger cat, Shady, to sleep. It was a hard decision and I couldn't wait to Monday to go to his regular vet. When I called, on Saturday they advised me that the wait was long and it would probably not be good for Shady and I to go then. We ended up going first thing in the morning on Sunday. We were received warmly and caring. They were very supportive with this difficult decision. Later, I received a condolence card from them. Thank you read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Shady - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

I've had trouble here in the past, but I found that some things have changed. The staff was knowledgeable and caring (especially at the front desk). The visit was expensive, but was expected to be. The wait was also substantial, but typical in any triage situation. Definite improvement overall! read more

This is an awful place full of people who don't care about your pet. They make you wait for hours before they help with anything. Everyone here is incompetent and Dr Nora B something is one of the most careless incompetent people I have met in my entire life. They tell you they're going to see your pet then come in the room with no information just a fake diagnosis before even checking and hand you a card reader for what they think it might be. Awful people awful place DRIVE AWAY UPDATE: we are at VCA ASEC and the wonderful people and surgeon on duty is about to take him in for surgery that Dr Nora told us we would be unable to get because "surgeons don't work fridays" had we listened to her idiocracy my puppy would have been in pain all weekend. Seriously do not go here or take their advice. Awful people. Awful place. read more

They're so very sweet. When my Tuna passed unexpectedly, we took him here and they offered us cremation services. They let us have all the time we needed with our baby, and even put him in a nice little bed with a blanket over him. And when it was time to part ways, they let me carry him to their cold room instead of taking him away. Which I will forever appreciate. I got to carry my baby in one of my biggest acts of love. They also gave me whisker clippings and lots of fur. They were so sweet and gave me hugs. They sent a personalized card in the mail, which brought our whole family to tears. Thank you for treating my baby with such kindness, my soul cat, my heart and purpose. read more

Welcoming and kind staff that greeted me with a smile! After my sweet kitty Paco had a cardiac event and was resuscitated with CPR, we took him to VSEC initially for cardiology, as Horizon doesn't have cardiology. The next day he was cleared from cardiology and transferred to Horizon ER for internal medicine. I loved that one clinic called the other clinic and gave report. When we walked in, they greeted me with a smile and said, "Is this Paco?" The warm welcome from staff and not having to explain Paco's health condition over again from clinic to clinic, made things less stressful as this was an extremely overwhelming event for me. I can't remember everyone's name, but EVERY SINGLE PERSON handled me and Paco with kindness and patience, I felt at home. I was able to come visit Paco during his two night stay at the hospital, no one ever made me feel like I was an inconvenience. When I had a melt-down over the phone, because I hadn't heard from the doctor the next day, the manager handled me with respect to ensure I didn't go off the deep end with the situation. All of the staff were patient and gave me the time I needed, I didn't feel like I was being rushed when asking questions. Dr. Ortega is AMAZING!!! When she called, she spent several minutes explaining everything in detail, gave me some options and I felt like our decision on what to do was made together, it was nice to make a unified informed decision. The costs were upfront and explained in detail. The ER isn't cheap for people or pets, but given the circumstances, I felt like the rates were very reasonable. I want to say thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone at Horizon for making us feel loved during a time that was overwhelming and scary! read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Time to go home! - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California

My dog took a bad tumble down the stairs, and in a panic, I rushed to Horizon Vet ER. The entire staff was incredibly compassionate and helpful. Dr. Bianca was an absolute rock star. My 14-year-old dog was diagnosed with liver and bone cancer last month, and over the past few weeks, we've seen a number of specialists--general vets, an acupuncturist, an oncologist, and even a home visit veterinarian. Given all that, I can confidently say this was one of the most positive experiences we've had, despite the deeply difficult circumstances. read more

Emergency vet care takes time and is prioritized by medical need. So you may be waiting several hours. It's also not cheap so hopefully you bought pet insurance. Horizon is very professional and I am so grateful they are here in Ventura. We really appreciate their services, thank you! read more

I have taken my pet to Horizon on two separate occasions. The first was back in 2021 when my cat got a severe allergic reaction to his rabies vaccine. His primary vet was closing and suggested we take him to the horizon emergency hospital. We took him and very quickly they took him in, gave him the necessary treatment, and kept him for observation. The doctors were so kind and reassuring and even called to check in the next day. Given that this incident was during the pandemic, they did not allow us in with our pet but were very good at keeping us updated via phone call. The second time my cat went in was due to liver disease. His primary vet referred us to Horizons internal medicine department to get an ultrasound. Despite not being able to figure out what exactly caused my cats liver disease, Dr Rhodes was so kind at explaining everything and patient when answering all of my questions. My cat was sick for a total of 7 months, trying different medication to increase his appetite, fluids, and antibiotics. My cat went 3 months without his medication to see if he improved on his own and made a full recovery by his next check up. The staff and everyone at Horizon did their part in making my furry friend feel amazing! read more

See all

this place is the worst. they make you wait forever even when there are no other pets in line. it's a joke and they literally rip you off! never coming here again! read more

Absolute worst phone call experience ever! I wouldn't trust them with any of my animals It's hard to find a vet that gives a damn for ALL pets and even if there's one there, there's too many bad apples to play that game read more

Taking your dog to the vet is usually never a great experience, especially when it is in emergency or on the weekend and your regular vet is not open. We were very happy with the service we received at the Horizon veterinary clinic and the doctor took a lot of time to carefully explain their findings and The follow up we should have with our regular vet. Staff was very friendly and helpful, which also helps relieve the stress. The only downside was the waiting time - which I understand is a function of the emergency cases that come in - I just wish the staff kept us more apprised to where we were in the queue though I also understand they were dealing with the cases that kept coming in. read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Waiting room. - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

I just called and spoke to "Glory". I moved here in 2019. We have four cats and two dogs. Every single time I have called this place in the last six years, they do everything they can over the phone to get you to not come in. Today glory informed me that there was an eight hour wait! I literally have to call Horizon about 4 times a year when we have a serious issue. Everytime I call they are "saturated". I have to drive my animals into Oaks veterinary in Agoura Hills California. I highly recommend Oaks veterinary to anyone that experiences this same issue. It's a 30 minute drive but very worth it. They are always happy to see us and no matter how busy they are they always make time. horizon is just awful. Lazy staff ! read more

they wanted 10k to operate on my dog even tho there was no clear diagnosis. they don't even deserve 1star. luckily I took my dog home gave her an antibiotic and she was fine the next day. surprised the veterinary board hasn't came down on these crooks. read more

I had two of my pets pass away in a matter of a 1 week span. Both times they were very professional to me and my girlfriend. It's good to know I can always come back and know I'm getting the best treatment and customer service here. read more

My dog was showing symptoms of a severe UTI (peeing blood) so my normal VET told me to take her here immediately. On the way in from the parking lot my dog was literally pissing straight blood. I took photos for evidence and showed them to the vet tech. They took my dog back at 1135am and said I would get a room shortly. 5 hours passed before I was seen after asking multiple times the status of my dog. Eventually they put me in a room to shut me up. 45 min passed before the doc came in. She said my dogs symptoms was not an emergency and offered an exam and antibiotics. My question is why didn't they do any examinations during the 5 hour period we were there? Whyyyyyyyy did they charge me 200$ for nothing? DO NOT RECOMMEND!!!! read more

My dog had an emergency and they were able to help me out. They made sure to rule out everything. Honestly, such a busy place and they made me feel at ease about my pup. They were able to do all the procedures that same day and I came back home with my pup at night with all the medications. I would recommend them but also understand that they are very busy all the time. read more

i have been to this vet several times for both my cat and dog. i have never had a bad experience or really anything less than a great experience considering the circumstances. we love dr armour so much and we praise her often. when we had to put our cat down, we were feeling so many emotions and she truly validated every feeling and made a horrible thing feel a little better. we love horizon so so much read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

We had to put our senior dog down last Friday night unexpectedly. We went to Horizon and they were very accommodating and comforting to both my poor doggie and my husband and me. We never wanted to have to do that as an emergency, but it happened. Thak you for all your help and kind words and actions during a very difficult time. read more

With a heavy heart I had to let my sweet Bella cross the rainbow bridge. I can't thank the staff enough on how caring and compassionate I was treated and how well they treated my baby. read more

These people are ruthless. My dog just had puppies and one of them was having breathing issues that we believe was aspirating pneumonia and I called them and told them I was bringing him in (7 days old) they told me it was going to be a 950 dollar "deposit" plus whatever else they had to do for him. I know that they are a business but these people don't give a shit that these babies (and this goes for ALL PETS) are our family all they care about is the money that goes into their pockets on pay day. Highly DO NOT RECOMMEND. AND on top of it when I told them I wasn't going to be coming in they rudely hung up on me. If there was an option to give them 0 stars I would. This place is heartless. read more

The staff is helpful and well-trained. Even on an emergency weekend call. They are a very busy emergency vet clinic. And yet they still function kindly with stressed out pet owners. I wouldn't think twice about taking any of my animals to this clinic. We went in today for a minor problem, and they were attentive and great. We sat in the waiting room for a while and watched them deal with many stressed out, pet owners, and handling every person perfectly. Even the fussy ones. read more

I've been to this type of business. I used to work at this type of business. I get the gist of how it works and why. To address a few previous comments. It is not and cannot be first come first serve. The animals have to be triaged and assessed first to see what kind of state they are in and then depending on the severity of their issue, and if they are stable or not, they are seen or worked on. Just because you don't see cars in the lot, doesn't mean there aren't pets in the hospital. Once you have a plan of action, go over the estimate, pay a deposit, and authorize the staff to do what they need to do, you often can leave the premises. My experience: They need to work on their customer service and phone skills. Bottom line. No details or calling out people by name. Sometimes you can hear and feel their exasperation or frustration and while they are only human, they are in a line of work that calls for patience, care and compassion. It's a holiday weekend and for God only knows what reason, VMSG is closed so Horizon was slammed. They explained this right off the bat that it could be up to four hours to even be seen but they absolutely did not turn us away. For the record it ended up being a 1.5 hour wait to be seen for us. Glad I stayed. The staff even brought out waters to everyone waiting. Yes, my estimate was higher than expected and they do require a deposit upfront of the total amount of the low ended of your deposit. Example, my estimate was $1100-$1500 and so I paid $1100. Be prepared, they also ask you about CPR preferences. Please know there is a cost for CPR even if it doesn't "work". It is a service renewed. I arrived with no purse or wallet, I just flew out the door. As long as you have payment for them verbally, meaning you can offer them a card number or something then they are fine. They did mention care credit which I am familiar with, but I do hope they don't pause all emergency or life saving work pending approval of care credit. As I type this I am at home waiting for an update on my dog and our next steps. I was told they will be keeping her until maybe 7 or 8 tomorrow morning but they would call me before they or if they felt they had to perform surgery even though it was on the estimate high end. A few things/room for improvement: It is not clear Upon arrival how to contact someone or check your animal in. For the record you can get out of your car and walk up to the door and press the call button or call them on the phone to get information first such as wait time and then walk up. I do wish they would immediately and properly triage the pets upon arrival...Covid or not. I personally don't think a few questions from a distraught owner are going to be adequate in lieu of professional triage. I unfortunately have had multiple runners here now. And each time it's been better than the last. I do like their doctors. I have had to put her dog down, and I have had a dog attacked by another dog twice and they manage to save her eye. She cannot longer see, but she does not have glaucoma and she's not in pain and she still has an eye. There's so much in between that happen. I can't even properly begin to convey all that went on. But I would definitely recommend this place and I will now be going to this place if needed, I hope I don't need it, instead of The place down the street from them that will not be named. read more

See all

Extremely compassionate veterinary hospital where everyone is doing a wonderful job. Incredibly recommended.

Every time our dogs have gotten sick at night or on the weekend Horizon is where we go. We recently had to take our 14 year old in. She was having a seizure which usually lasted about 30 minutes but we were now an hour in. We knew it was time but my husband held hope that she would come out of it and be fine. We called on our way there so when we pulled up they took her right back. I have been in the waiting room when sick pups come in and we get pushed back and even though it sucks for us, I try to be understanding as I know it's worse for them. This time it was worse for us. I wish I could remember everyone's name from that night but it was such a blur. The girl at the front desk was so kind, sweet and softspoken. Madison is the only name I remember, she ran out to explain medication and get an ok from us before administering it, she was so smart and knowledgeable that I felt like we were in the best place we could be. The guy who checked us out in the exam room we have seen a few times and he is also so caring and soft spoken (which is so comforting) and the dr who administered her final injection was amazing from start to finish. He even walked us out to the car comforting us as we left without our girl of almost 15 years. About a week later we received a sympathy card signed by all who had cared for our girl that night. This staff goes ABOVE AND BEYOND and I could not say enough wonderful things about them!! read more

Drs. Scott, Ortega, and Gray are outstanding! We have used them for our Great Danes and Greyhounds for over 10 years. They are very knowledgeable and extremely caring. I would recommend them to all pet owners. read more

What a blessing this place is...they are kind, empathetic, keep you informed of your pets progress, and return calls in a timely manner. We were impressed with Dr. Degen's professionalism--she took the time to explain our options and ultimately saved our beloved dog, Mason. There can be long waits, but that's par for the course for an emergency facility, and we are grateful that a place like this is serving our community. read more

We took our cat here on an emergency basis after he fell horrible ill and two other vets were unable to determine the cause and treat him. He was on the verge of death when we brought him in but the wonderful vets and staff at Horizon were able to stabilize him and determine that he had severe enterocolitis. We feel we really got lucky because the hospital also has a specialty internal medicine group, which was exactly the type of specialist he needed, and his case was taken by Dr. Rhoades who is extremely knowledgeable. She and her assistant Sam and the entire staff at Horizon were kind and caring and wonderful and we can't thank them enough for saving our cat. read more

Late Saturday evening, we had to euthanize our dachsie, Jasmin. With great sensitivity, Office Manager Devon told us to bring her in right away and guided us through the process. The entire staff at Horizon was extremely kind and compassionate throughout this whole devastating experience, especially Dr. Nora Badal. Her expert care in performing the procedure was exceptional. We've been through many such situations before so we are able to confidently make such a statement regarding Dr. Badal. We are grateful that the back staff fell in love with Jasmin for the short time she was with them. THANK YOU ever so much, Horizon! We would recommend Horizon with the highest regard! read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California

I wish I could give them more stars! Every single person I spoke with during such a stressful and emotional time with my pet was so kind and helpful. They gave my Luna the best care and I couldn't be more grateful. Highly recommend this place to take care of your fur babies!!! read more

Horizon Veterinary Specialists - Visiting Luna while she was in recovery. - Veterinarians Near Me - Ventura, California