I don't usually leave negative reviews, but I genuinely hope this helps another pet owner.
I brought my senior dog to Millbrae Pet Hospital because she had a deep lesion on her paw. Like anyone would be, I was scared and fully prepared to do whatever she needed. (My regular vet who I love and trust was closed).
What immediately concerned me was how quickly the veterinarian recommended a treatment plan totaling over $2,500, including putting my senior dog under anesthesia. I didn't feel like my dog had even been thoroughly examined before such a major recommendation was made. When I asked what he thought was wrong, why anesthesia was necessary, and why these procedures were being recommended, his answers were vague and didn't give me much confidence.
Since my regular vet opened the next morning, I asked if they could simply clean and bandage her paw so I could safely take her there first thing in the morning. Even for that, I was quoted around $500. That was the moment I realized I wasn't comfortable moving forward.
After I declined, I paid the $150 exam fee. Then a vet tech asked me which medications I wanted to take home. That honestly caught me off guard. I'm not a veterinarian; I don't know which medications my dog should or shouldn't have. I've always relied on my vet to explain the options and recommend what they think is best, so being asked to choose myself felt really strange and unsettling.
After I declined the treatment plan, the veterinarian made a comment that he had "made himself available" to me. It came across as guilt tripping me for not moving forward. My appointment was around 6pm, and the hospital was open until 8pm. I wasn't trying to waste anyone's time, I was just trying to make the best decision I could for my senior dog.
The very next morning, I took her to my regular veterinarian, and the difference was night and day. They gave her a thorough examination, explained everything clearly, answered all of my questions, and the visit cost $148.50 - an adequate care plan cost me less than a half done evaluation! I walked out feeling confident that my dog was receiving the care she actually needed.
I understand that veterinary care can be expensive, and I have no problem paying for quality treatment when it's truly necessary. However, pet owners are making decisions during some of the most emotional and vulnerable moments of their lives. Before asking someone to approve thousands of dollars in treatment - especially anesthesia for a senior dog - they deserve a careful examination, clear communication, and recommendations that inspire confidence.
I'd strongly encourage anyone facing an animal emergency to stay away from this establishment as it seems profit was their priority & my dog's wellbeing was their second. My regular vet suggested Sage or Lenity Vet for emergency situations moving forward. read more