I have been bringing my dogs to this veterinary clinic for over five years and have spent thousands of dollars annually on their care. Because of that long-standing relationship, I was very disappointed with my most recent experience. I had purchased a package plan for $175 that included a fecal test for my dogs. Unfortunately, I brought in the fecal sample one day later than expected. Despite the plan already being paid for, I was informed that I would need to pay an additional $90 to complete the test. After years of being a loyal client and consistently trusting this clinic with my pets' care, this response was very discouraging. The issue is less about the amount of money and more about the principle of how a long-term customer was treated over a $90 charge. Unfortunately, this experience has led me to reconsider continuing my relationship with this clinic, and based on this situation, I cannot recommend this veterinary practice. read more

I am absolutely disgusted with this practice. It was great when Dr. George was there. I have been a client there since 2013 and now being ghosted as they are closed for the month but their websites said taking calls, emails and texts. I have am running out of medication for my dog who has arthritis in both back legs and sent an email a week ago saying it would take 23-48 hrs. Several calls and emails later....no response. I went there. Closed! Communication goes a long way. I get there are bumps and issues that arise but communicate with your clients! I will NOT be returning! SHAMEFUL! read more

This place is so unorganized I requested a prescription over the phone the receptionist said they didn't have the one I needed in stock and said they have something else, I asked how much and she said it was 1 dollar cheaper, I go in to pick it up and it's $10 dollars more. Just disappointed, I'm sure yes it's a mistake in her part and they are short staffed but this isn't the first time they've "messed up" read more

I love RRVH. This is the most wonderful animal hospital. Dr. Fogaren is the very BEST. She is so smart, kind and attentive. She is genuine and I trust her 1000%. She will always go with her gut instincts first, she is very knowledgeable and has the absolute best bed side manner. If your furry loved one needs an amazing doctor,I highly recommend her. She is one in a million. The care and love she has for animals comes first with her care. Thank you RRVH and Dr. F. Switching to your practice was the best thing we could do for our fur balls. Sincerely, Elaine Dupuis read more

I used to love this place, but unfortunately they've gone down hill. My dog was very sick over the weekend and since River Road is closed, I had to take my dog to Bulger. On their outgoing message they mention calling a vet in Manchester. Who the heck is going to drive their very sick pet to Manchester when Bulger is right here?! Additionally, when they aren't closed you can never get a sick pet in same day. They've definitely bitten off more than they can chew with all the new Covid pets, sadly. And just to top it all off, they managed to forget about/lose my pet's sample after they charged me for it. read more

Don't be fooled by the fancy space. As mentioned in other reviews - this veterinary upsells EVERYTHING. I like the girls who work the front desk but I'm not a fan of Dr. Fountas. He's not very friendly or relatable and seems like he's only in it for the money. I brought my dog in when she wasn't feeling well and all he did was prescribe a bunch of expensive items my dog didn't need. He even recommended​ overpriced canned food when I could simply feed my dog plain chicken and rice. It's also very sketchy whenever they do a treatment; they always lay out how much everything costs - I'm sure it's because people always feel ripped off. I go to a different vet currently - just a few minutes away - and​ I've been paying less than half the expenses at River Road. I recommend looking elsewhere if I were you. read more

River Road Veterinary Hospital is spectacular. The front desk is super helpful and very nice when they are scheduling appointments and dealing with the customers. I've been bringing my cat to them for a few years now and have had no issues. Dr. George Fountas is very great with my cat and is thorough and answers all of my questions. The office is clean and has a welcoming feeling. The nurses are great and treat my cat as if it was part of their family. All of them are very professional at what they do. Would definitely recommend this place. read more

I am very saddened to feel the need to write a one star review for what once was my 'go to' place for my pets. I had brought my last dog to River Road Veterinary Hospital from the time she was a puppy. For close to 14 years, I had confidence that Dr. (George) Founas genuinely cared about the welfare of my dog. Things have obviously changed for many practices since Covid. Who knows how much pressure a short-staffed veterinary org might be under. I have wanted to take these challenging times into account, but all of the mishaps have accumulated and I will be taking my dog elsewhere. At a high level, here are some of the reasons for my decision: -On the day my last dog was euthanized, I was sent to Bulger Animal Hospital for further testing. I was told by the a vet I saw at River Road that they would 'be with me' every step of the way. When I tried calling them for feedback/advice, I was put on hold three times...for well over ten minutes each time. There were no return phone calls. The support was non-existant. -Three days later, I received a phone call from Dr. Fountas. He told me he was appalled and angry at what happened and that 'changes would be made". He offered his condolences and told me that when and if I got a new dog I should ask to have my pet seen by him personally. 'You do have a choice you know." -Five months later I got a new puppy. I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Fountas. - Over the past few months, there were quite a few miscommunications with the staff. A few mishaps wouldn't have mattered. Again, with Covid, I tried to let certain things pass without comment, but obviously one begins to wonder and feel concern. The 'upsell' was always apparent. - The proverbial last straw: my dog has a cold and a nasty cough. I'm worried that it might be kennel cough. Three days ago, I called the hospital to ask if they could refill a prescription of doxycycline. I added that I was extremely busy but if they could not I would bring her in for an exam. Crickets.......no return phone call. I've called a total of five times since then. Yesterday, after my THIRD call (on that day) I told Jo, who was managing calls (perhaps she is a vet tech), that I would be willing to pick up the prescription after hours or would make an appointment. I also added that if I did not receive a call, given that my dog's condition appeared to be worsening, I would be going to another hospital and would have all of my pet's records transferred to that hospital. She assured me she would do her best to follow up and would let Dr. Fountas know of my puppy's condition. There was no follow up once again. For close to a decade and a half I thought the world of this facility and Dr. Fountas. I'm deeply saddened to have felt an obligation to other pet owners to write this review. Like a few other reviewers have mentioned, I strongly believe the focus is on profit and not the welfare of the animal. Addendum: Here is the note I received from River Road after emailing them my review: "We wanted to apologize for Dr. Fountas not being able to get back to you on Monday. We hope she is feeling better.  He does recommend to bring her in for an exam.  If you would like to bring her in for an appointment please contact the hospital and we can schedule this for you.  Thank you." I'll let anyone who is considering taking their pet to this facility be the judge.. It is Wednesday noon. I told them my dog might have kennel cough on Monday morning... read more

We have brought our cats to River Road with Dr. (George) Fountas caring for them since about 2010 when we relocated to the area. One of our cats, who we sadly lost this year, had numerous medical issues over the years and needed to go quite often. He was ALWAYS treated with love and kindness by the staff at River Road. Knowing that they cared for him so much made things much easier, for ourselves and for him. Our surviving cat is NOT the easiest to deal with during vet visits, but the staff are always understanding and take great care of him despite his - less than charming - behavior. We have always been presented with different options for treatment and have never been pushed toward anything. Dr. Fountas is very understanding and patient with explaining options and treatment plans and has always honored our choices 100%. I've found their pricing to be in line with other vets we have worked with...I think the bottom line is medical care is costly in general. The facility is always pristine, with a neat little store that has all sorts of goodies that our cats have loved over the years. It's quite a feat to keep a place looking that nice with pets of all kinds coming and going. Moral of the story: we would 100% recommend River Road Vet to anyone seeking great care for their pets. Two thumbs up. read more

Woof! I was out of town (in Andover) and needed to get my beloved - and sick - pup in to see a vet. I found River Road while doing a Google search, and arrived just before they opened. As a "walk-in", they were able to see me as soon as two dogs scheduled for surgery that day were admitted, so it was really just a 20 minute wait, which was nothing (and just enough time to fill out paperwork and look at the nice little shop with cool toys). It's a great place, very nice people, and looks like it was built fairly recently? Also very convenient as it is right off of Route 93. Thank you Dr. Fountas, Erika and Linda!!!!! read more

In terms of service and the knowledge of the staff, this would definitely be a 5 star review. Everyone is very nice and they all seem to want the best for my dog. That being said, it seems a little like I walk into a sales office each time I go. They are always trying to perform an extra test or treatment, or if all else fails, overpriced dog food. Services also seem to be overpriced at least compared to what I am used to. For example, a recent trip for just annual vaccinations resulted in a bill of over $200. For now I will continue being a customer the as I trust them, but will continue to look for a better alternative. read more

Pros: Nice, knowledgeable vets and nurses. Love animals. Cons: Approach appears to be driven by cost. Would have loved it if they took a more holistic approach to dog care rather than immediately seeking a costly medical option. Appeared to order unnecessary tests. Switched to another vet. read more

Going to the vet is never fun but if you have to go, I highly recommend this veterinary hospital. The place is immaculate, the staff is genuine and friendly and it's never chaotic in there. My 2 year old Bernese Mountain Dog is always in good hands when she is there. The prices are a bit high compared to other vets in the area but to keep my pup safe and happy, I'd rather pay the extra money. read more

We are brand new to River Road in 2020 and what a bright spot to find. Took our adult kitty for a checkup, and I was so impressed their COVID safety protocols. My 5 year old daughter (who wants to be a vet when she grows up) was sad that it meant she could not meet the veterinarian and accompany our cat, but we were able to speak with the doctor on the phone together from the car. They told her that when it was safe again, she could bring her favorite stuffed animal in too for a check up and ask all her questions. She was thrilled. THEN they sent out a glove balloon with a face and "See you next time" written on the back, tied to the crate for her. She was so happy. Such a simple act of kindness that made her day. They took great care of our cat, and he obviously felt comfortable there because they described him as calm. When he came back to the car, he didn't make any nervous meows like he did the whole ride there. He was calm and happy. Such a great experience! read more

Quick, accommodating, and friendly staff. We had a bit of a scare with one of our kittens one night and the next morning I was able to call and get an appointment within 2 hours. Based on quick research they're a little more expensive than some offices in the area but it's worth it! read more

Unfortunately, I decided to leave this practice. My puppy is 4 months old. Most vets recommend you have a new puppy's poop tested a minimum of three times during their first few months of life. My puppy had pooped in his create overnight which was very unlike him. I thought it was a good idea and proactive to have his stools tested to be on the safe side before the weekend. I called to request a sample tested and the rude receptionist would not allow it without an appointment. (Money grab). Also when I first brought him there after I adopted him, he had tested positive for Giardia. They said they would get me the results back the same day. I had to call the next day to follow up and to try to find out about his diagnosis. Again, before I received the results they tried to book another appointment (money grab). I said I would really like to know the results before I bring him in since he was just examined. A doctor then called me a few hours later with the results of Giardia and a prescription. The medication I was given seemed to bother his stomach. I called back a few times asking if there was anything I could do to alleviate his upset stomach and his diarrhea. He was not gaining any weight and constantly going the bathroom. A receptionist said no and told me to continue the medication and a bland diet. I did. Then I was able to talk to a doctor a few days later who recommended Pepcid, probiotics and prescription diet food (this after the receptionist said several times "no, there is nothing else we can do") I was never given proper instructions on how much of prescription food to give him. Still even after all this, I stuck with them because his doctor seemed very good and professional. But today, I'm sorry to say I've had enough and I'm very disappointed. They care about money, not animals. There are better veterinary hospitals around. read more

I believe Drs. George and Dr. Tracie went into this business as animal lovers. Now it's all about how much money they can gouge from us. I had my little Shih Tzu in for her physical with Dr. Tracie on 3/15/18. Physical, anal gland, nail trim, lepto, a test for Lyme that wasn't needed, seeing as she gets her Frontline, Heartgard, and Lyme vaccinations on schedule. That bill was $498.85. She was rude and scolded me for giving her the antacid she needs rolled in Swiss cheese. The only way I can get pills into her. (I don't think Dr. Tracie understands that Swiss cheese is a prebiotic, meaning it's easy to digest) My Maltese went in with Dr. George on 6/1/18. Vaccinations plus physical exam amounted to $264.59. Maltese had to go back for rabies and distemper on 9/7/18. A mere 3 months since the last "physical". The lady at check in hands me an estimate for 64.50 (I thought it was for the shots). They tricked me into paying for another full physical.. then afterward told me the vaccinations were "extra". So .. a Rabies and Distemper came to $116.70. Dr. George wasn't available so Dr. Tracie saw my Maltese, immediately said he needed his teeth cleaned (Dr. George had commented on is sparkling teeth 3 months before). Then she shoved the needle in so hard my poor dog limped for 2 days. I understood the diarrhea that happens after, but not the rough handling. They used to make calls checking on our pets after vaccinations but this didn't happen. Good thing, I guess, because she'd offer to give him another shot for more bucks. I'm looking for a new vet... obviously read more

I have been bringing my dogs to Dr Fountas for years. The hospital is clean and the staff very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. You can tell they love what they do and they are very good at it. They answer all my questions and my dogs love the treats. You always know that you are in good hands read more

River Road Vet is fantastic. It's a very clean facility and the staff are all warm and welcoming. They have gone out of their way to help me when I am in need, and are gentle and kind to both of my dogs. I highly recommend them. read more

Just Ok. We've actually just switched to another vet in Andover. This office is clean and modern, but my lukewarm feelings start with the front desk staff who find it impossible to crack a smile or be polite, starting with calling them on the phone to make an appointment. I also felt I routinely had to wait to be seen - when showing up early for an appointment, I'd often be seen 20-30 minutes after the appointment was made. Overall it just feels short staffed. I always felt like they were trying to upcharge/overcharge me for everything, or not give a thorough enough exam so I'd have to return for another visit. I have a Golden Retriever (they can be prone to skin infections due to their double coat) and they gave me some antiseptic wash for a hot spot which didn't help and instead had to return for an additional visit for an antibiotic. When spay incontinence later developed (not related to the hot spot), they wanted to test for a urinary tract infection, do blood work, all before putting her on the medication - meanwhile she had every single classic symptom of spay incontinence right off the bat, and I should have just asked to not do the tests and proceed to the medication. Our new vet charges less than half for the same incontinence medication and didn't bat an eye when we asked for it (not requiring all the tests). Overall this vet would probably be fine for more routine wellness check ups but as soon as it turns into more expensive territory, I feel they pounce on the opportunity. read more

Good care but something always felt a bit uncomfortable for me. Switched to a new vet closer to my home and received quite a bit of push back from the vet. While good care, little things like billing questions, ordering meds from outside sources, seemed to rub them them the wrong way. read more

My dog started acting sick and I called River Road Vet and they were great. They worked around my schedule to make my appointment. Dr Tracy helped to find out what was wrong and my Toby is feeling so much better today. They even called to see how he was feeling. They are not like other vet places. You don't feel like a number but part of a family. read more

I am a huge fan of River Road Vet. The staff go above and beyond for their 2 and 4 legged clients! Especially love Dr Tracie!

You can tell that everyone here cares about every animal that walks through the door. When we moved back to MA/NH, we wanted to find a vet that was small, close-knit, and caring. We knew this was the place the second we walked through the door. I would recommend them to anyone! read more

Pros: Nice nurses and doctors, clean, modern. Cons: Seem to order tests not absolutely needed, approach toward treatment seemed focused more on expensive courses of action, odd approach to billing, overly long wait to see doctors. read more

River Road Vet is THE BEST vet I have ever used and I am very picky choosing a vet. I have one dog and two cats that are taken care of at River road and I will never go anywhere else. The staff is warm and caring and the facility is top notch. What I like best is that the vets really take the time to listen to my concerns. After they take care of my pet the vet sits down and goes over what he or she noticed and asks me about any questions and concerns. They take the time to get to know me and my pet and I do not feel that they are rushing to hurry off to next appointment. I have had to have some testing done on my dog and the vet gave me options and did not pressure me either way. when yoour needs medical attention it is stessful and you want to be sure to you get them the best care. After experiences with three different vets in the area I can honestly say that River Road has been my best experience and I recommend them to anyone looking for exceptional care for their pet. read more

My dog has been a patient of RRVH for five years, after switching from a larger hospital where my dog saw different doctors each time. My confidence in the level of care provided by Dr George and Dr Tracie Fountas is as high as it gets! Both Drs are knowledgable, competent, and patient (both with myself and my dog!). I also love the care the nurses provide; they are thoughtful and sweet with my dog. We've experienced a lot of things with RRVH: spays, a couple dentals, physical exams, and a stay in the hospital with chocolate toxicity. I am always confident that my dog is receiving the highest standard of care. I currently live over an hour away (near Worcester) but continue to bring my dog here! read more

Recently brought our new puppy here after researching other vets and getting great reviews. Great facility and Dr. George Fountas, Erika were great answering all our questions. Our puppy seemed to feel comfortable too. Easy to make an appointment and everyone is very nice. A couple of things I was not crazy with is they suggest Science Diet and that could be because Dr. Tracie Fountas was invited to see the Hill's manufacturing plant and may have some interest in this. They also give free samples of this. But to be fair Dr. Fountas did not push this just suggested it but said any good puppy food would do. Lastly they should offer up that customers can either buy the pet meds from them or we can get them on our own. Paid $99 for Frontline 6 pack and could get it my self for $75. Just something to note next time. Will continue to go there. read more

I can not say enough good things about River Road--I literally have to drag my dogs out of there! With three dogs we spend a lot of time at the vet, so it was important for us to find someone we trust. Dr. Tracie Fountas, Dr. George Fountas and their team are incredible. Patients are greeted by name and given pats and love as soon as they enter the doors. Families are almost immediately shown into an exam room (no added stress of waiting in an overcrowded waiting area with other animals). We are always given a price quote up front and never have to deal with hidden charges. When one our our dogs has needed more than just a routine exam Dr. Tracie (our primary vet) has always walked us through our options and has had a real conversation about the best way to proceed--starting with the least invasive (and usually least expensive) tests whenever possible. When one of our newest rescue dogs was having trouble with separation anxiety, we were told to come right in (even though it was Christmas Eve) and talk to Dr. George so we didn't have to wait until after the holidays. From the client service team to the nursing staff and the doctors--everyone is friendly, knowledgable, and passionate about what they do. We switched to River Road from a larger, impersonal veterinary hospital five years ago and could not be happier with our decision! Tracie, Michelle, and Julie feel like part of our extended family. read more

I have been bringing my two cats here since I moved to Andover over four years ago. Dr. Tracie is terrific and she or one of her assistants always call a day or two after a sick appointment to see how the patient is doing. They are always available for same-day sick appointments and they are very understanding about one of my cats who is an absolute terror at the vet. They seem to love my other cat though, and who wouldn't? He is always so sweet, even at the vet, and they take very good care of both my kitties. read more

I started going to River Road when they opened. Had a few bad experiences at other local vets which prompted me to try them after a friend referred me. My first experience was with Dr Tracie and it was wonderful. She spent time with us and was very thorough with my pet. Leaving me feel at ease with her and her staff. Whether you see Dr Tracie or Dr George you get the same care. Absolutely love them both. The front desk staff is quick to get you checked in and into a room. The pet nurses are very knowledgable and experienced (not like other hospitals I've been to). Overall I highly recommend them to everyone! read more