I don't have the energy... or the tears ...to write about everything that happened recently. Here is a copy of the message I sent to Valley Vet on Monday. ----------------------- I have canceled any orders Max had with your office. He will not be returning there, nor will any of our other animals. Unfortunately little Cheyenne will not have the chance to go anywhere since she passed away over the weekend - as a direct result of the gross negligence she received at your office just three days prior. I was already searching for another veterinary office before this happened for multiple reasons. Besides the fact that a member of your front office staff not only lacks compassion and empathy, but she's just flat out rude. Another big concern of mine is that 90% of the knowledge I was given regarding Max's chronic condition I had to research myself. Even if I reached out asking for guidance and/or had a specific question about medication I was dismissed. I have realized that, like a shady mechanic, you would rather bring in more money with repeat visits than to actually address concerns and provide solutions. But at least cars don't suffer like animals do. One of the few things I am grateful for is that this all happened over the weekend, when your office was closed. Because of that, Cheyenne spent her last moments at the Deerfield Animal Hospital with a staff who treated both her and us with compassion, care, concern and support. None of which we would have received at your facility. Since the weekend I have spent a lot of time reading reviews about your office and this type of treatment (or lack thereof) seems to be a common thing. Heartbreaking. I will not give you the chance to put another of my animals through the suffering Cheyenne was forced to go through. Shame on you. read more

Valley Veterinary Services - How can you make a helpless little dog suffer?; - Veterinarians Near Me - Lee, Massachusetts

I am a physician and I know ineptitude when I see it. There is a difference between missing a diagnosis and complete incompetence. Our beloved 7 year old french bulldog, Parker, experienced the acute onset of excruciating pain, severe panting, and bilateral hind leg weakness. The emergency vet ordered bloodwork and several X-rays, then attempted to convince my distraught fiancée that Parker needed an expensive surgery to widen his nasal passages (which have never bothered him in 7 years). She sent Parker home with an Augmentin prescription that was prescribed with no indication. Not once did she mention the possibility Parker might have something else causing his symptoms. Did she even examine his back and legs? Did she find his tenderness to palpation of the spine? That night Parker's weakness progressed and his panting worsened. It was unbearable to see him like that. The next morning we took him to a second vet who looked at the X-rays, considered the symptoms, and immediately diagnosed him with IVDD - a very common diagnosis in frenchies. High dose steroids were prescribed along with a muscle relaxer but it was too late. We lost Parker 24 hours later. Any vet with even a modicum of skill should have considered this diagnosis when treating a dog of this breed presenting with these symptoms. This should have been considered even without having imaging to back it up. But she did have the X-ray - and it showed a very deformed vertebrae at the precise location Parker had exquisite tenderness to palpation on his back. The diagnosis was clear. A disc had likely ruptured, causing extreme pain (manifesting as panting at rest and reluctance to move), progressive weakness, ataxia, and eventually paraplegia. A physician is taught to read the entire X-ray. Parker's spine was obviously deformed. Combined with his symptoms and his physical exam the diagnosis was clear. The vet missed this. She may not be a medical doctor, but she is a doctor of veterinary medicine. She should have known better and she should have done better. I don't recommend you take your beloved pets to this vet. read more

Valley Veterinary Services - Our boy, Parker - Veterinarians Near Me - Lee, Massachusetts

Our 11 year old Chihuahua mix (we adopted her from a shelter and only had her for 10 months) went there on 7/2/2025. The appointment was for a nail trim and her new rabies shot. When the vet came in (one I had not met before - we have been going there for nearly 2 years as we had another dog)). She was the newest vet at the facility and took Cheyenne to be examined, bloodwork, nail trim and vaccination. We have had dogs for 20+ years and have many different vets as we have lived in 9 states. Our dogs have always been examined with the vet in the treatment room with us present. This was the first time one of our dogs was whisked away during the exam and vaccinations and we were told to wait in the exam room for her to come back. The vet came back to say a pea size tumor in a mammary gland was found that needed immediate surgery for best outcome. I agreed and scheduled a day for surgery. What I find atrocious is that I was told her lungs and heart were great. However, Cheyenne had to be euthanized at an emergency vet just 2 1/2 days later due to severe Congestive Heart Failure after suffering trouble breathing and lack of activity. As a nurse I knew the severity after seeing her X-rays. How could I be told her lungs and heart were fine and surgery should be done, a surgery she would not survive (and undoubtedly still be charged for)? Cheyenne would not have had to be put through the bloodwork and vaccinations if I were told of her failing health. Cheyenne received the most compassionate and sympathetic care at the Deerfield Emergency Veterinary as she was euthanized. The outcome with her condition would be the same but we are blessed that the people at this office would not be involved. This was the second dog we have lost in the last 14 months and I cannot say enough good things about the Deerfield facility in both situations. Another problem with Valley Vet is some of their receptionists - the one with the dark hair is rude and loud (per 7/2 visit). read more

I would have preferred to leave negative stars but that's not possible. Instead, I hope this review makes people think twice before going here. I have... had a french bulldog who experienced an emergency. I took Parker to valley vet. Even though Parker was in tremendous distress and panting to the point of exhaustion, I was forced to give him over to a vet(?). They took xrays and gave him lasic because his heart looked big. Then they tried to sell me on the idea of giving him a teeth cleaning and rinoplastiv surgery. Severe dental disease was noted. They then sent is home with augmenten (to treat what exactly). The plan - see if it was an infection and get him the surgery. After 24 hours of pain I took him to another vet who saw the problem in approx 5 minutes. In fact, it was so easy to see I could spot it on the xray. Parker had IVDD and one of his spinal disc had ruptured. In fact, tge mishaped disc was right where they were looking at his lungs. It was so obvious but the vet at Valley Vet decided panting was breathing issue and it was but most dog owners know it's a pain response... esp vets. Imagine getting sent home with antibiotics for your best friend when his spin is ruptured and legs are weak. And to be clear... severe dental issues were not seen by other vet and the panting had nothing at all to do with the nose. I am not sure anyone could have saved Parker but 24 hours of brutal pain could have been avoided. read more

Valley Veterinary Services - Parker - Veterinarians Near Me - Lee, Massachusetts

I had the terribly sad task of having to put my precious dog down. From the moment I called them, the amount of kindness and accommodation was amazing. They fit me in immediately, the ft desk was wonderfully empathetic, they completely prepared for my arrival. The doctor, the vet assistance, all, were so kind, so professional. I am so greatful. read more

They are overpriced and they could be better managed. They were good but the new team is VERY different! HORRIBLE customer service and the VET there is only trying to sell you things. read more

We are visiting from out of town and our dog got himself quilled by a porcupine. The folks at Valley Veterinary Services could not have been nicer or more professional. They took great care of him. read more

Our dog Sophie ate some carpet on our back porch. When we called our vet (Valley Vet) in Lee, MA on Fri morning to have her be seen, they took her in immediately. After a full work up and some less invasive interventions that failed, ultimately it was determined she needed surgery to remove the blockage. Dr. Julie Shanahan and the staff did an incredible job. They took the time and resources to ensure a good recovery and that she was monitored and cared for carefully postoperatively. They operated on her at 4:30 pm in the afternoon on a Friday. They could have turned her away and sent us to an animal hospital for the surgery, which would have cost us around 6-10 thousand dollars. However, they did not. The staff stayed late, did the surgery and saved our dog and our wallet! I can not say enough about how grateful we are to Valley Vet for the way they handled Sophie's care Lisa and Jake read more

I have been using Valley veterinary service as for the last 15 years. Dr. Shanahan and her staff are the most caring considerate group of professionals that I have had the pleasure to have to deal with. From getting my cat fixed to having to put my dog to sleep Valley Vet Marie Services is truly a professional operation. read more

I have had the pleasure of using Valley Veterinary Service for many years. Dr. Shanahan and her staff have been exemplary before, during and after the Covid crisis where the way offices operate was changed forever. We now live in a world where it is necessary for businesses to post signs not to disrespect the staff as most are severely understaffed and doing their best to service everyone. It is very easy to sit behind a keyboard and vent any frustrations instead of trying to understand that office procedures are in place for a reason and just because they are not to your liking doesn't mean you have been "wronged". I took the time to write this review to commend both the services provided and the compassionate people who work at Valley Vet. I hope 2023 brings a bit more compassion to those workers on the front lines of this ever changing work environment. read more

I cannot say enough good things about Valley Veterinary Service in Lee, MA. The care and concern from every staff member, including the techs, the receptionist, and the office manager is always appreciated. We feel lucky to have the team of Dr. Shanahan, Dr. Leahy, and Dr. Schoen. They each have a nice way of befriending the animals and putting them at ease while diagnosing and examining. We have been loyal customers since we moved to the Berkshires in 1999 and have had veterinary care for puppies, cats, and aged senior dogs. They take the time to get to know the animals and there is always a follow up telephone inquiry if the animal was in for a health issue. The office and exam rooms are clean and modern. We HIGHLY recommend Valley Vet! read more

superb pet clinic!!! We have been clients for at least 15 years now. Dr. Shanahan, especially, is a very bright, well-informed, caring, and patient veterinarian. It is easy to park and get in and out of the clinic. We have been to vets in other cities and none compares to Dr. S. and Valley Vets. read more

The Staff at Valley Veterinary Service is kind, courteous, and knowledgeable. My dogs love the staff. When my dog love going to the Vet, the staff MUST be doing a lot of things right! I feel like we are valued at Valley Vet. My animals get excellent care. Julie and the staff go out of their way to make sure they are knowledgeable and up to date on treatment options, and everyone there makes you feel like you're part of a their family. I am always very impressed on the care and detailed explanation I receive. I always leave feeling confident in my pets assessment . Julie and the entire staff are exceptional. I would highly recommend Valley Vet. Over the last year I have lost 2 of my babies. I was inconsolable. Susan Beckwith who is the office manager was so kind and considerate on the worst days of my life. Julie Shanahan is the best Vet I have ever had, she knows her stuff and she is a very kind and so lovely. Kathy Salice is always friendly and so willing to help and accommodate my 'little emergencies'. All of the tech staff is amazingly patient and well informed. (I have one of the craziest Jack Russells on the planet) I know that my pets are in the best hands possible. Thank you to the Doctors and the Staff at Valley Vet for the awesome care you have given me and my pets. read more

Great experience with everyone at Valley Vet after moving to the area. Nothing but the utmost care and attention is clearly given to each animal. Would strongly recommend this vet! read more

We brought our 17-year-old cat for a checkup and it turned out she needed 2 teeth pulled. Dr. Shanahan and her staff were excellent, kind and caring, and our baby came through with flying colors. The office is professionally run, spotless, and pleasant. Highly recommended. read more

I can not say enough about Valley Veterinary, Dr. Shanahan and all of her staff! My 110 pound baby is one that hates anyone touching his paws and turns into Mr. Cujo when trying to cut his nails. Dr. Shanahan is always patient and understanding with him and will do whatever it takes to make sure he has a positive experience. From the drop-off to the pick-up, they make us feel like Papi is one of their family and treat him with love and compassion. He always comes home with perfect nails. I have used Dr. Shanahan for years with all of my pets and I would never trust anyone more than her and her staff! We are so fortunate to have such a compassionate animal lover in the Berkshires! I HIGHLY recommend Valley Vet to anyone that is in need of a great group of animal loving professionals! read more

I visited Valley today for the first time. I was blown away by the careful attention and wonderful professionalism of Dr Shanahan as well as the rest of the staff. read more

I was initially happy at valley vet Shauna and the tech Sam are two of the most loving women I've ever met,my dog max was treated for pancreatitis it was ongoing for awhile sadly my max needed to be put to sleep I was told that Dr shoan would do it but I couldn't be with him and that was not an option for me ,I found a mobile vet but they couldn't come till Monday,on Sat it was clear my dog couldn't wait till Monday I called valley vet back and begged for the vet to even come out to my car and put my boy to sleep and was told no.dr shoan is too afraid of the corona to do it,so I found a vet to do it and allow for me to be with him I'm still very angry that in my dogs hour of need he was denied what he deserved by Dr shoan.i feel that if she's that scared of the virus she should've stayed home because clearly she failed my dog,I will miss Shauna and Sam but will never go back I will be going to the vet that had the compassion I thought valley had to care for the dog I still have .so do your homework for a vet and go where your animal will be taken care of the way they should read more

Went back to put my cat to sleep. That process was fine, scheduling was easy and office staff was very sympathetic. Again, though, very very difficult to reach afterward. Was told ashes would be ready today, phone number isn't working, haven't heard from them all day. My partner felt the vet was rather callous about the whole thing. I won't be returning here with future pets read more

As a Registered Nurse and a person who formally worked in the customer service industry I have an acute since for what it means to provide good healthcare along with good customer service. You will not find this at Lee Valley Vet most likely due to the horrible customer service skills of their Office Manager, Susan Beckwith. These are the issues I have encountered --Prescription filled for a 32mL of Metacam, but I was given a 10mL bottle which is much smaller than what I was supposed to be given. If I weren't in the habit of checking all medication given to me (a nurse always checks what medication is given) I may not have noticed the error and would have paid double for what I was given. Trying to solve this problem was an even bigger hassle because the above named Office Manager has to fix these types of things and is rarely in the office, from what I gathered. --Test done on my dog that I did not approve and were unnecessary when I had an area in her mouth lasered for a growth. I did not end up paying for these tests, but if I wasn't a nurse, I would have never known how unnecessary these tests were and would not have challenged the tech who told me all of the stuff they did without my consent. --One of the vets tried to retreat my dog for Lyme's when her Quant C6 test came back at 32 after being 250. If the quantitative value is 50% less than the original value it means treatment was effective for Lyme's. Needless to say 6 months later the test was less than 30, which means there is not active infection. Again, if I wasn't a Nurse I would not have known this and my dog would have been on antibiotics for another month!! --I called for a prescription refill for my dog, was never given a call back that it was OK'd by the doctor and my prescription sat at the front desk for 3 days. Upon picking up said medication I asked for Heart Guard for a rescue dog I recently adopted. I had left her heart worm test results at home, but told the woman at the front desk, Andrea, that I would drop it off next time I was in the neighborhood. She said it was fine. Well, Susan, the office manager overheard this and with a very cold and rude demeanor told the office assistant not to give me the medication. Now, I work in healthcare and there are rules that I certainly understand, but without even an explanation or a smile this woman turned to walk away like she could care less that I was a paying customer. I told her I had been going to this vet for years and she said she didn't care and would be happy to forward my dogs' records to another vet. Needless to say we are moving to Dr. Reiner at South Street Vet. I can certainly deal with a few mistakes here and there, but complete disregard for the fact that I am a paying customer by Susan Beckwith is so completely insulting and I expect my animals to be cared for by people with more decency. As a side note, I have spoken with a few people in the community who also feel this place is going down the tubes. I found South Street because one of the women I work with has had a very bad experience with them as well. read more

So highly recommend this vet! They have been so helpful and have given our dogs fantastic care! Even after we moved away, they were still willing to give us GREAT advice over the phone! Very appreciative of the fantastic service! read more

I drive up from Houston with my pups and spend about half of the year here in Lee. The first time I went to Valley Vet was because it is so close but now I can honestly say I would drive a good distance to have my dogs seen by Valley Vet and Dr. Schoen. It is rare to find the combination of superb veterinary experience, skill, compassion and connection with my pups, as I've had with Dr. Schoen. The whole staff is amazing and my pups, Zac and Ziva, hate to leave the reception area because they're absolutely showered with kindness. Shauna, at the reception desk, as well as everyone else, is particularly kind and affectionate to my pups- they love going to see her! Valley Vet and Dr. Schoen take the time to work you, explain each procedure and detail the necessity for further test, if required. Their prices are reasonable. Valley Vet is my Dobies home away from home when they need a little medical attention. read more

I'm writing this review in light of recent events regarding the care of my 4yr old cat who experienced an urgent/critical situation (possible obstruction by a foreign object). Valley Vet, who had been following him for this condition ultimately abandoned care in a critical moment and did not offer to assist me in finding him a suitable alternative. Unfortunately, when I asked to speak directly to the doctors, no one returned my call. Being in healthcare myself, I consider this negligence as my cat was an established patient in the care of Valley Vet doctors. More specifically: My cat underwent diagnostic exams to assess why he had been experiencing chronic vomiting and a x ray suggested the possibility of an obstruction but this was not clear. The vet (Dr. Shoen), recommended a diet change but urged us to call the clinic should my cat continue to vomit or get worse. We woke up to an alarmingly lethargic cat who was not breathing properly and refused food and water on Labor Day. After speaking with the on call nurse for Valley Vet, we were told to bring him to an Emergency Vet clinic 90 minutes away, which we did. There, they remained concerned with an obstruction but advised us to bring him back to Valley Vet for follow up the next morning as more imaging was needed to gain further clarity on the situation. The next morning, when I called Valley Vet this was their response: 1) I could not bring him there because their surgeon was not in that week (Valley Vet did not have a contingency plan) 2) They could not do more imaging to even rule out if surgery was needed 3) I was to bring him back to the Emergency Clinic 90 minutes away 4) When I expressed concerns over that (both logistically and financially), and asked for help making a referral to a local clinic they responded: "sorry, all the clinics around here are full." 5) I asked to have the vet (Dr. Shanahan at the time), call me directly and was told she would within 30-60 minutes - NO VET CALLED ME BACK. Valley Vet left me in a lurch with an urgent situation regarding the well-being of my cat. I was fortunate to find a clinic that would see him right away for imaging and go from there. Upon following up with Valley Vet today, the receptionist became defensive and said "we are all very busy." I don't doubt this - the system is stressed and clearly quality of care has taken a huge decline as a result. It's unfortunate that in emergency situations, Valley Vet feels justified in abandoning patient care. read more

I've gone to Valley Vet with all my pets and always will. They are a really great group of people. The clinic is beautiful and clean. Dr. Shanahan is always looking out for the best interest of the animal and I appreciate that. She's always been there when I've needed her. All my experiences with Valley Vet have been good ones. I highly recommend them. read more

I have never had a bad experience at Valley Vet. In fact, I have only had good experiences there. I have a dog that has a condition for which there was no protocol as so few dogs have ever had this condition. Dr. Shanahan was fabulous and has managed everything with holistic supplements. The entire staff is wonderful. They are all very patient and kind. I would recommend this practice highly! I have been a pet owner for many years and am very familiar with veterinary clinics, hospitals and doctors. Valley Vet is wonderful! read more