We received excellent end of life care for our dog Oscar. Staff were very pleasant and compassionate. Veterinarians were caring, followed up with phone calls and demonstrated excellent clinical skills and clinical acumen when assessing our dog and providing recommendations. We are very grateful for the care provided to our furry friend. My compliments to Dr. Tam who provided internal medicine consultation and recommendations with excellent follow up. Dr. Baxter was very helpful in assessing the condition of our dog and helped us make the decision to proceed with end of life care but left the final decision to us. I would recommend this clinic highly. The care is expensive but you pay for their expertise in assessing and treating your pet. Consider purchasing pet insurance. I appreciate the fact that they are always open and available with very short wait times. Dr. Tom Ranieri (family physician) read more

Had to rush our 10 mth.old puppy in on a Sunday evening. When we arrived, they were right there with a gurney, & a vet assistan, assisting with our dog. With in seconds they rushed to the back room. Made us feel that our pet was getting the best care. Kept us up dated every minute. we can't say enough good things about this business. Highly recommend. read more

They are angels here. They saved my dog's life when she couldn't catch her breath and now she is 17 Years old. I can't say enough good things. Thank you to all of you who dedicate your time to our beloved pets read more

Saved my boys life, but the cost was immense. Had someone not covered the bill out boy would have been euthanized. My cat suddenly became blocked, I guess this can happen in male cats. To unblock him it was almost 3000$, I'm a single parent so we would have never been able to cover this, some things like 500$ for overnight care was extremely high and no sympathy was present. I wish vets would save lives for the morale aspect, beyond just finances. Regardless he was saved in the nick of time, he was a bit stinky when we got him but he was sent with some UR diet and so far is doing better ... he was depressed for the first two days, lethargic and hiding I'd imagine the experience was very stressful for him. I feel the experience hard on myself and my 14 year old daughter as we had to decide to come up with money or euthanize him, we never cried so much as we did that day. read more

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The people here appear to hate their jobs and don't care at all about your animal . you are simply a number to them. there are many amazing vet clinics in the city and this isn't one of them. read more

I bought my senior cat in today, and ultimately he needed to be put down. I'm sorry i don't remember the names of the wonderful reception, technicians and doctor who helped me, and comforted me during an extremely emotional and difficult time. Thank you for your compassion and care, for both my self and my cat. Thank you for being so kind. read more

Horrible experience! took my puppy in a week ago because she was walking as if she was drunk. They didn't run test or anything, was told it was cannabis even tho there was none on the household at the time. Sent us on our way, now shes back to feeling the same way. Don't go here!! Waste of time and money! read more

I think I may have reviewed this place in the past, but in light of recent events I want to review it again. We're unfortunately in the process of coming to terms with the fact that someone very important to us is very sick and it is out of our control. I know a lot of people (including myself) have complained about the cost in the past, but it's worth it. Vet care is expensive. Until you're faced with something that no amount of money can fix, you're willing to put any money you have to save your friend. This is what happened to us last weekend. I would literally pay anything to be able to have a few more years with my buddy. Now I will just have to pay to make him comfortable for his remaining time. I reconcile this with the fact that he will have amazing vet care until the end of his life. Partly to do with Guardian. They are gentle, kind, knowledgeable, and caring. They want the best for your pet, and you. We took a lot of comfort in knowing that our baby was well taken care of. We learned that Guardian has some of the best specialists that are on call to come and care for your pets. This is literally the best that money can buy and it shows. We were also respected and comforted. They explained everything that needed to be explained in the most gentle way possible. And, even though it wasn't the outcome we wanted, they diagnosed our pet properly and found out something that needed to be found out. For that, I thank them. As horrible it is to be at the emergency vet, there is no other place I would recommend. You absolutely will get the care you need. read more

absolutely horrible. payed an extra $400 for an xray that they couldnt read so they told me that i had to take him in for a bone sample and turns out i just payed another $200 for a meet and greet with the vet? absolut waste of money and time. read more

At 12:30am, finally decided that my dogs drooling was becoming really excessive and realized he broke a tooth. Called guardian- they don't do anything dental related but could give him pain meds. They took him at 1am and it's now 3:15 and I still don't have him back. As soon as I got here, they confirmed there is no one here ahead of me. He has been suffering for 2 hours with no pain meds because they're so damn slow. Talked to the vet over half hour ago who said "I just have to get everything written up and pain meds filled and he'll be right out". I just want to get him back to get him these pain meds. It's like this place doesn't care. Just called to see what's going on (Covid measures, custuomers aren't allowed in the building so you wait outside in your car) and they advised their computer crashed and are "working on handwriting a prescription". When I asked why they didn't call me to give me an update, the doctor advised they didn't have my number since the computer crashed. Like I'm right outside the door in my car. They could have waved at me through the glass if they were that worried about getting covid from me. My dog has been sitting in a room (or kennel, even worse) alone for 2.5 hours in pain. He is on meds for separation anxiety and they know this. I feel so bad for my dog. read more

I just had an extremely frustrating experience with VCA Guardian Emergency Care! I called before leaving my house, they told me to come in and that they weren't busy. I called when I arrived in the parking lot and was told that my dog was next and would get triaged in about 15 minutes. After an hour I called back and got put on hold; when they returned, they thought I was a different patient. After sorting that out, they told me they didn't know when my dog would get triaged but that I was next. Five minutes later, I got another call but it still wasn't the triage nurse, it was the front desk encouraging me to leave because it would take three plus hours to see a doctor. I was told to go to another pet hospital and two options were provided. Why wasn't I told about the three plus hour wait earlier? How could so many pets be prioritized above mine when mine hadn't been triaged yet. I am livid and feel very betrayed by a for profit business that functions worse than our AHS hospital system. I have been taking my dogs to another VCA clinic for years but will look for a replacement as VCA isn't company that cares about me or my pets. read more

We have gone there many times in the last six months. Of course the reason for going there, specially because they have 24 hours services, is not usually good. But I believe a professional environment and attitude can be very helpful for smoothing stressful situations. We had to put a cat to sleep about six months ago. During that time we have been going there pretty much 3-4 times a week. The staff were all very kind, understanding, polite and helpful. We pretty much got the best help and service and they tried their best to save that cat. Recently we have had to go there a couple of times for another cat. Like previous experiences, we got the best help and service again. During the last 6 months I had a pleasure to know Dr. Ashleigh Allen at the centre for the issues we had with our pets. Our cases for going there were not normal and usually we were stressed out. She was very patient, very helpful, explained everything very clear and logical. I'm very thankful that for both incidents, that were both very stressful and critical situations, Dr. Allen saw our pets. I definitely recommend this centre for emergencies. I don't hope I go back there, but I know if I have to, this centre is one of the best places that I can trust getting the best possible results. I just want to thank every single person that has helped us there and I want to mention all of you guys are the best! Thank you! read more

Please read you need to hear this !! Do not go here !! We brought our dog here after being hit by a van . We didn't have insurance so had to try and apply for there card they have . There place that is suppose to help with the financial wasn't working for some reason and we were unable to get approved for the card because the website wasn't working properly . They patched my dog up and sent me home with the dogs hip still dislocated !! They wouldn't even try to put his hip back in place because they couldnt get there money . Even tho it was on there end the reason why we couldn't get the money . Who send a dog home with pain killer with a dislocated hip ? Will never ever ever go back to This place . I suggest you don't either . This place is all about the money . I went to a competent doctor and all my dog needed was his hip put back in place . This place told me his pelvis broke in 3 places , They were telling me he was going to need a 4000 dollar surgery . Do not go here !!!! You will get ripped off and no care without money read more

I cannot say enough good things about Guardian Veterinary Centre. I have had several animals treated here and the care has been outstanding and delivered with compassion and kindness by all members of the team. As a veterinarian myself, it is a blessing to have the emergency service available to take emergencies both during the day and after hours. The specialists service is second to none and we are so lucky to have them available. Good health care is expensive by its very nature, but it is also an amazing gift that we can provide to our pets, so it's so important to be ready for the costs. There are good options these days for health insurance for your pets, so consult your veterinarian for advice here. read more

My puppy was assessed this morning, and determined she must have consumed cannabis out on the last walk yesterday evening. It was very frightening for us, but we were seen by triage almost immediately and she was checked over completely. Sam was terrific and put me at ease. My puppy began to rebound shortly after we came home. I am very grateful for the care. read more

I'm disappointed in the disorganization and lack of bedside manner at this hospital. They're incredibly expensive- I came in for an emergency visit, got an antibiotic and supplement, plus bloodwork and it costed me almost $1000. Absolutely ridiculous. Be prepared to be asked the same question literally 4 times, " so what is going on with your pet today?" Does not need to be asked so many times, and please try to be empathetic when you get feedback because you absolutely weren't. I will say, that at LEAST I got an clear understanding of what was happening with my cat- it was not good news at all finding out he had cancer, but I don't know if my regular vet would have found it out so quickly, and known which tests to do. I guess you get what you pay for? I would still go back, but you folks need to learn how to be customer oriented, especially when you're charging an arm and a leg to give out bad news. Just a thought. read more

Going to an emergency vet hospital is never going to be a fun experience. You're only there because something bad has happened to someone you love with all your heart. What is important in that moment is that you are assisted by people that are capable, confident, and caring. That you know that your animal's health is as much a priority for them as it is for you. This past weekend I spent a few hours at Guardian Vet Hospital with my lovely kitty. Even though the news we received was far from good, I never doubted for a second that my little buddy was getting the best of care. My cat is not a fan of the vet and made that fact plainly clear during his time there. Despite that, the staff treated him and us with remarkable patience and understanding. You never want to think about where you're going to have to go when there is a pet health emergency, but you always want to know where to take them. I now know that Guardian Vet Hospital is the place I trust to take care of my pets when they are in need. read more

Yup, triage, and most severe cases are handled first. Would be nice if they were able to have more vets on staff overnight so you could be seen/treated faster, which it seems that's when pets that have issues seem to decline the most... but I'm certain that would cost a whole lot more. I think we lucked out with the team that was working last night. Everyone we encountered was on their game. That said, Dr. Tannahill was kind, compassionate and understanding of our beagle's palliative care needed to make her comfortable, and sensitive to what our expectations were. I would be pleased to see her treat any of my fur-kids. Although the wait was long-ish, the urgent need patients were treated promptly, and the rest of the patients were treated in order of arrival and severity of issue. For the care we received, the fee charged was quite reasonable - and I've been dealing with too numerous to count vets and emergency vets for 30 years. Critters from exotics, cats, dogs, personal pets to animal rescues to humane societies. I've seen pretty much everything. Parking is more than plentiful, greeting at the door on arrival was prompt, friendly and on point. Chairs are comfy, and there are well-stocked supplies of pee pads, paper towels in every seating area to clean up if your pet is needing something while waiting. FYI - computer systems do a backup at 4am - from an IT perspective, EXCELLENT! But I'm pretty sure it sucks for the staff who have to check you out since they have to estimate the bill, charge you, and issue an adjustment (credit/debit +/-) when the system comes back up on line. It's not their fault, don't take it out on them. They have found a solution that while not ideal for everyone, works. Hopefully don't have to drop by for an emergency soon, but our experience was a positive one. read more

I have parrots and normally I would never go to a clinic like this because they dont have an avian/exotic vet on staff. However, one of my guys got into an accident late at night & we were forced to go here as I could not get the bleeding to stop. When we arrived we were greeted by fairly rude staff and were told to wait as they triage, okay fair enough. Apparently a bird that is bleeding nonstop (and has 3ml of blood in his body) is less important than a bunch of cats & dogs that were able to walk out of the clinic on their own. After almost THREE hours wait, where I was holding my birds wound closed the best i could we were finally able to see the vet. She was rushed & obviously didn't know a ton about birds (ie she said he might DIE of fright which was very unlikely in this case.) I wanted so badly to leave right then but I knew even a vet with little knowledge would be able to stop the bleeding. We were forced to sit for almost another hour and had to listen to the vet techs basically making fun of my bird through the door(cuz who wants them as pets, right?) On top of that this vet cost almost 4 times as much as my normal one would. 4x as much for way worse care..great.. Thankfully my guy survived and is recuperating but I can't even imagine what would have happened to someone who didn't know how to perform first aid on their birds. I highly recommend all exotic owners to learn & attempt to stabilize so they can go to their regular vet instead of suffering through a place like guardian. Just abysmal. read more

This vet is the worst to have to deal with. Very rude people that work there. Did not order the medicine for my dog when they claimed they had. As a result, my poor sick dog was without his drugs for a month. I was also asked by one of the disrespectful staff why I did not have insurance for my pet. My dog had always had medical issues so he did not qualify for pet insurance. Last place I would go to if it could be helped. read more

Most friendly and caring vet clinic I've experienced. They were so comforting and compassionate when I had to put my little buddy down. Their support meant a lot to me and Jess R and Tasha even sent me a card in the mail after a couple weeks had passed with some caring words. Can't express my gratitude for you two and the rest of the people there. Having to put my best friend down was the worst thing in my life and something so simple like that sure helped!!! Thanks again guys. I'd call you and thank you on the phone but I'm still unable to control my emotions when I think about it ;(. Take care! Steve C read more

I brought my pug who was ill here are 2am on a Tuesday and they immediately took him in and looked at him. They kept him overnight and he was completely normal and back to his old self again the next day. The Vet came out and talked to me and explained everything to me (amazing woman), staff was friendly and very helpful. Only reason it's not a 5/5 is I do think $150 to see the vet at 2am is a tad pricy. But other than that, I was very impressed. read more

Friday before thanksgiving we were forced to bring our cat to this vet because no other vet would take him. Our cat hadn't moved from one spot in the basement for 24 hrs, and never made it upstairs to eat his food in the night.. Dr. Jenny took him in and as with all the cats she didn't get him to walk.. only hobble to his feet which he can barely do with his 3 working legs. They ran x-ray and blood work on the wrong areas. fixating on his growth and thinking him lethargic and inapitite. When in fact he couldn't use one of his back legs. After getting him home and phoning the vet back to see what can be done since they missed this issue.. Dr. Jenny. insisted that it was a new issue and wanted to recharge us an entire exam for something she missed on the inital exam because she said she wasn't "presented" with not walking as her reason for looking at my cat.. I'm sorry I'm not a vet why do the owners have to examing their animals and diagnose them properly before the vets will treat them? Dr. Jenny was a vet who was suppose to help our cat by examining him and figuring out what was wrong. (in this case it was simple. one leg doesn't have any link to his brain).. Rather than help us by examining him for the proper reason this time.. They continued to say he got this way in the 20 minute car ride home.. This is a lie to cover their business, there is no way I would have brought my cat in had he been moving before.. So how dare they say this was caused on the car ride home, as he would have never been brought to the vet in the first place!.. They charged $840 for tests they didn't need to do. and the one x-ray they x-rayed in the wrong spot. nothing shows his hips or leg. They only refunded us $50 which still hasn't even shown up.. They should have at least refunded us the whole exam fee as they didn't see the issue, so why pay again for them to see the issue only after I found it.. By ripping us off on all the overpriced tests we can no longer afford to treat our cat.. Luckily it was only $63 at a real vet for the exam and they said ya they should have caught this serious issue.. there was no need for the blood work and the x-ray is in the wrong spot.. Sorry guardian.. Get cats to walk stop being afraid of a little scratch. Dogs bite harder.. I'd be more afraid of a dog than a cat. My cat was scared, Who knows if they even took him out of his carrier. read more

I came in with my sweet baby and found out there was nothing that could be done for her. It was sudden and unexpected, but the staff were very, very warm and accommodating. The vet (Crystani Folkes, I believe) explained the situation over the phone after examining her (because of covid restrictions) then in person when I decided saying goodbye was the best thing for my baby Mochi. They explained the process so I understood everything and let me have control over as much as possible in such a bad situation. The whole staff was so understanding and knowledgeable. They even sent a beautiful letter with her paw prints and some lovely notes from the staff that I worked with. I can't imagine how difficult their jobs must be, and I have so much respect for how they helped me through it. If I'm ever need emergency vet care for my other pets, I wouldn't hesitate to trust them in their hands. read more

I had my dog in for a TPLO a couple of days ago and was sent home to find this. His tail was caked with dried/wet stool and he clearly spent the better part of the night sitting in his own feces. It's unfortunate that we went in for an orthopaedic procedure and he is in more pain from the negligence related skin breakdown. I called your clinic last night to discuss this issue, cream/care options, and to question as to why/what to do now that he is having bloody and mucus diarrhea. I was told to hold his pain medication and expect a call from the surgeon and a vet tech in the AM. No call. I called to confirm the message had been passed along this morning, and it was again noted. No call. I'm appalled that no one alerted me to this issue. I would be understanding if someone had explained that there were multiple sick admissions occupying staff time, but there was no such disclosure. Someone had trimmed some of the hair around his rectum so this issue had obviously been seen. I have been a nurse for 6 years and can't believe the "care" provided by a "top-notch" and highly recommended veterinarian. I just would like some accountability, guidance as to best practice care, and a call back when I am promised one. I am so frustrated that I have to turn to social media to hopefully receive a response. His sore perirectal area is still bleeding and leaving serosang drainage prints wherever he sits/lays. The reason I provided 2 stars was because they direct bill Trupanion, the front-end staff were very pleasant, and the actual surgery seems to be solid. read more

VCA Canada Guardian Veterinary Centre - Sore left on my dog's perirectal area after a TPLO surgery. Likely from sitting in his own feces for an extended period of time - Veterinarians Near Me - Edmonton, Alberta

Oh boy. My partner and I recently got a dog, and out of the blue one night she seemed to have what looked like a seizure, along with some other strange behavior. So we looked up the 24 hour hospitals in the city, and took her to the one with the best rating, which was this one. The reception staff and vet tech were lovely. They were so attuned to the dog and her discomfort, and were super respectful and professional toward my partner and I. They also took a detailed history of what happened, which was typed into her file. The vet herself- terrible. I won't go into too much detail because I've actually called the clinic to file a complaint. The clinic manager was lovely and very empathetic about how horrifying our experience was. To say the least, this particular vet should not be working with animals. It didn't seem like she understood how to do her job or that she particularly liked animals, and I felt sick leaving my puppy in her care. I let the manager know that I would never be returning to this clinic and that it is really important to me that others don't have the same experience. She seemed highly motivated to address the issue with this vet, and I sincerely hope they do! Maybe some of the other vets were more capable, but I won't be going back to find out. read more

I was referred to Dr. Cockwill at Guardian in 2016 for my cat Pippin. Pippin was having digestive issues and was throwing up all the time. My regular vet was concerned it might either be IBD or cancer, so she recommended I get a surgical biopsy. (This was after Pippin had several ultrasounds and a needle biopsy which were inconclusive.) One of Guardian's surgeon's performed the biopsy and Dr. Cockwill reviewed the results. Thankfully, Pippin was diagnosed with IBD, not cancer. Over the course of a year and a half, I took Pippin back to Guardian whenever she needed to be checked or her medication changed. Dr. Cockwill was always very nice and thorough. He also treated Pippin very tenderly and respectfully. In November of 2017, Pippin got really sick, really quickly. Over the course of a week she had several procedures and was at Guardian 3 of the 5 weekdays. Two weeks later, Pippin was so sick she needed help to move on and Dr. Cockwill was there again. It was the hardest day of my life and everyone at Guardian was amazing. Guardian helped me and Pippin through a lot of ups and downs and they were always very nice and respectful. I would recommend them to anyone who needs emergency or specialist help for their pet. read more

My poor little pup has been having gut issues and not eating for a week. My vet recommended that I take him here for more advanced treatment and diagnostics. The staff was friendly and prompt to greet me. They put my pet through triage right away, the techs were patient and listened to the history taking detailed notes. Like other hospitals they treat based on the urgency of the symptoms. You may have to wait hours to see a doctor as I did. Also as an urgent care facility there is a premium cost with this location. Doctor was very kind and compassionate, they took the time to explain the options, answer questions, and provide insight on the decisions you need to make. Having a care budget of only $850 the doctor provided expert advice that helped me prioritize the options and my pet was given excellent care. The results and interpretations were clearly explained. Everyone giving one star seems to be focused on the cost of this facility and how they are "only in it for the money", from my experience this was not the case. Yes it is expensive, yes you will likely be there for hours, but the people here care about your pets. read more

The only reason not to give them 5 stars is that they're expensive. They saved our cat's life and were extremely accommodating when I wanted to visit him. Great vets and wonderful front line staff. Thanks you everyone for Teddy's life. read more

Don't go here if you can help it. I took my dog there for what turned out to be an allergic reaction, and all they tried to do was milk me for money. They made three suggestions, two of which involved a biopsy for cancer. No, it is an allergic reaction! Prescribe some antihistamines and send me on my way! If you can wait to take your pet to a regular vet, DO IT. This vet is all about taking advantage of vulnerable people for profit. read more

Had an emergency for my parrot was referred to go here . He had a bell stuck in his mouth and we couldn't get it off with tools . Worried about his tongue we took him here quick . The staff were friendly / attentive and kind to the animals . They corrected the problem and had us on our way quickly . I am Amazed with your professionalism I will recommend you to all my friends and family ! read more

I brought my pup to Guardian.. I was told he likely would not make it through the night and they advised that I consider putting him down. I went to a different vet for a second opinion of Guardian's diagnosis and it was found to be inconclusive and wrong based on further diagnostics. I can see others on Yelp have had good experiences with Guardian, but I did not. My pup passed away 2 months later. I will never know if this clinic played a role or if they hurt my dog behind their closed doors. Just think others should be careful with this place and don't be afraid to seek a second (or third) opinion. read more

I recently had to take my senior cat here in the middle of the night and sadly he had to be euthanized. The staff were so kind and caring and I even received a sympathy card with messages from the staff who cared for him after. The room he spent his last minutes in was cozy and not just an exam room like i experienced previously when having to put down pets. Although this was a difficult experience for me the staff there made it much easier. I would recommend this clinic to anyone read more

Very disappointed in their service. Our cat solo injured his leg and was in quite a bit of pain. The first time we came they turned us away because they were too busy. The second time, i waited for about an hour or two in my car before they triaged him. They believed he was having a seizure , which I said he had not had one. Then they believed he had a heart murmur which I knew he had not had one. After being in their clinic for over 24 hours, and a vet bill of 700$ with ended up with no answers. they knew I had insurance and just kept charging up the bill. Lastly, their speed of service on medications and discharge is ridiculous! I waited two hours for my cat to be picked up and over 24 hours to pick up a pain medication. read more

I'm so grateful for this emergency vet. My small dog was attacked by another dog on a Sunday morning. Since my vet was closed, I headed straight to Guardian. I had been there in the past and was treated very well, so it was the first place that popped to my mind. Once again, the staff were very friendly and moved quickly when I explained what happened. My little buddy was checked over thoroughly, x-rayed and prescribed anti-biotics and pain medications. I was also given a copy of the xrays to take to my regular vet. What I appreciated the most - was that the vet took the time to explain what COULD happen next, despite their best efforts. I was really glad that she did that, because a few days later, an infection was present and VERY apparent. Thanks to the vet, I knew what was happening and what to do. I did have to call this vet hospital the following Friday night after my own vet was closed and ask for advice. The lady at the desk who answered my call was very happy to answer my questions without making me come in (I had an appointment with my own vet the next day anyway). read more

I heard good things about this clinic. And for its being a emergency hopital and open 24 hours, I was grateful that I could take my pup to a place where she can be looked after. . But.. although the hospital was open and the staff was amazing.. we did not get the chance to see the doctor during our visit. We were told that the doctor won't be available for another 2 hours or more. This was when we have already waited for 30 min. What's a use of emergency hospital when you can't get help when you needed. We end up waiting for regular clinics to be open and head to one of it as soon as possible. I can't explain how much more of pain that my puppy went through because we could not get hold of a doctor at an emergency hospital. I was heartbroken. .. it was not fair for my pup. read more

The Guardian Veterinary Clinic is a great facility. It's a bit more pricey compared to other clinics, but thats because this place is open 24/7, 365 days a year...and you pay extra for that convenience. The staff are pleasant and helpful. Waiting and examination rooms are open, airy and most importantly, clean. Doctors are gentle, caring, and friendly. Even on an eventful weekend like Easter when dogs tend to get their noses into some chocolatey goodness, the wait time wasnt too long. I'd bring my kitties here again in a heartbeat if there was an overnight emergency or health complications on a holiday and I'm truly thankful this business is around for those 'just-in-case' moments :) Side note: Google maps street view claims this Veterinary Hospital in an empty feild, but this newer building does exist. Promise. It's located on 99 Street, right across from that business with the giant Polar Bear balloon on their roof. read more

I had to take my cat for an emergency appointment. I was a mess and they were so understanding and kind. Accommodating as well. The veterinarian was very compassionate and helpful. I am so appreciative of this clinic not over charging people in awful circumstances. I got to take my cat home and thanks to her instructions my car had improved immensely. Highly recommend. read more

Brought my sweet boy here on a Sunday, when I new he wasn't doing well. He's a dachshund, and he had slipped a disc in his neck somehow. I had already had taken him to a vet, and an animal chiropractor, but he had declined further. With Covid restrictions, there was a bit of a wait in the parking lot, and when it came our turn, I had to hand him over and not go in with him. While sad, is perfectly understandable. They gave me an estimated wait time of four hours to be seen, due to high volume, and were very open that he'd be bumped for more severe cases, just like any emergency room. The vet called me within 2 hours, and was very empathetic, compassionate, and thorough over the phone. She explained to me all my options, and was very open about what they entailed medically, the success rate, and the costs behind them. She never made me feel rushed, like she had other appointments, and made sure to ask if I had questions, and answer any I had. Unfortunately for us, the best choice for our boy was saying goodbye. Again the empathy and compassion was exceptional. Despite not letting anyone in for appointments, they set up a really nice, comfortable, tasteful room for us to say goodbye in. When they brought him in to say goodbye, they brought him in on an anti-anxiety fluffy bed, with holes so the IV in his leg was out of the way, and not bothering him, and we could all hold him while he was comfortable. They give you all the time in the world to say your goodbyes. They give you the option of staying or going while they perform the euthanasia, and we chose to stay. The vet, her name was Christa (sp?), the same I spoke to on the phone, was so compassionate again, and explained the procedure, what she was doing/giving him, what would happen, and waited for permission before giving the final drug. After he was gone, they again offered us our space, and unlimited time with him. No time for this is easy, but I couldn't imagine better staff to help us through this terrible experience. They had amazing options for us lined up in regards to his passing, including sentimental tokens (they take their paw prints for you for free, and will send you as many as you request, even ask if there's a preferred paw), and can have imprints done, even ask if you'd like some of their fur. They give you options for cremation, taking their ashes home with you, or having them spread over a beautiful property not far from Edmonton. If you have your own property, of course they offered the option of bringing our baby home to bury, but we rent, so that wasn't feasible for our family. All of this was offered prior to goodbyes of course. This was a terrible, horrible experience. But they treated my baby SO well, took care of him beautifully, and treated us with their hearts open, respectfully, compassionately, empathetically, and with all the thoughtfulness one can provide through this process. Would absolutely recommend this clinic, 10000%. read more

The staff and I are on a first name basis, unfortunately, here at Guardian. Although we have had a love/hate relationship for the past year, they, without question, saved my dog's life. We had been to probably a dozen doctors and specialists throughout Edmonton, Spruce Grove, and Calgary. Although, she is not 100% - YET!! - we are on the right track with what we now believe to be an auto-immune disorder. I had been told by the various doctor's that there is nothing they can do, to feed her ANYTHING she'll eat, and wait. Being that she is my responsibility, I couldn't simply wait for her to die. She's a tough cookie, has hit rock bottom, but is a healthy girl now and we're hoping she'll be around for another ten years. An important point to note is the other doctor's weren't capable of even pointing me in the right direction. Many, many of them wiped their hands clean and sent me on my way. I am so fortunate and blessed to have had a referral to Guardian (previously Edmonton Emergency Vet). Thank you to the many specialists at the clinic for everything. read more