they are wonderful people who do a difficult job dealing with hurt and sick pets as well as upset owners. would definitely use them again!!

My experience with VRA was overall very positive, especially because of the staff. Everyone I interacted with was kind, professional, and genuinely helpful throughout the process. One thing that really stood out was the strong communication -- they kept me informed, answered questions clearly, and made sure I understood everything along the way. The services are definitely on the pricey side, which may be difficult for some people to manage, but the quality of the staff and their professionalism helped make the experience worthwhile. It's clear that the team cares about providing good service and supporting their clients as best as possible. read more

I am late on writing this review, but in Feb 2026 I took my dog for a consult with Dr. "Ben" (Benoit) on a suspected nasal tumor. He recommended a MRI as the most conclusive, but gave all the other options as well so it wasn't just the most expensive. I opted for the MRI, and sadly, we found an advanced tumor in my dog's nasal passage that had already broken through to his brain. Dr. Ben gave me a menu of options and different outcomes we may get. He never made me feel pressured or judged, and was empathetic and compassionate. It's clear he's also incredibly knowlegable of the most recent treatments available. I understand there are always complaints about expensive care at Vet ERs/Referrals or "are they owned by PE?" questions, but an MRI and radiology expertise anywhere is expensive, so that's something to just accept. VRA was worth the expense for me because I wasn't treated like an open wallet or profit line and the quality of care/concern was outstanding; I was even given a military discount. I am very grateful for their entire staff for getting us in quickly and the humane treatment to owners and their pet family. Thank you Dr. Ben for letting me know how much time I had left to cherish my dog. I'm forever grateful for your kind and calming presence. read more

This review is on our Internist, Dr. Sindumani Manoharan. She is thorough and pleasant to interact with. Her team is all so kind and sweet and I can tell that they handle things with care. I felt like she was very knowledgeable and understanding as to each aspect of our cat. The prices at VRA are pricier than other vets closer to me (one is 4 mins away and another is 6 mins away and VRA is 22 mins away). However, I feel like I would definitely trust the health care of our precious cat to her and her team. Loved the nice touch on the board when I was waiting for the doctor. read more

Veterinary Referral Associates - Veterinarians Near Me - Gaithersburg, Maryland

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I just realized I forgot to update my cat's hyper/hypo thyroid treatment at Veterinary Referral associates (VRA). So here it is. To recap, Grant is a senior, had the above disease, for which VRA recommended radiotherapy. The treatment is very expensive and post radiation protocol is complicated. Also, VRA is out in the hinterland, and i was taking Uber there. But the vet gsve very good odds for the cure rate, I was fortunate that I could afford it, and Grant was cured! With a lower cure rate. I would have been more hesitant, but it was all worth it. And Grant would agree, if he wasn"t sleeping on my leg. read more

Full service hospital with excellent staff. Our dog received professional and kind care. Fully equipped hospital with laboratory, xray (including MRI and CT scan) on site Highly recommend. read more

Our experience here was wonderful. Their entire staff is friendly, patient, empathetic, and generally a pleasure to interact with. They will even proactively ask if you need to use a restroom and hang out with your pet while you go. Dr. Ganjei is a world class surgeon (look up his resume) who saved our dog's life and was clearly excited about doing so. We are deeply grateful for everyone's help through a very difficult situation and would visit them again regardless of distance from our home. Thank you! read more

I took my dog there for surgery. When I picked him up they said if I had any concerns I should take a picture of the area and send it to them. So I did that. I got a response from the 'frontdesk' saying they would forward it to the 'surgery department'. I didn't hear anything. I sent another follow up, but now after three days, no response. I guess once they collected there more than $3K in fees they didn't seem to need to respond. Very disapointed. read more

The staff, the doctors are all very helpful , compassionate and supportive and very professional!

The one star review is the lowest I could give. I suggest avoiding this establishment if possible. This animal hospital claims expertise but in my case their performance was lacking. My wife and I brought in a dog we were caring for and who had suddenly become paralyzed in his hind quarters. While waiting, he became agitated and repeatedly flailed his front legs - in evident pain -- which made him difficult to restrain. Because of this, my wife on two occasions informed the receptionist that he was in distress and required immediate attention, but with no immediate result. Eventually a tech appeared. Despite the fact that this establishment was on notice that the dog was agitated and in pain, he made no effort to assess this or relieve the dog's condition. Most significantly, the tech did not apply an anti-bite collar, take steps to transport him to an examination area in a safe manner or take any other reasonable, minimal precautions for handling an agitated dog in pain. Instead, the tech simply instructed me to carry the dog to the examination area. This resulted in what was surely predictable to them: The dog lashed out in pain and bit me in the chin, requiring stitches. Only then did the tech - evidently not wanting to be bitten himself - order up the readily available anti-bite collar and a stretcher. Given their supposed expertise, the bite on that occasion could have been avoided by them exercising a minimal standard of care, which they did not, and they have refused to own up to it. read more

After spending thousands of dollars here over the past 6 months trying to get my dog's skin condition cleared up we were making great progress. However, our doctor left the practice and now there is nobody to approve any of the 4 prescriptions he was supposed to remain on indefinitely. I never received any notice that this was happening and only found out by chance after looking on their Facebook page. Now I am struggling to find a new doctor who can fit us in and will likely lapse on several prescriptions which will no doubt end up costing me even more money. read more

Apex Vets referred us. We brought our pet at night in after she ate something she shouldn't have and it required endoscopic removal. The place is easy to find and has ample parking at light. Waiting room has ok seating, a snack machine, and free coffee. The desk staff was very friendly and got us checked in right away. It took a little bit to talk to a vet because they had some priority emergency cases but they kept us informed. I've waited much longer at other places. Saw the vet who walked us through everything. The procedure required summoning the on-call internist and it was not cheap. If I had one knock on this place it would be steep pricing, but I can't uniquely hold it against them because that's just vet care in DC. At least the final cost came in under their estimate so I did not think they were looking to gouge me or to tack on unnecessary costs, which I appreciated. The best part of the experience, unlike some other animal hospitals, was that once my dog was checked in I was free to stay or leave (some places make you stay there and wait). The vet called me a couple of times to update me on progress and on what time I could expect my dog ready to be picked up. Definitely appreciated that. Overall if you have emergency needs, especially ones requiring involved care, I would definitely recommend them. I had a very good experience (other than cost). read more

We're regulars at VRA, and we're always grateful for the exceptional care our cats and dogs receive. A special thank you to Dr. Matthew Lechner for his thoughtful guidance and expertise. He always prioritizes the right treatments and medications, keeping surgery as a last resort, which gives us great peace of mind. We're truly thankful for his compassion and care. read more

Dr Jessica Reese is treating my 4 yr old redbone coonhound who has epilepsy, and adjusting the medication so my dog can live the best possible quality life. She is caring, considerate, explains the medication, side effects, and prognosis. This is an education and skill which I do not have, and I appreciate her and VRA. I have a dollar limit that I am willing to spend for my pets' catastrophic illnesses, and a limit to the amount of time I am willing to spend on palliative care. read more

Primary ER vet had a terrible bedside manner and didn't like if I asked questions. I spent $5,000 to have a piece of silicone removed from my cat's stomach by endoscopy, a "very quick" procedure. Would have spent another 5K if I kept him there overnight as recommended for an incidental finding on xray. Outpatient care at VRA has been good (neuro, ortho, ophthalmology). ED vet was dismissive and insensitive, which was particularly upsetting given the extremely high price. read more

Our cat was extremely sick and we thought we were going to lose him. But the staff and doctors told us that we got you and Mochi and they absolutely saved his life. We are so grateful for all the staff and doctors who went above to save our beautiful beloved cat Mochi. Thank you so much read more

My dog is being treated by two specialists at VRA. The care he has received has always been kind and compassionate. His diagnoses are thoroughly explained and made easy to understand. The techs are also highly knowledgeable and friendly. In addition, when contacted, his specialists are quick to get back to me. I highly recommend VRA. read more

We came from Charleston SC to VRA for stereotactic radiation therapy for our cat. Felix had an adenocarcinoma in his nasal cavity and there was no site within 2 hours of us that offered this therapy. We were given an appointment within days and treatment started the next week. The staff were fabulous as Chris met us each morning and evening. Dr Gordon was kind but clear regarding treatments and side effects. We also had follow up after completion of treatment. We came here based on the credentials of Dr Gordon and that was a choice we will never regret read more

Dr. Lechner and Alina (his tech) are fabulous to work with for our newly diagnosed diabetic cat, Garrison. They are so warm and knowledgeable. We are also so impressed with Mij at the front desk. What a gem! She makes us feel so welcome and is very helpful. We are truly lucky to be in such great hands! read more

Veterinary Referral Associates - Garrison - Veterinarians Near Me - Gaithersburg, Maryland

Service and staff were excellent! Dr. Chen was very personable and explained the treatment process thoroughly. Our pet was diagnosed and we received the test results the same day. I highly recommend this facility. read more

I saw a veterinary neurologist there and he was extremely helpful. He had a great bedside manner...which I definitely needed more than my dog. I came in very worried about my pup and Dr Kaiman took his time to reassure me that what I was so worried about very well may not be serious at all. I am bringing my pup back 3 months from that appointment. He is a great veterinary neurologist. So glad I took my dog to him. It was worth every penny and fortunately did not cost as much as I thought it would. read more

My cat's regular vet advised us that we needed to see a veterinary internist. At the time, I questioned whether a veterinary internist was the correct type of specialist. Within 5 minutes of entering the exam room, the VRA vet told us that we had been sent to the wrong place & then told us where we needed to go. We were charged the full $290.00 for a "consultation". Altho' the VRA vet was very nice & she didn't make the mistake, I think that charge could have been waived or at least reduced. read more

As I write this review, I am overwhelmed by a range of negative emotions. Bottom Line: I sought care for my cat at VRA, and within 32 hours, he was dead. My cat's condition was nowhere near grave; he was sick, but certainly not near death. I believe VRA administered an excessive amount/number of drugs in a short period, which tragically accelerated his demise. Dr Glover was the attending who seemed caring at first, but that all changed the following day. She turned out to be a nasty piece of work! Initially, I took my cat to Banfield because he wasn't eating. The veterinarian there suspected Hepatic Lipidosis (fatty liver disease) due to his mild jaundice and recommended an ultrasound at a hospital to determine the cause. On Wednesday morning, I brought my cat to VRA hospital. Dr. Glover was the assigned attending veterinarian. Upon our first meeting, Dr. Glover appeared caring, compassionate, and polite. I was given an estimate for a 2-3-day hospital stay, ranging from $5,000 on the low end to $10,000 on the high end. I authorized the $5,000 to admit him for tests, IV fluids, and feeding tube insertion. Later that evening, Dr. Glover called to inform me that the diagnosis was Lymphoma. She discussed chemotherapy and palliative care options. The following day, Dr. Glover called again with an update, mentioning an oncology consultation and suggesting my cat would likely be discharged later that day or the next day (Friday) with steroids if I chose not to pursue chemotherapy. I specifically asked her about my cat's condition, and she stated, "he was doing better." Within 30-40 minutes, I arrived at VRA for visitation. I was in complete shock when I saw my cat. He was not doing better, as Dr. Glover had claimed. I immediately started sobbing uncontrollably; my cat appeared to be in grave condition. When he saw me, he attempted to get up but collapsed three times before giving up. I told the technician that Dr. Glover had said he was improving and expressed my confusion about his current state. I reiterated that I did not want to pursue chemotherapy, as it seemed unlikely, he would survive the treatment. For a brief moment, I considered euthanasia then and there due to his appearance and overall condition, but I didn't want him to die at VRA and still held onto hope. I asked the technician when he would be discharged, referencing Dr. Glover's earlier statement about a potential discharge that night. Clearly, he was in no condition to be discharged, but I asked anyway. The technician left to speak with Dr. Glover and returned to relay that Dr. Glover stated he would need to stay another night. Throughout this, Dr. Glover never came out to speak with me directly. The technician then informed me it was time to leave, stating the vet needed to perform routine care on my cat and another patient. I reluctantly left after visitation. No less than 45 minutes after leaving VRA, Dr. Glover called to say that my cat had vomited and, simply put, wasn't going to make it. I let her know that I wanted be by his side and didn't want him to die before I get there. She replied coldly, "I think he has made that decision for you." I rushed back to VRA and found my cat on the table, actively dying. To end his suffering, I requested he be euthanized. Immediately afterward, the technician wrapped him in a blanket, handed him to me, and ushered my family and me to another room to spend time with my baby. Once we had said our goodbyes, the technician came to retrieve him, and we were directed to exit through a back door. I did not see or speak to Dr. Glover again. Upon arriving home, I had time to process my thoughts and felt immense anger about how events unfolded. I decided to return to VRA for my cat's remains and requested to speak with Dr. Glover. I was told she had left for the day and that someone would reach out to me. The next day, Dr. Glover called, stating she was calling because I had questions. Not once did she offer condolences. Her overall tone and attitude were a stark contrast to the caring person I met when I entrusted my cat to her care. I asked her why she had told me my cat was doing better when he clearly wasn't. I reminded her that when I brought him in, he was able to stand and walk and was nowhere near the critical condition he was in during my visit. She offered the excuse that he had a blood clot that went to his brain, causing a stroke. This was the first I had heard of this; she never spoke to me about it after her call saying he was doing better. I then told her that when I saw my cat at visitation, I wrestled with the thought of taking him home. Dr. Glover rudely interrupted me and said, "Well, I wish you would have taken him home." Better yet, I WISH I WOULD HAVE NEVER TAKEN HIM TO VRA IN THE FIRST PLACE!!! What kind of doctor would say such an insensitive thing? This wasn't her first insensitive comment. I let her know I never wanted my cat to suffer, and under her care, he did just that. read more

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In honor of Thankful Thursday, I've got to give some love to VRA and Dr. Greg Kaiman. It is every pet parent's nightmare to have to rush their pet to urgent care in the middle of the night. I was in this position earlier this summer when my dog experienced a rather spontaneous slip disc while just living his everyday life. Over a matter of 24 hours he went from a slight limp and wanting to remain fairly stationary, to dragging his hind legs when he attempted to walk. That's when I realized something very serious had taken place. I first rushed to my primary animal hospital in DC at midnight for them to assess what was taking place. After a brief time with him in the exam room, the vet came out and suggested that I try to find a 24hr hospital with a neurologist on call ASAP. He was experiencing paraparesis, which was paralysis of his lower body. He was unable to stand, walk or urinate on his own and was likely a surgery would be warranted immediately to give him the best chances of walking again. I had no idea where to begin other than calling around using their long list of places that *might* be open and *might* have an neurologist on call over the weekend. I gave VRA a call and as it turns out, they had a neurologist that they indicated *might* be coming in on Sunday to review another urgent case. So I drove to VRA from DC at 2:30am in the morning. The lobby was completely empty and there was a sign that there might be a 8 hour wait. They later clarified that the animal would be seen before then, but they may have not the staff bandwidth to communicate updates immediately. My dog was taken in immediately and everyone that we interacted with was pretty empathetic. Initially it was a bit of a hard read from the first staff member we encountered, but she continued to warm up and show us she cared in different ways. The next few days were stressful, just waiting for calls and updates. The great news is that VRA was as communicative as possible. If they said they would call by noon, I would always receive a call before noon. They were thorough and detailed in their communication (which is not always the case) and were also helpful in breaking down the significant costs, recovery odds etc that the needs of my dog would entail. Once Dr. Kaiman was able to come in and evaluate my dog, it was clear he would need surgery. Of course, going into major surgery with a vet that you've had no previous interactions with prior can be a bit unnerving. Afterall, I ended up at this hospital due purely to my level or desperation and my pet's needs. But I am so grateful I was able to stumble upon a vet as wonderful as Dr. Kaiman. Not only is Dr. Kaiman incredibly skilled and knowledgeable, but he has the best bedside manner. He is calm, empathetic and a strong communicator. It's not easy to be able to translate science and medicine to the masses, but Dr. Kaiman is fluent in a way that allows for anyone to have a clear understanding of things. He was realistic while also reassuring. He didn't overpromise, but had confidence based on all of his past cases and observations. Through the ups and downs of post-surgery updates, Dr. Kaiman was so steady and consistent. I was relieved when I was able to pick my dog up a few days later, but had no idea how challenging it would be to care for his needs after. It was a little traumatic watching my dog with his fresh staples, his cone, muzzle etc writhing on the floor yelping and crying while two vet techs tried to pin him down to show us how to express his bladder daily. It was also intimidating to see two experiences techs have so much trouble getting any urine out (because my dog was so tight and stressed) making me wonder how we would ever be able to pull this off at home. When Dr. Kaiman came in after, he had told us he had been able to express my dog's bladder on his own daily and that my dog was not terribly resistant. I think that was probably testament to Dr. Kaiman's calm and reassuring nature. My dog definitely has favorites wherever he goes, and chaotic energy does not work well with his slightly anxious and strong willed temperament. We ended up driving to NYC the next day so that my dog could rehabilitate with my sister at her veterinary hospital for the next few weeks which I was so grateful for. I'm happy to report that 6 months later, my dog is more or less back to his old self. We pick him up when he has to go up and down steps and he's no longer allowed to jump on and off furniture, but overall he is walking with a similar strength has he did before surgery. (He does have the cutest little wobble and slight self-adjustments to his running now where he bunny hops a bit, but you can't tell him any different!) So grateful for Dr. Kaiman and the team at VRA for being there for me, my dog and my family during a stressful time in our lives. We are forever grateful! read more

I highly recommend Dr. Kaiman for any neurological issues. Our German Shepherd's disability is likely genetic or something that occurred when he was still a puppy. The compassion and care of Dr. Kaiman and his associates were both heartwarming and reassuring. They are among the very best professionals at VRA. read more

I've unfortunately had a lot of experience with VRA over the years as my cats have an expensive tendency to have emergency situations occur in the middle of the night, on weekends, or occasionally on Christmas Day. Over the past decade, I've said my final goodbyes to two of my cats at this location, and another one of my cats has been a frequent guest due to a recurring health issue. The staff has always gone above and beyond, and I'm very thankful to them. They're always very upfront about the cost of things (which, MoCo being MoCo, tend to be significantly higher than the average sometimes), and they're very willing to work with you in whatever way is needed to make sure your pets get the care they need - even if that's putting stop gap measures into place and providing contact information for somewhere that could provide treatment at a lower cost. I want to take a moment to give a special shout out to Dr. Maya Wallick. My cat, Garrus, was there recently yet again due to his aforementioned health issues, and this time he ended up needing surgery ASAP. She went above and beyond with helping me find a lower cost option and buying him some time to make it there, and it really meant a lot. read more

Veterinary Referral Associates - A large black cat wearing a blue cone around his head. He's sitting on top of a toilet that's covered with a towel. - Veterinarians Near Me - Gaithersburg, Maryland

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Wonderful place, caring and highly professional staff. It's reassuring to have them nearby and available 24/7. They saved our dog's life. Top notch care and attention to every detail. read more

Excellent veterinary staff! They have many specialists in house. Seems they can address every health issue. Sometimes their emergency services aren't available lately. You might want to call ahead if you have that situation. The practice is top quality but quite expensive. Be prepared to spend more than you thought possible. Their imaging services prices are through the roof. Call around for that if you can. But your pet will always get excellent care there. read more

I had to go here under sad circumstances. They have an oncology department and are one if the only veterinary oncology departments around. So, I didn't have much choice. That being said, this place gets a lot of business because there are a lot of people who care a lot about their animals. It seems like they have a lot of experience, but I have no basis of comparison. The staff and technicians who are specific to the oncology department- I only have the highest praise and thanks to give all of them. However, I had some serious dilemmas working with the other staff. When the doctor says she'll be out of town but that I can pick up the chemotherapy medication when she's away, I expect to be able to do just that. For whatever reason, they wouldn't give me the medicine. This was not cool because well, cancer needs treatment and when it's not received, it is quite devastating. Second, when I could finally get the medication, it took 3 visits in person even after phone calls before I could get it. Again, I'm here to help my fur baby survive and y'all are not helping anything right now with failed communication between office staff and the folks getting me the chemo medication. Third, the office staff are very cold and perfunctory. They also have personal conversations among themselves while working with you, even if you're noticeably upset because well, cancer is devastating. That being said... I'm also not sure how things work with cancer and didn't get a second opinion because VRA is pretty much the oncology specialists... but when they say 8-12 months and chemo will be fine with no side effects and neither of those is remotely true... that's not ok. 6 weeks and 8-12 months are very very different. I'm sure everyone here cares about animals. I'm sure everyone here does their best. My experience was not a happy one, but I just have no basis of comparison. Because there was no other choice, I went here. I would probably go again, but, I was not the happiest with the interactions or information as stated above. Considering how many clients they have and the costs, does it cost that much to be kinder and more organized? read more

This review is for Dr. Crumley and the opthomology department. Dr. Crumley is wonderful. He gave a clear, in depth explanation of my cat's eye condition (including a white board diagram of the eye explaining the issue). He's always answered all of our questions and given clear next steps. They were able to get us in months before other opthomologists and saved us a lot of worry. The waiting area is chaotic and I do worry it stresses my diabetic cat, as dogs are frequently in the cat-only section. read more

Extremely competent and professional staff. They treated my 16 cat for a number of conditions and saved his life. He's still got work to do in this world. read more

Veterinary Referral Associates - Siamese Team 6 ready for his next mission. - Veterinarians Near Me - Gaithersburg, Maryland

My 3 girls all had a procedure last week at VRA. Bobbi had work on her ankle. The ankle that Dr Brunke saved as others vets in other establishments never fixed and we almost lost her leg if not for Dr Brunke and others vets that saved it. Havoc and Belle had laparoscopic gastronomy done by the amazing Dr Ganjei. I am always amazed at the service of VRA, from the moment you walk in the front desk people are friendly, helpful efficient and very kind. The vet techs are wonderful, thier love and knowledge of your pup, thier patience explaining everything as many times as you need them to. The Dr's that work on your pups, I wish I had the word to express how much I trust them and appreciate them. Dr Brunke and Dr Ganjei come out after the procedure to sit with you and let you know how it went to calm your nerves, then explain what they did and how your baby is doing. This hands on with the human is so important and settling. BTW the anesthesia Vets also come out to say hello and ask if you have questions. VRA is the best place with some unbelievable people. Thank you all for loving my girls read more

The front-desk staff, two women in particular, were the rudest individuals I've encountered in as long as I can remember. I waited at the desk for more than 5 minutes before they interrupted their (not work related) gabfest long enough to tell me that they were busy. Busy??? I was the only client standing there, and none of them was on a phone call. I hardly have words for how obnoxious they were. I wish I'd read the reviews before putting myself through such a miserable day in that waiting room; had I checked out the numerous 1-star reviews here, I would have thought twice. One reviewer here, in particular, singled out (by exact description) the two staffers who were the rudest. Given that a client's first contact is virtually always at the front desk, I can't imagine for a minute why VRA chooses to have these obnoxious staffers as the face of the organization. read more

We are reiterating our initial review of earlier this year, after another surgery was required to remove the recurring benign growth in our dog's nasal passages. Prior to the surgery he was breathing thru part of one nostril only, otherwise very healthy. Dr Lechner was able to remove the growth, and our dog came home the same day as surgery without missing a beat, and relieved of all of his aspiration difficulties. read more

February 11, 2025 My 12 yr old Maltipoo, Joy, developed a large lump/abscess on her face. I was referred to VRA in Gaithersburg by my local vet for a consultation and surgical removal.-- The entire team at VRA was thorough, compassionate and supportive!! From the receptionist, Paige, to the entire surgical staff; Jason, Megan, vet techs and Dr. Justin Ganjei, our surgeon; as well post surgical team member that explained in detail Joy's aftercare. --I would highly recommend Dr. Ganjei at VRA. I cannot thank him enough! Joy is doing very well and back to being my joy! read more

My kitty Lady and I were both well taken care of. She had been losing weight for some unknown reason and the doctor performed an endoscopy and found the diagnosis. I was given B-12 shots to give to her, each week's dose in a filled hypodermic needle, making it easier for me to do this. Their oncologist met with me in a phone call and went over all the treatments. I chose the one that will give my kitty the best chance. I will take my pets there again. read more

Veterinary Referral Associates - Lady resting with me after watching TV with me. - Veterinarians Near Me - Gaithersburg, Maryland

My childhood cat has rapidly been declining and showing signs of kidney disease and dementia. Her quality of life was significantly decreasing and my family made the difficult choice to euthanize her Thursday night, August 8th. I'm thousands of miles across the country and heartbroken. My parents called her vet and they referred her to Vet Referral Services. My parents arrived and gave all symptoms, emotional in anticipation of having to say goodbye to our last family cat. The vet asked some questions, talked about the options, and took my cat back. After several hours of waiting, two cops walk through the door. I have not heard from my family in three hours, I was confused and anxious. My parents called me saying that the microchip on file does not match their identity, and the vet is claiming the cat is not ours and is stolen and called the cops. The vet did not talk to my parents first before calling the police. My parents showed our microchip confirmation, adoption paperwork, photos of her since she was a baby with me, the lockscreen of their phone being her, and more proof. Despite this, the vet claims a lady lost a cat two years ago and it's her. They did not provide my parents with any more information. My parents waited for hours, stuck in a room refusing to leave until they got my cat back. After four hours, the cops allowed my parents to take back our cat, for obvious reasons, despite the vet wanting to keep her for "observation". They called the woman who the vet said was the "owner" of my cat without our knowledge and I assume tried to get this person to come get her. My parents drove back home, with my cat that was supposed to pass humanely surrounded by love, still suffering and scared beyond belief after being stuck in a crate for hours in an unknown place. How does a vet treat an animal this way? They did not give my cat ANY CARE. Those entire four hours, my cat was not looked at, examined, tested, given an IV, ANYTHING to ease her anxiety and make her more comfortable. The animal services stated that there may be a chance she has several microchips and she needs to be xrayed to check. They never did that xray to confirm. My parents waited in agony for her and I felt helpless across the country not knowing how else to prove that this is my childhood cat Veruca Salt, aka Wookie Cookie. Our sweet, sweet girl deserving of love and compassion and humane treatment. They did not tell us anything about our Veruca during these several hours. Animal services was calling us, and has called our microchip company who stated to Animal services that this cat is ours. They received all of our adoption paperwork, microchip information, and more. My family is traumatized and terrified of bringing her in for humane euthanasia. We do not know what to think and what to do. The clinic treated my parents like criminals ignoring them and their pleas. We found out today that the microchip number was one off (so it was NEVER an exact match), and the cat missing two years ago is my cats sister, not my cat. There has been no formal apology from the vet or clinic. Animal services has provided nice messages and apologies. I'm sure not everyone at the office here is like this. But please consider how you want your pets last moments to be. This is not the place to seek emergency care and they do not care about your animals. They never told my parents the situation and did not believe a word they said. I hope this person reflects on how they treated my family in such an emotional and traumatic time and takes classes on empathy and compassion. I suggest formal training and experience and supervision on how to handle euthanasia experiences and appropriately communicate with compassion, and to always double check your work. read more

Veterinary Referral Associates - Two different cops in two different cars that were called on my parents using taxpayer dollars. - Veterinarians Near Me - Gaithersburg, Maryland

We brought our cat here for the radio-iodine (I-131) hyper thyroid treatment. It starts with a paid consult with Dr. Conway where you get direct 1-on-1 time with the doctor to understand the process in great details, and ask all your question. Dr. Conway is calm and helpful, and so kind. We felt at ease right from the start. The treatment is a bit scary because the cat stays in their building for 5 days, but Margaret called me every day to give me an update on our cat, and helped me feel at ease along the way. The discharge process was very detailed. They took the time to give us the info directly, and answer all our questions. We'll see the long term impact of the treatment on our cat, but we are happy we went with VRA to do this and would choose them again. read more

Dr Brunke and staff are amazing!! Front staff were very welcoming. Dr Brunke is thorough and makes sure I understand my pup's issues and all my choices. He found the cause of Lucy's discomfort (a total fluke resulting from a previous surgery). He also reached out to that surgeon to request a test while she was under anesthesia (getting the "fluke" resolved). I had no idea he reached out to the surgeon so sweet Lucille didn't need to be anesthetized again. He definitely went out of his way for me and Lucy. That is a great doc!! My regular vet went to him w her pup and then recommended him for Lucy. Will definitely go back to him if needed and recommend him to anyone that has a pet with physical discomfort and/or mobility issues. read more

Dr. Wallick & Stiefvater were wonderful & helped save my cat Nebula when she got into a Lily flower this past weekend. The experience was scary and I was nervous about bringing her into the vet "ER" as I always heard horrible stories but VRA handled the situation with kindness and care! Because my cat had to be hospitalized for 2 days, I was calling at least twice a day to check on her and each time someone picked up and was able to give me an update. Like a human ER, there are wait times but I believe they prioritize the serious time conscious cases well and once you're seen you're given clear explanations and time for questions. Thankful for VRA and the care they showed my cat. read more