My dog stayed over night and was seen by the cardiologist. I found the care to be great and happy they helped my dog. However they prescribed medication that is $250 plus a month. I called 3 times to try to speak with the dr or a tech about the medication to see if there was an alternative medication to give him. Unfortunately I can't afford the medication monthly. All the dr did was send an email with websites that may have it cheaper. I called and left another message saying thanks but it's still $250 a month and I would like to come up with a game plan for alternative medications or find different options. They have yet to call me back this is after spending $2,000 with them. Shame on you!!!! read more

We had read some of the reviews on here and had mixed expectations, but our cat was given some of the best treatment that we could have expected. We came on a Saturday night while they were presumably pretty busy and we got in and out within 1.5 hours. Our cat was having a dental/mouth issue and the vet didn't try to sell us on any unnecessary treatments or procedures and respected our opinions and inferences on what may be wrong. All staff was incredibly welcoming and the bill was nowhere near as crazy as we thought it would be! Would definitely recommend! read more

I don't know whether this practice is incompetent, unethical or both. To say I had a negative experience would be an understatement. My vet referred me to VSS to check out what appeared to be a small growth inside my cat's ear. The objective was simply to determine if the growth warranted removal. Despite the written referral from my vet, as well as my own detailed description, the VSS vet advised that there was "nothing there." He noted there was some inflammation in the ear (there wasn't.) His recommendation was a $1600 CT scan. If major surgery on ear structure required, it would be done at the same time at a total cost of up to $3,600 I was emailed an estimate, requesting my signature. Bc of COVID, they would not allow me to enter the clinic and point out the obvious growth and flatly denied there was anything visible in his ear, suggesting that if inflammation didn't respond to medical treatment, it was likely a tumor or structural problem not visible, absent CT scan. Took my poor kitty back to my vet today, and she was as puzzled as I was. The difference between affected and non-affected ear was obvious and hardly open to debate. To sum up, DO NOT TAKE YOUR PET TO VSS. My vet admitted she'd had negative feedback from other clients, but there were few available options for this type of consult. I will gladly take my baby to Mazoo vet school or Texas A&M before VSS. It cost $120 (they'd quoted me $100 by phone), not to mention the stress on my 13 yr old cat. A pox on all their houses. read more

My dog "Cuddles", a shih tzu, was eating and drinking water exceptionally well. Any time she would come back from the outside, she would bark and run to the kitchen to get her threat. She was on three different medications for a lung condition and even with her condition she stabilized extremely well. Then one year passed and Dr. Cecilla Marshall did not want prescribe one of her medications until she sees her again. On April 19, 2018, I took Cuddles to VSS for a routine checkup of her lungs so that I can get a prescription from them. After a series of questions, I told Dr. Marshall and the VSS technician that the dog is doing way better than she was without medication. But even after just seeing the dog, she still wanted to perform a series of tests that were unnecessary just so they can charge as much as possible. The technician came back with a list of tests and a bill of $825.64. I asked her if they would use any anesthetic drugs because both her regular vet and her eye specialist told me it could be very risky to put her under any anesthesia since she is on medications for lung issues, including breathing and coughing, plus she is an older dog and almost blind. The technician reassured me that they would not use any anesthetic drugs. After they performed tests, I saw that they still used an anesthetic agent even though the technician told me that they would not and my bill went up to $838.53. My dog was handed back to me by another technician who also passed by our waiting room carrying her like a bag of potatoes instead of a living creature. She was moaning, distressed and couldn't even stand or walk on her own and I felt like she had been tortured instead of given specialized medical care. Now she doesn't eat, drink water nor walk and on top of that, the growth she has on her paw was scratched and bleeding after I got her back. They did not even bother to wrap a bandage around it. After I told Dr. Marshall, she told me that she forgot to mention that they still gave her an anesthetic drug even though I told them not to do so. She also told me that my dog should recover in a few hours and should be the same as before. The new prescription for the medication doesn't matter anymore because my dog doesn't eat or drink water because she has been left crippled by Dr. Cecilla Marshall. On next day April 20, 2018 at 7:35pm, I called VSS to talk to Dr. Marshall because my dog has still not recovered. I talked to technician Monik and I explained that my dog is just sleeping and not eating anything. She told me I could bring her to the emergency care but when I asked who will cover the bill as I was there a day ago with my healthy dog already; she said they would talk to Dr. Marshall to see with her. Around 9:00pm, the same technician called me to tell me that her shift will be over soon and that she still waiting on Dr. Marshall to call them back and she already put all of the info in the computer so that Dr. Marshall has all the information if she calls. I never heard from either VSS or Dr. Marshall again. On Saturday April 21, 2018, I took her to her vet and he still did not receive any test results from VSS or Dr. Marshall that they performed 2 days earlier. He concluded that she had been extremely stressed and handled roughly so he gave her an injection for pain/inflammation and vitamin b to try opening her appetite. Even after all this, she wasn't doing any better and on Monday April 30th, 2018, my dog died because of Dr. Cecilla Marshall and her team mishandling my dog. read more

I've never had the pleasure to work with a better veterinarian than Dr. Kelly Gingerich. I adopted the most lovable puppy mill rescue years ago ...only to find out she had chronic liver disease. Dr. Gingerich explained the condition and placed Hannah on a few medications that have kept her healthy for the last five years with no issues. I've moved from the area and have yet to find another specialist in my new city to treat Hannah. I called Dr.Gingerich about some new symptoms she is having and she took the time to explain why and gave me advice on what to ask my vet to prescribe. She is truly caring, compassionate and wants the absolute best for your pet. The entire staff is great - but Dr. Gingerich is top notch. Thanks again, VSS, for keeping my fur baby as healthy as she can be! read more

These people were so wonderful to my lab, Bella and me when she was diagnosed with liver cancer. Dr. Sherman was so compassionate and understanding. If I have a sick pet in the future I would never take them any where else. Trust me, if your pet is critically ill...this where you want to be. read more

These vets are amazing and caring! They have saved my poor cats life twice! It does not matter what time it is or what day it is these vets are always their for you. I truly believe that they care about each and everyone of their patients. Thank you so much for the amazing love and care you have provided to my family member! read more

Veterinary Specialty Services - Roadkill thanks everyone at VSS! - Veterinarians Near Me - Ballwin, Missouri

This place is a racket. The prices for meds are insanely high. The staff, although nice, rushes you through everything. The doctors won't spend 5 minutes with you even if you have an appointment. You ask why do they need to do procedure X or test Y and no one can answer anything. The estimates were not even close to the total cost for our 10 year old pup. Sadly, they know they are the only specialist in town and take advantage of folks. I've talked to multiple folks with the same experience. My suggestion to folks looking to go here - try as much as possible to work with your own vet on treatment before going here. If you do go here demand time with the doctor and don't do anything until you have your answers before committing to any work. read more

On a Saturday night, my elderly kitty started seizing nonstop. Every emergency vet had 5+ hour emergency wait times but VSS took her in immediately. Unfortunately I had to say goodbye, but Dr Torres was SO kind to me during this time. Never pressured, and I got to be with my kitty when she passed even during covid. It was a horrible horrible evening but i was very grateful to VSS and Dr Torres for helping my baby not suffer any longer. read more

VSS saved my girl. There was an accident on our home on 2/19/21. We went to the emergency vet in Webster groves and got a referral to VSS due to her issue being more than likely surgical. My sweet pup ended up needing a hemilaminectomy, basically she herniated a disc and loss all use of her back limbs. The entire staff was friendly and very communicative. They let me know how she was doing every single day. The surgeon called to reassure me of the exact procedure he would be performing minutes before heading into surgery. Less than an hour later I had an update that she was doing as planned. They continued to call me every morning over her 5 night stay and let me know how she was progressing. They were very detail oriented about every step of the process. I would also suggest using the healing paws physical therapy downstairs. My girl has been using the underwater treadmill and doing range of motion exercises with them to get her back on her feet as soon as possible. I will always suggest this place if your furry friend needs some assistance. Thank you so much!! read more

A great place to take your pet for an emergency. Open 24 hours and staffed with a vet and several specialists. Reasonable fee, professional courteous and very clean facility. read more

My husband and I have nothing but praise for VSS! Our 11 year old Labradoodle needed tieback surgery and we were referred to Dr. Anderson at VSS. Dr. Anderson is wonderful! He fully explained the procedure, was very frank with us about what we were getting into and what our dog was going to go through and answered all our questions. The surgery went well, our dogs after-care at VSS was excellent and she is doing well. This is a great veterinary specialty practice - I highly recommend! read more

I love VSS and will never go anywhere for my pet. Dr. Greer is amazing and so loving to animals. We brought our sweet little Cavapoo to VSS on New Years Day morning after being told by the Kirkwood Emergency Animal Hospital vet that he was too sick (septic shock) to have surgery at their facility. The vet referred us to the Ballwin VSS, and we could not be more grateful for them. Dr. Greer took care of Triscuit and literally saved his life. The chances of him surviving a 3rd surgery were 50-50. So, very risky, but she was so honest, clear about possible outcomes and the cost. The facility was incredibly clean, and every staff member is professional, compassionate and kind. I will only take Triscuit to VSS, and will refer all friends and family to this facility. Dr. Greer called us with updates, and better yet, kept the cost within the original estimate, even though the surgery was MUCH more complicated and involved resection of his intestine and suctioning out the sepsis. All of the vets at this facility are amazing, bright, compassionate and have excellent bedside manner. My family and I could not get over how clean the Ballwin VSS was, especially when coming in on off hours, and a holiday! As a clinician, I was extremely impressed with everything about VSS- and if I could give it 10 stars, I would. Love them! Triscuit survived and is doing great! Thank you Dr. Greer and team! read more

Their covid related processes leave a lot of be desired. I have a referral from my vet to see a cardiologist at VSS. They won't even schedule the service for at least a week. I am not talking about the appointment itself. They won't even think about the appointment for a week. Frankly, this is no way to run a business. They are blaming this on "COVID" procedures, but scheduling an appointment doesn't take that much. Open a calendar, see an open spot, put the patient information in - which we have been a patient of theirs in the past, so that shouldn't be difficult. They need to change their patient intake procedures. read more

Lisa N. I took my lab there on a Friday night 3 weeks ago. By Sunday he was dead. They said he needed an ultrasound which couldn't be done until Monday. He kept deteriorating and died on Sunday. I believe they could of done more to see why something was attacking his liver. A week before this happened he was a healthy 8 year old lab running at the park. Things could of been done better for sure. You hear from the doctor once a day in the morning and they tell you nothing. And everyday is a different doctor. $2000 later my dog did not come home with his family who loved him immensely. I would not go back there again. read more

My cat had trachea lymphoma, and went to VSS for chemotherapy. This was five years ago, and I can't ingrained life without her. She's doing fantastic! If you read the reviews complaining about prices, keep scrolling. These are specialists in their fields, and the quality of care is unsurpassed. I also foster for a rescue, and I have had animals also there for ear canal surgery, diaphragmatic hernia surgery, eye enucleations, broken bones, and much more over the years. I cannot say enough good things about VSS and their staff. read more

we brought our beautiful english masiff here for a performation of her stomach lining not a huge deal, doctor stated its 50-50 and $9,000 she died not even 2 days later. People are rude and should nottttt be practicing medicine on anything. Very dangerous place for your pets care. read more

Absolutely the worst place to go for emergency care. The doctors have zero compassion and approach the care of their patients with an arrogant I am better than everyone mentality. My emergency visit literally accomplished absolutely nothing in terms of my dogs medical condition. 100% avoid this place - in the event of a emergency I would choose Webster Groves Animal Hospital, nothing but positive experience based off of previous experiences. Unfortunately they were not open this evening. read more

I understand that this is an emergency clinic. If you were to go to an emergency room for a human, you are going to wait and this is no different. Given the realistic waiting-time expectations, I'm still really unhappy with this place. I took my cat there for ingesting poisonous food *per their recommendation* on the phone. While I was sitting in the exam room, they just gave me a phone number on a sticky note to call that is some APA animal poison control hotline. I talked to somebody on a hotline, they searched some information they had and then determined my cat would be ok. THEN, after talking to a hotline that charged me $90 over the phone, and never seeing the vet, I still had to pay the clinic $130 for the visit. I have NO clue why I wasn't given the hotline number when I was on the phone with the hospital asking what to do. And if they did absolutely nothing besides write down a phone number, I think it's insane and unethical to still charge me $130 if they know that they're the ones who recommended I bring in my cat. I'm not an expert, so I need to trust the hospital recommendations, which I absolutely do not at this point. read more

We've been to VSS twice. Once for our dog when his stitches split after a surgery (not performed here), and later for our cat. They did such an excellent job getting our pup all cleaned and stitched back up and made sure he had antibiotics to prevent an infection from the open wound. The second time was because our cat had a mystery illness that our primary vet couldn't figure out and referred us to VSS. They took him right away, and the vet spoke with me at length about the plan of care. I called for an update later that evening and a vet nurse very kindly spoke to me and told me how he was doing. Unfortunately, the diagnosis was not good- cancer. The vet who gave me the news was so kind and professional. He gave me options for treatment but we ultimately chose humane euthanasia, as treatment would only prolong suffering. When we arrived, they brought our cat to us and allowed us plenty of time to say goodbye. They allowed my husband to hold him while they gave him the injection and when his ashes were ready they came with such a kind card and an imprint of our cats paw. They went above and beyond and I'm so grateful to the professionals at VSS. read more

I came in for a specialist's second opinion, referred from my primary vet. They treated my Queen like the royalty she is and relayed the news I expected with the utmost compassion. Unfortunately, there wasn't much that can be done for my sweet kitty that wouldn't cause her more pain and suffering. I just wanted an oncologist and surgeon to confirm treatment was not a good option read more

We came here at the suggestion of our vet because the vet told us that our cat needed an ultrasound scan to diagnose what might have been intestinal problems. When we arrived, I told this to the receptionist on the phone (due to COVID, you call when you get there and they come out to get your pet)...and then we waited for more than hour until someone came out to get our cat. Then we waited for maybe another hour until the vet called us, to tell us that we could not get a scan that day because they were booked up -- then the vet blamed our vet for telling us that we could get one on the same day, and ignored my question as to why the receptionist did not also tell this to me when I explained, clearly, why we were there. The vet said that if we left our cat there overnight (for a fee) maybe (maybe) we could get the scan the next day, but the vet could not guarantee anything. The vet then went into a long list of diagnostic procedures they could do, which would run between $1200 and $1800 -- with no guarantee that the tests would tell us what was wrong with our cat. We ended up being there nearly five hours and left without any answers at all. I don't mind that there were no answers so much -- I understand that sometimes answers are not easy to come by -- but it was the lack of communication while we were there and the fact that we sat in our car for so many hours, as they kept telling us to wait. It would have been better if they had said, this is going to take four hours. We can call you when we are finished. I will never take another pet there again. read more

Do your research people...don't waste your time here. Go to a Mizzou or anywhere else! I have had many dogs at VSS and each time the stories are just more unbelievable. Way back when they might have been the place to go but now it seems they are too big for their britches. Way too many mistakes!! Way too many stories of neglect and poor care!! read more

They were fantastic when I had an emergency with my dog. He's very small, and old, but they were amazing when handling his injuries. The tech was careful with him knowing he was in pain. The vet knew how to care for him with gentleness. read more

This place is amazing! We were very nervous about an allergic reaction to our dogs face from a bee sting, after administering Benadryl and the reaction only worsening. We called and they explained their curbside protocol, and as soon as we arrived they grabbed our dog and brought him inside. Their service was quick and efficient with also giving the best care possible. This group was incredibly professional and kind. I would not hesitate to go back for any emergency with our dog! read more

I took my dog to the Howard George location over a weekend, as my vet recommended that she receive a transfusion. The experience you'll have all depends on which vet u get. The bet that did the first transfusion (Koors) was wonderful. But then another vet took over his shift and called telling us our girl wasn't going to make it (very different than what Koors had just told us). We drove out there asap and felt zero compassion coming from the vet that took over. It felt like either he didn't want to be bothered with her or maybe he had another dog that he wanted to give her spot to; we'll never know. But his explanations as to how he came to this prognosis were not at all satisfactory to us, but it didn't seem to matter to him. Long story short, he got his way and she was euthanized that day. Neither my husband nor I got the feeling that putting her down impacted him one bit. I've had to put several pets down through my life, and none of the experiences were as cold as this one. She deserved much better. If he's had to harden his heart because of his line of work, he cd at least ACT like he cares for the sake of the owners. read more

Went there on a holiday weekend when one of our pups got stung by a wasp, eye was half swollen shut. (insert awe poor baby here) This pup is timid with new people and we mentioned this to the staff during the visit. They were fantastic with her and she seemed comfortable with them. Gave her a shot, checked for stinger and sent home with medicine. While we love our pups, during this visit my inside voice was concerned with what the bill would end up costing us. Felt there fees were very reasonable. Overall we were were extremely pleased with everything! read more

I worked with Dr Kate about my severely ill cat. She went above and beyond trying to help her. Unfortunately we got her to VSS too late #COVIDSUCKS. VSS was very kind and compassionate and Dr Kate diagnosed a very rare disease that other vets had not found. I highly recommend them. read more

I unfortunately did not have a positive experience at VSS. My dog was rushed into emergency surgery at her regular vet after ingesting a foreign substance. After her surgery she needed to be in an overnight animal hospital and my vet recommended VSS as the best possible care facility. I wanted the best for my dog, so that's where we went. The place was busy due to emergencies (understandable), but I felt like the desk staff was very rushing and cold hearted with me after an obviously traumatizing day. My vet had also sent over my dogs information prior to, and they acted like they didn't have it and I had to re-provide my dogs medical records. Even then, I was so focused on my dogs medical care I was willing to deal with unprofessional staff. My dog's chances for survival were slim, but the veterinarian and vet techs made things seem way more positive. I'm not sure if that was too help me feel better but I left scratching my head. I checked on my dog several times throughout the night and each time I was assured she was ok. Not even an hour after I last checked on her, I was informed she stop breathing. The explanation for her death was extremely vague and I never got the full details of what happened to her. I ended up paying $500 for less than a 24 hour stay. I don't recommend this business. read more

Almost $4,000 later for them to tell me my dog "might have" colitis and giving me a prescription for special diet dog food. They were extremely cold, passed me from doctor to doctor when I was just trying to get clear answers on her prognosis. I will absolutely never use these people again. read more

My dog became suddenly and severely ill, and was taken to an urgent care clinic. But she needed hospitalization and that clinic no longer provided overnight vet care, so she had to be transported here. The original vet who saw her (Dr. Whiting) was great, but otherwise I was very disappointed. I know they're busy. Very busy. That said, there's a need for compassion when people are bringing sick, injured and possibly dying animals to them. I didn't get much of a sense of compassion from the staff over the phone, and it felt lukewarm in person. The vet who ended up being her doctor had a lousy bedside manner - for example, he kept referring to my dog, my beloved pet, as "the dog." WTF? When I called to check on her, the conversations led me to believe I was inconveniencing them by calling twice a day to check on my critically ill dog. I'm also not convinced that my dog received more than a minimum of attention during her hospitalization. She wasn't eating, but they only offered her food every 6-8 hours. To me, she was obviously in pain, yet she received no pain meds the entire time. And when I brought it up, I was told "Dr. __ will examine her when he gets out of surgery and if he thinks she's in pain, he'll give her medications." Well, he didn't. Given what was wrong with her, she WAS in pain. There is no question of that. And it breaks my heart to know that her pain wasn't appropriately managed and that it caused her to suffer. I feel like I failed her by entrusting her to their care. Her condition was terminal, so I brought her home and had her euthanized on her comfy bed. There was no way I was going to let her die or be euthanized there. When I picked her up (I gave them at least an hour's notice), they just ran my credit card and gave me a receipt. I had to call them later and ask for an itemized statement. I've never had to do that before, every vet clinic I've been to has provided one at discharge. It's been more than 10 days since she died and I've not received any sort of sympathy note from them. Again, I know they're busy, and I know that seems like a minor thing to many, but it's the small things like a sympathy card that show someone cares. I did not get the feeling that this clinic cared about my dog. I don't really have another option in this area, so I'd have to go back here if any of my pets need emergency care. That doesn't give me much comfort, based on this experience. read more

Please bear in mind that my review is colored by grief for our cat. We took her to VSS because we didn't have an established vet (new to the area). She had been vomiting and not eating for 3 days but was still walking and taking water. Because of the coronavirus, we had to wait in our car to have her picked up by a tech. Once she was inside, we waited some more for the vet to call and say she had some abnormal blood markers indicating dehydration - not surprising. The abdominal x-ray was normal and since they couldn't pinpoint any particular cause, he recommended keeping the cat overnight for fluids and follow-up ultrasound to the tune of $1600. Because we love our fur baby we left her there. Imagine our horror when several hours later we got a call indicating that her heart had stopped, she had been revived, and that one of us (again due to Covid) could come see her. The place was an absolute madhouse of activity which really made me question how soon anyone had noticed her heart had stopped. She was now approaching death's door with a decreased heart rate. After agonizing over what we should do - take her home or euthanasia - we chose the latter in the hope that it would be less painful for her. How I wish I had just kept her home and never exposed her to this place. We will never know what caused her initial problem nor will we know whether the anxiety of being in this madhouse contributed to her end. But, I will never take another pet to VSS. read more

Love this place! Everyone is amazing and so caring!! Everyone treats every animal that walks in the front door like their own! 5 of my own pets have been treated at VSS and I couldn't be happier with all the care and love all the techs, doctors and receptionist gave all of them! They will always have a special place in my heart! read more

SUBSTANDARD CARE. For Veterinary Specialists, I expect expert care. Never found this to be true. Took our dog to one Specialist there who gave us specific directions on the long term care of our pet. The, he referred us to another Specialist, within the same group, when he could have easily and more competently provided the care. The next Specialist provided care and drugs, in complete disagreement with the first Vet. All within the same office and business. Clearly, not one of the 20 Vets there, ever speak to one another or read the patient's notes. Then, our dog acquired an infection during surgery that is only caught in a Veterinary hospital. It was a superbug. Just like in humans. And resistant to practically every antibiotic. They ordered antibiotics before culture tests revealed the appropriate antibiotic. The antibiotic, that was ineffective, made our dog terribly sick and she went into kidney failure. We had to put our healthy 5 year old dog to sleep, as a result of the infection she got at VSS. VSS does not follow routine infection control practices you would find at Target. Witnessed a poor sick dog with terrible diarrhea. vets walked around it. clerical staff stared at it. And the person who cleaned it up with Lysol wipes then contaminated everything with his filthy gloves. Very, very poor care. But NO ONE regulates Veterinary practices so they can get by with gross violations of standards. read more

Dr. Greer the vet we worked with was wonderful. Her surgery seemed to go well. Our dog got good treatment at first but then things went wrong. When we went to pick up our dog in the evening they were very busy with emergencies so left us sitting in a room waiting for 90 minutes. When they brought our dog out she was worse off than when we saw her that morning! My wife noticed her breathing was labored and that they had just removed the IV and feeding tube, the dog was still bleeding! Anyway, we insisted that a vet look at her before we left and she was diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia. When we put her on the floor she also urinated a lot, so she had not been taken out in a loooong time. She has been home for a few days and is not getting better. Our regular vet says things don't look good. Bottom line, the vets are skilled and caring. The techs on the other hand, are too busy to do their jobs well and quite honestly their attitudes show it. Take your dogs there for an emergency but don't leave them there for long! read more

My cat was supposedly treated by the veterinarians at Veterinary Specialty Services in April of 2016. I say supposedly treated because of the neglect, abuse, and unnecessary treatment my four-year-old cat received in her final days. After consultations at other veterinary offices, it was determined that my cat, Lucy, had heart disease. According to Lucy's general care veterinarian, VSS would be the best place for Lucy to receive treatment. I should not have followed that opinion. During our visit, the heart specialist at VSS asserted that Lucy had a good prognosis, they would just need to keep her to monitor her vitals and provide her with consistent care. I would have been apprehensive to keep her there had VSS given me a different prognosis. Ultimately, the doctor provided me with false hope to line the pocketbook of VSS. Less than 36 hours in their care, Lucy's health rapidly deteriorated which required me to make the tough decision to have her put to sleep. While holding her and through my tears I was apologizing to my little Lucy for leaving her there if I had only known. The doctor who administered the medicine to put Lucy to sleep argued with me immediately following the procedure instead of apologizing or sympathizing at all, she told me that I was made aware that this could be the outcome. After reviewing the itemized bill, I noticed a number of items that were not previously brought to my attention (i.e. additional testing, body scans, and removal/reinsertion of feeding tubes) that resulted in the further distress of my cat. Whatever you do, please do not bring your animals to VSS. read more

Veterinary Specialty Services - Lucy after just 24 hrs at VSS - Veterinarians Near Me - Ballwin, Missouri

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They killed my dog. Misdiagnosed her problem. I will never go to or refer them to anyone. We are totally devastated.

VSS to the rescue again! One year to the day from when my dog, Leo, was admitted, Maddie was having breathing problems and gasping for air. And again, I was not at home. I was 30 minutes away at a conference for work and my sister was watching the furries. She called me panicked and I told her to take Maddie to the Animal Emergency Clinic because it's right by my house and even though I like VSS way better, with a breathing issue I thought it was emergency enough to get somewhere fast. The AEC was a nightmare. They turned her away and were really rude! Wouldn't even tell her where VSS was. I had to give her directions. I met her at VSS and luckily Maddie's breathing was a little better. The VSS staff met us in the parking lot and took Maddie immediately to the back and into the oxygen tent. The doctor came out soon and explained the issue. Maddie had to go on meds, get xrays, and was in the hospital for 2 days. The vets called with updates, let me visit, and the staff - again - was amazing. So compassionate. Anyone who knows me know that I'm crazy for my pets and get really emotional when they are sick. That coupled with the fact that my other dog didn't make it a year ago and it still upsets me so I was pretty much crying the entire time I was there. Maddie was in the same oxygen tent that Leo was in. That was hard. VSS makes everything easier when times are hard. If you can get here in an emergency, drive extra. They are the best! read more

I'm watching my sister's furry friends this weekend, and started my day today calling the cops on her idiot neighbors who don't deserve to have pets in the first place. These people leave their dogs out in the dead of winter, for hours on end, and they cry and howl the whole time too! Luckily I'm a heavy sleeper, but I'm not heartless. So I called the cops. And if I lived by you and you left your pets out in the dead of winter for hours and hours, I'd call the cops on you too. So I was bummed about this the whole day, until another dog needed my attention...Maddie, my sister's elderly pom, who is in the beginning stages of heart failure, began having wheezing fits, one after the next, and coughing up a very thick white substance. She also seemed to be laboring for breath, and even refused cheese when I tried to feed her (she is now refusing just about everything else, but NEVER cheese). I knew something wasn't right immediately, and called Sar. I've been to VSS before. I took Maddie the first time she began experiencing these problems, but not before going to Big Bend Animal Hospital right down the road, only to be turned away by a frantic front desk woman who left me standing alone in a dark waiting room with a dead phone plugged into the wall, a struggling puppy, and a frantic Sarah S. on the other line trying to give me directions to VSS. So this time, we were prepared. I grabbed her 3 medications, directions to VSS from the fridge, my little Mads in her IU bed, and away we went. Upon arrival, they pulled her chart, and whisked her to the back right away for oxygen. Every time that I have come to VSS, besides when we came for a cut foot and she wasn't in harm's way, they have gotten to work immediately. They've saved her life. And having seen 2 doctors now, both were excellent, very compassionate, and very thorough. They also have very nice, new, and clean facilities, and while the chairs are a bit uncomfortable, there are much worse places to wait for your ailing pets than this. It's a bit far from where we live, but it is worth the extra drive for this quality of care. Warning though: if you have to turn left from 141 South, the left turn light does NOT turn green really late at night. You have to run it. Trust me. I've waited 10 minutes on several different occasions, and it's something that you should know if you're having a true animal emergency. Little Mads had to stay over night, but they called to update us and she's already doing MUCH better! I started the day feeling very discouraged about pet owners today, but when at VSS, I was reminded that there are lots of people out there that will do whatever they can for their pets. As they should for any member of the family. read more

This oncology service is wonderful. I've had numerous consults with Dr. Erin Cletzer and she is very knowledgeable and insightful, as well as compassionate. Would recommend Dr. Cletzer to anyone in need of an oncologist for their pet! read more