I am finally ready to write this review, though it took me a long time because my cat meant everything to me. I worked with Dr Hawthorne at Veterinary Surgical Centers Vienna during the last months of my cat's life, and I truly do not know how I would have gotten through that time without her and this clinic. Before finding them, I had a devastating experience with my regular vet, Small Door on 14th St. I brought my cat in for what I thought was a routine visit but mentioned that his belly felt slightly distended. I was repeatedly told it was probably nothing. We did an x ray and again I was told it was probably nothing, though there was a shadow. I knew something was wrong and pushed for an ultrasound, which revealed a tumor. After that, despite begging for communication and guidance, I essentially never heard from them again. I was sent to Friendship Animal Hospital, which was fine, and they told me my cat would likely need surgery for what they believed was a benign mass. Wanting another opinion, I contacted Veterinary Surgical Centers Vienna because of their excellent reviews. They got back to me quickly and told me Dr Hawthorne would call me. She ended up calling around 9:30 that night. I cried on the phone explaining everything and she listened with real compassion. She gave thoughtful, honest advice and treated me like a person who loved her animal, not just another case. Things moved quickly and I ended up taking my cat to Friendship for an emergency appointment early the next morning. They told me we had to do the surgery immediately or not at all. It was around 7 in the morning and I called Dr Hawthorne again. She spoke to me like I was family and helped me think through the decision. When I asked Friendship for advice they said, "We are surgeons, we are always going to tell you to do the surgery." Dr Hawthorne helped give me perspective in a much more human way. Unfortunately the surgery revealed he likely had cancer, and it turned out he had two different cancers. Within a week fluid returned in his belly and he needed to be drained. At Friendship the procedure was extremely expensive and required sedation, which I was not comfortable with but did because I wanted him to be okay. After doing this twice I called VSC Vienna. By that point Dr Hawthorne had already reached out for updates and continued offering guidance. I brought him there for the next drain and because of their skill sedation was not necessary. They were gentle, incredibly kind, and it cost less than half the price. For the next several months I brought him in regularly to be drained. At Friendship I had to fast him, withhold medication, and leave him there all day while paying nearly three times as much. At VSC Vienna they understood that we were simply trying to keep him comfortable during the end of his life. They held my hand through everything and reassured me that because he still seemed happy I was doing the right thing. During the last drain he seemed less happy and Dr Hawthorne spoke with me honestly and gently about how we might be getting closer to the end. I needed that guidance because my only goal was to keep him comfortable and never push him too far. When things finally changed I called her again and she helped me understand that it was time. I arranged for him to pass peacefully at home. Afterward I updated the clinic and both the clinic and Dr Hawthorne sent cards, which meant more to me than they probably realize. I cannot imagine going through those four months without them. If I ever have another animal I do not care how far the drive is. I will only go here. They are compassionate, thoughtful, incredibly skilled, and deeply human. My cat was happy and comfortable until the very end because of Dr Hawthorne and everyone at Veterinary Surgical Centers Vienna. read more

Beagle was in awful pain which we found out later on was a herniated disc requiring surgery after an MRI confirmed the problem. Neurologist Dr. Harris sensed the urgency and operated that afternoon. He was brought home the following morning and is in his third week of recovery, almost weaned off the anti-inflammatory he needed. Quick response after surgery responding to any concerns we had. She & her staff are great. Highly recommend. read more

Veterinary Surgical Centers - Veterinarians Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

We came for a acl injury on our golden after deciding we did not want surgery. They have been so thorough and precise in their wellness plan. So far it is going very well. Their line of communication is extremely open and they are always checking on us!!! read more

Veterinary Surgical Centers - Veterinarians Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

The staff was very professional and courteous, everything was handled very promptly and the tone of the experience was reassuring. Wandering in with a beloved companion I'd told might well only have a few weeks to live, I felt immediately reassured that she was going to be in the best of hands. Everyone seemed professional and caring. read more

Had to rush my little Yorkie in for emergency surgery. Everyone from the front desk to the surgical team was extremely caring as well as competent. I truly appreciated having a friendly voice to provide updates when I checked on my baby dog, even in the middle of the night. It was clear she was being well cared for. read more

Dr. Johnson performed surgery on my dog for a fractured front leg. She is a great surgeon and would definitely recommend VSC.

The doctors and care provided by VSC and the Hope Center meets the highest of standards. We have used the Hope Center and VSC for surgeries and consultations for all of our pets, past and present. They are always kind, thorough in their examinations, and detailed in their advice/recommendations. Every doctor that we have worked with has spent the time to answer all questions and to help us make the best decisions for our pets. I highly recommend VSC and the Hope Center! read more

Dr. Kate Johnson was simply amazing. Very thorough and i nformation. Instilled confidence she is the one to do the Bilateral surgery for Luna Expertise and Pet Owner handling read more

Excellent preparation and execution on a risky surgery for our dog. Very thorough post-op debrief made taking care of our patient much easier. read more

8 week appt we saw the surgeon who took the time to answer questions and recommend additional therapy/medication. The apt had been rescheduled due to a weather advisory and I received excellent communication via email/text/surgeons voicemail call (which we appreciated) The personal communication by Dr Hawthorne and the excellent communication from the technicians and front desk were nice personalization read more

Everyone at VSCR is so caring and committed to helping my cat. The quality of care is exceptional and has been invaluable for my cat's recovery. They treat her as if she is their own. read more

Dr. Justin Ganjei saved our dog Beau's life. Beau was just 14 months old when Dr. Ganjei performed a procedure called "percutaneous transjugular coil embolization" (PTCE) for a congenital intrahepatic liver shunt. We discovered that our newly adopted 10-month-old rescue lab had a very small liver, which functioned poorly causing him to be very ill with a predicted short life expectancy. After unsuccessfully searching for a specialized vet in Northern Virginia who could perform this unique surgery, we were preparing to travel to Pennsylvania to the closest surgeons we could find. Before the surgery, Beau needed an MRI which was done by Dr. Uzzle in Reston, Virginia. He mentioned to us that his former partner Dr. Justin Ganjei routinely performs PTCE and called him while we were there. We made an appointment immediately and met with Dr. Ganjei shortly after at his office in Germantown, Maryland and he confirmed that he could do the PTCE procedure on Beau. On June 3, 2024 Dr. Ganjei performed this highly specialized and minimally invasive procedure on Beau. He went through Beau's jugular vein into his liver where he deployed 22 coils that would slowly expand and close off the shunt. After two days in the hospital, Beau came home with only a small incision in his neck that healed quickly. Shortly afterwards, Beau's energy improved, he was gaining weight and his bloodwork was looking better. A few weeks later he was weaned from his liver support prescription dog food and various meds including his anti-seizure preventative meds and no longer requires the prescription dog food. Today he is healthy, happy, thriving and the most beloved dog. We cannot thank Dr. Ganjei enough for his life saving surgery on Beau. Dr. Ganjei is a uniquely qualified and incredibly skilled surgeon and we were so fortunate to have found him. read more

Veterinary Surgical Centers - Feeling much better a few months post-op. - Veterinarians Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

See all

I had to bring my dog to VSC for a neurology check and was pleased with the service. The staff and the doctor were very accommodating. Every visit and call were followed up with an email outlining the discussions. Dr. Harris and her staff were on top of everything and didn't mind the many questions I had. Thank you VSC. read more

My dog slowly started rejecting her meals over the course of a few weeks. An MRI revealed that she needed to have her gall bladder removed -- a scary prospect given that the surgery often has high complication rates. Fortunately, Dr. Ganjei at VSC is one of the few surgeons who specializes in performing minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomies. I was able to get my dog's surgery scheduled very quickly after her diagnosis. Both the surgery and recovery went off without a hitch! My dog is now two months removed from the surgery and her appetite and energy has fully returned. Big thanks to Dr. Ganjei and VSC! read more

Veterinary Surgical Centers - Back to her old self! - Veterinarians Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

Dr. Bailey is phenomenal - she is intelligent, thoughtful, kind and through. We walked in feeling helpless about Bear's decline and left feeling hopeful that he will recover and thrive. I cannot say enough about her professionalism and true compassion for her patient. read more

We started coming here when our puppy broke his leg. We have been there about a million times for check ups, surgeries, x-rays, etc since then. Although it's been stressful, expensive, and heartbreaking, VSC has been an absolute blessing to us. The hospital provides amazing service and has saved our dog's leg. I seriously don't know what we would have done if we hadn't been connected with them for Jersey's treatment. Dr Hawthorne is a miracle working. She is so kind, smart, and personable. I just know our dog is in excellent hands and I trust her with his life, literally! The positive, friendly attitude of all the staff members also keeps us coming back time and time again. They literally feel like family at this point and Jersey is always excited to get dropped off because they love on him so much. It warms my heart every time. This is always going to be our go to animal hospital as long as we need one! read more

See all

While more $$ than surgery from my cat's original opthomologist, their availability, sense of urgency, and overall immediate concern was very much appreciated and absolutely worth it. Their follow up on saturday, when closed, was surprising and appreciated as well! It is a big facility and my cat moved through several departments/floors. I was shocked that when I called to check on him, every single person knew his name, where he was, and what was going on. I am extremely thankful for the Hope center and the team at VSC. read more

Very positive experience! Love Dr. Bailey and the entire staff. They took very good care of my little pup, and kept me informed throughout the entire process. I truly appreciate their very special loving care of my pup, and the communication was excellent. read more

My little Max had a nasty urinary blockage and they were able to get him in very quickly to get him all fixed up. The techs and doctors were super nice, kind and knowledgeable. read more

Dr. Ganjei saved our kitty Rex in 2014 by performing a double hip replacement when he was crushed by, what we assume, was a car. Nearly ten years later, our Rex is living his best life. Because of Dr. Ganjei, our Rex has been able to travel with us from DC, to Florida, across the country to San Diego, up to Seattle and now back in San Diego. We could not imagine life without our Rex. My husband and I talk often about how incredible Dr. Ganjei was throughout the whole process and there was never one moment we felt there wasn't hope. Looking back, he truly performed a miracle and we cannot thank him enough for saving our now, bionic super cat. THANK YOU! read more

See all

A wonderfully professsional, warm and caring place, it's just the best! They love your critter as much as you do.

Just a couple of weeks ago on a Friday night (March 18), we got the worst news--my cat had a rare and highly malignant cancer. The only chance to save him was to first make sure it hadn't metastasized and then...amputation of the leg with the tumor. I left messages for Hope knowing I wouldn't hear from them until Monday. Margaret from the Oncology Dept called me at 7:18 am to get us in on Wednesday. By Wed afternoon, we had sonogram and xray results showing the cancer hadn't spread. The surgery consult with Veterinary Surgical Center was on Friday and then surgery on Monday (March 28). By March 29, he was home. Throughout every step, we were updated on my cat's condition and the doctors explained every option. I am positive (pawsitive?) that their speed and attention to detail saved my cat. The entire staff from reception to the vet techs to the impressive doctors were compassionate. I never felt rushed as I moved through a process that had to be fast to combat the cancer. Instead, I felt confident I had all the information to make the best decision for my cat. They also kept my regular vet up to date. Thank you to Dr. McMillan (Hope Advanced) and Dr. Hawthorne (VSC) for their skill and expertise. I can't imagine better care--not just for my cat, but also for me. read more

Dr. Langenbach was very patient with my many questions, even though I know she was extremely busy. All other team members were friendly and helpful. I appreciate how kind you were to my pet and to me. It is clear your office loves and is sensitive to the suffering and needs of the animals. read more

had a horrible experience with Hope Center. Really ironic because they gave us no hope at all. We wonder where we'd be at if we went to a different center. Would our pup be in a better place physically? We will never know. Dont waste your time here. They're extremely unprofessional. Truly heartbreaking. read more

My primary vet recommended us to VSC after we noticed lameness in our pup's back leg. Every interaction with the front desk was exceedingly pleasant and friendly, and I felt like I was in good hands after such amazing experiences on the phone. I filled out my new patient paperwork prior to the appointment and the office confirmed receipt. When I arrived for our appointment, an assistant picked up my pup from my car, as per COVID restrictions. She informed me that Dr. Phelps would conduct the diagnostic appointment and then call me to inform what she found. Unfortunately, here's where things turned a bit sour. After a long amount of time waiting in the car, I got a panicked call from my husband. He said that the front desk called him, saying they couldn't reach my phone number. After asking for her to repeat back the number, it was clear that she accidentally dialed a phone number off by one digit. Mind you, I had already filled out the paperwork and called multiple times, so they absolutely had my phone number. That's an honest mistake, and we completely understood. Dr. Phelps called me and was very pleasant on the phone to start. She began to break down her findings immediately, but I wanted to have my husband on a three-way call so he could hear the information too. I asked the doctor if it would be OK to add my husband to the call. She seemed very against it because she didn't want the call to drop, to which I told her that I would appreciate my husband on the call because we make decisions together. I quickly added my husband to the call. Then, the doctor verbalized how she now would need to start her diagnosis all over again, and verbalized it in a way that expressed frustration. She diagnosed our pup with a patella that was riding too high. She also mentioned how we didn't give the office the correct phone number to call for us, which was simply untrue and unbecoming of her. Sometimes, I get gut feelings, and this gut told me to find a second opinion because this doctor wasn't giving me good vibes. We ended up going to a vet that's 60 miles away from our house, an unfortunate reality, but we would do anything for our dog. This vet is board certified and has been in practice for over 20 years. She quickly and confidently diagnosed our pup with a CCL tear. We brought up our previous diagnosis of a patella alta correction, to which, she expressed disbelief and asked if a surgical vet diagnosed us with that. According to our current vet, it was clear that our pup needed TPLO surgery and she expressed disappointment that other doctors did not see this. We are post-op of TPLO and our vet is very pleased with our pup's knee progress. It would be my worst night to go through a surgery that would be later determined as unnecessary or ineffective. I fear that, if we had stayed with VSC and Dr. Phelps, we would've lived that nightmare, with thousands of dollars wasted for an incorrect diagnosis. I chose to provide 2 stars because the front desk was absolutely phenomenal despite the bedside manner and inaccurate diagnosis. read more

Downgrading to one star. Staff seem to have issues responding to emails, returning voicemails, or even with the basics of having a working phone line. :/ I just wanted to get my dog's chemo medication and anti seizure medication refilled, but it's always a multi-day fiasco when we've called to get refills or coordinate with the doctor per guidance provided by VSC. When we've asked them to call us back at a specific number, they end up calling the wrong number and it turns into another game of phone tag. read more

Regarding Dr. Julia Hawthorne, who removed my dogs mammary tumors - one of which was an adenocarcinoma - she achieved margins wide enough for this type of tumor. That is good news. Nonetheless, I most likely would not seek her services again for the following reasons: 1. Despite the fact she provided her direct email, she was not available for questions regarding post-operative care. She never responded to my questions about the post-op oral antibiotic she prescribed or whether my dog could return to her regular diet (eat raw meaty bones). I gave up on getting the answers. 2. She communicated poorly/wouldn't disclose information about the histopathology report. I paid her a lot of money for her services which includes explaining diagnoses and next steps. She did not respond to my very specific questions and therefore I did not fully understand what was going on with my pet and what my options were. I had to reach out to the pathologist who performed the histopathology and consult with an oncologist just to understand the report. I gave up with trying to get responses and clarifications from Dr. Hawthorne for the reason that follows. 3. Dr. Hawthorne engaged in a paternalistic style of communication - a hierarchical model with the vet as the expert and the client (me) as passive. I experienced this as condescending (the veterinarian version of "man-splaning") and it ultimately hindered my ability to ask questions and understand (causing me to incur unnecessary additional expenses). I prefer a partnership with the professionals I work with - one in which I am empowered to be an active participant in consultation and decision-making. 4. What we decided in consultation regarding pain management and antibiotics was not communicated to Dr. Hawthorne's team so on the day of the surgery - a very stressful time - I had to address these issues with staff members. VSC staff also did not respond to a pre-surgery question regarding approving an e-collar I wanted to purchase. I did my own research and bought the e-collar even though they did not respond to at least three emails asking for confirmation. The day of the surgery, one staff member told me I could not use it. Another said it was fine. On the final bill, I was charged for an e-collar I did not purchase from VSC. Be sure to review carefully the cost estimate and the final bill. I told them I would purchase medications elsewhere (e.g. Costco/Goodrx) but they still included them on the cost estimate. read more

The Veterinary Surgical Centers (VSC) is owned by Dr. Anke Langenbach, which she started back in the early '00s. They offer surgery and rehabilitation services in 3 convenient locations - Vienna, Leesburg, and Winchester. I made an appointment here for a consultation, and the whole time, I had to pinch myself because it really did not feel as if I was at a medical center; the waiting room was bright and cheerful, and the front-desk receptionists were welcoming and super sweet. Even the patient room was tastefully decorated, very clean, and had no funky odors. Knowing that the staff members put the extra effort in making the ambiance and the environment positive and clean really does make a huge difference! Dr. Langenbach was super amazing and truly a Godsend! She really took her time to listen, explained every single detail, gave honest assessments, and formulated a specific plan that will provide the highest quality of life for my baby pup. I know that surgical centers/hospitals are businesses; but, VSC really doesn't promote itself in that regard - there were no additional orders of random tests and x-rays, which, unfortunately, can really add up, or the pressure to do a surgery that was completely unnecessary. Dr. Langenbach was, instead, extremely patient-focused and genuine and didn't give us the run-around and/or conflicting information. I walked out of there with my pup in such great spirits! Hopefully, I do not have to return for other emergencies in the near future, but I know that if anything were to arise, VSC is my #1 choice! Thank you, Dr. Langenbach and the VSC staff! read more

My insane Maine Coon cat decided a few days before Thanksgiving might be a great time to break her hip. Referred by my local vet, our experience was outstanding. From first phone contact, to check-in, through surgical consult, surgery and post-op, everyone was knowledgeable, caring and professional. I was given both verbal and printed information, my cat was well cared for, and the surgery was successful and she is recovering well. Any questions were answered completely and I never felt rushed. Cost - less than I anticipated for specialty surgical care, consult, overnight, etc. While I hope your pet never needs surgery, if it does, this is the only place to go. read more

While Dr. Jim Taylor is great and I believe Dr. Langenbach is also great. The practice manager is a stuffed shirt who thinks he controls the world. I had an unfortunate incident with their old rehab Vet almost four years ago... in January 2021. Since then I had a dog with a catastrophic fracture who was cared for excellently by Dr. Taylor through the ED in Leesburg. However, after another year in the summer of 2023, I tried to get a referral for another one of my show and performance dogs. I got a call from the practice manager who said that I was banned from their practice and accused me of multiple incidents, which is absolutely not true. He also said I was sent a letter, which I never received. I sent a three page letter to Dr. Langenbach explaining the situation, apologizing again, and never received a response. I am not sure she ever got the letter, or even knows the situation. My primary Vet just tried to speak with Dr. Langenbach and the practice manger refused to let his call through, when my name was mentioned. This is unconscionable behavior on the part of the practice manager. I have absolutely no issues with any of the surgeons or the staff. read more

While the initial intake on the portal left me feeling a bit disconnected, the live conversation on the phone with the medical team helped tremendously. Likely families are coming VSC under stress, so the more hands on,& compassionate, the better. I tend to be the type of person to ask A LOT of questions -- so did appreciate everyone's patience! :) Every team member was compassionate & patient with me as I asked questions to clarify our dog's care; Extremely timely & responsive. We feel fully informed about the best next steps for surgery. read more

Veterinary Surgical Centers - Blizzard - Veterinarians Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

We have used VSC for multiple surgeries now on our two 8 year old pitbulls. One was having constant hematoma on his ear flaps and the other had a mast/cyst on his gums. Those operations went smoothly and the results are fantastic, our two boys are back to their playful self, and better than ever. Dr. Ganjei is our primary surgeon, the amount of passion and care he has for these animals matches his skills and expertise as a surgeon. Pair that with all the supporting staff around him from the techs and assistants to the front desk, this place has been a saving grace to our little family. Thank you is not enough to show my appreciation for the love and care they have shown my two dogs. VSC has been such a vital part of our family, and yes, we consider them family. The amount of care that they show for our dogs and I'm sure all of the animals that comes in, are the same amount that we as "parents" of these animals show them everyday. Just like family, I fully trust them to take care of my dogs. The peace of mind knowing that my dogs are in amazing hands, and that they will go above and beyond to make sure my dogs are taken care of, are the reasons I would always go back to them. I urge anyone else to do the same. These people welcomed us and our dogs like part of their own family, and I am proud to say they are now part of our family. read more

Awesome care and service. From the Staff, to the Tech to the Doctor....they were patient and Genially concerned and show my Rottweiler so much care and concern. Would HIGHLY recommend! read more

Extremely happy with this practice. I know that my pup is in great hands with care that keeps his best interest in mind versus how much the practice can charge me. everyone is patient and kind. No matter how busy or how their day is going, they still take the time to be attentive and caring. read more

Most wonderful care for our dog, Houston. Everyone we have spoken to have been kind and compassionate. I loved receiving the pictures of Houston while he was recovering. read more

Absolutely amazing. I researched several veterinary surgical centers and I am extremely happy and satisfied with my decision to bring my girl Annie here. Dr. Hawthorne and staff are compassionate, to the point, and the professionalism exceeded my expectations. Dr. Hawthorne helped save my girl's life, removing a 2.8 cm growth in a tough spot in the abdominal area. After several emergency visits and overnight stays, my Annie was diagnosed with other ailments and even recommended euthanasia by the first vet...over anemia! Please do yourself a favor. Go here for ultrasound and consult first. Most times they can perform surgery on same day if surgery is the option. The lab they use is also amazing and thorough. Every single person treated my girl exceptionally and like she mattered, not just another patient. I love Dr. Hawthorne and I highly recommend her and Veterinary Surgical Centers! read more

The entire experience was really nice. The directions were apparent as to what to do. It was a quick and easy experience. The doctor and the staff were so nice! The documents being on DocuSign well before they needed to be submitted was a plus. read more

Great communication. Everything was thoroughly explained. I felt very comfortable that you were going to take the best care of Brody. When I called or sent an email my questions were promptly answered. Everyone I met was very professional From Suzanne, Leslie, Dr, Brunke and Dr Christie. I am sorry if I left anyone out. read more

Wonderful communication from the Veterinarian; obvious compassion for my dog and for me! Thorough but also measured approach to care. under COVID protocols I could not come inside, but Dr. Michael Knoeckel came out and spoke to me with tremendous patience and kindness at least three times during my dog's consultation. read more

I was pleasantly shocked to get a call from the surgeon on a Sunday morning. I understand the value of everyone's time and for her to take her time, walk me through every step of my 4-legged family member's upcoming surgery, tell me what to expect, remind me of things we should do to assist in the process - was priceless. I am thankful and grateful for that call, as it put my mind at ease and helped me prepare for what's to come! read more