Mr Quill, a senior chihuahua had a persistent problem with his trachea causing him to cough and gagging several times a day. Dr. Donaldson was terrific. She listened to the symptoms, examined Mr Quill, and after observing him, called me to explain what needed to be done. He is now cough free. She also recommended he lose weight. Needless to say he's not happy, but he is more energetic and climbs the stairs again. Thank you to Dr Donaldson and the team at Whatcom Veterinary Hospital! read more

I was new to the area when I started bringing my dogs here. I brought in their vaccination records at first appt so they'd have them on hand. Didn't have any real issues the first couple visits, the girls in the front were always really nice. The vets always came across a like a little less of their heart was in it, but they did their job so it was fine. A couple months ago they had reached out to me stating that one of my dogs needed their rabies vaccination. I told them I had the records and it didn't look like it was time (by 2 yrs) but they insisted it was. I accepted that maybe I was the ignorant one and just didn't understand how to fully read the records so I agreed to the appt. At previous visits at Banfield, if it's a routine vaccination, they've scheduled it to have the vet tech do the injection and they don't charge a separate exam fee. I asked if they had this option and they said no, that they require the vaccination fee and an exam fee for every visit. At the appt, (husband was in person, I was unable to attend but was on the ph ) the vet comes in and says she double checked the records and our dog IS up to date on rabies and doesn't need it. I explained to the vet that this was frustrating because I specifically asked the girls on the ph to double check because I knew it didn't sound right. The vet, it was a lady, was extremely dismissive, she was fumbling around with her words trying to find a way to blame us. I reiterated that I did not call their office to make the appt in error, they reached out to me and reassured that it was time for the shot, and this was their mistake. She really was not willing to admit that they made any mistake and kept saying, well this and well that, something about the computer, then switched to some excuse about how things are different by state (we were from CA) and there was some sort of discrepancy between the requirement of one year and 3-year rabies shots. I let her know that in either case she is confirming at this point that he doesn't need the shot so we essentially wasted our time bringing him in and for that reason we shouldn't be subject to an exam fee or the vaccination fee since he didn't get either one. I also asked them to update the records correctly in the computer to avoid the situation in the future. She eventually gave a half-assed apology and said we wouldn't be charged, but I clearly could hear the annoyance in her voice and her apology had absolutely no sincerity whatsoever, which honestly would have gone a long way, because we're all humans and mistakes happen. But. instead she ended up doubling down with her sour attitude and began to say that we should have extra vaccinations done, not the mandatory ones, but like kennel, cough and things like that. I explained that my dogs don't go to daycare and we have a fenced yard but if we have to send them at some point to boarding we will bring them in for the necessary vaccinations. She immediately started making several comments trying to guilt us, saying things like it's up to us if we refuse these really important shots and that she would if it was her dogs, but she can't force owners to do the right thing but it's up to us as the owners. It was really just gross how intentionally condescending she was being. As if that experience wasn't already bad enough, I have gotten several calls since from their automated system still stating that my pets rabies vaccination is overdue and that I need to call their office immediately to make the appt. That's it brother! This is a place that I won't be returning to not only because I don't deserve the abuse, but also because they clearly cannot get their records in order. read more

Vets should care about animals, and once they lose that love, they should consider getting a different line of work. I was going on a business trip and was concerned that my very old cat with a respiratory infection was going to worsen from stress while I was away. So I preemptively brought her in to arrange antibiotics. The vet said once she started having green discharge to have my cat sitter call in and the pharmacy could send them right away. Sure enough, on Monday this happened. Requested antibiotics through the pharmacy who would deliver. The pharmacy just needed a quick sign off online. Wednesday, no sign off. The front desk lady said they had been too busy to do it. She would write a note and make sure herself that it was done before the end of the day. Friday. Still too busy to get to it. Now the weekend is upon us and there are red flecks and green mucus. I had to make other emergency arrangements as they never got to it. It took two weeks of texting for the office manager to finally write. Not with the apology I had asked for, but to throw the pharmacy under the bus. I told her the story, still no apology. All I ever asked for was "we are so sorry, is your cat okay?". They literally couldn't care less or get around to it all week long. It's time to maybe go into another line of work. read more

Whatcom Veterinary Hospital has been excellent to our dog! They are so sweet to her. I love the time and love the technicians pour into their patients. The vets are knowledgable. It's easy to book appointments. Sometimes I wish my own doctor's office was as responsive as my dog's vet Great team. We're very glad we found them! read more

For over 13 years I have taken several dogs for care to Whatcom Veterinary Hospital, but unfortunately, I can no longer recommend this clinic. It's not what it used to be. My recent experiences have been disappointing and it's time for me to move my business elsewhere. The quality of care for my dogs has declined and prices have sky rocketed (well above the rate of inflation), and I've decided to find a different clinic for their veterinary needs. I'm disappointed to have to leave, but I believe it's the best decision for my furry family members. Overall, I can no longer recommend Whatcom Veterinary Hospital based on my recent experience. If you're looking for quality veterinary care for your pets, I suggest considering other options. read more

Friendly staff, knowledgeable Dr.s on staff. We have been taking our fur babies to Dr. Aupperlee at Whatcom Veterinary Hospital for 12 years now. He is kind, knowledgeable and our pets love him. The office is clean, the staff friendly but the wait times can be a bit long. This office also has a boarding area as well as grooming salon. If you are looking for a good veterinary doctor for your pets give them a try. read more

Whatcom Veterinary Hospital Inc PS - Inside clinic - Veterinarians Near Me - Ferndale, Washington

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I have gone to Whatcom Vet for years. They have put down nine of our dogs. I had to change vets the past few years when they would no longer allow me to make payments. They knew my living conditions were beyond poor and I only had $835 a month to live on. I never ran my bill up. They have always put down my elderly rescue dogs with love and kindness up until today. They wanted to take her back to put a line in. I asked them to do it in the room. They said they were set up in the back. I told them she was a very nervous dog who had been abused. They insisted on her going back. I said fine terrorize my dog. They did NOT say they were going to sedate her! They have ALWAYS did this in the room prior. When they brought her back she was totally out of it. I never got to comfort her or say goodbye. The last thing she knew was being terrified with strangers. They tried to tell me it was due to Covid to do it this way which is BS. We can go into stores and restaurants wearing masks and social distancing. They tried to tell me I wasn't allowed in the bldg otherwise. Hmm wonder why my many doctors and my cataract doctors don't have such rules. They follow acceptable steps of masking and social distancing. All the old staff are gone. Only new, cold, heartless people now who don't see our pets as family. I have NEVER let my dogs cross over alone and terrified. Dr Aupperlee wasn't in. The front staff have always been helpful and courteous. I wish I had just taken her home till Dr Aupperlee was in. read more

We have been bringing our two dogs here for both care and boarding. We are very pleased with the quality care, service, pricing, and convenience they offer. We recommend them to all our friends with pets. read more

Unbelievable poor communication about billing!!! Don't waste money on the puppy package it is a joke don't fall for it they just add on other charges later so you really don't save any money. We are long time 20+year clients and after the treatment we have received here we are done.We had a small balance and treated us like was the end of the world!! From the looks and condition of the building they obviously are not doing to well and have to make it up in extra billing. BUT, I do want to say there are some VERY sweet and caring people working at the front counter and vet techs. read more

I recently got a new kitten and am so happy I found Whatcom Veterinary Hospital and Dr. Hargrove. Their staff, especially Cami and Julie, are really helpful and compassionate towards my kitten. I just had my kitten spayed and de-clawed, and Dr. Hargrove called me right after the surgery to give me an update and let me know how she was doing. I felt comforted and appreciated the update and being able to speak with him and ask any questions I had. My kitten is recovering well and Dr. Hargrove did a terrific job in caring for her. Thank you for having a loving vet and team to bring my kitten to! read more

Whatcom Veterinary Hospital Inc PS - Gracie Lou - Veterinarians Near Me - Ferndale, Washington

Dr. Aupperlee and Dr. Thrasher are extremely compassionate and caring. The take each case individually and will invest the time to educate about the treatments. Both my cats and dogs love them. read more

For more than 10 years Dr. Lisa Donaldson has been my cats' veterinarian. She has been fantastic with them - and with me. My cats and I have followed her as she moved her practice from the Burlington/Mt. Vernon area (Highland Vet. Hospital and Mountain View Vet. Clinic) to Ferndale. I wouldn't consider taking my cats to anyone else. While my cats don't enjoy going to see the doctor (who does?), she is so gentle that they calm down as soon as she greets them with her reassuring voice and a soothing touch. Dr. Donaldson is very thorough, exploring all possibilities whenever I bring my pets in - whether it's for a checkup or because I'm worried about something. She also usually calls me afterwards to see how the cats are doing. When I say she's thorough I don't mean just with her diagnosis and treatment, but also in explaining to me what she's looking for and what she recommends as far as medical care, diet, etc. She's never performed a test or procedure without fully informing me about what she's doing and why it's needed. When it's come time for the hardest choice - realizing that one of my cats' quality of life had declined so much that it was more merciful to put him to sleep than to prolong his misery - she's shown not just sympathy, but empathy. It's evident to me that she finds such a necessity one of the most painful parts of her work. The fact that she so obviously shared my grief in this situation made it much easier to cope with the loss. Dr. Donaldson is great. I wish all vets were as dedicated as her. read more

I wrote a nice review 3 years ago. I've been taking my animals here for almost 30 years. Always paid my bill. In fact, they owe me money for an overcharge that I chose to leave as a credit on my account. I have been appreciative of their care for my pets but recently I called about a very sick cat who may or may not have been a stray. Wasn't sure if it was my neighbors or not. I had brought in a stray the previous month and had her fixed an shotted and adopted her. I was clear that I would pay the bill for the new stray. I was told they didn't do strays. I said well you did last month. Wondering if it was my neighbor's car, I called my neighbor to see if the cat was theirs. He was. He had been coming to my house for a few months for food and looked to be in rough shape. I noticed something on his leg and figured he'd been in a fight. At the end he camped right at my door for a day so I opened the door and he came in. Got on a couch in my sunroom and didn't move after that. He urinated where he lay, I had to hold his food and water for him. I called my neighbors and told them he was at my house and could I take him to the vet? They said yes. I explained that I knew their cat was over 20 years old and the vet may suggest putting him down. And what vet did they go to? Bellingham Vet they said. I made an appointment for the very same day, took him in and found out he had a cancerous tumor on his leg. Too far gone. Put him down. Why couldn't Whatcom vet help him? They take an oath to alleviate the suffering of animals and instead, after almost 30 years of patronage, they created more suffering with their refusal to see him. They've always been caring and helpful so this refusal had me concerned enough to discuss switching vets. We're pretty loyal people but when no concern for the animal is shown it's an issue. Haven't switched yet. I have an appointment next week and will discuss face to face with the vet. read more

I have been taking my dogs here since 1998. I have moved from south Seattle to Ferndale and never even considered switching vets. My Jack Russell loathes being examined and she yelps and cries. When Dr. Auperlee does it, she's calm and that is priceless. My dogs are like my children and I'd drive to wherever the doc was that made them comfortable. If you have any concerns the entire staff will work toward the remedy. I've had the upmost awesome experiences and I have zero doubt you and your babies will definitely experience. If you need more assurance, check them out, call and most importantly, take your pets to the best veterinarian in the state. Charles read more

Whatcom Veterinary Hospital Inc PS - Teddy, my Jack russell Pomeranian mix. She is 11 and still very tenacious. - Veterinarians Near Me - Ferndale, Washington

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Really like this place where they seem to really care about the animals they treat. Both doctors are good but really like Dr. Hargrove. Only complaint is that on average I have to wait about 30 to 45 minutes for every scheduled appointment. It's never been any different in the 15 years we've been going there and I could count on one hand the times I've been seen within 15 minutes of my scheduled appointment time. It seems to me that if other places can schedule things more timely this place could learn to do the same. The Dr is what keeps me coming back. Really like him. The other thing I like is the grooming salon that is there (Four Paws). They are good and if shots are due they can get the shots during a groom appt. Only four starts because of the crazy wait times. read more

Have been taking my pets to this office for the past 10+ years. Dr. Hargrove is patient and compassionate, always getting down to my pets' level to make friends before starting any sort of examination. If my pets don't appreciate this (which I believe they do), I most certainly do! Generally speaking, the office staff could be more welcoming. My only real complaint follows: I was a little miffed that I didn't receive the as-promised, post-surgery phone call. I was forced to phone the office five minutes before closing, was put on hold, and was then finally given a fairly comprehensive update. read more

The Vets here are great, I really like Dr Hargrove. The woman at the front desk could be nicer, I find them very abrupt and not very accomodating. Why I give this place the 2 star rating is the appointment wait times. I booked an 11am appointment weeks ahead of time for just shots. I didnt get in till almost 1pm! This is unacceptable. I have also waited up to an hour other times. Really? Why make appointments at all? Not to mention sitting in a vets office is stressful to animals. I dont like taking them to begin with, then when you are there for 2+ hours for an appointment that should take no longer than 10 min, the animals work themselves up, and are harder for the vets to handle. There are other vets in the county that are more expensive, but get you in and out in a very timely manner. Whats your time and your pets mental well being worth? I'll be looking into changing. Get it together Whatcom Vet!!! read more

Second-chance update: Giving credit where due, I learned that WVH had some good prices on medicines I needed for my pets. For that purpose only, I resumed business limited to prescriptions, accessories, etc., while continuing to use a different vet for actual medical services. As a goodwill gesture, WVH refunded me the cost of recent purchases since my dog died immediately after and the products were never opened and given to her. So, I upgraded my rating out of appreciation. read more

Whatcom Veterinary Clinic takes AMAZING care of their animals and the people who have the privilege of being their family. They are so caring and loving and do a thorough job. I highly recommend them. Judy Sturlaugson read more

I really trust the doctors' expertise here and appreciate their pet-side manner. I agree with the other reviews that the wait time is ridiculous. It's not just now-and-then (emergencies happen) but EVERY apt. That is an over-scheduling problem. Also, the Cat Side and Dog Side need to be more clearly marked. I don't like getting the evil eye from Cat people when they are sitting on the Dog side. Poor kitties. read more

I'm will NOT go back to this vet, they are very slow at getting back to you about your animal. My dog died because they were so slow at responding to the problem. They seem to not care and are very slack in their job. The front counter people could use a class in friendly customer service as well. read more

I wanted to like this vet office but as soon as Dr. Hargrove left I can find no real reason to go back. Initially liked the location just a quick drive, but I'd rather spend more time driving to a place that is less packed and a quicker experience. They are always busy which is understandable as they are the only decent vet in Ferndale but I don't get why they book so many appointments at the same time and move at a snails pace. The receptionists could careless how long youre waiting. I went just to pick up medication and was in there for over half an hour while they tried to handle the full waiting room. I really liked Dr Hargrove but since he's departed I've decided to go elsewhere too. read more

First of all you have to pay cash up front and it is so expensive We spent $1000.00. My dog had a 105 temp they said they were doing ultra sounds and blood work. We ended up taking our dog home with antibiotics and never were told what her problem was. we took her back because she was still sick. they couldn't get a urine sample because my dog is very scared of everything they tested urine that was off the floor and charged us another $112.00. I will never take our animals to this vet again. also the front office was so snooty it was very uncomfortable. We have been taking our dogs to Blaine Animal hospital for years and they were closed but I will never go here again. read more

Dr. Hargrove is amazing. We moved to Ferndale four years ago and have been to both vet offices in town. When our rottie developed terminal cancer last year, Dr. Hargrove was so gentle and compassionate when it came time to ease his suffering. Recently, our other dog became ill for unknown reasons. Dr. Hargrove took his time going over all the options and scenarios. We actually were expecting to have to put her to sleep when we went in, but he was able to come up with some options based on the clinical assessment, instead of charging us hundreds for diagnostic tests. He was very gentle with her and got down with her, instead of making us hoist her 80# frame onto the exam table, as other vets have done. The vet assistants in the back usually seem grumpy, and I've overheard comments from them. The front desk staff is nice enough, but they never seem to be in a big hurry. We usually have to wait unless we have an 8am appointment. I am willing to wait a little to get the excellent care that Dr. Hargrove gives. Also, I've never had a time when I called that they weren't willing to squeeze my pet into the schedule. This is probably why they run behind and why the staff seems grumpy and overworked. However, as a pet owner with a sick pet, I appreciate this effort. Finally, they have some of the better pricing around. Someone told me they thought this vet was overpriced, but based on calling around to other vets in the area, they are one of the more reasonably priced. I might have saved $10 by driving to Bellingham to see a vet there, but again, Dr. Hargrove is worth it. read more

The staff at Whatcom Veterinary Hospital has one bad apple. She has straight blonde hair and she wears glasses. Mean to the bone. Had to say "no" to add ons at the check in time, many times. She double billed us at the check out time. Had an appointment for Lady Dog to be spayed in the morning, got her there at 8:30 A.m. They didn't get around to it until 5:10 P.M. They called at 5:30 P.M. and said she was just waking up and they are closing. They insist upon keeping the animal over night, so we worried all night about her. Poor and please, think twice about this place. Ginny Anderson Bellingham read more

I have been taking my pets here for years. They do a great job. I trust them with my pets.

I really love the doctors and staff here, because they truly love our pets and give them the best care. Everyone is happy and friendly, it's a great atmosphere. Thank you! read more

My precious Bun had to be put to sleep March 9, 2018 due to complications from pancreatitis and diabetes. Her spiral from a healthy Chihuahua to a dying pet was fast once the diabetes diagnosis was made. I was shown how to give insulin shots but no other info regarding her disease was given. Over the last year and a half we were in their office repeatedly. She was in constant pain only to be relieved with the next dosage of pain meds. These last few weeks were a nightmare. Her weight went from 15 lbs. to under 9. She drank gallons of water and had to urinate continually. Her fat and muscles were gone leaving her a skeleton with fur. She whimpered when she walked. Her gait was unsteady. I pleaded for answers, for guidance. The 7th of March I was there all day. More meds. The next day I was in emergency with her shaking with pain. The next morning she was euthanized. I was left with a broken heart and a bad taste in my mouth from a vet who clearly is in the money business. Be informed. I will live with regret for my choice of care. read more

I've been taking my dogs to Whatcom Vet for the past 20 years. Neither me or my pets have ever had a bad experience there - in fact, my dogs LOVE going there. The Dr's are kind, patient and obviously love what they do and are good at it. When one of my dogs needed to be euthanized (a very difficult time as any pet lover will tell you) the doctor made arrangements (spur of the moment) for me to bring him in after closing time, sparing me the awkwardness of sitting in the waiting room, holding my dying dog in my arms. As for the other reviewers who said they had long wait times... I've never had to wait more than a few minutes. Whatcom Vet is and always has been a 5 star business. read more

I've been taking my pets to Dr. Aupperlee for 14 years, and absolutely love the team here. Dr. Thrasher is excellent, too. I will continue taking the drive from Bellingham to Ferndale for pet care from the excellent, caring staff of Whatcom Veterinary Hospital. read more

Dr. Aupperlee was our beloved dog's vet for nearly 16 years. Dr. Aupperlee is an outstanding, compassionate veterinarian. Our dog had health issues and,with Doctor's care, he lived almost 16 years. Whatcom Vet Hospital staff is 5-star as well. Our dog was boarded there many times and always well cared for. Our family always felt welcomed and in very good hands. Highly recommend this veterinary/hospital! read more

Whatcom vet is not the closest vet to me, and not all that convenient to where I live, but it gets 5 stars from me for the very reason it has gotten less stars from others. They will take your animal emergency when everyone else won't help you. Kulshan will calmly tell you they close in 15 minutes when you are enroute with a terrifying emergency, and tell you to drive 40 minutes farther to the Emergency Animal Clinic in Bellingham. Chris Carlson in Blaine is great, but NEVER available, emergency or otherwise, she is less than a mile away and has never been open or responded to an issue unless you nail the moment she is in the clinic. The counter help at Whatcom vet have to do triage, and deal with owners who are out of their minds with fear and concern, and balance that with people who have appointments that are routine. I will wait if someone's beloved pet is in danger. Their skills seem above average and their compassion and concern for the animals are above average! Very sorry for Candace T's loss, but these are my go to vet's. read more