At VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center, our state-of-the-art advanced specialty and emergency care facilities have proudly served the greater Los Angeles area since 1997. We deliver the best medical care for pets and the best experience for pet owners.
Our emergency and specialty teams are fully prepared and equipped to address any health issue that your pet may be experiencing.
Some of our specialty services include Ophthalmology, Internal Medicine, Integrative Medicine, and Diagnostic Imaging.
Our veterinarians, technicians and pet-friendly support staff are trained to the highest standards. Their knowledge of the latest procedures and medicines ensures that our patients receive the best care.
Some customers praised the staff for their compassion and empathy during difficult situations, especially when dealing with end-of-life decisions for their pets.
High Costs
Many reviews highlighted the excessive costs associated with services, with several customers feeling taken advantage of during emergencies.
Staff Attitude
Feedback indicated a mix of experiences with staff, with some reporting rude or dismissive behavior, particularly from front desk personnel.
Long Wait Times
Numerous customers expressed frustration over long wait times for treatment, sometimes exceeding several hours without updates.
Mixed Experiences
While some customers had positive experiences with specific veterinarians, others reported dissatisfaction with the overall quality of care and communication.
SB
Samuel Batchelor
2 days ago
5.0
I was referred to VCA by my usual veterinarian, who was unable to assess my dog's issue. When I picked up German Shepherd from overnight boarding, his third eyelid was visibly elevated; something I had never seen on him and found very alarming. Upon arrival at VCA, the front desk receptionist was very welcoming and attentive. After I described the issue to her, a technician came out, brought us into an exam room, reviewed all my dog's medical history, and got details on the current issue. He then took my dog into the treatment area, while I was placed into another room to speak with the veterinarian. Dr. Heather Elliot examined my dog and later came to talk to me, providing a thorough explanation of his issues and possible causes. Dr. Elliot was very knowledgeable, professional, and kind. She put my dog on antibiotics and gave him eyedrops; he is already doing better and is more alert. Overall, my experience at VCA was exceptional, and I give them the highest rating.
AA
Aaron
4 days ago
5.0
I just want to say, although it was very difficult for me the day I came into this VCA location. My dog was struck by a car and unfortunately did not make it. But the staff, and the vets, the techs. They did everything they possibly could to help me. This location was the only VCA opened at the time of the incident as it happened later in the evening, but where my heart is so gracious and thankful for this place is how they reached out to me days after the occurrence, sharing kind words and condolences. I’m just so appreciative for these people.
I know a lot of people want to complain and feel the need to cut down the integrity and skills of people but I’m going give them their flowers as they did for me. My dog is no longer with me not because of them, but because of the wildness of this world and yet everyone did everything they could to help me and for that I say THANK YOU. 🙏 🌼 🙂↕️❤️
SH
Shaun Hill
Nov 2, 2025
1.0
Do not take your pet here. Here is a break down of our experience by category:
1. Poop Jail
My cat had diarrhea for a few days, which was one of the 2 reasons we took him to VCA. They put my partner and my cat into a room, where my cat soiled his carrier and the kennel. They did not clean this up or even allow my partner to clean it up so that “doctor could see it”. She and my cat sat in that room for over 6 hours. My cat was left to sit in his feces.
2. Used Car Salesman
We had been trying to treat an abscess on my cat’s head since February and we took him to VCA in June. When we finally saw the doctor, she immediately speculated that the abscess was cancer without explicitly stating it. She said he was losing weight, and it was possible that “the growth” was taking his nutrients. This was after 0 tests had been performed and having only known my cat for a few minutes. After that, the treatment plan person came along and attempted to guilt me into spending $1200 more dollars, on top of the $1700 of the treatment pan we were agreeing to. The $1200 went towards putting my cat under anesthesia for longer than necessary to take an X-Ray that we already knew was pointless. This was later confirmed when we picked him up from surgery and the staff at VCA told us it was a “good thing” we didn’t get the X-ray. It really felt like they tried to deliberately scare us and shake us down for money. If that’s not what happened, it certainly indicates an extreme lack of professionalism that we walked away feeling like it did.
3. The Lacking Treatment
They performed a surgery to drain the abscess. What we did not know at the time was that they should’ve taken a sample to find the correct antibiotics required to kill the infection. My partner and I did not know this, because it was their job as veterinarians to know it. It is now November and we have finally gotten what we needed to treat the abscess. This whole thing could’ve been over in June, but the incompetent staff does not actually care about the animals they’re treating.
Don’t continue to give VCA business, they don’t care about you or your pet. Not only was the whole thing pointless but it was also extremely expensive. My cat suffered for 5 more months after having surgery when they had the means to treat him. Not to mention that the conditions we tolerated while waiting to see the doctor were completely unacceptable.
Take your pet to Bixby Animal Hospital instead, they are friendly and extremely helpful.
MS
Mario Sanchez
Oct 27, 2025
1.0
They dont care about your pet.
I brought my dog to urgent care at 9pm on 10/26/25 and while explaining what was going on with my dog, the lady asked me "are you sure he wasn't just playing?" YES i'm sure, thats why i'm visibly distraught and at urgent care. Then they said it would be 30 minutes before anyone could examine my dog and then 2-4 hours before i could speak to a doctor.
Meanwhile, my wife called Bixby Animal Hospital in Torrance and got us checked in over the phone and said it was less than an hour wait. I immediatley left this VCA and drove 15 minutes to Bixby and within 3 minutes my dog was being cared for by a very empathetic and understanding staff.
AVOID THIS PLACE AND GO TO BIXBY ANIMAL HOSPITAL IN TORRANCE IF YOU HAVE AN ANIMAL EMERGENCY AND WANT AN EMPATHETIC STAFF.
MD
Monica Dean
Oct 10, 2025
1.0
I took my cat in (he was lost for 15 months) good samaritan trapped him and took him to a vet where they discovered his chip and we were re united. I took him in for liquid drain. VCA after a $1700 diagnoses recommended a possible 10,000 bladder surgery procedure. I took him to economico in Gardena, They were able to drain the fluid (no it wasn't a tear his bladder, it was intact and found the infection and sent me home with meds) the entire procedure, hospital stay and medication same cost as VCA diagnosis. Truly disheartened by the lack of care and the opportunity for financial gain. I know its a business but really lopsided.
Frequently Asked Questions About VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center
Where is VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center located?
VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center is located at 15926 Hawthorne Blvd, Lawndale, CA 90260, USA.
What are the operating hours of VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center?
The center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing continuous care for your pets.
What types of veterinary services does VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center offer?
The center offers a range of specialty and emergency services including Ophthalmology, Internal Medicine, Integrative Medicine, Diagnostic Imaging, Behavior, Dentistry, Dermatology, Emergency/Critical care, Medical Neurology, Neuroradiology, Nutrition, Pain Management, and Reproductive Medicine.
How can I contact VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center?
You can contact the center by calling their main phone number at +1 310-542-8018 or +1 424-888-3315 for assistance.
What payment methods are accepted at VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center?
The center accepts American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa as payment options.
What makes VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center a reliable choice for pet emergency care in the Los Angeles area?
Since 1997, the center has provided state-of-the-art specialty and emergency care with highly trained veterinarians, technicians, and pet-friendly staff using the latest procedures and medicines to ensure the best care for pets.
Are there nearby veterinary facilities in case I need alternative pet care services?
Yes, nearby veterinary-related places include CVCA Cardiac Care for Pets, Advanced Veterinary Care Center emergency hospital, and other veterinary specialties to accommodate various pet health care needs.
What are some nearby healthcare providers that I might find useful when visiting VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center?
Nearby healthcare providers include Vadadent Modern Dental Group (dentist), Optum - Lawndale (family practice doctor), BioHealth Pain Management (doctor and physical therapy), and Lawndale Spinal Specialists (chiropractor hospital).
Are there any local businesses near VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center where I can do other errands or shopping?
Yes, nearby businesses include NAPA Auto Parts for automotive needs, Angel Gate Repair Lawndale for fence and gate services, and Casa Bella Realty Group for real estate services.
Where can I find more information about the departments and services offered at VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center?
You can find detailed information about the center's departments and services by visiting their featured message link: https://vcahospitals.com/advanced-veterinary-care-center-ca/departments