VCA Encina Veterinary Medical Center

3.6
165 reviews

About

VeterinariansVeterinary Clinics & HospitalsVeterinary Specialty ServicesVeterinarian Emergency ServicesVeterinary Information & Referral Services
At VCA Encina Veterinary Medical Center, our extensively trained team works effortlessly to give your pet the best care possible, whether it be preventative general practice care, emergency, or specialty services. Our specialists are experts in their specialty and use their skills and knowledge to help each of our patients. Our diagnostic equipment helps formulate an accurate diagnosis which leads to a more beneficial treatment plan. Our state-of-the-art facility, recently renovated, is home to an in-house laboratory, in-house pharmacy, CT scanner, ultrasound and echocardiogram, digital x-rays, dual surgical suite, and endoscopy. Our doctors have everything they need to provide your pet the best in specialized and general practice care.

Location

VCA Encina Veterinary Medical Center
2803 Ygnacio Valley Rd, Walnut Creek, CA
94598, United States

Hours

Reviews

3.6
165 reviews
5 stars
103
4 stars
1
3 stars
5
2 stars
7
1 star
49

What are people saying?

AI-generated from recent customer reviews

Compassionate Care

Many customers praised the staff for their compassionate and attentive care during difficult times, especially in emergencies and end-of-life situations.

Expertise

Several reviews highlighted the expertise of specific veterinarians, particularly Dr. Nurre and Dr. Rifat, noting their thoroughness and ability to handle complex medical issues.

Communication Issues

A recurring theme in reviews was poor communication from the front desk and staff, with some customers feeling dismissed or not adequately informed about their pets' conditions and treatment options.

High Costs

Numerous customers expressed concerns about the high costs of services, feeling that the pricing was excessive and not transparent, leading to feelings of being taken advantage of.

Mixed Experiences

While many reviews were positive, there were also significant negative experiences reported, particularly regarding customer service and perceived lack of genuine care.
  • MR
    Marissa Rocke
    Oct 20, 2025
    5.0
    Dr. Nurre at VCA Encina was recommended to me by my primary Orinda vet of 11 years, and we’ve always trusted his judgement. My dog, Geronimo, needed an ultrasound to check his gallbladder after his littermate sadly passed from a rupture that was likely genetic. The ultrasound revealed clear signs of an enlarged mucoccele that would likely rupture soon. Dr. Nurre carefully explained all our options and walked us through every step of the surgical plan. Geronimo’s surgery went smoothly and his recovery was excellent. At 10 years old, I hope he won’t need any more surgeries — but if he ever does need care beyond what our primary vet can provide, we’ll absolutely return to VCA Encina. Their expertise and compassion made a stressful situation so much easier.
  • KW
    Kylie Wadsworth
    Oct 7, 2025
    5.0
    we recently moved to the area and were suggested by family to go to dr. yates at encina. we are so happy to have found her. it seems like she treats the pets as if they were her own and her approach to pet health thoughtful and balanced in both financial sense and a less is more mindset. we’ll go here forever ◡̈
  • JM
    Julie Mouser
    Sep 21, 2025
    5.0
    For 20 years, we have trusted Encina and their veterinarians and staff. Dr. Nurre, Dr. Atwater, Dr. Rifat and most recently Dr. Aengus have each given compassionate and skilled care to our pets over the years. They have effectively treated several different types of cancer, guided us through numerous surgeries, and been there for all the other issues that pop up, including end of life decisions. For the past 5 years, Dr. Aengus has been our primary vet for our senior rescue dog and has helped us navigate his heartworm treatment, severe allergies, terrible teeth, and now arthritis. She is always responsive and beyond caring--I think she may love our dog as much (or more lol) than we do. And a big shout out to the vet techs who give our boy his monthly injections! We are truly grateful to the Encina team for all they've done for us over the years.
  • AM
    alexa moise
    Sep 5, 2025
    5.0
    The staff here are the best! Always a great experience working with them.
  • VL
    Victoria Louie
    Aug 29, 2025
    5.0
    This is for our experience with the oncologist, Dr. Bennett and her assistant, Alex. Our dog had lymphoma and started treatment with them in late 2023. She had some adverse reactions to the chemo treatment and Dr. Bennett was super understanding about delaying next steps until we felt she was ready for more. I always felt that she answered our questions and concerns and never pushed us to go one way or the other with treatment once she relapsed. Unfortunately, after 20 months we had to make a hard decision to let our little one go, but I definitely contribute her remission success to the excellent care we received. Thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions About VCA Encina Veterinary Medical Center

What types of pets does VCA Encina Veterinary Medical Center care for?

VCA Encina cares primarily for cats and dogs, offering comprehensive veterinary services for these pets.

What are the operating hours for urgent and emergency care at VCA Encina?

The center is open 24/7 for urgent and emergency care every day of the week.