Last week, I had to say goodbye to my sweet dog, and while it was heartbreaking, I’m deeply grateful for the way Dr. Horton and the team at VCA Blue Cross Animal Hospital supported us through it.
From the moment we walked in, we were treated with empathy, patience, and understanding. Dr. Horton took the time to explain everything with such kindness, never rushing, and always putting my dog’s comfort first. She helped me feel confident in my decisions and gave my dog the peaceful, respectful goodbye she deserved. The staffs were all kind and supportive. I am forever grateful.
SP
Shenita Phillips
Jun 24, 2025
I scheduled a "Free First Exam" for my dog and was dissatisfied with the services provided. Upon arrival, we had to wait for a room to become available. Once we entered the examination room, I observed dog hair on both the table pad and the examination table. I brought this to the attention of a staff member who entered the room; however, she indicated that they had conducted a quick cleanup. I requested a more thorough cleaning, and her response was unprofessional in tone.
When the veterinarian came in with an assistant who kept commenting on my dog being cute and cuddling his face, my primary concern was his dry, itchy patches. To distract my dog during the examination, the veterinarian provided him with a stick covered in cheese. Although my dog appeared calm during the examination, the staff alleged that he growled, a sound my son and I did not hear. They requested permission to muzzle him, which I granted, although I was puzzled by this request since my dog had displayed no signs of aggression.
Following a brief examination of his heart and ears, I inquired about the specifics included in the "free exam." I noted that they did not check his eyes or teeth, and when I asked about his paws, the veterinarian stated that I could lift one for her to examine. I declined, and she hastily inspected his paw, deeming it fine, but this did not constitute a comprehensive examination.
Before the visit, I had contacted VCA to ascertain what the free exam entailed. However, the services provided did not match the information I received over the phone. I conveyed my concerns; nonetheless, the veterinarian concentrated on the necessity of placing a sample under a microscope for diagnostic purposes, which would incur a fee of $55. She then mentioned the required medication, leading to a total estimated cost of approximately $300.
Consequently, my dog did not receive a genuine "free exam," as no thorough evaluation was conducted. The veterinarian equated the visit to a human wellness examination, which typically includes a comprehensive assessment; however, this was not the case during our appointment.
As we exited the office, my son noted that the doctor communicated with me as if I were unfamiliar with the circumstances, and I concurred. I possess adequate knowledge and understanding of the matter being discussed. Additionally, outside the examination room, the doctor remarked, "Make sure you explain all the charges so she can understand," accompanied by laughter, which I found to be disrespectful.
I was frustrated with the extra costs for the microscope examination after the vet had already identified the likely problem. The "free exam" felt like a tactic to lure in customers for expensive services.
The veterinarian acknowledged my frustration and continued to apologize for the service received. My dog showed no signs of aggression, and the assistant interacted with him without problems. I was very disappointed with our experience and will not return. I intend to request a refund.