VCA Almaden Valley Animal Hospital

Reviews

• HD

  Heidi Dean

  2 days ago
  1.0
  I wanted to share my recent experience at Almaden VCA Animal Hospital on Almaden Expressway in San Jose in case it helps other pet owners. I brought my elderly cat, Shiloh, in for care and paid for diagnostic testing. Unfortunately, I was prescribed the wrong medication—a probiotic intended for dogs—which made her extremely ill and worsened her already fragile condition. What’s equally concerning is that after I paid for testing, I never received proper follow-up, results explanation, or continuity of care. When I raised concerns with management, I was dismissed as a client rather than having the situation addressed. I ended up having to seek care elsewhere and pay additional costs while dealing with a very sick pet. I never received an apology or any accountability for the mistakes made. After 25+ years as a client, this was heartbreaking. This is not about cost—it’s about trust, communication, and proper care. I would strongly encourage others to ask detailed questions, verify medications, and ensure follow-up is provided before proceeding with treatment.
• GG

  GarfieldOdie91

  Apr 17, 2026
  1.0
  I had a disappointing experience at VCA Almaden Valley Animal Hospital during what should have been a routine check-up for my dog. While waiting in the reception area, I witnessed a blonde staff member in scrubs, who appeared to be in her late 50s, slam a candle topper making staff visibly uncomfortable. More concerning was how she spoke to the front desk staff. Her tone came across as condescending and hostile. From what I observed, they did nothing to warrant that kind of response. Seeing this kind of interaction in front of clients reflects poorly on the clinic and raises concerns about the work environment. It undermined my confidence in the practice, and I hope management addresses it.
• AB

  Anoush Babayan

  Apr 12, 2026
  5.0
  Fantastic plays for treating and caring for your dogs. Dr. Fischer is an excellent doctor. We all love her for her professionalism, care and knowledge. The staff are wonderful people , very sweet and caring. They treat us so friendly and with love.
• AS

  Atreyu Shadow

  Jan 13, 2026
  1.0
  I’m extremely disappointed with how my appointment was handled. I received a confirmation text stating my guinea pigs had appointments at 11:30 and 12:00, which reasonably implies a window during that time. Nowhere in that message did it explain that arriving closer to 12:00 would result in my appointments being canceled outright. When I arrived around 12:00, I was told they suddenly couldn’t see my pets because the doctors were going to lunch and they “needed an hour and a half” to see both guinea pigs—something I was already aware of and had been told previously. What I wasn’t told was how rigid and unforgiving the timing would be, especially considering the confusing wording of the confirmation text. I had already taken time off work for this appointment, and the response I received was completely nonchalant, as if my time didn’t matter at all. No effort was made to accommodate, explain ahead of time, or take responsibility for the poor communication. If your scheduling is this strict, it needs to be clearly communicated upfront. I won’t be rescheduling here and will be taking my pets elsewhere.
• MH

  Melissa He

  Dec 2, 2025
  4.0
  I just went in for a wellness exam for my cat, and I had Dr. Heidi Stiehl as my vet. She was so kind and attentive towards my cat, and she patiently and fully answered all of my questions relating to my cat's health. My cat was stressed at first, but she calmed down through the appointment! The appointment was also very efficient and I didn't wait long, but at the same time, it didn't feel rushed. I've had good experiences with some of the other vets here as well. The pricing was very transparent, but after searching up prices for the 3yr Purevax Rabies Vaccine, the $219 they charged (just for the vaccine!) is extremely steep and more than double the price in other clinics. However, having the appointment be a good experience for my cat was overall worth it in my opinion.

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