Welcome to VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital in Santa Clara, CA. Our experienced veterinary team provides compassionate, high-quality care for dogs and cats throughout Santa Clara and surrounding communities. As an AAHA-accredited animal hospital and Certified Gold Standard Cat Friendly Practice, we are committed to providing exceptional medical care in a comfortable, low-stress environment. We offer preventive wellness care, vaccinations, diagnostics, surgery, dentistry, and personalized treatment plans tailored to your pet’s unique needs. Our team takes the time to build lasting relationships with pets and families while helping pets live longer, healthier lives.
I've been bringing my pets to this VCA location for years, and I've had some wonderful experiences here in the past. In fact, one of the reasons I've continued coming back is because of the exceptional care and compassion I've previously received. Unfortunately, my most recent visit was very different.
A few months ago, I rescued a French Bulldog named Lord Winston from a neglectful situation. I knew when I took him in that he would need medical care, and I accepted that responsibility. I brought him in because he has been losing weight and having gastrointestinal issues that concerned me.
I completely understand that veterinarians have a responsibility to recommend the best medical care. My frustration wasn't with the recommendations themselves, it was with how the conversation was handled.
After my dog was taken to the back, I was presented with an estimate of over $2,000. When I explained that I simply couldn't afford that amount that day, the estimate was lowered to around $1,500, but it was still far beyond what I could reasonably afford.
From there, the visit became a cycle of repeated conversations. The two staff members came in and out, each telling me how sick my dog was and why he needed the recommended testing. I never argued that he didn't need it. I understood exactly what they were recommending. My concern was that no one seemed to acknowledge the reality that I simply couldn't afford everything at once.
There is a big difference between discussing ideal treatment and helping a client prioritize care based on their financial situation. Instead of feeling like we were working together to come up with a realistic plan, I felt like I was being repeatedly pressured to approve services I'd already explained were beyond my means.
After going back and forth several times, I finally said, "You guys just really need to get your shit together." I have never said anything like that to people working in customer service or healthcare before. I'm not proud that I reached that point, but I was incredibly frustrated because I felt like no one was actually hearing what I was saying. I wasn't refusing care for my dog. I wasn't questioning their medical recommendations. I was simply trying to explain that there is a difference between what my dog ideally needs and what I can realistically afford that day.
While I was on the phone trying to sort out an issue with my CareClub account, I was still being asked to revisit the same conversation. At that point, I just wanted my dog's medication, clear instructions on how to administer it, and to go home so I could focus on helping him.
What disappointed me most wasn't the cost, it was the communication. Repeatedly telling someone how sick their pet is after they've already acknowledged it doesn't change their financial situation. What clients need in those moments is someone who listens, helps prioritize care, and works with them to create a realistic plan.
What makes this experience especially disappointing is that I know this hospital is capable of providing that level of care. I had the opportunity to work with Dr. Barnstable once before when she was covering at this location, and the experience was completely different. She provided exceptional care and, more importantly, exceptional communication. She prioritized my dog's immediate needs, together, we came up with a realistic game plan that ensured my dog received the care he needed while allowing me to plan for the next steps. I left that appointment feeling supported, heard, and confident that we were working together in my dog's best interest.
That experience is why I continued trusting VCA with my pets, and it's why I'm taking the time to write this vey long review. I hope this feedback is taken constructively because I know the level of care this hospital is capable of providing. I simply hope future clients who are doing everything they can for their pets, while working within their financial limitations, leave feeling supported instead of defeated.
RO
Ricardo Oliveira
May 8, 2026
1.0
I brought my dog in for a routine visit where she received rabies and Bordetella vaccines and a consultation costing over $350. About 3 hours later she developed a severe allergic reaction which was quite serious. Her muzzle and both eyes became very swollen and red. The clinic was already closed so I had no support and had to rush her to an emergency veterinary hospital.
I ended up spending another $350 at the emergency clinic. This situation was extremely stressful and could possibly have been avoided with better guidance or monitoring after the vaccines.
I have been bringing my dog to this clinic since I adopted her 4 years ago and I have never experienced any issues like this before. Severe allergic reactions like this are not common after Rabies or Bordetella vaccines. I believe I should have been offered a refund for all this trouble. I will not be returning to this clinic again.
XM
Xiao Ma
Apr 22, 2024
1.0
Worst communication and they confused us on the charges and let us believe the fee covered the next vaccine but it didn’t. I will strongly discourage you visiting this clinic and they just want to charge you as high as possible (at least doubling the price elsewhere)
GM
Gaby Montiel
Oct 12, 2023
1.0
This one became the primary vet for my dog over the past year and a half. Service has gone downwards significantly. Today I took my dog for a follow up on a eye ulcer as suggested by our emergency vet. I waited for almost 25 minutes after arriving on time. The place was not busy and the nursers were chatting around until they noticed my appointment that was at “3pm”. They got us in and just took my dog inside to validate the ulcer was gone. No doctor took the time of checking with me or my concerns after waiting all this time, only to have the people in the front desk told me I could check out. Until I asked about the results or so, I was approached by the nurse with my dog just to tell me the ulcer is gone and they had removed the cone.
I had to ask to show me it’s gone, and hesitantly do so. I came back home just to see that my dog still has a small circular damage that shows that the eye is not completely set.
It’s a considerable expensive place to have that bad experience where the doctor doesn’t even care to address you and the response is “not sure if she has enough time, there’s another meeting coming up”
I would suggest you look for another place where they would really take care of your dog
Frequently Asked Questions About VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital
What are the operating hours of VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital?
The hospital is open Monday to Thursday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM and on Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Fridays and Sundays.
Where is VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital located?
It is located at 3345 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95051, USA.
What types of veterinary services does VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital offer?
Services include advanced care, allergy relief, diabetes treatment, diagnostics, nutrition, disease treatment, flea and tick control, general care, heartworm treatment, internal medicine, prescriptions, parasite control, wellness exams, physical exams, preventive care, spay and neuter, vaccines, and weight loss programs.
How can I contact VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital by phone?
You can reach them at their local phone number +1 408-246-1893 or their main phone number +1 669-220-6959.
Does VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital offer any special promotions for new clients?
Yes, new clients can click for a Free First Exam coupon available on their website.
Are there any health and safety protocols at VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital?
Yes, the hospital follows health and safety protocols based on best practices and local and state regulations to ensure a safe environment for pets and owners.
What nearby places could I visit before or after my appointment at VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital?
Nearby places include Jack in the Box for a quick meal, Madam Shauna's dance club for entertainment, and Madeline's Pet Care for additional grooming services.
Are there any convenient transit or fueling options near VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital?
Yes, there are two Valero gas stations near the hospital, providing convenient fueling and convenience store access for customers.
Can I find any automotive services close to VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital?
Yes, several automotive repair shops like Jeff's Garage, Hi Tech Automotive Works, and Premier Auto Care & Locksmith are located nearby.
Where can I find more information about VCA Vets & Pets Animal Hospital online?
You can visit their website at https://vcahospitals.com/vets-pets or their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/449626634890208.
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