My fiancé and I established care with VCA Smoketown Animal Hospital in August 2025 for our three cats. We truly wanted this clinic to work, but after nearly a year, we have decided to transfer all three of our cats elsewhere.
Our first appointment was disappointing. The veterinarian never spoke directly to us—every recommendation was relayed through the technician after the vet had already left the room. We left without understanding our cats' exams or having our concerns fully addressed.
After providing feedback, we were given another appointment with a different veterinarian. While communication was better, we still struggled to get clear answers. We were repeatedly asked to schedule additional appointments despite following every recommendation we were given, including documenting our cat's behavior for weeks.
When our cat Bongo became severely lethargic after being prescribed medication, we called the clinic and were initially told he was "probably dying from the infection." Later we were told it may have been the wrong medication. Thankfully, he recovered after stopping it.
When we established care for our kitten, Binx, we repeatedly explained that he was already scheduled through his rescue to be neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated. Despite this, we were repeatedly pressured to have those services performed through VCA and were even told we were neglecting him by choosing to keep those appointments with the rescue.
After our other cat required an emergency leg amputation costing nearly $4,000, we simply could not afford another office visit. When I explained our financial situation while trying to continue Goose's medication, I was told by the office manager, "If you're too broke, then you can go elsewhere," and was told to take him to the SPCA. That conversation alone was enough to make us question continuing care here.
Most recently, Goose experienced a behavioral emergency that resulted in injuries to both myself and my fiancé. I was told the veterinarian would call me personally. Instead, I received another call from the office manager stating there was nothing they could do because he hadn't been seen recently enough.
I also filed a complaint with VCA Client Relations and had to follow up multiple times before receiving any acknowledgment.
I understand veterinary medicine is complicated, but clients deserve compassion, communication, and follow-through. Unfortunately, that was not our experience.