For over 20 years, the board-certified veterinarians of VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center 24/7 have been serving pet owners from the communities of Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC. Founded in 1995 by three left handed doctors, VCA SouthPaws offers pet owners the peace of mind that some of the nation's top veterinarians are here addressing challenging health problems in pets. The years of advanced training required to become a "Specialist" help you rest assured that your best friend is in the best of hands.
Location
Certified by VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center • Mar 08, 2026
VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center
Certified by VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center • Mar 08, 2026
Reviews
3.7
407 reviews
5 stars
261
4 stars
9
3 stars
7
2 stars
24
1 star
106
RH
Richard Hakky
Feb 17, 2026
1.0
I took my dog to South Paws because my dog was sick and needed blood transfusion. I left my dog around 1 pm and came back the next day at 6 am to pick her up. And guess what? They had just started the transfusion before I arrived to pick her up.
I left my dog in their care, and at the end I had to put her down to sleep. They charged me a lot of money, but did almost nothing for her. I do not recommend this place. Nurses are very careless!
MD
Maggie Dewane
Feb 17, 2026
5.0
I had to take my dog here in an emergency and we had such incredible care. One of the vet technicians took special care of my dog and that thoughtfulness is why we've returned here for specialty appointments (and unfortunately other emergencies). Each time we are treated like individuals, not just another numbered patient. I cannot speak highly enough of the quality care, the compassion, the patience and understanding of everyone who works here.
TH
Taylor Hernandez
Feb 16, 2026
1.0
I brought my dog in for emergent services. Witnessed multiple employees dragging dogs across the cold tiled floor because they didn't want to walk with them. Passed by a blonde nurse named Heather doing the same - dragging a smaller dog patient. Literally, the dog sat down and she started walking and dragging the dog. Heather seemed.... mad?... at the dog? For not doing what she wanted. I eventually elected to transfer to another hospital due to the pungent smell in the ER, like they don't clean and the dragging of patients. I recommend VEG or LITERALLY anywhere else. I believe Heather was with a different "department," but did not appreciate dragging of patients across the tile.... regardless of internal medicine or ER services. Yes, I asked who she worked under and she's supposedly a supervisor. VEG was much cleaner and more professional and DIDN'T drag dogs across the floor when they needed to be triaged.
NM
Nicole Jones Mills
Feb 15, 2026
5.0
I’ve brought several dogs here over the years for emergency visits and they have always been great. Last Saturday, I had to bring my nearly 15 yo whippet in when she became unable to walk or respond. After giving her an IV and evaluating what was happening with her, we ultimately came to the difficult decision that it was time to say goodbye. I’m always impressed by vets, who do a wonderful job consoling their patients while also having to administer the meds to put the animals to sleep. We had Dr. Whitney who was kind, wonderful and really patient. The entire staff was great…from the time we walked in, to our departure. They made us feel supported, cared for but also gave us enough space to deal with the emotions of the situation. We chose to have a private cremation through the service they use. That was a seamless process and I was able to pick our girl up a few days later and bring her home. I also appreciate that though this is an emergency vet office, I feel like their prices are fair and don’t leave you with a lot of shock…which can add a lot of unpleasantry to an already stressful situation. Thank you to everyone at South Paws!
II
II R J II
Feb 8, 2026
5.0
I’d like to sincerely thank VCA SouthPaws and the excellent team that took care of my dog during a nearly 5-day critical stay at the hospital. My 6-year old golden was suffering from a critical, possibly fatal acute kidney injury and VCA was able to bring him back to near full recovery! Thank you so much!
In addition, do not pay mind to most of the 1-star reviews. Most are crying about the exorbitant cost of what is essentially the only 24-hour critical care specialized vet hospital in the area. Veterinary medicine is expensive! This is why it’s absolutely crucial that you get your dog or cat top-tier pet insurance. Sure, it’s expensive short-term, but definitely not worth risking having to euthanize just because you can’t pay for it.
Frequently Asked Questions About VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center
What services does VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center offer?
VCA SouthPaws offers various services including Cardiology, Dentistry, Dermatology, Emergency Care, Oncology, Surgery, Rehabilitation, and more specialized veterinary services.
Is VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center open 24/7?
Yes, the center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing around-the-clock veterinary emergency services.
Where is VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center located?
It is located at 8500 Arlington Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22031, USA.
How long has VCA SouthPaws been serving pet owners?
VCA SouthPaws has been serving pet owners since 1995, with over 20 years of experience in veterinary specialty and emergency care.
Who are the veterinarians at VCA SouthPaws?
The veterinarians at VCA SouthPaws are board-certified specialists with advanced training, providing expert care for challenging pet health issues.
Can I find more information about VCA SouthPaws online?
Yes, you can visit their official website at https://vcahospitals.com/southpaws or their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/123069977901513 for more information.
Is there a nearby veterinary hospital similar to VCA SouthPaws?
Yes, CVCA Fairfax and CVCA Cardiac Care For Pets are nearby veterinary hospitals that provide pet care services in the Fairfax area.
Are there any pet specialists close to VCA SouthPaws Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Center?
Yes, CVCA Cardiac Care For Pets is nearby and specializes in veterinary cardiology, complementing the specialist services at VCA SouthPaws.
What other medical or health services are located near VCA SouthPaws?
Nearby medical services include Virginia Endodontics (dentistry), Family Healthcare of Fairfax (family practice), and Capital Eye Consultants (optometry), offering comprehensive health care options in the area.
Where can I find banking services near VCA SouthPaws?
Truist bank and ATMs are located close to VCA SouthPaws, providing convenient banking options for visitors and pet owners.
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