VCA Veterinary Emergency Service & Veterinary Specialty Center

Reviews

• AS

  Ashley Salinas

  6 days ago
  1.0
  If I could rate this clinic with zero stars I would. I had an extremely disappointing experience at VCA Veterinary Emergency Service & Veterinary Specialty Center and would strongly caution others against relying on this facility for emergency care. My dog had just been evaluated by his primary veterinarian, where X-rays showed concerning findings that required an urgent ultrasound to determine the next steps with concern of a bowel obstruction, pancreatitis or even possible cancer. All very concerning matters that need timely intervention. My veterinarian personally called the emergency clinic ahead of time to give report and confirm that we should bring him there. We were told by the Vet at VCA to head over and that they would be ready to evaluate him and start treatment as soon as we got there. The clinic is only about a 15-minute drive from our vet, so we arrived quickly. Upon arrival at 0850, we were told the veterinary physicians were “in rounds and wrapping up” and that we would be seen shortly. About 30 minutes later, we were then told the physicians were actually in a clinical education meeting until 1000. Meanwhile, my dog was actively vomiting and regurgitating bile every 15–20 minutes while we waited. After an hour and a half at 1020, a physician finally came in to briefly meet my dog. We were then told they weren’t sure if they could even do the ultrasound because the ultrasound schedule was “booked with appointments.” The suggestion given to us was to leave our dog there for the day to see if they could maybe work him in. If they couldn't, we could simply pick him up later and attempt to schedule an ultrasound. For a facility advertising emergency veterinary services, this response was extremely concerning. When I expressed confusion and concern, I was told the doctor had not yet talked with the team about options and needed to go back and discuss it. At that point we decided we could not risk waiting any longer left the VCA facility and took our dog to Madison Veterinary Specialists instead. The difference in care was immediate. Within one hour, our dog was triaged, evaluated, and started on fluids and medications while preparing for ultrasound. The ultrasound confirmed a bowel obstruction, and he required emergency surgery. The surgical team was able to take him to surgery the same day, and within about four hours he had been evaluated, diagnosed, treated, and was already in recovery. The experience at VCA was marked by poor communication, lack of urgency, and a clear prioritization of meetings and scheduled appointments over emergency patients. For a pet actively vomiting and potentially facing a possible life-threatening obstruction, waiting 90 minutes just to be told they might not even be able to evaluate him was unacceptable. As pet owners, we trust emergency clinics to be prepared to respond when time matters. Unfortunately, our experience left us with serious concerns about their prioritization of care and communication with clients. If your pet truly needs urgent or emergency evaluation, I would strongly recommend seeking care elsewhere.
• AP

  Alexandria Parker

  Mar 5, 2026
  5.0
  We brought our 6 year old kitty here because we assumed she had a broken back and was paralyzed. From the moment we walked in they took her back. We barely sat down before they put us in a room. She threw a clot and there was nothing anyone could do. The vet working that night had so much compassion. I did not want to see her in pain so they put her down. I was able to hold her as it was happening. They let us stay in the room as long as we wanted. When we brought her we did not care about the cost. We wanted our cat to be okay. When they brought us the bill they only charged us for the euthanasia. We are forever grateful for a company that cares more about an animals wellbeing than making a profit. Thank VCA for how everything was handled and letting our kitty go over the rainbow bridge surrounded by love!
• AS

  Angelina DiModica Swenson

  Feb 23, 2026
  5.0
  Everyone at the clinic from the moment you walk in the door is so friendly. We had an appointment with Dr. Shiu in Oncology today as we navigate what's going on with our Golden Retriever. He was extremely informative and showed a respectful sense of urgency. We are relieved to have a plan for the process and no questions were left unanswered. We left with hope and trust and are extremely happy we brought her here.
• SS

  Shayle Schoepp

  Feb 7, 2026
  5.0
  Thank you Dr Sibley for being so kind during a very stressful and emotional day when I had to sadly say goodbye to my cat. She reassured me I did everything I could and helped talk me through any doubts I had. It was a really hard day but I appreciate how kind she was and how she thoroughly explained everything that was happening which helped me understand everything better.
• AL

  Alexis Lawver

  Jan 30, 2026
  5.0
  Our sweet pup had to be transferred here and the DVM and all the staff that night and next day were nothing but so sweet and kind. They kept us updated on her health and took such good care of her and tried everything they could to save her. When we had to come put her down everyone was so sweet and caring. I believe the dvm name was Dr. Trollope. So greatful we had a wonderful experience with you and that you did everything you could.

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