RM
Russell Misencik
Jan 21, 2026
VRCC Saved our dog’s life.
Our dog has ITP—an autoimmune condition similar to lupus—where his body attacks his own blood cells, causing dangerous internal bleeding. When he began vomiting blood, we knew immediately that something was terribly wrong. Our primary veterinarian quickly recognized it as a life‑threatening emergency and contacted local hospitals to find a place equipped to give him the best chance of survival. VRCC was the one that answered that call.
VRCC had blood on hand for transfusions, the capacity to take him immediately, and the expertise necessary to treat such a complex condition. He spent nearly a full week in their critical care unit, receiving four blood transfusions, two plasma transfusions, and truly intensive, round‑the‑clock care.
Yes—the bill was significant and difficult to manage. But throughout the entire process, the staff was transparent, providing both high and low estimates and setting realistic expectations. It’s easy to assume hospitals overcharge, but in situations this severe, it’s important to understand the immense resources required to save a life.
After six days in critical care, our dog was stable enough to come home. VRCC also referred us to an internal medicine specialist who has continued his care in a much more controlled environment.
For anyone facing a similarly terrifying situation, I want to reassure you: VRCC will do everything reasonably possible to save your pet. It won’t be news you ever want to receive or something you’re financially prepared for, but the cost truly reflects the level of care, expertise, and dedication involved. They may not be able to work miracles every time, but they will absolutely go the extra mile.
The staff was compassionate, courteous, and honest throughout the entire process. If your pet is facing a severe medical crisis, I wholeheartedly recommend considering VRCC. We are beyond grateful to everyone who helped our baby pull through such a difficult fight.
SC
Suzie Royce Cruse
Jan 17, 2026
No wait time and they did a great job making us feel welcome.
I brought my cat to VRCC seeking a second opinion from internal medicine during an incredibly difficult time. I was not looking for unrealistic hope. I had already accepted that her condition might be terminal. What I was hoping for was a fresh perspective and compassionate communication about where she was at medically.
Unfortunately, my experience left me feeling unheard and emotionally unsupported. I was told very bluntly that nothing could be done. While I understand that this may have been medically accurate, the delivery lacked sensitivity. I felt assumptions were made about my intentions rather than listening to what I was actually asking, which was simply for clarity and reassurance during an overwhelming moment.
I respect the medical expertise involved, and I know these conversations are difficult. However, kindness and empathy matter deeply when families are facing end-of-life decisions. I left feeling judged and alone at a time when I needed compassion most.
My cat meant everything to me. I did everything I could for her, and I wish this experience had felt more supportive for both of us during her final days.
I hope this feedback helps improve communication for others going through similar heartbreak.
MO
Matt O'Connor
Dec 21, 2025
We rescue dogs and always have three. As you can imagine, dog things happen threefold. It can be expensive to care for them under the normal circumstances. But, when an emergency or urgency strikes, there is always a financial concern in addition to wanting the very best care and outcome for your beloved. We have had some unbelievable acuities occur as well as some tragic illnesses over the many years of keeping so many dogs. We have had some trusted and caring Vets come and go over those years too. It always gives us anxiety about what our next experience will be when finding a new provider. Will they listen, will they care? Will they need to meet a bottom line that leans toward expensive care? (We have known many Vets and understand their difficulties, no hard feelings about financial stuff Vets face.)
We found ourselves in that situation again yesterday. Our trusted Vet group of years sold and the remainder of the practice moved out of town a while back. We tried a different provider to examine a mild chronic illness in one of our dogs and were not pleased with the total experience. We had yet to find a provider we loved when yesterday we had an urgent situation occur on a walk. A stick one dog was chewing on while walking became lodged in the back of his oropharynx and he was in significant distress. We didn't know where it was at the time, we just knew he was hurting and there was potential for a very bad situation to develop.
In a past emergency (real emergency, hemorrhage), we went to the closest location advertised as Emergency Vetrinary Hospital only to be endlessly questioned, needlessly delayed (I am an emergency provider for people, very aware of priorities), and only to be told after that they did not have the capabilities to treat our dog at that location. Of course we got the full bill and had to go to a more comprehensive facility to get definitive care. I did not want that experience again.
I have driven by VRCC for years, knew how long it would take to get there, and decided it was the best bet for our current urgency in case it became a true emergency. I am very glad I did. Of course, the minimum of intake process had to happen and the dogs presentation was stable though very uncomfortable, so perfectly acceptable and understandable. We waited briefly in the waiting room when a provider came out, asked a couple of questions, LISTENED to the answers, and immediately went in with our assistance and removed a 3" stick lodged at the back of the dogs oropharynx. The relief was instantaneous, for our pup and for us. The provider handed me the stick, shook my hand, and returned to the back to treat others saying "Happy Holidays, no charge!"
While I would have gladly paid an appropriate fee, and I am certain that it can not always be the case that even a simple fix can be complimentary, the entire interaction for me was flawless. Quick, effective treatment delivered with cordial, caring affect and no "bottom line first" mentality. Just a happy, healthy dog and best wishes. That is aways a culture, not a one off. To me it speaks of priorities. Priorities that ought to be shared by pet owners and providers. It goes a long way to establish trust when the priority is the patient, and that is what I experienced.
I will be returning to VRCC for primary care. It is also a relief knowing there is such a comprehensive Emergency Vetrinary Hospital this close to us.
Thank you to the staff of VRCC
AB
Adriana Buonassisi
Nov 21, 2025
I went for what I considered an emergency and the vet assistant Jess very kindly explained me since my dog was eating and drinking normally and gums pink I could wait to have her seen by an internal medicine specialist (my dog was frquently bleeding from her booty). Since their internal medicine appointments were too away, Jess even took the time to call to another specialty clinic and found out they had an appointment 3 days away, so I took that spot and she really made me feel calm leaving today, always with the option to come back if I see my dog in worst conditions. Please a big shout out to Jess! We need more people like her thinking outside the box and be a thinking human I really appreciated her help and kindness!