Banfield Pet Hospital® - Lakeland provides quality and attentive health and wellness care for dog, cat and small animal pet patients. Our veterinarians and staff are committed to promoting responsible pet ownership and preventive health care with a full-service medical facility offering general services like routine vaccinations, microchipping, dental and surgical care and more. We are accepting new patients now.
Feedback indicates a mix of experiences with staff, ranging from compassionate and professional to rude and dismissive.
Communication Issues
Many customers reported poor communication regarding appointments, follow-ups, and care instructions, leading to frustration.
Service Quality
While some customers praised the quality of care for their pets, others expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of medical issues and the perceived focus on upselling services.
Wait Times
Several reviews mentioned long wait times for appointments and services, contributing to a negative experience.
Mixed Experiences
Overall, experiences varied widely, with some customers expressing loyalty and satisfaction, while others indicated they would not return.
AL
Ashley Lynn
5 days ago
1.0
I left after waiting an hour and still not being seen. After 30 minutes of waiting in the hallway they put us in a room with dog piss on the floor untouched for another 30 minutes. I also noticed the table they would have put my dog on was not wiped off in between sick dogs. Disgusting and horrible customer service
MM
Marina Montero
Dec 30, 2025
1.0
Dear [Practice Manager / Clinic Management],
I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding my experience at your clinic on December 22.
I initially called to schedule an appointment because I was traveling on December 23 and needed my pet to be up to date on vaccinations as well as obtain a health certificate required for travel. My appointment was scheduled for December 22. During that call, I expressed concern about the appointment being so close to my travel date. I was assured by the staff member that this would not be a problem and that the health certificate would be provided on December 22.
On December 22, I brought my dog in for his appointment at 8:00 a.m. I again reviewed all requirements with the nurse, including the need for the health certificate due to my travel the following morning. I was reassured that everything would be taken care of.
At approximately 4:00 p.m., I called to follow up and was instructed to pick up my dog at 5:45 p.m. to allow time for the certificate to be completed. When I arrived, the clinic was extremely busy. At that time, the receptionist enrolled me in a monthly plan and charged me $251, which was said to include the health certificate. Both I and the nurse were unclear as to why the cost was so high.
While waiting in the exam room, I again reminded the nurse about the health certificate. She stepped out to speak with Dr. Merkle. Unfortunately, conversations are clearly audible in the exam rooms, and I overheard remarks that were very concerning. I heard the nurse explain my situation, followed by Dr. Merkle stating, “I don’t care, that is not my problem.” I was shocked and extremely distressed by this comment.
The nurse returned and informed me that the certificate could not be completed that day and that I could return at 7:00 a.m. the following morning. I explained that this was not an option, as I was scheduled to leave at 4:00 a.m. and would be unable to travel with my pet without the certificate. I also explained that I would incur significant financial loss if I could not travel, in addition to the $251 already paid for services that included the certificate.
When Dr. Merkle came into the room, her attitude was dismissive and unprofessional. She stated she would not complete the certificate that evening due to having too many emergencies. Despite my explanations and clear distress, there was little empathy shown. After repeatedly explaining the seriousness of the situation and offering to wait as long as necessary, she reluctantly agreed to complete the certificate.
I ultimately received the health certificate at approximately 8:30 p.m.
I want to note that every nurse I interacted with that evening was compassionate, professional, and supportive. Their kindness helped me remain composed during an extremely stressful situation, and they deserve recognition for their professionalism.
While I understand that veterinary work can be stressful and that emergencies arise, paying clients do not deserve to be treated with indifference or disrespect. Our pets are members of our families, and we trust veterinary professionals to treat both animals and owners with care and respect.
In the past, I have intentionally scheduled appointments with Dr. Merkle. Moving forward, that will no longer be the case. I sincerely hope this feedback is taken seriously and used as an opportunity for improvement.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Marina Montero
MW
Miguel Weld
Dec 22, 2025
1.0
They treat you there like they are doing you such a super favor to take your dog to groom. This lady with different color hair treater us extremely rude. She was like in a bad mood and was taking it on us. I will never do business of ane kind there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Banfield Pet Hospital
Does Banfield provide emergency care services?
No, but you can call us during hospital hours for urgent care advice. Depending on the situation, we can help provide a referral for urgent care, specialty providers, or to an emergency hospital. During non-hospital hours, please contact your local emergency hospital.
Can I get veterinary care online?
To help pets and their people stay healthy, Banfield clients who have Optimum Wellness Plans® can get remote general pet care advice and triage support directly from a veterinarian 24/7 through Vet Chat™ on the Banfield app.
What preventive pet health care services does Banfield offer?
We believe that preventive care is the most effective way to keep your pet healthy throughout all stages of life. Our pet hospitals offer many preventive care treatments, including:
• Vaccinations
• Dental Care
• Parasite Control
• Nutritional Counseling
• Behavioral Counseling
• Comprehensive Examinations
What is an Optimum Wellness Plan?
Optimum Wellness Plans are designed to provide annual preventive care. They include head-to-tail exams, vaccines, early screening diagnostics, consultations for proper nutrition, dental care and more! Since wellness plans are not insurance, they do not include treatment for unpredictable or abnormal conditions, however discounts would apply. Because pets need ongoing preventive care, wellness plans automatically renew at the end of each twelve month period (unless paid in full at enrollment).
How do I pay for an Optimum Wellness Plan?
You can spread the cost of your wellness plan across the 12 months of your annual agreement to make it easier to budget for the essential health care your pet needs. Your monthly payments can be automatically withdrawn from a checking or savings account or charged to a credit card so that you don’t have to worry about them once you enroll. We also offer the option of paying in full if you prefer.
What kind of appointment do I have?
• In-room appointments: You and your pet visit the vet together. Please arrive a few minutes before your appointment time
• Drop-off appointments: If you have a drop-off appointment, we will communicate a time to drop off your pet. Keep your phone nearby and we’ll call you when your pet is ready for pickup.
• Optimum Wellness Plans® Virtual Visits: If you have an Optimum Wellness Plan and scheduled a Virtual Visit, you’ll save valuable time and get quality care from the comfort of your home.
What are the operating hours of Banfield Pet Hospital in Lakeland?
Banfield Pet Hospital in Lakeland is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and closed on Sundays and certain holidays.
Does Banfield Pet Hospital in Lakeland accept new patients?
Yes, Banfield Pet Hospital in Lakeland is currently accepting new patients.
What types of veterinary services does Banfield Pet Hospital offer?
Banfield offers a range of services including routine vaccinations, microchipping, dental and surgical care, preventive care, nutrition advice, parasite control, spay/neuter services, DNA testing, and end-of-life care.
Does Banfield Pet Hospital provide emergency care services?
No, Banfield does not provide emergency care but can offer urgent care advice during hospital hours and referrals to emergency hospitals or specialty providers if necessary.
What is an Optimum Wellness Plan offered by Banfield?
An Optimum Wellness Plan provides annual preventive care with head-to-tail exams, vaccines, early diagnostic screening, dental care, nutrition consultations, and more, designed to keep pets healthy throughout their lives.
Can I consult a Banfield veterinarian online?
Yes, clients with Optimum Wellness Plans can access remote general pet care advice and triage support 24/7 through Vet Chat™ via the Banfield app.
How can I schedule an appointment with Banfield Pet Hospital in Lakeland?
You can schedule an appointment online through Banfield’s website or use their app available on iOS and Android devices for convenient booking.
Are there shopping centers near Banfield Pet Hospital where I can shop after my pet's visit?
Yes, Lakeland Park Center and nearby stores like Ross Dress for Less, Old Navy, and Five Below offer a variety of shopping options conveniently close to Banfield Pet Hospital.
What beauty and spa services are near Banfield Pet Hospital in Lakeland?
Nearby beauty and spa options include ashleigh shay hair, Ulta Beauty, Benefit Cosmetics BrowBar, and Van Spa & Nails, perfect for pampering before or after your pet’s visit.
Are there dining options near Banfield Pet Hospital in Lakeland?
Yes, Crumbl - North Lakeland and Miller's Ale House are nearby dining spots where you can enjoy desserts or a meal after your appointment.