VCA Natomas Animal Medical Center

This review is for Michelle Rivera specifically. My cat arrived at VCA a measly 4.75 lbs, and Michelle suggested that she likely had FIP. Thank you for letting us know and pointing us to the right direction on where to locate medication for her. We were able to start her treatment outside of VCA the same day. Upon arrival to pick up my cat, VCA asked that I sign a waiver ignoring their suggested treatment before they would release her to us. Michelle brought us into a room and hinted that choosing not to do treatment, which included a $8000 ER visit, was animal neglect and that she had a right to report us for animal abuse. When my husband asked her questions regarding the alternative treatment for FIP, and that the symptoms she mentioned sounded like they could potentially resolve themselves with the medication, Michelle cited that she went to veterinary school, and he didn’t. The many years she spent there clearly did not inform her about the ongoing trials at UC Davis for FIP treatment because otherwise, she wouldn’t have been so misinformed about the treatment my cat so desperately needed to resolve her anemia, jaundice, et al that, to no one’s surprise, points to FIP. Harrowingly enough, Michelle also said that her liquids were very low and didn’t even bother to try and give her an IV drip because she was ready to help assist me to euthanize my cat. I’m happy to report that to Michelle’s “she’s going to need a miracle”, my cat has survived FIP injection treatments for 84 days and 84 days of observation. Per Dr. Niels Pedersen, DVM PhD my cat is permanently and fully cured of FIP after 84 days of observation with no relapse. There was not a moment where I had unshakable hope that my cat would make it through, and as I exhibited this towards Michelle, I could sense that she was indignant that we would consider anything outside of her recommendation. The hilarity of it is that there were some cat moms on Facebook that actually recommended Michelle to us as a supportive, FIP-aware vet. Hard to believe after the way she reacted towards us. Michelle, I deeply hope that you are open to studying up on FIP research outside of work and can consider that maybe not everything is taught in vet school. Maybe new information and studies may arise outside of the narrow scope of your textbooks. To quote Dr. Niels Pedersen, DVM PhD: “More and more veterinarians now assisting owners in the treatment. I remain disappointed, however, that some veterinarians have not heard about effective treatments for FIP, believe that published reports on the treatment were bogus, or that sourcing drugs from unapproved markets is so egregious that they cannot even assist with the treatment once purchased by an owner. I commend those veterinarians that accept the reality of the treatment and work with owners and their cats with FIP.” Picture of my cat fully recovered, 168 days after Michelle suggested euthanizing her.

posted: 08/01/2023

Had an 8am appointment with them today and it was rather unpleasant. While the techs were really kind and helpful, the doctor wasn't. It was my first time meeting with Dr. London and it's hopefully the last. Her demeanor was really off putting. She seemed irritated when I asked simple questions regarding my cat's hairball issues and his weight. I walked out of there feeling like I had been shamed. I don't think I will be returning to Natomas VCA due to this experience. I am paying to be treated in a courteous manner and expect to receive at least basic education regarding my cat's health. It's disappointing because we loved coming here but I think this is unacceptable. Not to mention that she kept looking me up and down in a judgy way. Really uncomfortable appointment.

posted: 07/31/2023

I recently lost my furry companion Simba and the VCA Natomas staff did such an amazing job at making the process easier to bear. I currently live away because of the military and had to have my brother and mom take care of the process in my place. The VCA was extremely respectful, and it is noticeable that the staff genuinely cares. Highly highly recommend this location.

posted: 03/27/2023

No follow through sending prescriptions, vets pop in for a second don’t touch your dog and it counts as a checkup!!! Always charging charging but don’t really care about your pet! I gave them second and third chances but they may very well be the worst vet for dogs I have ever experienced no lie🙁 Other VCA’s are much better than this one. Try them instead!

posted: 06/03/2023

Great place, nice people. We took Daphne here for cremation & the staff are very caring people. Cremation, and a nice wooden box. We also got a stone tablet with her little paw print and her name. $140.00

posted: 07/27/2018