James Farese, DVM, DACVS, North Bay Veterinary Surgical Services

My 12 year old "big dog", with heart issues, developed a big mass on his spleen and it needed to come out - now. My regular vet (Dr. Erteman) spoke very highly of Jim Farese's skills and recommended I use him for Chamberlain's surgery. Dr. Farese responded quickly; became totally accessible via phone, text and email. He patiently took time to answer all our questions. Prior to Chambie's big surgery, he made a point of speaking directly with the cardiologist to be well apprised of his heart issues, beyond what the reports in hand stated. As soon as the surgery was completed, Dr. Farese called us, and, in great detail, described what he saw, what he did, and then gave us time to ask questions, and just chat about what we were feeling. Dr. Farese recognized my angst, never rushed me, and listened like a caring member of my family, not just a specialist called in to do a job. I read the other reviewers negative comment. It doesn't remotely sound like the Dr. Farese we've come to know. My regular vet has high regard for Dr. Farese and would never recommend someone he felt did not meet the high level of care we want for our fur-babies. There are always three sides to every story. Without a doubt, I give Dr. Farese my highest regards, and would never hesitate to recommend him. Five Star surgeon, to whom I am most grateful, and say, thank -you, with all my heart.

posted: 05/03/2017

Dr. Farese performed an FHO for one of our dogs because she had severe hip dysplasia. He was patient, kind, and knowledgable. He answered all of our questions and went above and beyond in terms of making us feel comfortable about the procedure and the alternatives. The surgery went very well and we are happy with the results. I would highly recommend him.

posted: 03/31/2020

When the vet at the emergency hospital gave us the seemingly perilous CT scan results of our dog's head, (Rusty) the resident surgeon at the hospital said it was pretty much inoperable. Devastated, we called our regular vet to see what's next, if anything. Without hesitation, Dr. Landman (excellent vet, San Anselmo Animal Hospital) recommended we call specialty surgeon, Dr. James Farese. Dr. Farese met us at the emergency hospital for a consult. He was patient, allowing us time to process, as he slowly went through the CT scan with us. His bedside manner is gentle, caring and again, patient. I would undoubtedly say he "gets it" when it comes to owners and their beloved pets. He exuded a "do no harm" approach, meaning he's only going to do what's best for the animal, Rusty. A little over four hours was this giant, invasive surgery; debulking the tumor, removing the inner ear and ear canal. He made sure Rusty's pain was well managed and checked on him, and us, frequently. That surgery was March 6th. Today, Ruby-doo, as we call him, is eating, drinking, wiggling his little rear-end... a great success, for all of us. Of course a malignant tumor still needs radiation therapy, but UC Davis examined Dr. Farese's handiwork, gave us the green light and is ready for us.... wish our little man good luck! An extraordinarily difficult circumstance led us to an extraordinary human being - Dr. James Farese. We rescue dogs, usually older ones, and with Dr. Farese just a phone call away (he is very responsive to emails, texts and phone calls), we rest a little easier knowing we can call upon him for future surgical needs.

posted: 05/05/2017

We were heartbroken when our Bernese Mountain puppy was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia at just a few months old. When it became clear that he would need surgery to alleviate his discomfort, our Vet recommended that we see Dr. Farese. From the initial consultation, through tricky surgery and recovery, Dr. Farese has taken the time to patiently explain all that we needed to know about Fen’s condition and prognosis. His reach out and support during recovery have been fantastic and he always makes time to answer any questions and hear about how Fen is doing and we are delighted with how Fen’s recovery is going so far. Dr. Farese is a deft surgeon and compassionate human being. Highly recommend.

posted: 04/20/2018

posted: 04/24/2017