VCA Santa Monica Dog and Cat Hospital

The people here are friendly and professional, but this vet is owned by a big private equity group and is driving price gouging that you should be cautious of. I started going here because it was the only game in town during COVID with availability, but other vets have opened up. Check out a few and find one you trust. Examples of price gouging that changed how I was caring for my pet with this company: - They asked me to set up a $50 appointment for them to administer my dog's chewable tick and flea medication every month. That's ridiculous and makes me question which medications are actually necessary. - They charged me $15/pill for a prescription you can get for cents at an online pet pharmacy. - They rarely have availability to bring your pet in unless you want to wait several weeks or want to pay for Emergency care. - In the three years I've been going, I've only met a vet once. Their operation is to pick up your pet from your car so you don't get to talk to a vet, yet they're charging full rates for the visit. Also good luck asking a vet a question. You have to pay extra for access to their app to ask questions. - They quoted me $2,200 for my dog to get a teeth cleaning with anesthesia. I had it done at another vet in town for $800. Not only did I feel like I was price gouged, but I'm scared this vet would have extracted teeth and charged me more when it may not be necessary. I switched to a locally owned vet and my eyes were opened to how badly the VCA private equity company is treating its customers. Shop around and find pet care you can

posted: 08/23/2023

Disappointed. My dog needed a medication, they told me it will be ready in 48 hours. Since i live in the area, i decided to check it out myself. The medication was all sold out, and no one ever informed me. Every time you call this office they put you on hold for 10-15mins. I dont think my pet gets the best care in this VCA clinic.

posted: 08/23/2023

I had a wonderful experience over at VCA emergency, so much so that I decided to switch all of my dogs records’ (which isn’t easy when you have 4 of them!) to my local VCA on Broadway. Initially, my encounter with the receptionists at VCA on Broadway was wonderful. They were courteous and took the time to meticulously update our account with all the necessary information. However, my perception changed significantly when I had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Fuhrman. In an effort to streamline the process and minimize the number of appointments, I decided to bring my dogs in pairs for their annual check-ups. Unfortunately, my experience with Dr. Fuhrman was marked by a considerable degree of hostility and a strong sense of urgency to expedite the consultations, despite having paid $400 for two check-ups that lasted only 20 minutes. As an incident occurred involving another dog running past us, my dogs became frightened and started barking. Dr. Fuhrman immediately responded with the statement, "We don't bark like that here.” Understanding the need for a calm environment, I requested to hold my dog on the table to prevent any unexpected leaping. However, I was firmly instructed to stand in the corner and allow her to proceed with the temperature check. Not surprisingly, within a mere 30 seconds, my 10lb dog attempted to jump from the table, prompting a visibly disapproving reaction from Dr. Fuhrman. Fortunately, anticipating this behavior, I managed to catch my dog mid-air and avert any potential injury. Furthermore, when I expressed a concern regarding one of my dogs, Dr. Fuhrman dismissively responded with, "I'm sure it's fine," implying that I was an overly anxious dog owner making unfounded claims. However, upon my insistence, she eventually acknowledged the issue and referred me to a specialist. Regrettably, I must express my discomfort with the overall experience at this VCA. Consequently, I have swiftly switched back to my primary veterinarian.

posted: 07/12/2023

Poor scheduling. People are on lunch and unable to provide an estimate wait time. Had me drive back after asking me to reschedule. Offered a discount and then rejected it. Happy they helped my pet but very unpleasant experience. Service took less than 5 minutes.

posted: 08/01/2023

This animal hospital and doctors and staff have been wonderful! I have seen them for many years and trust them dearly with my furry babies! They have helped me with an older family dog, one poodle mix rescue, and one very rambunctious golden doodle pup! I recommend them highly.. I am calling today to schedule an appointment for my rescue who had allergies snd has been stressed since the July 4 fireworks ! Please trust them with your furry babies !

posted: 07/24/2021