Veterinary Emergency Clinic of Central Florida | Villages , FL

My special thanks to the staff at Veterinary Emergency Clinic for taking care of my lil Chihuahua, Cashew! He had an infection right after the Hurricane and my reg. Vet was closed due to storm damage. He needed surgery and they took him right in. Jazzy was a wonderful source of confidence as was Dr. Painter, Dr. Shepherd and Manny. He had to stay overnight and I was so worried about him getting anesthesia. He came through great and the prices weren't as bad as I would have thought for emergency services. Thanks again to the whole staff for being there when I needed you the most!! Clean, friendly and professional, I can't be more pleased!!

posted: 10/15/2024

Navigating an emergency veterinary clinic can be a harrowing experience, especially when you're faced with a sick pet. Recently, I found myself in such a situation when I took my senior cat, who was suffering from a urinary problem, to an after-hours clinic. In what I expected to be a straightforward visit, I encountered a scenario that left me questioning not only the procedures of the clinic but the very essence of compassion in veterinary care. I was desperate to find the most affordable option that could accommodate us on short notice. The clinic assured me that their base price for an exam was the lowest I had come across, leading me to choose their services in hopes of alleviating my pet’s discomfort. I patiently waited for four agonizing hours while my cat (who, like all pets, deserved immediate attention) was subjected to a seemingly endless ordeal. During this time, a technician came in twice to relay the same message: they were swamped with more critical cases and I would need to be patient. While I understood that emergencies happen, the prolonged wait, particularly for a senior cat presenting with an urgent health issue, was disheartening. Finally, after expressing my growing concern multiple times, a tech offered to take my cat to the back to be seen by a veterinarian who, it appeared, had been too busy to look in on us during our lengthy wait. In my anxiety over my pet’s condition, I reluctantly agreed, but it was then I became increasingly uneasy. Unknown to me at the time, blood and urine were taken from my cat without my consent or prior knowledge — a significant breach of trust that would later amplify my alarm. Minutes turned into an eternity, and as I waited, my apprehension grew. I decided that enough was enough; I had done my research and had read numerous reviews about clients who faced similar predicaments. It became abundantly clear that my cat’s well-being was not the priority at this clinic. When I asked to leave, the technician informed me that I would incur no charges since no examination had technically taken place. However, as fate would have it, the veterinarian then came in — and suddenly, everything changed. The previously promised free visit transformed into a demand for payment of $140 instead of the expected $85. My intention to leave without incurring costs was quashed, and what ensued was a spectacle I never anticipated. The doctor, in an unprofessional display, raised her voice, asserting that my cat was at risk of dying from sepsis, while the tech had just assured me it was safe to seek care elsewhere. As emotions ran high, I found myself the target of a verbal onslaught, not just from the doctor but in a very public manner that drew attention from other clients in the clinic. Not only was I feeling the stress of my sick pet, but I was now being banned from the establishment, with an urgent situation escalating into a distressing confrontation. This experience has raised essential questions about emergency veterinary care. While we trust medical professionals with the lives of our beloved pets, it’s crucial for clinics to engage in compassionate, clear, and ethical practices. Transparency, consent, and understanding during such stressful times should be paramount. For those seeking emergency veterinary care, remember that your voice matters. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and never hesitate to seek another opinion. In the end, our pets depend on us to advocate for them, even in daunting situations. We all hope to provide our animals with the medical care they need, but it should never come at the cost of our dignity or their safety.

posted: 10/20/2024

Our dog, Ray, had some stomach issues and we were sent here by our regular vet! Manny did a great job of examining our dog and gave us the best options moving forward! Absolutely love finding someone who puts their patients first above anything else…he even called us back to check on our dog after everything and you could tell he genuinely cares.

posted: 09/12/2024

If I could give more than 5 starts I would! Dr. Papp and staff were INCREDIBLE during a difficult time. We had to decide to euthanize our sweet Yorkie, Daisy, who was 15 years old. Dr. Papp made sure Daisy was comfortable and calm throughout the experience. If my husband and I were crying she was talking to Daisy to make sure she crossed the rainbow bridge hearing how great of a girl she was. We have a 16 year old cat who is getting up there and this is the place we will bring him when his time comes. Thank you for helping us make sure our girl was taken care of!

posted: 10/19/2024

I want to thank you all. My beloved buddy, Fisher, was at his end. It was a very special moment. You all made this the quickest and easiest transition for him. It is very appreciated.

posted: 09/15/2024