Vca Canada Calgary Animal Referral And Emergency Centre Care

It's nice to have the specialties available like MRIs, cardiologist & neurologist. Both our dogs have been here - one older with heart issues, one young for emergency with a stroke. My older guy is on meds that seem to be doing the trick and they even told me about the ones I could substitute cheaper human versions. Dr O'Grady - the cardiologist - makes it a discussion and makes you feel involved in deciding your pets treatment. My young guy with a stroke went in on Monday and is now recovering really well on Wednesday night. The neurologist got us into a physio specialist after the MRI asap and looks like our boy will be back to himself in no time. The nurses I dealt with are amazing - despite the high volume & stress they remember you and make sure to keep you updated. The nurse (whose name I don't remember) put our minds at ease under the most horrible of circumstances - we went from thinking we would lose our dog to knowing that of the 4 issues it could be - all had good prognosis for recovery. Read Less

I was referred to come to this clinic, as my kitten was severely anemic and needed an emergency blood transfusion. While I appreciate that they treated her so quickly, I'm growing very impatient with their level disorganization. I was told initially that the prescription for my cat would be available for pickup at the pharmacy, and that the pharmacist would explain the dosage and how to give it to her. I called the pharmacy to make sure it was ready for pickup, and was told that the medication was being delivered to this hospital and it would arrive by 3pm. I called VCA to ensure it would be there, as I don't live by, and was told that it would arrive by 4pm. I also spoke to the vet who treated my kitten, and she told me that it was already there. Once I got there and requested the medication, they said that there was no record of it being delivered yet, and that it would arrive by 6pm. I didn't feel comfortable leaving my kitten unattended at home for that long, so I told them I would be back the next day. When I came back to pick up her medication, I asked them to explain the dosage, side effects, and how to give it to her as I was told this would be explained by the pharmacists. The reception staff just shrugged and said they didn't know, to which I had to request that the vet come and explain it to me. The disorganization continued when they didn't give me back my personal documents (adoption papers, vaccination records, etc.) that they took when I originally brought my cat in. Someone had called me to let me know that they still have them, so I said I would be by after work to pick them up. Once I arrived there, the reception staff said they had no idea what I was talking about because there was no note on my file. They told me to take a seat, and I let them know that I couldn't wait long as my cat had been alone for most of the day. I waited for close to 15 minutes until they called me up again just to tell me that they still have no idea what I was talking about. This was very frustrating, as it was my 5th or 6th time coming back to this clinic due to their disorganization. I proceeded to explain what the file looked like, and they found it on a shelf right behind where they were sitting. I don't want to put blame on any specific receptionist, as they are (mostly) kind, but I think there needs to be more communication and notes kept on your client's accounts. Its very unprofessional to continue to misinform your clients and waste their time because the staff are unable to keep track of things. I sincerely hope that I don't have to bring any of my pets back to this facility. The reception staff need a little bit of coaching on how to be more sensitive towards clients, most of them seemed miserable and unapproachable. Read Less

Went in because our dog was coughing and wheezing. Upon arrival our dog was taken in the back for an examination and we did not see him for another 3 hours. Dr. Knight told us that since he’s a bully breed that he has respiratory issues and that they sedated him to give him oxygen without our consent. When explaining to Dr. Knight that as bulldog owners we are fully aware of the respiratory risks involved with the Breed and we’ve had numerous vets examine him to make sure he’s fine (he’s 7 years old and has never had an issue). She then told us she would like to keep him overnight and that if we took him home that night that there was a chance he might die from lack of oxygen. Our bill was just over $300 and we left that night worried to death, not to mention our dog was still high and couldn’t stand when they brought him to us. When we voiced our concerns to the front end staff they just shrugged and told us it was their policy to sedate without consent from the owners. We took him for a second opinion to another vet the next day and it turns out our boy was suffering from allergies. He got some antihistamines and is back to his old self. I will never recommend this place to anyone. Read Less

Vet was great. Our Pug died. Sadly of brain Cancer. Very expressive. Reception staff are cold and don't care. Truly!! Either to busy or just don't care. Senior staff care. Disappointed about reception only!!. Read Less

Dr's are thorough and efficient. It was very difficult to get updates during the evening and early morning. Especially frustrating because they have you on "hold" and recording spouts to call anytime, yet they are often too busy to talk. Seems to have gone downhill since I started going to Care Centre many years ago. Read Less

Very accommodating staff! Even the Vet that handled my furry kid took his time explaining every small detail to make us feel that the procedure my pup will have to go through is what would be best for her. Read Less

We knew it was time to say good bye to one of our sweet girls. The staff was caring, compassionate and incredible. They got us in right away and let us take all the time we needed. Thank you all for your compassion and care. It truly made a very difficult day a little less difficult. Read Less

The extremely qualified people who work at the care centre are so calm, compassionate, and genuinely concerned for our pets. Everything we needed to know was explained in great detail. I would recommend them highly. Read Less

This review is for Dr. Valentine, the superstar dermatologist who never gave up on our medical mystery of a Sphynx cat, Shelly. She has a crazy busy schedule yet never rushed our appointments and always gave our cat hugs and kisses. She is the best! She is so good at what she does and I honestly wish I could see her more as she is so knowledgeable and friendly. Dr. Diaz and his team also took care of Shelly which I am super grateful for. They are all amazing! Read Less

We received excellent assistance after being referred here by our regular vet. Our cat's condition was diagnosed quite quickly, and the options were explained very thoroughly. I appreciate the time taken to outline the issues and to answer our questions, particularly from Dr. Neil Connery and Dr. Victoria Larson. The support staff were great as well. Read Less

We've been coming yearly to see Dr. Brian to check for a genetic eye condition and we've always been treated royally. Recently Kya had TPLO surgery end of March by Dr. Connery in which she was kept in for the night and let out on Good Friday. We were allowed to see her at 10:00 p.m. that night after my daughter had flown into Calgary. All staff and doctors are really good with her and great at answering our questions and concerns. Even though we're a 5-hour drive away, they'll make sure our appointments suit us, not them, and allow for questions any time of the day or night. Read Less

Dr Brian is awesome! He took such great care of my parents dog. When bear ended up with an issue unrelated to his original eye surgery dr Brian didn’t charge my parents extra for the visit to fix the abscess in his eye. All the follow up from surgery was also at no cost. Bear can see now compared to the diabetic cataracts he used to have! We couldn’t be happier with the results! The front staff was very friendly and helpful as well! Read Less

CARE was amazing to my Doxie - we were referred to the CARE Centre for emergency surgery on a herniated disc just over two weeks ago. Everyone we met with was incredibly friendly and sweet. Dr. Diaz was amazing - he called and updated us every day on our little guy's progress. When we picked him up we were given tons of information and support. He just went for his checkup and to get staples removed and we were greeted with the same awesome service. Yes - the bill was high (as expected from an emergency clinic) - insurance is our saving grace - but well worth the professionalism, friendliness, and care. Read Less

My dog has severe allergies and sees Dr. Becky Valentine whom has been so patient and so caring towards myself and Brook. She and her staff are just wonderful, understand the dilemmas and challenges that come with an allergy pet, and are completely there for you every step of the way. She's the only vet that I've dealt with at VCA, but if the others are like her then they're top notch, as are the front desk staff! Read Less

I should have writen this review a few years ago, but I needed time to process and heal. My cat lost functioning in his legs as a very young kitten. It was traumatic for him and my family.  After much advocacy, we were referred to Dr. Diaz. Dr. Diaz took the time to educate me on my cats illness and offered me  realistic hope... but more importantly he validated and responded to  my feelings of anxiety and fear. I was afraid. Dr. Diaz and all the staff at CARE just supported me through my fear and I appreciate that. My cat had a very rare condition and I hope through this wonderful clinic and the work of Dr. Diaz and his caring students that veternarians can learn and help others. The clinic not only responded to my cat but to me as well and I will forever thank them. At times, with my anxiety- I was more of the patient than my cat.  Today "The  Boss" is a happy and healthy cat. Dr. DIaz was worried about his weight but with a lion cut he is only 6.2 kg! And I can write the review that is long overdue now, because I feel solid in his recovery. This clinic and Dr. Diaz are simply the best, I never felt such support and I thank the clinic everyday when I wake up to The Boss demanding food and attention! Thank you CARE and thank you Dr. Diaz. This review is a long time coming but I am secure in  The Boss's  and my family healing. I was so anxious throughout The Boss's treatment plan but today we are secure and confident in his health. It really is all thanks to CARE, Dr. Diaz and his caring students. This center, Dr. Diaz and the students  are life changers and my family will be always be grateful. To all of you...thank you! Read Less

$160 just for the vet consultation, was not aware of this as I filled out the paperwork on the counter (apparently they have this information on the clipboard?). This should be included as part of their paperwork for new clients as informed payment. I would've gone to fish creek emergency as they're $80 and faster service. Overall super disappointed with their lack of transparency with me. Would not recommend them solely based off this. Otherwise, were great with my dog and the care she received...but so was the other vet clinic. Read Less

I've seen specialists here and have had emergencies where I've had to take my dogs here. Everyone working here is so kind, patient and gentle. Very informative when they go over diagnoses and treatments. Very happy to be referred here. Thank you!!Read Less

Due to some bad luck and unfortunate circumstances over a four year period, our eleven year old golden retriever (Jake) had to undergo four knee surgeries (two cruciate repairs and two meniscal repairs), the most recent two taking place over the last few months. Dr. Neil Connery performed all the surgeries and I would highly recommend him to anyone. Apart from his exceptional skill level, Dr. Connery showed the utmost kindness and compassion to Jake and I, particularly with our recent concerns about operating on an eleven year old dog. Dr. Connery was extremely attentive and accommodating and answered all my calls personally, which I greatly appreciated. His assistants and front desk staff were also courteous and kind and I found the prices to be reasonable. Read Less

We were referred to CARE Animal Hospital by our regular vet clinic when our poor boy Diesel got clawed in the eye by the cat. Our regular vet wasn't comfortable giving a diagnosis as they didn't have the appropriate equipment. They called CARE and managed to get us an appointment the very same day. Brought Diesel in at 3:30 the same day, saw Dr. Brian shortly after arriving and thankfully, the claw went cleanly into the cornea and back out again. $400, a few tests later and a few treats and Diesel has all the drops he needs to clear up any issues he may have and received a clean bill of health. The staff were amazing, Dr. Brian was awesome. He explained exactly what happened, showing me the damages and answered any and all questions I had. The other clients in the waiting room also spoke very highly of him. I'd highly recommend any one of the vets at this clinic. Although a busy place, they get you in on time and will answer any questions you have and not make you feel rushed. Great place. Read Less

The staff are amazing and wonderful. They take amazing care of your fur babies. They treat all clients(people and animalsl) with respect. The staff is hands on and answers any questions you may have. They also submit claims directly to the insurance company for you. It doctors and techs all are so kind and caring with your pets!!! Amazing place for your animals to be cared for. Read Less

Everyone there was very nice i have zero complaints about how i was treated they were all very nice, caring and compassionate. so here is my experience at this place: I took my cat in this morning because i didn't know what was wrong with her, she was spayed 4 days ago and suddenly there was tons of brown liquid coming out of her stitches. I called on my way there to let them know she needed to be seen right away and within 5 minutes of walking in we filled out paperwork and they took her to the back to be seen by the doctor very glad there wasn't any waiting for her to be seen. now i'm pretty confused because i wasn't brought into the room with the doctor while he/she examined her (i didn't get to met the person who first examined her because of a shift change) then a lady came in and explained my kitten had an abscess and she needed to do an ultrasound to make sure the abscess wasn't leaking into her insides.(Im not quoting her exact words she sounded so much more professional then this lol ) the ultrasound took only 10 minutes and the lady came back she said the abscess seems to be only draining out of the stitches not into other parts of her body so that's good. then she said she is concerned because my cat has "copper eyes" (which i think she doesn't i think she has light yellow eyes?) and cats with copper eyes usually have something called a shunt which could be contaminating her blood with uncleaned blood from her intestines, . and then she said her kidneys looked inflamed which can cause serious health problems and i should have that looked into. and then she said she has a hernia that needs to be fixed and i should come back to have that done. (i do want that fixed but later on when i can afford it) anyways after she spend 30 minutes listing off things wrong with her i said i can't afford any of that right now i only have $300 to my name she assured me that the cost of all the medication for this appointment would only be $60. i was so relieved to hear that because i needed to buy cat food. then she left the room and said someone would come in to tell me about the medication and how to administer it.... I had time for a 30 minute nap in the back room with my cat while waiting for someone to bring in the medication(was very very exhausted i couldn't sleep the night before was too worried ). when i went up to pay for the medication and everything they said the total was $277? i don't understand how the total came out to that i thought it would be around $160-$180? I was told they wouldn't charge me for the ultrasound and the medication would only cost $60 no one mentioned how much the initial fee would be when i got there so i had assumed it would be the normal $100 like all other vets... i did mentioned to the vet i had $300 to my name for the next 2 weeks and promised me the cost of the visit and the medication would be low but when i got the the front desk they took everything from me except 23 dollars.... just enough for a cab ride home... I am still giving 5 stars because everyone there is very very caring they really do care about the animals and do their best to help them they are very informative and take their time to explain everything thoroughly and listen to any questions i had, the lady who saw us was very gentle in handling my kitten and again very informative and i didn't feel rushed at all she really took her time explaining everything and examining her. and the cost thing wasn't there fault in fact the lady didn't charge me for the ultrasound, or blood work and they gave my cat a cone for free. i should have asked when i called before hand what the initial fee would be so i won't complain about that either. actually i still don't know what the initial fee is because i was exhausted and had the money so i didn't care to ask at the time. I would definitely recommend this place Read Less

Dr. Diaz and his team at the C.A.R.E. Centre Animal hospital saved my dog's life. If it wouldn't have been for their prompt and courteous service, we would not longer have our dog, Mika. She is on the long term care list, but she is happy, energetic and playful. She has a quality of life that, if you did not know her illness, you would think she is perfectly happy. The staff at the Animal centre are very caring individuals. I would recommend this facility to anyone who has a animal suffering from any ailment. Read Less

I loved this clinic. Doctor Brian was extremely helpful. The medication helped my dog a lot, she got cured from her eye illness. The price was more than reasonable. I'm thankful to people who work there. Read Less

We were referred to this animal hospital by another vet when our dog was suffering from what they suspected a neurological issue. When we arrived, our very dehydrated dog was seen by an expensive, arrogant Neurologist whom immediately informed us that there was nothing wrong with him neurologically and that he shouldn't have been sent there. However, he had no problem charging us $250!!! for what I cannot even call a consult (my dog collapsed in the exam room) only to state that our dog needed to undergo $2,500 in testing. We declined and ended up taking our dog back to the other vet where he was given hydration via saline bolus and we took him home the next day. He has arthritis and been on a low dose prednisone for over a year since this occurred and is doing well. So $250 for a neuro consult for a dehydrated animal. THIS PLACE IS A SCAM, DO NOT TAKE YOR PET HERE. Read Less

My pup recently had knee surgery and over the weekend my wife and I noticed some fresh blood coming out of the incision. We figured that 10 days after the surgery there shouldn't be blood and maybe we should have her leg checked out. Our regular vet is closed Sundays and Mondays so we brought her here on Sunday.Upon arrival we were told someone would be with us in a minute as the two ladies at the desk looked to be finishing up paperwork. The lady that ended up helping me was very friendly and got me set up with a clipboard of paperwork to fill out as we had never been here before. She said that they weren't very busy and after I had the paperwork filled out it wouldn't be too long to be shown to a room. While I was filling out the paperwork a nurse came over and asked a few basic questions and took our dog's weight. After a 10-15 minute wait we were shown to an exam room.In the exam room the nurse did the basics like take her temperature, ask the normal questions, and again assured us that they weren't too busy and barring any serious cases coming in it shouldn't be too long of a wait for a vet.We then waited probably a good 45 minutes before the nurse came back to apologize and again tell us we shouldn't have to wait much longer. After about another 30 minutes of waiting my wife and I decided to leave. We went to the front desk and told them we were just going to go. They seemed really surprised and offered to go find out how much longer we would have to wait but we were done with hearing "It shouldn't be much longer".Overall it was a little under two hours from the time we walked in, to the time we walked out. I get that in the grand scheme of things my dog's issue wasn't immediately life threatening and probably rated pretty low on the scale. However it was important enough that we thought it couldn't wait to see our regular vet. Clearly the staff here felt this wasn't a priority either.What really gets me is that when we walked out, the other exam rooms were empty and there was no one else waiting in the lobby. So where was everyone? It was around 12:30 when we left. Did everyone go for lunch and left us sitting in the exam room? Read Less

I would give them more stars if I could.Over the holidays, our local vet was closed and our kitty went into congestive heart failure and we had to take her into the hospital on New Year's Eve. We didn't know what was wrong at first but her breathing was extremely laboured. It came out of nowhere and we were totally distraught. The hospital was able to stabilize her but her prognosis was bad - the vet, Dr. Richards recommended we take her home with meds but to monitor her closely. Dr. Richards personally returned our phone calls to answer our questions on multiple occasions after that. We had come to terms with letting our sweet girl go before any suffering started so when her breathing quickened a day and a half later, we took her back in to say our final goodbyes. We were absolutely devastated but the compassion and commitment that Dr Richards and the team at CARE showed us really helped us through. They far exceeded any expectations I could ever imagine. I would highly recommend going there to anyone! Read Less

Our 11 year old lab had a large mass around her eye and our vet had tried everything she could think of and then referred us to Dr. Brian (the ophthalmologist at CARE). The initial consultation was informative and we booked for a biopsy a few days later (Dec 21) and were told we would get the results back the following week. On boxing day the doctor happened to be at the hospital for an emergency and called with the diagnosis of a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor. The doctor was very sympathetic and professional and welcomes us to come back in and discuss our options for palliative care. We found all of the staff and doctors to be professional and warm and they were all great with our dog. The cost was reasonable and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend the team at C.A.R.E. Centre Animal Hospital. Read Less

It is always nice to see pets treated with the kindness and the respect that I saw when I was at CARE.  My dog was treated royally by both the nurses and the doctors on my two visits.  The information giving to me was great, and easy to follow at home.  I had to go there because my vet was not opened, but I would not hesitate to go, and would tell everyone to try it.  Great Job CARE! Read Less

I accidentally poisoned my cat by using an anti-inflammatory cream on my hands and he licked my hand and the next day had massive kidney failure. We rushed him to the C.A.R.E. hospital and we received amazing care. They assessed him immediately, monitored him 24/7 and communicated with us on a regular basis. We were welcomed to phone anytime to inquire about his status and were welcomed to visit with him at any time. We are very lucky there was a positive outcome but either way we would definitely recommend the staff, vets and facility if your pet is suffering for any reason. Read Less

It seemed as though this vet really wanted to play off my emotions. My kitten had a seizure so of course I was very upset. She came in and started saying how worried she was and that she thinks it's serious. She said my kitten didn't look good and wasn't all cognitively there. The suggest course of tests would have cost me almost 3 grand and she was really pushing for it. She even said "you don't want to have to put her down". Such a cold thing to say when it isn't even close to a consideration yet. This was the first time she's had a seizure. Why on earth she would even say that is beyond me. When I asked to see my kitten she brought her in and she was fine. Acting completely normal. This vet tried to scare me into doing every possible test. Of course I care about my kitten but this place is run like a business and nothing more. I opted to take home anti seizure medication and monitor the cat myself. She has been fine ever since. I just did not have a good experience at this place. I felt like my vet just wanted to scare me into taking the extremely expensive tests and treatments and treated me in a very insensitive way. The only good thing about this place was the front desk staff. Read Less

I was recommended by my vet to take my cat for ultra sound.  An easy and non evasive procedure. You have to understand that my zena has been with me 16 years, so this is my baby girl.  I was a mess I was the one in tears (yes I'm that owner). They were so kind and understanding with me through the whole process.  When going through the results they were detailed yet ensured I understand the details.  I would recommend CARE in a heartbeat.  While waiting, I watched the same patience and compassion being given to everyone walking in. Read Less

Brought my kitty here one evening as he jumped onto a hot stove top. The burns didn't appear to be too bad at first, but then he began to limp and develop blisters. Poor little guy! I brought him in right away and was greeted by extremely friendly front desk reception and vet tech. All care was very gentle & understanding even though my cat was extremely skittish from the checking on his owies. I was also sent home with very descriptive instructions on caring for his wounds appropriate to his condition from Dr. Eisenbart. Of course, you will be paying a bit more than your family vet as this is for emergency care. First rate service, highly recommended. Read Less

I am sitting here right now waiting for them to look at my bleeding dog. I have been here for over an hour now. This is the second time I have been here and will never be coming here again. In the meantime the employees behind the counter are talking about how drunk they were the previous night and how good cheese is. Extremely professional don't you think? I've asked twice now about what is taking so long and there appears to be an emergency walk in which I completely understand, but they're only able to handle one at a time in this huge place? I guess me and the 4 other couples waiting here are just not important enough. Read Less

When we got our lil Shih Tzu last year, we were gifted a...well.. Lemon.  a LIZ LEMON as my brother calls her in reference to Tina Fey's character on 30 Rock, only Weechee is twice as funny.  Weechee required surgeries for her eyes and her nose which began last year around May (2014).  Dr. Skorobohach and his ophthalmology team (Jessie n Co) are extraordinary.  I cannot say enough good things about the care they have shown Weechee in the last year during her consultations, her surgeries and her follow-ups.  They are kind, caring, and honest.  I truly believe they care about my dog and her well-being.  Dr. Connery as well for nose and throat was also very kind.  Helpful, spent time explaining and speaking to me on the phone.  During the entire process they were very open about how much the costs would be, even over estimating in most cases.  I was never surprised by any hidden costs or procedures.  The staff at the front are always amazing as well. Friendly, courteous on the phone.  When Weechee was in overnight I phoned.. like a lot.. to check in on her.  They didn't care.  When we came to visit her, she peed everywhere, they didn't care.  In fact, when they released her I was told she was cuddled and held more than she was actually in a kennel.  I felt my puppy was in good hands.  And she WAS a puppy, she was about 4-6 months old when she had her surgeries.  Weechee LOVES coming here and seeing the folks who care for her so much and all the other lil doggies and kitties.  You will see a lot of reviews regarding price and how this place can be expensive.  You know what, it is expensive.  It's also a specialist you're seeing for an animal.  Primary care for animals is expensive, what did you think a specialist for an animal would cost?  And then surgical procedures?  They have been very generous to me in their post-surgery follow up costs and their time and attention to Weech.  I am so grateful for this hospital and all the wonderful things they do for animals in our city.  Keep up the good work! Read Less

I have been here numerous times over the years with multiple pets, for multiple issues. I have never really had anything short of a 5 star experience. Experiences staff, excellent medicine, and I never once felt bullied or pressured to do anything I didn't want to do. Yup, it's not cheap (but neither is veterinary medicine, and neither is emergency and specialist service). You get what you pay for in spades here. Read Less

AVOID THIS CARE CENTRE LIKE THE PLAQUE. Our dog had a Diaphragmatic hernia after being hit by a car and they made us wait for 7 hours!!! we finally left as our dog was lost consciousness and the internal bleeding began coming out of his mouth. Also -another dog came in during our visit at CARE centre animal hospital that was panting heavily and the vet assistant took their dog first, as our dog was bleeding out all over their floor. We rushed to fish creek 24 hour pet hospital and he went into surgery immediately- it was literally a life saving surgery at that point. They nearly KILLED OUR DOG. Read Less