12 Reviews

VCA Big Lake Animal Hospital

Wasilla, Alaska
Reviews
Melissa McGill
9 Apr 2021
REPORT
We brought our 9 week old puppy here for a vaccination booster. They do not permit you in with your dog, because of their Covid policy. While they clearly place their own health and wellbeing as a top... Read More
We brought our 9 week old puppy here for a vaccination booster. They do not permit you in with your dog, because of their Covid policy. While they clearly place their own health and wellbeing as a top priority, the same cannot be said of how they treat your pet. When they came out of the visit they said the puppy “lunged, growled and snapped” and would have to be sedated at a future visit. This people who work at this vet office clearly have no understanding of how to deal with puppies and ensure they are calm and comfortable before implementing any kind of exam, shot, etc. It’s pretty basic behavioral stuff that they should know. If the dog was exhibiting fearful behavior didn’t it cross their mind to stop the exam? Why not? They were then so engrossed in informing my husband of her behavior that they also failed to answer other basic questions he had. Because he was not allowed in we have absolutely no clue what happened and how she was treated. There is zero transparency. Our puppy which had been happy and easy going became completely fearful and out of sorts for the rest of the day. Her experience here has most likely given our dog a forever fear of vets and who knows what else. If you have a puppy you would be best served to visit a veterinarian who lets you accompany your animal, and also who shows knowledge and understanding of puppy behavior, and how to deal with them to create a positive and fear free environment. If you are a puppy owner I also urge you to educate yourself on puppy learning processes and fear windows that open and what can happen during these periods. This vet clearly has not done so. I am so incredibly regretful that we ever visited Big Lake VCA. What did you people do to our sweet dog??? Read Less
Karen Kirkpatrick
17 Jul 2018
REPORT
VCA Big Lake has been taking care of my pets for many years now. I have cats of my own, and when I've had foster cats who've needed care (including emergency care), the staff has been completely aweso... Read More
VCA Big Lake has been taking care of my pets for many years now. I have cats of my own, and when I've had foster cats who've needed care (including emergency care), the staff has been completely awesome. Sadly, I most recently had to have one of my beloved cats, Boo-Boo, euthanized. Their newest veterinarian, Dr. Kidder, was very kind and gentle with my kitty and me. I love that they built that "crying room" which is comfortable and non-clinical where you can hold your fur-baby as they are sent over the rainbow bridge. This is the 2nd time I've had to use them for this purpose, and both times, the staff has shown such wonderful compassion. They even have an electric candle on the counter in the waiting room that is lit, with a sign letting folks in the waiting area know that someone is saying goodbye to their pet and to please be respectful and quiet, (or something to that effect...I was crying so I don't remember exactly how it was worded). When I got there, I told Erica at the front desk (she's awfully wonderful), that I wanted the vet techs and veterinarians present to see Boo-Boo (who was 19 years old), and see what crippling effects declawing a cat have on them as they get older. Erica informed me that they refuse to declaw cats, or to do any of the other maiming procedures (docking of ears/tails). If it was possible, this clinic went up even higher in my estimation. This proves, to me, that they are more about humane and compassionate care for our non-human family members than they are about making a profit off doing unnecessary convenience or cosmetic surgeries. Thank you, VCA Big Lake. Read Less
Dana Olson
17 Feb 2018
REPORT
This vet clinic did an amazing job on my doggie’s teeth. His teeth were very gross and covered with buildup. Now he had a movie star doggie smile! Dr. K did such a good job. Sorry, I don’t know how to... Read More
This vet clinic did an amazing job on my doggie’s teeth. His teeth were very gross and covered with buildup. Now he had a movie star doggie smile! Dr. K did such a good job. Sorry, I don’t know how to spell this vet’s last name, but she’s great and understands rural pets. My dogs are from a village and have a more cautious temperament, but Dr. K was great with both of my shy dogs. So glad there is a vet office around that understands that not everyone out here is a millionaire, but we still love our pets. Prices are reasonable and they are very honest about telling you if a service is optional. Not like some other money grubbing vet clinics I have been to where the estimated make my eyeballs pop out and I have to feel like a grinch with my doggie’s care. Big lake is super understanding about pet owners needing to keep costs down so they can access services for their pets. Thanks!!! Read Less
Ryan Hand
12 Apr 2017
REPORT
Big Lake vet is amazing! I had to take my rabbit to the emergency vet and the next day they wanted me to bring him into a vet for a check up the next day. Everywhere was booked or I would have to drop... Read More
Big Lake vet is amazing! I had to take my rabbit to the emergency vet and the next day they wanted me to bring him into a vet for a check up the next day. Everywhere was booked or I would have to drop him off but luckily big lake was open. I brought him in and they were so kind as soon as we walked in. I had some x-rays sent over and Dr. fisher wasn't sure about the x-rays so asked opinions of other doctors. She also went above and beyond for us making sure he would be okay. She did such a great job. Also on top of that they sent a thank you card to me afterwards, super nice! Big Lake vet is our new go to vet! ( I had to write this on my brothers account haha) Read Less
ERIC MCGINTY
6 Nov 2016
REPORT
I took our injured rabbit in for treatment. The doctor pulled all the stiches out (which didn't need to be pulled) and talked me in to doing a laser healing treatment on the open wound. The rabbit b... Read More
I took our injured rabbit in for treatment. The doctor pulled all the stiches out (which didn't need to be pulled) and talked me in to doing a laser healing treatment on the open wound. The rabbit began to eat her open wound due to it being inflamed and open from the visit. She is now in anchorage under 24 hour care and had to have an emergency procedure to reclose the wound. So not only am I out of the money I spent here, but I now am looking at a 2000 dollar bill or possible amputation of my rabbits leg. Highly recommended that you avoid this vet. Read Less
Amanda Campbell
27 Sep 2016
REPORT
The Dr and staff were great with my little Izzy! Even with my girl being so high strung and anxious, they did amazing with her! Definitely a huge difference from the previous vet clinic we had been us... Read More
The Dr and staff were great with my little Izzy! Even with my girl being so high strung and anxious, they did amazing with her! Definitely a huge difference from the previous vet clinic we had been using since she was a puppy. Read Less
Brandon Haworth
27 Jun 2016
REPORT
Amazing staff, super friendly. Dr.Fisher helped us out with an emergency when our lab got a bad cut, and was losing blood fast. Saw us quickly, and even stayed after hours to help when we had to come ... Read More
Amazing staff, super friendly. Dr.Fisher helped us out with an emergency when our lab got a bad cut, and was losing blood fast. Saw us quickly, and even stayed after hours to help when we had to come back. our dog is on her way to recovery, in large part due to this clinic! Can't say enough good things about them. Read Less
Elliot Nash
22 Mar 2016
REPORT
One of the BEST vets I have been to. Everyone from the people at the desk to the vets and assistants truly cares about my pet as it was their own. Until my job sends me and my family to another state... Read More
One of the BEST vets I have been to. Everyone from the people at the desk to the vets and assistants truly cares about my pet as it was their own. Until my job sends me and my family to another state big lake is my vet!! Read Less
Eila Gomez
11 Sep 2015
REPORT
If the man in charge of this hospital still is Bryan Baetsle, there is no better place to go. He goes way beyond duty to save a dog, He CARES. Sadly very few vets in this world that are like that. He ... Read More
If the man in charge of this hospital still is Bryan Baetsle, there is no better place to go. He goes way beyond duty to save a dog, He CARES. Sadly very few vets in this world that are like that. He is the BEST. Wish there was someone half as great where I reside now, on the other side of this globe. Dogs are normally reluctant to enter any clinic, but going to this one my setter always went happily straight to the desk, (particularly if Brenda was there!) paws up on it, ''hello, I have arrived!''. They know. Read Less
Kathy Chapoton
18 Oct 2014
REPORT
The staff expertise at BLSVH is exceptional and thorough. We have a kennel of racing sled dogs and when needed, we feel each dog gets the most up to date treatment and we get extensive information on... Read More
The staff expertise at BLSVH is exceptional and thorough. We have a kennel of racing sled dogs and when needed, we feel each dog gets the most up to date treatment and we get extensive information on the course of treatment and after care. As you can imagine, with 85 dogs, we've had just about every dog issue imaginable. BLSVH staff, from the receptionist to the docs, have shown kindness and a keen awareness of the bond between owner and animal. Thank you to all the staff at BLSVH from Martin Buser's Happy Trails Kennel. Read Less
Alaska Alaska
22 Aug 2014
REPORT
My first experience was when I brought in my older kitty who was very sick and I had to find out out she was having kidney failure and would ultimately need to be put down. The vet was so kind and com... Read More
My first experience was when I brought in my older kitty who was very sick and I had to find out out she was having kidney failure and would ultimately need to be put down. The vet was so kind and compassionate and delivered the news in the most gentle way. She gave me the option of taking her home and coming back or doing it then. She also let me know I could have as much time as I needed with my kitty in the room before we made the final call. The vet truly made the process as easy on me as possible. I even later got a sympathy card in the mail, which I felt was truly above and beyond. They are a wonderful clinic. I really appreciated how they treated me in that time. My second visit with another kitty was a happier one just for a minor ear infection and got some meds. They are very professional and courteous, and I didn't find them to be expensive. I will definitely continue to use them! Read Less
Haley TumSuden
15 Aug 2014
REPORT
This is one of the best and most professional vet clinics I have been too. The staff there is very helpful and open minded, and they always like to love on my dogs and give them plenty of cookies when... Read More
This is one of the best and most professional vet clinics I have been too. The staff there is very helpful and open minded, and they always like to love on my dogs and give them plenty of cookies when I go there. I can't even begin to say enough good things about the veterinarians there. I have never had a problem with them trying to push their products on me or belittle me for the products I choose to use already. They're one of the few vets that doesn't believe in overvaccinating (Dr. Fisher suggested I get a blood test done on one of my dogs to find out if he even needed the vaccine before she gave it to him). When I was having trouble putting weight on my other dog she even suggested supplimenting some hamburger into his diet. Their offices are very clean and inviting, just like the staff that works there Read Less
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Book an Appointment
Online booking unavailable
Please call
(907) 892-9292
Business Hours
Monday
Mon
08:00AM-18:00PM
Tuesday
Tue
08:00AM-18:00PM
Wednesday
Wed
08:00AM-18:00PM
Thursday
Thu
08:00AM-18:00PM
Friday
Fri
08:00AM-18:00PM
Saturday
Sat
08:00AM-18:00PM
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VCA Big Lake Animal Hospital

Wasilla, Alaska
(12)
Monday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Tuesday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Wednesday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Thursday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Friday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Saturday
08:00AM-18:00PM
Melissa McGill
9 Apr 2021
REPORT
We brought our 9 week old puppy here for a vaccination booster. They do not permit you in with your dog, because of their Covid policy. While they clearly place their own health and wellbeing as a top... Read More
We brought our 9 week old puppy here for a vaccination booster. They do not permit you in with your dog, because of their Covid policy. While they clearly place their own health and wellbeing as a top priority, the same cannot be said of how they treat your pet. When they came out of the visit they said the puppy “lunged, growled and snapped” and would have to be sedated at a future visit. This people who work at this vet office clearly have no understanding of how to deal with puppies and ensure they are calm and comfortable before implementing any kind of exam, shot, etc. It’s pretty basic behavioral stuff that they should know. If the dog was exhibiting fearful behavior didn’t it cross their mind to stop the exam? Why not? They were then so engrossed in informing my husband of her behavior that they also failed to answer other basic questions he had. Because he was not allowed in we have absolutely no clue what happened and how she was treated. There is zero transparency. Our puppy which had been happy and easy going became completely fearful and out of sorts for the rest of the day. Her experience here has most likely given our dog a forever fear of vets and who knows what else. If you have a puppy you would be best served to visit a veterinarian who lets you accompany your animal, and also who shows knowledge and understanding of puppy behavior, and how to deal with them to create a positive and fear free environment. If you are a puppy owner I also urge you to educate yourself on puppy learning processes and fear windows that open and what can happen during these periods. This vet clearly has not done so. I am so incredibly regretful that we ever visited Big Lake VCA. What did you people do to our sweet dog??? Read Less
Karen Kirkpatrick
17 Jul 2018
REPORT
VCA Big Lake has been taking care of my pets for many years now. I have cats of my own, and when I've had foster cats who've needed care (including emergency care), the staff has been completely aweso... Read More
VCA Big Lake has been taking care of my pets for many years now. I have cats of my own, and when I've had foster cats who've needed care (including emergency care), the staff has been completely awesome. Sadly, I most recently had to have one of my beloved cats, Boo-Boo, euthanized. Their newest veterinarian, Dr. Kidder, was very kind and gentle with my kitty and me. I love that they built that "crying room" which is comfortable and non-clinical where you can hold your fur-baby as they are sent over the rainbow bridge. This is the 2nd time I've had to use them for this purpose, and both times, the staff has shown such wonderful compassion. They even have an electric candle on the counter in the waiting room that is lit, with a sign letting folks in the waiting area know that someone is saying goodbye to their pet and to please be respectful and quiet, (or something to that effect...I was crying so I don't remember exactly how it was worded). When I got there, I told Erica at the front desk (she's awfully wonderful), that I wanted the vet techs and veterinarians present to see Boo-Boo (who was 19 years old), and see what crippling effects declawing a cat have on them as they get older. Erica informed me that they refuse to declaw cats, or to do any of the other maiming procedures (docking of ears/tails). If it was possible, this clinic went up even higher in my estimation. This proves, to me, that they are more about humane and compassionate care for our non-human family members than they are about making a profit off doing unnecessary convenience or cosmetic surgeries. Thank you, VCA Big Lake. Read Less
Dana Olson
17 Feb 2018
REPORT
This vet clinic did an amazing job on my doggie’s teeth. His teeth were very gross and covered with buildup. Now he had a movie star doggie smile! Dr. K did such a good job. Sorry, I don’t know how to... Read More
This vet clinic did an amazing job on my doggie’s teeth. His teeth were very gross and covered with buildup. Now he had a movie star doggie smile! Dr. K did such a good job. Sorry, I don’t know how to spell this vet’s last name, but she’s great and understands rural pets. My dogs are from a village and have a more cautious temperament, but Dr. K was great with both of my shy dogs. So glad there is a vet office around that understands that not everyone out here is a millionaire, but we still love our pets. Prices are reasonable and they are very honest about telling you if a service is optional. Not like some other money grubbing vet clinics I have been to where the estimated make my eyeballs pop out and I have to feel like a grinch with my doggie’s care. Big lake is super understanding about pet owners needing to keep costs down so they can access services for their pets. Thanks!!! Read Less
Ryan Hand
12 Apr 2017
REPORT
Big Lake vet is amazing! I had to take my rabbit to the emergency vet and the next day they wanted me to bring him into a vet for a check up the next day. Everywhere was booked or I would have to drop... Read More
Big Lake vet is amazing! I had to take my rabbit to the emergency vet and the next day they wanted me to bring him into a vet for a check up the next day. Everywhere was booked or I would have to drop him off but luckily big lake was open. I brought him in and they were so kind as soon as we walked in. I had some x-rays sent over and Dr. fisher wasn't sure about the x-rays so asked opinions of other doctors. She also went above and beyond for us making sure he would be okay. She did such a great job. Also on top of that they sent a thank you card to me afterwards, super nice! Big Lake vet is our new go to vet! ( I had to write this on my brothers account haha) Read Less
ERIC MCGINTY
6 Nov 2016
REPORT
I took our injured rabbit in for treatment. The doctor pulled all the stiches out (which didn't need to be pulled) and talked me in to doing a laser healing treatment on the open wound. The rabbit b... Read More
I took our injured rabbit in for treatment. The doctor pulled all the stiches out (which didn't need to be pulled) and talked me in to doing a laser healing treatment on the open wound. The rabbit began to eat her open wound due to it being inflamed and open from the visit. She is now in anchorage under 24 hour care and had to have an emergency procedure to reclose the wound. So not only am I out of the money I spent here, but I now am looking at a 2000 dollar bill or possible amputation of my rabbits leg. Highly recommended that you avoid this vet. Read Less
Amanda Campbell
27 Sep 2016
REPORT
The Dr and staff were great with my little Izzy! Even with my girl being so high strung and anxious, they did amazing with her! Definitely a huge difference from the previous vet clinic we had been us... Read More
The Dr and staff were great with my little Izzy! Even with my girl being so high strung and anxious, they did amazing with her! Definitely a huge difference from the previous vet clinic we had been using since she was a puppy. Read Less
Brandon Haworth
27 Jun 2016
REPORT
Amazing staff, super friendly. Dr.Fisher helped us out with an emergency when our lab got a bad cut, and was losing blood fast. Saw us quickly, and even stayed after hours to help when we had to come ... Read More
Amazing staff, super friendly. Dr.Fisher helped us out with an emergency when our lab got a bad cut, and was losing blood fast. Saw us quickly, and even stayed after hours to help when we had to come back. our dog is on her way to recovery, in large part due to this clinic! Can't say enough good things about them. Read Less
Elliot Nash
22 Mar 2016
REPORT
One of the BEST vets I have been to. Everyone from the people at the desk to the vets and assistants truly cares about my pet as it was their own. Until my job sends me and my family to another state... Read More
One of the BEST vets I have been to. Everyone from the people at the desk to the vets and assistants truly cares about my pet as it was their own. Until my job sends me and my family to another state big lake is my vet!! Read Less
Eila Gomez
11 Sep 2015
REPORT
If the man in charge of this hospital still is Bryan Baetsle, there is no better place to go. He goes way beyond duty to save a dog, He CARES. Sadly very few vets in this world that are like that. He ... Read More
If the man in charge of this hospital still is Bryan Baetsle, there is no better place to go. He goes way beyond duty to save a dog, He CARES. Sadly very few vets in this world that are like that. He is the BEST. Wish there was someone half as great where I reside now, on the other side of this globe. Dogs are normally reluctant to enter any clinic, but going to this one my setter always went happily straight to the desk, (particularly if Brenda was there!) paws up on it, ''hello, I have arrived!''. They know. Read Less
Kathy Chapoton
18 Oct 2014
REPORT
The staff expertise at BLSVH is exceptional and thorough. We have a kennel of racing sled dogs and when needed, we feel each dog gets the most up to date treatment and we get extensive information on... Read More
The staff expertise at BLSVH is exceptional and thorough. We have a kennel of racing sled dogs and when needed, we feel each dog gets the most up to date treatment and we get extensive information on the course of treatment and after care. As you can imagine, with 85 dogs, we've had just about every dog issue imaginable. BLSVH staff, from the receptionist to the docs, have shown kindness and a keen awareness of the bond between owner and animal. Thank you to all the staff at BLSVH from Martin Buser's Happy Trails Kennel. Read Less
Alaska Alaska
22 Aug 2014
REPORT
My first experience was when I brought in my older kitty who was very sick and I had to find out out she was having kidney failure and would ultimately need to be put down. The vet was so kind and com... Read More
My first experience was when I brought in my older kitty who was very sick and I had to find out out she was having kidney failure and would ultimately need to be put down. The vet was so kind and compassionate and delivered the news in the most gentle way. She gave me the option of taking her home and coming back or doing it then. She also let me know I could have as much time as I needed with my kitty in the room before we made the final call. The vet truly made the process as easy on me as possible. I even later got a sympathy card in the mail, which I felt was truly above and beyond. They are a wonderful clinic. I really appreciated how they treated me in that time. My second visit with another kitty was a happier one just for a minor ear infection and got some meds. They are very professional and courteous, and I didn't find them to be expensive. I will definitely continue to use them! Read Less
Haley TumSuden
15 Aug 2014
REPORT
This is one of the best and most professional vet clinics I have been too. The staff there is very helpful and open minded, and they always like to love on my dogs and give them plenty of cookies when... Read More
This is one of the best and most professional vet clinics I have been too. The staff there is very helpful and open minded, and they always like to love on my dogs and give them plenty of cookies when I go there. I can't even begin to say enough good things about the veterinarians there. I have never had a problem with them trying to push their products on me or belittle me for the products I choose to use already. They're one of the few vets that doesn't believe in overvaccinating (Dr. Fisher suggested I get a blood test done on one of my dogs to find out if he even needed the vaccine before she gave it to him). When I was having trouble putting weight on my other dog she even suggested supplimenting some hamburger into his diet. Their offices are very clean and inviting, just like the staff that works there Read Less
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