Banfield Pet Hospital

Staff were completely unapologetic about giving me the wrong medicine for my dog or the fact that I had to drive all the way back to fix their mistake. They labeled the box with what was prescribed, but provided an ointment instead of drops (which is why we caught the error). Luckily, it wasn't a prescription for pills filled incorrectly, otherwise we wouldn't have been able to catch the error. The staff member also tried to argue with me that what was given was the same medicine (even though we were specifically prescribed drops not ointment). At the end of the day, our dog would've been okay with the ointment, but that was just a lucky break. The vet tech's lack of attention to detail could have caused a fatal medicine mix up. And the staff's lack of caring or sense of accountability is unacceptable. If you do bring your pet here, double triple check the medicine is the correct one (and don't just go by the prescription label). Read Less

I'm actually not sure how many stars to give.We initially came here because it was the first available place that could take us out of everywhere we called.  Being first-time cat owners, we honestly had little knowledge about how to take care of cats and basically didn't mind trying things out to get a feel for how things worked.  Not a bad introduction, as far as I could see at the time.  This was inside Petsmart, which seems standard for their locations, at least in San Diego.We learned a lot for our early stages of having kittens.  We figured we'd have much more to absorb as time passed.  We wanted to make sure that our kittens were given a good foundation of good health and safety.  We even signed up for their care plan for the year to work towards this.Unfortunately, everything they checked was predominantly on the surface.  Since we didn't know any of the types of exams kittens usually need, there was no way we could specifically request them for our kittens, and we were hoping they would all be included in our plan, at least the critical ones.  One of our kittens actually ended up very ill all of a sudden, starting the day alert and with all vital signs, and ending the day dead.During that tough night, one of the things that was rushing through my mind was "How could this have not been foreseen?"  We had gone here in hopes that things like this wouldn't happen.  Even if this result was inevitable, at least we would have wanted to know about it.So, out of a lack of trust, we decided to cancel our plan with them.  This part actually isn't related to this specific location, but for anybody who is considering canceling a plan with them, there is a separate phone number for that.  The individual who took my call wasn't exactly the nicest, as she was naturally attempting to negate my reasons for canceling, all the while repeating her script to me about absolving any fault on their end as if I had trouble understanding what she was telling me the first time around.  We basically ended up having to "pay for the remainder of the services done" to take care of the last of the balance owed for the plan, which ended up being pretty bogus considering that they didn't do much to begin with.  But I simply washed my hands of them.Pros:- They're nice.- They're fairly alright with the routine practices.- They definitely attempt to comfort the pets that are brought in to see them.- They are somewhat flexible with scheduling appointmentsCons:- I don't think the pets are 100% comfortable here.- Not as personable outside the location.- There are some members who aren't very good, which affects the pets.- There isn't an automatic consistency of personnel unless it's requested.- Visits and exams are not nearly as comprehensive as you would hope.Long story short, we ended up switching from Banfield to VCA.You would think that I'd give this place and company 1 or 2 stars, but I don't want to discredit the good things they actually do.  Still, if I could start all over and choose a place that's suitable for my pet's needs, I would have started with VCA, not Banfield. Read Less

I've been taking my cat here and now my new dog, and was usually satisfied enough. I've always disliked the upselling - some vets are more aggressive than others - but brushed it off. Recently, I took my dog in for a lump on her head. The vet prodded the lump and said she had "no idea" what it could be, which surprised me. No idea? No thought at all of what it might be? I asked if it could be just from her hitting her head, but the vet said she'd never seen anything like it, but that they could take a sample of the cells for testing. I decided instead to go home and see if it got better on it's own, but the next day it was even bigger (maybe from all the poking and pressing on it), so I got scared and brought her back. When I picked her up, I was shocked to discover the charges totaled $324 - I paid $238 due to the "wellness" plan. This included some anti inflammatories, the procedure, the office visit, the lab work, and a $136 charge for "analysis and interpretation". Usually I ask about the charges ahead of time, since Banfield likes to add on extras without discussing them, but this time I was distraught and didn't do that. It's still annoying and frustrating that they don't go over the charges themselves. Three days later I was getting antsy about what the results were, so I looked up the lab it was sent to and discovered that this test sends results back in 1-3 days, not the 3-5 days quoted so I called. They had gotten the results back the next day, although no one bothered to call me. The vet who looked at my pup wasn't there, but another one looked at the results for a minute and said it's probably nothing to worry about. No explanation of what it could be. No analyzing the history or any notes made from the visit. I decided I'm not going here ever again after my plan runs out. I wouldn't say that Banfield Pet Hospital is evil or negligent, they're more lackadaisical. If they're not pushing for procedures/services you don't really need, they're just ok. They don't really followup or seem very concerned about your pet. There's other, more highly recommended vets in the area, so it's not like this is the only place to go. I would give them three stars for my "meh" rating, but I find it outrageous that they charge $136 to look at some bloodwork, especially when I discovered this is the highest amount out of other vets in the area, so one star it is. update: I talked with the business owner over this situation, and she agreed that I should have been notified of all charges before paying. She said she'd look into this and see if I could get a refund - but she never got back to me. I met someone at the dog park who was also surprised at extra charges at Banfield, so this seems to be a habit for them. It's too late for me, but heres a tip: file a chargeback with your credit card to get your money back (just be sure to do it within 90 days). You shouldn't have to pay for these surprise charges. This is very unethical and against the terms with the credit card processing. I now go to Bodhi Animal Hospital in North Park, and they review charges BEFORE they render care, so I'm fully informed. Read Less

I have had nothing but problems with them! I took my GSD/Husky in to get fixed when he was 5 months and immediately that morning they called me and told me that his platelets were too low to perform the surgery and that they needed to run a few tests, including a heartworm(he's been on tablets for it since he was old enough) and a tick panel(he wasn't even alive during tick season, but I had mentioned to my vet the first visit that eventually we would be going hiking, so she referred back to that...) totaling $500+(should have only been $200 TOPS for those to tests!). I then called my family vet back in Idaho, along with consulting a close friend who's a vet,  because something didn't sit right with it and they all told me absolutely not. "Take him home, give him water and food and bring him back next week to retest". I told banfield that they didn't have my authorization to do any tests and that I would come to pick him up later that day. The vet then informs me that they had put him under anesthesia to take his blood because he was "aggressive". Not sedation, BUT ANESTHESIA! This should not have happened. I was very unhappy but went on to schedule his surgery for the next week as it was covered in his wellness plan, but was then informed that because they had put him under I would have to pay for the next round of anesthesia out of pocket because only one round was covered in his plan. I was furious. Not just about the $800+ they were trying to get out of me, but also the fact that they played upon my fears that my hyper little dude was severely sick(which he wasn't! Perfectly healthy at 10months now) and also for telling me that my dopey little dude(who likes to smother toddlers with kisses!) was aggressive. I have yet to be back. I tried to cancel his plan and hit dead ends. Riding out the last few months and then adios! Such a shame that they care more about money than your animal's well being. Read Less

My biggest regret was signing up for a Banfield pet plan. I took my healthy, happy fat cat in for a teeth cleaning 1 year ago. My poor cat has been sick the ENTIRE YEAR because of them. He has constant respiratory problems, has lost 5lbs, doesn't have the energy he had. I have spent hundreds of dollars on antibiotics and steroids while different vets guessed what the problem could be. He has never had a health issue in his life before I brought him to this incompetent vet. Do not get your pets teeth cleaned here, do not waste your money on a monthly plan! To top it off the last appointment he was suppose to get a comprehensive exam which I clearly stated I didn't want the full exam, only blood work. They instead gave my cat unnecessary deworming medication without my knowledge or consent. The cat they already made weak and sick, they decided to put unnecessary medication into his system. I'm am disgusted and appalled by this business. Read Less

Today was my first visit here with my nervous puppy Penelope. As much as she loves PetSmart (Toy & Cookie Store) the vet is no dogs favorite. At 6 pm on a Friday they were busy as could be but still had us checked in and in a private room within minutes. Dr. Havden understood that my pup, Penelope, was timid and was amazing with her and answering every question I had. I appreciate her going the extra mile to provide me with her additional knowledge on dog allergies to help me keep my fur baby healthy throughout this summer. Read Less

Our 8 yo very healthy dog rubbed a hotspot which was pretty large and ripe for infection.  Our vet could not see him that or the day after. It was during business hours. Then we remembered the vet facility at PetSmart! So glad we did! Professional, knowledgeable and quick! To top it off, Whitney remembered him from her former vet office. They had a great bond. Now we have a new vet with much better hours, are back with Whitney and hoping the cone comes off soon. Read Less

My poor doggie ripped her toenail off on a grate during our weekend trip to San Diego. The poor thing was bleeding and yelping & I knew she needed to be seen by a vet. I called Pet Smart to get a vet recommendation & they told me that Banfield is located right inside the store. Great and super convenient! Our pet was seen by Dr. Withers who told us that her toenail was ripped out and it was the worse he had ever seen. My poor doggie! The staff here took very good care of her, her wound was cleaned, bandaged and we were sent home with an antibiotic and a pain reliever for her. We were told to take her bandage off in three days but she ripped her bandage off last night so I guess it will be ok. Our total bill here was $126.65 which was about what I thought it would be. The staff here is very nice and she received great care here. Read Less

Great staff, great prices, cute girls and pets everywhere - A+I used the free 1st visit to get a health certificate for my dog to travel to Mexico, and they squeezed in a vaccine shot and microchip too for about $100 - nice! Read Less

I love love love their wellness plan. My dog and two cats are heathier than ever and I take them in with any little concern without worry about a crazy vet bill. The wellness plan comes with annual teeth cleaning. It's the only reason my whole crew gets that kind of dental. These guys are going to be with me foreverRead Less

Please do yourself a favor and avoid this place. They completely misinformed me about their "Wellness plan" and now I'm stuck paying for something I won't be using. Calling the Banfield main line is even worse, the company hires individuals who say incredibly snarky and rude things to you. Pets are supposed to be a joy in life and they've found a way to ruin that. Read Less

We were "re-gifted" a Christmas puppy in 2006. Not knowing anything about caring for a puppy, we went to Petsmart and that's how we got connected with Banfield. WE LOVE IT! They have always taken excellent care of our dog and two cats. Since we live in East County, one of the doctors offered to meet me at Grossmont Mall to deliver medication for one of our cats. Instead I went in to Point Loma Banfield after hours on Christmas Eve and the doc was waiting for me. They were very caring and sensitive when it came time to put down our 18 year old cat and I absolutely trust them for all my family's vet needs. Read Less

There are so many incompetent veterinarians here in San Diego. We tried a lot, but they only provided just enough help to get paid, and could never find a cure for our cat's problem. It turns out that our cat - and his mother, may she rest in piece - had Diabetes and related virus(es). We had to put his mother down due to said incompetent vets. If only we had taken her here. They stayed 2 hours after closing to help us. They are the only ones that correctly diagnosed our cat out of nearly 10 different vets here in San Diego, including and especially Cabrillo Pet Hospital (Who said "I don't know." and sent us on our way after paying for nothing) and Market Street Vet. Banfield even understood that we couldn't afford to spend a fortune on dead-ends, and helped us accordingly. This is where you need to take your pets. Don't go on a wild goose chase to find answers like we did. It lost us a family member, and nearly lost us a second. Go to Banfield. If you have a problem with them, try another Banfield location. Just don't go to the incompetent vets, please! Read Less

They truly care about your pet here. My 4 month old pup is on their puppy wellness plan and I've had to take him in for multiple sets of shots and exams and recently I had to do a "walk-in" because he had a canine puppy tooth that had broken off and was coming out the side of his gums. The vet tech took him back and the surgery tech pulled it out with no problems AND no charge. I was in and out within a half hour and my dog wasn't even scheduled for this.These people are the best and everyone is so friendly. Hands down the best vet clinic I've ever been to Read Less

Banfield is what I would categorize as a ""Doc in the box"" or at least I used too. My last two pets never stepped foot inside a Banfield Hospital and once they passed one and our hearts were ready, we adopted our new best friend. To turn a new stone, and with the memory of ""senior"" exam rates and ""senior"" this and that and adding up to $300 a visit, we decided a solid preventative health care plan with affordable monthly payments was ideal. The Point Loma Banfield Hospital has a reputation unequal to its peers and our family is perfectly happy to drive 20 minutes for routine care. Every single Dr. has been pleasant, yes, some even exceptionally friendly and outgoing, that goes without saying, but everyone of them has answered every question, offered extra vaccines when warranted,etc... etc... The support staff makes a point to follow up when my pet has had a treatment and expresses geniune concern. I kid you not and to top it all off, my daughter had a hamster with what we later learned was a terminal tumor and wasn't able to take his ""body"" home. The staff was sensitive to my daughter's desire to give her pet a burial, so they wrapped the little guy's body securely, donated a cloth, and sent him home. Read Less

My pet has been enrolled in this plan for several years, in both the Seattle and San Diego areas. In both cases, the staff was pleasant, compassionate and skilled. I believe the value for the money is excellent and that my dog is well cared-for. Yes, wait times can be long (especially if you don't have an appointment), but overall I'm quite pleased. Read Less

Do not be suckered in to their promise of cheaper vet visits with their insurance. The plans seem to cover a lot but they use tests unnecessarily to show you how much money you are saving. Then when you actually need something it will already be used up on your plan. They are always too busy to give any real personal attention to your pet. The only time they do is upon your initial visit or when you complain. They charge 2-3X as much for an Rx as you would pay online. I have had so many problems with their care of my pet. I have spoken to the owner several times about these problems and she blames the staff saying they are only cheap labor. They are terrible! Save yourself, your pet from and your wallet and go to a private vet!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Read Less

I have been taking my dog here since I got him at 8 weeks. Ever since I could remember he has had digestive problems. I got on thier wellness plan monthly thinking it was going to save me money, which it probably had considering how many times I have taken my dog there , and they can never figure out what is wrong with him. Finally after 10 months they tell me whats wrong with him, and they told me he has probably had this for awhile. They charged me for test that they haven't even done on my dog, and always prescribe medication for him to fix him, but nothing even works. The vets are cold, and never can remember my dogs name , even though he has gone in there everymonth for 10 months. If you are looking who is friendly, warm, and someone who will take care of your pet and make sure they are healthy and stay healthy , this is not the place. They are to large of a corporation , and you are just another appointment. Read Less