17 Reviews

VCA Care Specialty and Emergency Animal Hospital

Santa Barbara, California
General Info
VCA Care Specialty and Emergency Animal Hospital is proud to focus on providing the highest quality emergency and specialty care for pets available in Santa Barbara County. Since our original formation in 2002, VCA Care Specialty and Emergency Animal Hospital has provided medical services for over 30,000 of Santa Barbara’s pets and earned the distinction of being the most referred to veterinary practice in the County. We believe the experience and depth of our staff is unmatchable.Supporting the largest onsite medical team along California’s Central Coast, VCA Care Specialty and Emergency Animal Hospital is able to provide rapid 24/7 attention and treatment to your pets. At VCA Care we provide multidisciplinary health care by bringing to your pet the expertise that is needed, when it is needed. The depth and breadth of medical expertise along with our large state-of-the-art facility means animals receive the diagnosis and treatment they deserve, with minimal wait times, all at one location.Our experienced and compassionate staff care for both the animals they treat and their owners. Understanding the shared bond we encourage owners to participate in their pet’s healing through regular visits which can speed patient recovery and reduce anxiety of patient and owner.
Team
{{staff.biography}}
Reviews
Lori Call
12 Jun 2018
REPORT
So impressed. The vet got down on the floor to meet my dog before doing anything else. She kept me informed every step of the way, presenting options and explaining the situation. The staff was equall... Read More
So impressed. The vet got down on the floor to meet my dog before doing anything else. She kept me informed every step of the way, presenting options and explaining the situation. The staff was equally helpful. I felt they were thorough and competent as a service provider and as a business. Read Less
LuvBaobing Z
1 Jun 2018
REPORT
We have been here a few times. It's pricey but your pet is in great hands
Eric Talaska - Eco Neato
6 May 2018
REPORT
High fees charged for simple, quick and routine tests that should be included with exam fees; it's very annoying to me and this kind of abusive greed is found in most other clinics too. Shame on the o... Read More
High fees charged for simple, quick and routine tests that should be included with exam fees; it's very annoying to me and this kind of abusive greed is found in most other clinics too. Shame on the owner of this place who apparently it's not interested in fixing this problem. I was charged $165 for a follow-up exam which is unreasonable and uncustomary. Read Less
Margaret Dear
1 May 2018
REPORT
I can only say good things about the care my sweet little dog received at the emergency animal hospital after being bitten by a coyote. He spent the night and was well looked after. The doctor took ... Read More
I can only say good things about the care my sweet little dog received at the emergency animal hospital after being bitten by a coyote. He spent the night and was well looked after. The doctor took the time to explain things to me and they let me see where he would be for the night. The cage was large, roomy and very clean. I was impressed. Read Less
Cristina Upton
7 Mar 2018
REPORT
I was referred to VCA Care by an emergency care vet in Orcutt, CA who called ahead for me (also an excellent experience, PETS Hospital in Orcutt, CA). When I arrived at VCA Care my dog and I were gree... Read More
I was referred to VCA Care by an emergency care vet in Orcutt, CA who called ahead for me (also an excellent experience, PETS Hospital in Orcutt, CA). When I arrived at VCA Care my dog and I were greeted, provided a simple one-page form for check-in, and was invited to have coffee or snacks while my dog and I waited to be seen. Waiting room is nice, benches with fluffy cushions, TV with remote (not controlled by staff) coffee etc, candy, and snacks for your furry friend. The staff was courteous and friendly; my vet tech, Marciano, was kind and competent; and the vet, Dr. Bowman, was amazingly patient, listened and discussed my dog's issues and history with me, then explained things in common terms. I was able to wait in the main waiting area rather than the room, and the other clients expressed to me how pleased they are with Dr. Bowman and the VCA Care services. If I lived in Santa Barbara I'd try to make Dr. Bowman and VCA Care my dog's primary veterinary location. Unfortunately, this visit likely wont be our last, we likely have biopsies and other work ahead for my dog, however, I feel confident in the care and am glad VCA Care is available for us. Read Less
Lyn
8 Oct 2017
REPORT
I am so thankful a place like this exists, especially at 2:30 AM on a weekend! Kind, caring, total attention. Yes, they are expensive, but so is my vet, who is only available M-F 9-5. (Does no one e... Read More
I am so thankful a place like this exists, especially at 2:30 AM on a weekend! Kind, caring, total attention. Yes, they are expensive, but so is my vet, who is only available M-F 9-5. (Does no one else have a job?) THESE QUALIFIED PEOPLE ARE THERE WHEN YOU NEED THEM. My only complaint is that I wish I could use them for yearly well pet visits. Wouldn't that be nice, to take pets to visit on a quiet evening when it works for you? Anyway, don't know what I would do without VCA. Read Less
Jason Dave
8 Aug 2017
REPORT
As has been said in other reviews, it's all about the money. The prices are unjustified, and are beyond what should be considered reasonable. I took my dog in after being hit by a car. They took good... Read More
As has been said in other reviews, it's all about the money. The prices are unjustified, and are beyond what should be considered reasonable. I took my dog in after being hit by a car. They took good care of him, and ran a barrage of tests. I was told he really should have an MRI, to the tune of $1500. At this point, I had spent nearly $6000, and had the wherewithal to call my primary vet (La Conception). Dr. Dalo told me to take him out of there, and bring my dog to him. When he arrived at La Conception, Dr. Dalo noticed his distended abdomen, and immediately did an ultrasound. He quickly discovered there was a hole in my dogs bladder, and took him into surgery that instant. CARE failed to administer a simple test that would have saved my dog some suffering, as well as me some money. Instead, they chose a more expensive method that would have taken longer and possibly cost my dog his life, as La Conception said that in one more day my dog would have died. If you have no other options, then this is the place. Read Less
robert flores
16 May 2017
REPORT
they will kill your dog they will soak you for huge amounts of money leave them in the back to suffer, disregard your primary care vets instructions and leave them to die horrid and the actual acumen ... Read More
they will kill your dog they will soak you for huge amounts of money leave them in the back to suffer, disregard your primary care vets instructions and leave them to die horrid and the actual acumen of the people that are supposed to care is sadly non existent find another hospital even if you have to leave santa barbara Read Less
Nan Cisney
7 Mar 2017
REPORT
2/28/17 I had wonderful service when I took my cat for an emergency visit. They're open 24/7 but they have regular business hours that end at 7. I called ahead and arrived at 6. Veterinarian Virginia ... Read More
2/28/17 I had wonderful service when I took my cat for an emergency visit. They're open 24/7 but they have regular business hours that end at 7. I called ahead and arrived at 6. Veterinarian Virginia Frauenthal explained the nature of my cat's problem, sent me home with meds, and explained how I was to care for him. The charge for treatment, 2 kinds of medications, and sample special diet food came to $211. I would go back Read Less
Travis Erway
8 Nov 2016
REPORT
The whole staff is wonderful and really helped going through having my dog put to sleep and made a bad stituation a lot easier to handle and I am thankful for them for taking care of my 18 year old do... Read More
The whole staff is wonderful and really helped going through having my dog put to sleep and made a bad stituation a lot easier to handle and I am thankful for them for taking care of my 18 year old dog in her Final moments Read Less
Ter A
13 Sep 2016
REPORT
The best experience ever at a vet. I was greeted by friendly, efficient staff members. I was seen on time. the doctor was informative and concerned and did a detailed exam in my presence. This is ... Read More
The best experience ever at a vet. I was greeted by friendly, efficient staff members. I was seen on time. the doctor was informative and concerned and did a detailed exam in my presence. This is not my first experience at the emergency vet clinics in Santa Barbara and this is the best in my opinion. Highest recommendation! Read Less
sandbar home
1 Jul 2015
REPORT
My 12 year old Afghan Hound became very ill in June of 2014 (diarrhea, vomiting & dehydration) and called my regular vet. They advised to take her to Care Hospital as their Docs were on vacation (wha... Read More
My 12 year old Afghan Hound became very ill in June of 2014 (diarrhea, vomiting & dehydration) and called my regular vet. They advised to take her to Care Hospital as their Docs were on vacation (what!). Although my dog completely recovered within 48 Hrs, (at a gauging cost of $6000) I'm quite sure the extensive testing & treatments were largely unnecessary and their diagnosis exaggerated to justify their outrageous charges . I got a sense it was all about money. The markup on everything was exorbitant. I will never use them again.Read Less
Bruce Goetting
31 May 2015
REPORT
They provided good care for my sick cat at a cost of $5000+. I'm a physician and I don't get paid as much for a procedure on humans as they demand for pet care. The markups on their itemized bill wa... Read More
They provided good care for my sick cat at a cost of $5000+. I'm a physician and I don't get paid as much for a procedure on humans as they demand for pet care. The markups on their itemized bill was enormous. If you want great care for your pet without any regard for price, this might be the place for you. Read Less
susan sakauye
19 Jul 2014
REPORT
I called CARE to perform an ultrasound on my bitch in first stage labor to make sure the puppies were still o.k. and they refused to see my dog unless she was in "obvious distress." I had her c sect... Read More
I called CARE to perform an ultrasound on my bitch in first stage labor to make sure the puppies were still o.k. and they refused to see my dog unless she was in "obvious distress." I had her c sectioned elsewhere in the morning and everything turned out o.k, the pups were fine,. but this could have gone very wrong. I will never use nor recommend them ever again. Read Less
Ed Nsb
5 Mar 2014
REPORT
This hospital in now part of VCA. The people are OK but the feel is they are there to make as much money as they can from you. When presented with a prepayment statement saying they could bill as much... Read More
This hospital in now part of VCA. The people are OK but the feel is they are there to make as much money as they can from you. When presented with a prepayment statement saying they could bill as much as $2800 for looking after a dog that had a seizure, discussing it with them and having them play to the emotions of my family was just plain wrong. I would not use them unless your pet is in a life threatening situation and you are willing to pay $$$$. They charge at least 3 times what my normal vet does.Read Less
Jane Doe
27 Nov 2013
REPORT
WARNING!! DO N O T BRING YOUR DOG TO THIS IHORRIBLE PLACE! IM OUTRAGED AT THE TREATMENT AND SUFFERING MY PET ENDURED UNDER THERE NO CARE MY PETS MEDICAL NEEDS AND INTEREST WERE ONLY MET WHEN IT WA... Read More
WARNING!! DO N O T BRING YOUR DOG TO THIS IHORRIBLE PLACE! IM OUTRAGED AT THE TREATMENT AND SUFFERING MY PET ENDURED UNDER THERE NO CARE MY PETS MEDICAL NEEDS AND INTEREST WERE ONLY MET WHEN IT WAS ECONOMICALLY BENEFICIAL TO THIS THIS ESTABLISHMENT IF YOU EVER LOVED YOUR PET DO NOT BRING HERE !. MY DOG, AND MY FAMILY HAVE SUFFERED PHYSICALLY EMOTIONALLY AND FINACIALLY BECAUSE OF THERE MONEY COMES FIRST POLICY. NOW ARENT THEY SUPPOSED TO BE TREATED HUMANELY. IF THEY WERE TREATING HUMANS THAT WOULD BE CONSIDERED TORTURE I REQUEST THAT THE OWNERS FIRE THE STAFF . LISTEN TO YOUR BAD REVIEWS . BECAUSE THERE IS NO TRUTH TO THE GOOD ONES Read Less
Eileen Gillen
15 Feb 2013
REPORT
I brought my dog to Care after he jumped off a cliff going for a ball and almost died. The staff was caring, concerned and very straight forward about cost. I felt that my dog received wonderful atten... Read More
I brought my dog to Care after he jumped off a cliff going for a ball and almost died. The staff was caring, concerned and very straight forward about cost. I felt that my dog received wonderful attention. The emergency team, internal medicine team and the surgery team were all great. Reception greeted me with coffee every day I came in to visit. I got to know most of the doctors and staff after a very stressful week. I cannot say enough about how wonderful, empathetic and caring everyone was, not only for my dog, but myself as well. A word of advice, if you do not have pet insurance, get it. You will not regret it. Read Less
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Book an Appointment
Online booking unavailable
Please call
(805) 899-2273
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
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VCA Care Specialty and Emergency Animal Hospital

Santa Barbara, California
(17)
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Online booking unavailable
Please call
VCA Care Specialty and Emergency Animal Hospital is proud to focus on providing the highest quality emergency and specialty care for pets available in Santa Barbara County. Since our original formation in 2002, VCA Care Specialty and Emergency Animal Hospital has provided medical services for over 30,000 of Santa Barbara’s pets and earned the distinction of being the most referred to veterinary practice in the County. We believe the experience and depth of our staff is unmatchable.Supporting the largest onsite medical team along California’s Central Coast, VCA Care Specialty and Emergency Animal Hospital is able to provide rapid 24/7 attention and treatment to your pets. At VCA Care we provide multidisciplinary health care by bringing to your pet the expertise that is needed, when it is needed. The depth and breadth of medical expertise along with our large state-of-the-art facility means animals receive the diagnosis and treatment they deserve, with minimal wait times, all at one location.Our experienced and compassionate staff care for both the animals they treat and their owners. Understanding the shared bond we encourage owners to participate in their pet’s healing through regular visits which can speed patient recovery and reduce anxiety of patient and owner.
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
{{staff.biography}}
Lori Call
12 Jun 2018
REPORT
So impressed. The vet got down on the floor to meet my dog before doing anything else. She kept me informed every step of the way, presenting options and explaining the situation. The staff was equall... Read More
So impressed. The vet got down on the floor to meet my dog before doing anything else. She kept me informed every step of the way, presenting options and explaining the situation. The staff was equally helpful. I felt they were thorough and competent as a service provider and as a business. Read Less
LuvBaobing Z
1 Jun 2018
REPORT
We have been here a few times. It's pricey but your pet is in great hands
Eric Talaska - Eco Neato
6 May 2018
REPORT
High fees charged for simple, quick and routine tests that should be included with exam fees; it's very annoying to me and this kind of abusive greed is found in most other clinics too. Shame on the o... Read More
High fees charged for simple, quick and routine tests that should be included with exam fees; it's very annoying to me and this kind of abusive greed is found in most other clinics too. Shame on the owner of this place who apparently it's not interested in fixing this problem. I was charged $165 for a follow-up exam which is unreasonable and uncustomary. Read Less
Margaret Dear
1 May 2018
REPORT
I can only say good things about the care my sweet little dog received at the emergency animal hospital after being bitten by a coyote. He spent the night and was well looked after. The doctor took ... Read More
I can only say good things about the care my sweet little dog received at the emergency animal hospital after being bitten by a coyote. He spent the night and was well looked after. The doctor took the time to explain things to me and they let me see where he would be for the night. The cage was large, roomy and very clean. I was impressed. Read Less
Cristina Upton
7 Mar 2018
REPORT
I was referred to VCA Care by an emergency care vet in Orcutt, CA who called ahead for me (also an excellent experience, PETS Hospital in Orcutt, CA). When I arrived at VCA Care my dog and I were gree... Read More
I was referred to VCA Care by an emergency care vet in Orcutt, CA who called ahead for me (also an excellent experience, PETS Hospital in Orcutt, CA). When I arrived at VCA Care my dog and I were greeted, provided a simple one-page form for check-in, and was invited to have coffee or snacks while my dog and I waited to be seen. Waiting room is nice, benches with fluffy cushions, TV with remote (not controlled by staff) coffee etc, candy, and snacks for your furry friend. The staff was courteous and friendly; my vet tech, Marciano, was kind and competent; and the vet, Dr. Bowman, was amazingly patient, listened and discussed my dog's issues and history with me, then explained things in common terms. I was able to wait in the main waiting area rather than the room, and the other clients expressed to me how pleased they are with Dr. Bowman and the VCA Care services. If I lived in Santa Barbara I'd try to make Dr. Bowman and VCA Care my dog's primary veterinary location. Unfortunately, this visit likely wont be our last, we likely have biopsies and other work ahead for my dog, however, I feel confident in the care and am glad VCA Care is available for us. Read Less
Lyn
8 Oct 2017
REPORT
I am so thankful a place like this exists, especially at 2:30 AM on a weekend! Kind, caring, total attention. Yes, they are expensive, but so is my vet, who is only available M-F 9-5. (Does no one e... Read More
I am so thankful a place like this exists, especially at 2:30 AM on a weekend! Kind, caring, total attention. Yes, they are expensive, but so is my vet, who is only available M-F 9-5. (Does no one else have a job?) THESE QUALIFIED PEOPLE ARE THERE WHEN YOU NEED THEM. My only complaint is that I wish I could use them for yearly well pet visits. Wouldn't that be nice, to take pets to visit on a quiet evening when it works for you? Anyway, don't know what I would do without VCA. Read Less
Jason Dave
8 Aug 2017
REPORT
As has been said in other reviews, it's all about the money. The prices are unjustified, and are beyond what should be considered reasonable. I took my dog in after being hit by a car. They took good... Read More
As has been said in other reviews, it's all about the money. The prices are unjustified, and are beyond what should be considered reasonable. I took my dog in after being hit by a car. They took good care of him, and ran a barrage of tests. I was told he really should have an MRI, to the tune of $1500. At this point, I had spent nearly $6000, and had the wherewithal to call my primary vet (La Conception). Dr. Dalo told me to take him out of there, and bring my dog to him. When he arrived at La Conception, Dr. Dalo noticed his distended abdomen, and immediately did an ultrasound. He quickly discovered there was a hole in my dogs bladder, and took him into surgery that instant. CARE failed to administer a simple test that would have saved my dog some suffering, as well as me some money. Instead, they chose a more expensive method that would have taken longer and possibly cost my dog his life, as La Conception said that in one more day my dog would have died. If you have no other options, then this is the place. Read Less
robert flores
16 May 2017
REPORT
they will kill your dog they will soak you for huge amounts of money leave them in the back to suffer, disregard your primary care vets instructions and leave them to die horrid and the actual acumen ... Read More
they will kill your dog they will soak you for huge amounts of money leave them in the back to suffer, disregard your primary care vets instructions and leave them to die horrid and the actual acumen of the people that are supposed to care is sadly non existent find another hospital even if you have to leave santa barbara Read Less
Nan Cisney
7 Mar 2017
REPORT
2/28/17 I had wonderful service when I took my cat for an emergency visit. They're open 24/7 but they have regular business hours that end at 7. I called ahead and arrived at 6. Veterinarian Virginia ... Read More
2/28/17 I had wonderful service when I took my cat for an emergency visit. They're open 24/7 but they have regular business hours that end at 7. I called ahead and arrived at 6. Veterinarian Virginia Frauenthal explained the nature of my cat's problem, sent me home with meds, and explained how I was to care for him. The charge for treatment, 2 kinds of medications, and sample special diet food came to $211. I would go back Read Less
Travis Erway
8 Nov 2016
REPORT
The whole staff is wonderful and really helped going through having my dog put to sleep and made a bad stituation a lot easier to handle and I am thankful for them for taking care of my 18 year old do... Read More
The whole staff is wonderful and really helped going through having my dog put to sleep and made a bad stituation a lot easier to handle and I am thankful for them for taking care of my 18 year old dog in her Final moments Read Less
Ter A
13 Sep 2016
REPORT
The best experience ever at a vet. I was greeted by friendly, efficient staff members. I was seen on time. the doctor was informative and concerned and did a detailed exam in my presence. This is ... Read More
The best experience ever at a vet. I was greeted by friendly, efficient staff members. I was seen on time. the doctor was informative and concerned and did a detailed exam in my presence. This is not my first experience at the emergency vet clinics in Santa Barbara and this is the best in my opinion. Highest recommendation! Read Less
sandbar home
1 Jul 2015
REPORT
My 12 year old Afghan Hound became very ill in June of 2014 (diarrhea, vomiting & dehydration) and called my regular vet. They advised to take her to Care Hospital as their Docs were on vacation (wha... Read More
My 12 year old Afghan Hound became very ill in June of 2014 (diarrhea, vomiting & dehydration) and called my regular vet. They advised to take her to Care Hospital as their Docs were on vacation (what!). Although my dog completely recovered within 48 Hrs, (at a gauging cost of $6000) I'm quite sure the extensive testing & treatments were largely unnecessary and their diagnosis exaggerated to justify their outrageous charges . I got a sense it was all about money. The markup on everything was exorbitant. I will never use them again.Read Less
Bruce Goetting
31 May 2015
REPORT
They provided good care for my sick cat at a cost of $5000+. I'm a physician and I don't get paid as much for a procedure on humans as they demand for pet care. The markups on their itemized bill wa... Read More
They provided good care for my sick cat at a cost of $5000+. I'm a physician and I don't get paid as much for a procedure on humans as they demand for pet care. The markups on their itemized bill was enormous. If you want great care for your pet without any regard for price, this might be the place for you. Read Less
susan sakauye
19 Jul 2014
REPORT
I called CARE to perform an ultrasound on my bitch in first stage labor to make sure the puppies were still o.k. and they refused to see my dog unless she was in "obvious distress." I had her c sect... Read More
I called CARE to perform an ultrasound on my bitch in first stage labor to make sure the puppies were still o.k. and they refused to see my dog unless she was in "obvious distress." I had her c sectioned elsewhere in the morning and everything turned out o.k, the pups were fine,. but this could have gone very wrong. I will never use nor recommend them ever again. Read Less
Ed Nsb
5 Mar 2014
REPORT
This hospital in now part of VCA. The people are OK but the feel is they are there to make as much money as they can from you. When presented with a prepayment statement saying they could bill as much... Read More
This hospital in now part of VCA. The people are OK but the feel is they are there to make as much money as they can from you. When presented with a prepayment statement saying they could bill as much as $2800 for looking after a dog that had a seizure, discussing it with them and having them play to the emotions of my family was just plain wrong. I would not use them unless your pet is in a life threatening situation and you are willing to pay $$$$. They charge at least 3 times what my normal vet does.Read Less
Jane Doe
27 Nov 2013
REPORT
WARNING!! DO N O T BRING YOUR DOG TO THIS IHORRIBLE PLACE! IM OUTRAGED AT THE TREATMENT AND SUFFERING MY PET ENDURED UNDER THERE NO CARE MY PETS MEDICAL NEEDS AND INTEREST WERE ONLY MET WHEN IT WA... Read More
WARNING!! DO N O T BRING YOUR DOG TO THIS IHORRIBLE PLACE! IM OUTRAGED AT THE TREATMENT AND SUFFERING MY PET ENDURED UNDER THERE NO CARE MY PETS MEDICAL NEEDS AND INTEREST WERE ONLY MET WHEN IT WAS ECONOMICALLY BENEFICIAL TO THIS THIS ESTABLISHMENT IF YOU EVER LOVED YOUR PET DO NOT BRING HERE !. MY DOG, AND MY FAMILY HAVE SUFFERED PHYSICALLY EMOTIONALLY AND FINACIALLY BECAUSE OF THERE MONEY COMES FIRST POLICY. NOW ARENT THEY SUPPOSED TO BE TREATED HUMANELY. IF THEY WERE TREATING HUMANS THAT WOULD BE CONSIDERED TORTURE I REQUEST THAT THE OWNERS FIRE THE STAFF . LISTEN TO YOUR BAD REVIEWS . BECAUSE THERE IS NO TRUTH TO THE GOOD ONES Read Less
Eileen Gillen
15 Feb 2013
REPORT
I brought my dog to Care after he jumped off a cliff going for a ball and almost died. The staff was caring, concerned and very straight forward about cost. I felt that my dog received wonderful atten... Read More
I brought my dog to Care after he jumped off a cliff going for a ball and almost died. The staff was caring, concerned and very straight forward about cost. I felt that my dog received wonderful attention. The emergency team, internal medicine team and the surgery team were all great. Reception greeted me with coffee every day I came in to visit. I got to know most of the doctors and staff after a very stressful week. I cannot say enough about how wonderful, empathetic and caring everyone was, not only for my dog, but myself as well. A word of advice, if you do not have pet insurance, get it. You will not regret it. Read Less
Is this your business?
CLAIM IT HERE
Incorrect information? Let us know