Welcome to Riser Animal Hospital, your local veterinarians in Skokie. Riser Animal Hospital was built and founded in 1950 by Dr. Wayne Riser, DVM, and served as a model for state-of-the-art animal hospitals built later. Dr. Riser was one of the founders of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and had a special interest in hip dysplasia and histopathology. References to his work can still be found in current publications. Dr. Riser worked as a solo practitioner until Dr. Chuck Olt purchased the practice in the 1960s. Dr. Edna Guibor joined the partnership shortly thereafter. Dr. Thomas Russell replaced Dr. Olt in partnership, and then Dr. Michael Riley replaced Dr. Guibor when she retired. Dr. Russell and Riley operated the practice as a two-doctor practice until Dr. Emil Baukert joined the practice in 1977. Dr. Baukert assumed full ownership from 1998 until selling the practice to Dr. William Sutkay and Dr. Ingrid Baksys in June 2015. Riser is now a six- doctor practice with a long history of quality small animal medicine and surgery combined with client-oriented service. This can be directly attributed to the staff’s motivation and care towards animals and their caregivers. With this history of commitment to excellence in mind, an award was received from American Animal Hospital Association for 50 years of continuous membership. Riser Animal Hospital has over 60 years of meeting their high standards and hold the highest level of certification. To be an accredited AAHA member, a hospital must meet the association’s high standards of quality veterinary care. Riser Animal Hospital is regularly evaluated by trained AAHA professionals to ensure that we maintain the standards and provide the best veterinary care possible. AAHA standards of excellence cover the following areas and services in our hospital.
Reviews
Karen Nolan
3 Jul 2018
REPORT
I brought my elderly cat in earlier this year to be euthenized. It was a very sad day and the office staff and veterinarian were so nice. They made it as gentle and painless as possible and they sent ... Read More
I brought my elderly cat in earlier this year to be euthenized. It was a very sad day and the office staff and veterinarian were so nice. They made it as gentle and painless as possible and they sent me a sympathy card later.
My other cat recently got sick and stopped eating. They ran lab tests, took x-rays and did a sonogram. I took him in four times that week. Each veterinarian was wonderful patiently answered all my questions. Eventually my cat starting eating again.
I feel secure knowing that there's a place I can bring my cat to be taken care of. They're a great resource for pet owners. Read Less
John Phenom
1 Jul 2018
REPORT
Was great with the legacy staff. New staff wants to do imaging and blood work every time you're in. Clearly a nickel and dime operation now. Long live Dr. Baukert! He knew how to vet. Hope your semi r... Read More
Was great with the legacy staff. New staff wants to do imaging and blood work every time you're in. Clearly a nickel and dime operation now. Long live Dr. Baukert! He knew how to vet. Hope your semi retirement is treating you well, you will be missed. We're moving to a new very because of the changes. Read Less
Brandon Rizzo-Wojak
20 Jun 2018
REPORT
Excellent animal hospital. I will only bring my pets here. I've been a very worried cat owner on multiple visits and these are the most professional and compassionate people! I can't say enough about ... Read More
Excellent animal hospital. I will only bring my pets here. I've been a very worried cat owner on multiple visits and these are the most professional and compassionate people! I can't say enough about their outstanding care, communication and deep love and respect they have for animals. Read Less
Sandi Villano
21 Apr 2018
REPORT
I love Dr. Sutkay, however on a report sent to Cook County the office staff sexed my Great Dane based on what they felt was a masculine name, rather than the quite obvious lack of "outdoor plumbing" a... Read More
I love Dr. Sutkay, however on a report sent to Cook County the office staff sexed my Great Dane based on what they felt was a masculine name, rather than the quite obvious lack of "outdoor plumbing" a male requires. And this was after a physical exam. The new facility is exquisite! Read Less
g v
17 Apr 2018
REPORT
Good service and caring doctors. They'll be done remodeling soon and my review will likely change to 5 stars.
unlisted unlisted
29 Mar 2018
REPORT
ignorant high and mighty idiots.would post original review but it wont let me. Incompetent staff that doesn't remember you without looking at computer. Its a shame because vets are good and one groome... Read More
ignorant high and mighty idiots.would post original review but it wont let me. Incompetent staff that doesn't remember you without looking at computer. Its a shame because vets are good and one groomer --not Kari.They are making place twice the size and I hate to think about what they remember then.I will never bring dog there again. Read Less
Kathy Toy
16 Mar 2018
REPORT
Excellent vetenary services. I have been taking my dogs here for over 30 years.
Jennifer N
26 Feb 2018
REPORT
Wonderful veterinarian's, caring up front staff, always able to get an appointment even at the last minute. Allowed us to board our youngest cat the same day, after I told them we had family emergency... Read More
Wonderful veterinarian's, caring up front staff, always able to get an appointment even at the last minute. Allowed us to board our youngest cat the same day, after I told them we had family emergency and we're leaving same day. We've boarded all our previous cat's there and they loved it there. When our two oldest cat's died year's ago, they sent us nice cards signed by all of there staff with little notes from each about how nice our cats we're. Read Less
Sam Ibarra
15 Feb 2018
REPORT
Everyone was super friendly. The vet that took care of my puppy beagle was so kind, and she gave awesome tips on how to care. It wasn't expensive either
Sue R.
28 Jul 2017
REPORT
This is the best vet in the area. The staff is terrific they are kind and considerate and really enjoy their job. When I had to recently put a dog down they comforted me and made me feel that I was m... Read More
This is the best vet in the area. The staff is terrific they are kind and considerate and really enjoy their job. When I had to recently put a dog down they comforted me and made me feel that I was making the right decision. They were there to support me during this difficult time. I also brought my other two dogs in for an appointment and they asked how everything was they really go out of their way to make you feel really really good. They care they provide the dogs are superior Read Less
Derek A.
1 May 2017
REPORT
We have been traveling north to Riser for almost 6 years, with now our 2nd dog to be a patient there. We have never received anything but the best - from the scheduling process, the front desk staff,... Read More
We have been traveling north to Riser for almost 6 years, with now our 2nd dog to be a patient there. We have never received anything but the best - from the scheduling process, the front desk staff, to the vets; everyone has always been caring and kind. Read Less
Kathy Johnson
28 Apr 2017
REPORT
The staff is amazing the way they treat our pets. That's the best part about an animal hospital. They also treat humans very good too.
Stephanie Kuhn
28 Apr 2017
REPORT
Wonderful staff. Easy to get appointments. Always great with our fur-babies!
Lindy Stockton
20 Feb 2017
REPORT
Such compassion with my furry companion. He's in good hands. Dr Baksys spent the entire time on the floor with him during the intake to make him feel more comfortable.
Tim Breitberg
5 Jan 2017
REPORT
The vets here like your animals. I've never had a bad experience here.
The only thing I don't like is that they have a fundraising box for CARE (the place that killed every other dog they had control... Read More
The vets here like your animals. I've never had a bad experience here.
The only thing I don't like is that they have a fundraising box for CARE (the place that killed every other dog they had control of while helming the Evanston Animal Shelter and made off with over a million dollars that was supposed to go towards expanding the shelter) and honestly, a CARE box is a deal-breaker, normally. You support them, I don't support you. However, I will excuse Riser for this due to how well they treat my animals. If the box is gone, 5 stars. Read Less
Deborah Foley
23 Dec 2016
REPORT
Everyone has their own opinions but I have changed vets after 10 years because I feel my dog was not diagnosed earlier for many conditions because of lack of regular blood testing. They seem more con... Read More
Everyone has their own opinions but I have changed vets after 10 years because I feel my dog was not diagnosed earlier for many conditions because of lack of regular blood testing. They seem more concerned with vaccinations and less concerned about regular wellness bloodtesting to screen for potential conditions. I won't be back. I miss Dr. Paris. Read Less
Pearl Gannon
4 Dec 2016
REPORT
I try to see the same vet every time, but here it honestly doesn't matter. They are all very thorough and do for my service dog what needs to be done. The receptionists are wonderful as well and willi... Read More
I try to see the same vet every time, but here it honestly doesn't matter. They are all very thorough and do for my service dog what needs to be done. The receptionists are wonderful as well and willing to help how they can! Read Less
Tery Lockitski
30 Oct 2016
REPORT
Great service. Compassionate care. Very reasonable prices and great value. I'm impressed with how thorough diagnostic care is. Good explanations for treatment planning and advice for long term care
Jordan Simon
2 Sep 2016
REPORT
Best animal hospital in Skokie/Lincolnwood area. They saved my dog from parvo virus as a puppy (80% fatality rate with this virus if dog isn't vaccinated, my puppy wasn't) and we had a wonderful vet w... Read More
Best animal hospital in Skokie/Lincolnwood area. They saved my dog from parvo virus as a puppy (80% fatality rate with this virus if dog isn't vaccinated, my puppy wasn't) and we had a wonderful vet who knew the virus well and saved my white miniature poodle, who is now 14 years old. I trust Riser for life. Read Less
Reva Goodman
23 Aug 2016
REPORT
I've been taking all my fur-babies to Dr. Baukert for almost 30 years. I have the utmost trust in him and the wonderful staff of Vets who have joined him over the years. I recently saw Dr. Sutkey for ... Read More
I've been taking all my fur-babies to Dr. Baukert for almost 30 years. I have the utmost trust in him and the wonderful staff of Vets who have joined him over the years. I recently saw Dr. Sutkey for the 1st time, who was kind, compassionate and direct in his diagnosis of my dear kitty, Nick. The front-desk staff is always friendly, courteous and efficient. It's comforting to see familiar faces! Thank you for all you've done for my family. Read Less
Nancy S.
5 Jul 2016
REPORT
Janice is gone:) Cannot thank the new owners enough for taking that initiative. Someone who probably made everyone feel uncomfortable and less than welcome has been removed. The new hires at the front... Read More
Janice is gone:) Cannot thank the new owners enough for taking that initiative. Someone who probably made everyone feel uncomfortable and less than welcome has been removed. The new hires at the front desk are welcoming and helpful.All of the vets here are wonderful and have cared for our pups, everyone of them, dating back to the mid 80's.Recommend without reservation!!!! Read Less
Kathe Serritelli
3 Feb 2016
REPORT
I've been going to Riser since 1990, I've tried other vets closer to my home, but always wound up back at Riser. Dr. Ingrid Baksys has been taking care of my dogs since 2009, she is the most caring an... Read More
I've been going to Riser since 1990, I've tried other vets closer to my home, but always wound up back at Riser. Dr. Ingrid Baksys has been taking care of my dogs since 2009, she is the most caring and compassionate vet that has ever taken care of my dogs and I can't thank her enough for all she's done Read Less
Meagan Felsenthal
15 Jan 2016
REPORT
We have been taking both of our dogs here since they were puppies. The staff is incredible.
The office staff always take the time when we're making an appointment to let us know what our charges will... Read More
We have been taking both of our dogs here since they were puppies. The staff is incredible.
The office staff always take the time when we're making an appointment to let us know what our charges will be prior to our arrival so that we can budget accordingly. They never get impatient or angry.
The vets, we've seen most of them, they're awesome. Our dogs get nervous, but as soon as they sense the vet and sense the "good" they settle down. They never rush through an examination or give shots and walk out. They talk to the dog, pet them, talk with us, and then proceed. Always professional and courteous.
We've also boarded one of our dogs for a weekend when we went out of town. Evidently they had him out by the front desk for a little bit and he hammed it up with other patients and "helped with paperwork". That made me feel better knowing they were treating him like one of their own.
Love this place and HIGHLY recommend them. Read Less
Kate Hall
23 Sep 2015
REPORT
Been taking my dog to Riser since I first got him as a puppy, and he still loves going in for a visit. Super friendly staff, and wonderful experienced vets, always there to answer to help. I would nev... Read More
Been taking my dog to Riser since I first got him as a puppy, and he still loves going in for a visit. Super friendly staff, and wonderful experienced vets, always there to answer to help. I would never dream of taking my dog anywhere else! Read Less
Erika Hatchett
21 Aug 2015
REPORT
The staff is wonderful and the doctors are fantastic!
Sandi Harris Villano
29 Jul 2015
REPORT
Dr. Sutkay has taken care of three of our Great Danes. They LOVE to visit!
Mercedes DiRenzobolduc
4 Jul 2015
REPORT
I take Chili Pepper Bling Bling here and am happy with the Vets and staff.
cathy.moritz.7
30 Aug 2012
REPORT
My family has been taking our pets to Riser for decades. The facility is great and well located. The people that are there, vets, techs, admins, are all very caring and friendly.Riser's care has been ... Read More
My family has been taking our pets to Riser for decades. The facility is great and well located. The people that are there, vets, techs, admins, are all very caring and friendly.Riser's care has been the standard that I set my expectations to for other vet practices when I have lived out of the area. Read Less
judymz
30 Aug 2012
REPORT
My family has been a Riser customer since I was a child back in the 1950's (I even remember the huge fish tank in the old reception room). Without fail, Riser has provided the best of care to our dog... Read More
My family has been a Riser customer since I was a child back in the 1950's (I even remember the huge fish tank in the old reception room). Without fail, Riser has provided the best of care to our dogs over the years, through the good times as well as the bad. They are kind, compassionate, efficient and thorough. During the time I lived out of the area, I was never able to find a vet that I trusted as much as the team at Riser. In my opinion, they're the best. Read Less
lafew1
30 May 2010
REPORT
We have had a challenge with cat treatment at Risers. The basics are covered, but knowledge of cat cancer, kidney stones and urinary tract failure seems questionable. They have annual rather than bi-... Read More
We have had a challenge with cat treatment at Risers. The basics are covered, but knowledge of cat cancer, kidney stones and urinary tract failure seems questionable. They have annual rather than bi-annual cat visits for geriatric cats, which seems of concern. I now understand that bi-annual is the preference. Riser never told us. Risers often refer to specialists, rather than appreciating the consequences. They seem to have difficulty diagnosing cat disorders. Perhaps, this is how it has to be for a general vet, but it is a disappointment. This deferral is frustrating. Many of the vets are newer in that the vets who started this firm or kept it to its renowned level have passed away or retired. This is not to say that they are capable with some animals and questionable on cats. Riser vets are great with dogs based upon our past experiences. The size of the dog clientele makes this obvious. Cats? Well, the jury is still out and a few questionable experiences in different situations make us genuinely concerned. Oh, on another note, when one of our cats passed away, after the emergency vet trip, Risers sent us a condolence card for the wrong cat. I encourage people with more favorable comments about Riser cat care to post, as well. Read Less
ms6945
22 Mar 2010
REPORT
All Vets are good . . . until there's a problem. That's when you learn the difference between good and great. I've been with Riser since 1977 (Dr. Baukert). I did get PO'd about some billing issue ... Read More
All Vets are good . . . until there's a problem. That's when you learn the difference between good and great. I've been with Riser since 1977 (Dr. Baukert). I did get PO'd about some billing issue in the mid 90's (most likely, I was just having a meltdown from the three teens living with me). So I left Riser. Took my business to another local Hospital which on the surface seems great. Less than 2 months later I returned to Riser with an appreciation of the quality I had taken for granted. Dr. Baukert is a remarkably brilliant Doctor. In fact, genius would not be an overstatement. He is humble and compassionate. When there is a true emergency, (like when my dog was the victim of a hit & run driver; picked him up and sped to Riser about 3 minutes before closing) everyone seems to have an inherent knowledge of what needs to be done, their specific role, etc.) You can't help but feel a sense of peace and confidence. Several of the staff stayed long after closing and I remember noting that no one had to be asked to do so. If I needed to see a doctor immediately and Dr. B wasn't available, I never had to worry about the level of service or degree of competency. I've been faced with several emergency situations in these 33 years and am always impressed. Yes, a trip to the vet is expensive - that is a universal truth. I've taken some time to compare and Riser's charges are always at the low end of average. Last but not least, my daughter also asked/told me to be sure and mention that Dr. Sutkay saved her dog's life. Read Less
chicagowoman
14 Mar 2010
REPORT
They lie about what type of care your cat receives.
Welcome to Riser Animal Hospital, your local veterinarians in Skokie. Riser Animal Hospital was built and founded in 1950 by Dr. Wayne Riser, DVM, and served as a model for state-of-the-art animal hospitals built later. Dr. Riser was one of the founders of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and had a special interest in hip dysplasia and histopathology. References to his work can still be found in current publications. Dr. Riser worked as a solo practitioner until Dr. Chuck Olt purchased the practice in the 1960s. Dr. Edna Guibor joined the partnership shortly thereafter. Dr. Thomas Russell replaced Dr. Olt in partnership, and then Dr. Michael Riley replaced Dr. Guibor when she retired. Dr. Russell and Riley operated the practice as a two-doctor practice until Dr. Emil Baukert joined the practice in 1977. Dr. Baukert assumed full ownership from 1998 until selling the practice to Dr. William Sutkay and Dr. Ingrid Baksys in June 2015. Riser is now a six- doctor practice with a long history of quality small animal medicine and surgery combined with client-oriented service. This can be directly attributed to the staff’s motivation and care towards animals and their caregivers. With this history of commitment to excellence in mind, an award was received from American Animal Hospital Association for 50 years of continuous membership. Riser Animal Hospital has over 60 years of meeting their high standards and hold the highest level of certification. To be an accredited AAHA member, a hospital must meet the association’s high standards of quality veterinary care. Riser Animal Hospital is regularly evaluated by trained AAHA professionals to ensure that we maintain the standards and provide the best veterinary care possible. AAHA standards of excellence cover the following areas and services in our hospital.
I brought my elderly cat in earlier this year to be euthenized. It was a very sad day and the office staff and veterinarian were so nice. They made it as gentle and painless as possible and they sent ... Read More
I brought my elderly cat in earlier this year to be euthenized. It was a very sad day and the office staff and veterinarian were so nice. They made it as gentle and painless as possible and they sent me a sympathy card later.
My other cat recently got sick and stopped eating. They ran lab tests, took x-rays and did a sonogram. I took him in four times that week. Each veterinarian was wonderful patiently answered all my questions. Eventually my cat starting eating again.
I feel secure knowing that there's a place I can bring my cat to be taken care of. They're a great resource for pet owners. Read Less
John Phenom
1 Jul 2018
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Was great with the legacy staff. New staff wants to do imaging and blood work every time you're in. Clearly a nickel and dime operation now. Long live Dr. Baukert! He knew how to vet. Hope your semi r... Read More
Was great with the legacy staff. New staff wants to do imaging and blood work every time you're in. Clearly a nickel and dime operation now. Long live Dr. Baukert! He knew how to vet. Hope your semi retirement is treating you well, you will be missed. We're moving to a new very because of the changes. Read Less
Brandon Rizzo-Wojak
20 Jun 2018
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Excellent animal hospital. I will only bring my pets here. I've been a very worried cat owner on multiple visits and these are the most professional and compassionate people! I can't say enough about ... Read More
Excellent animal hospital. I will only bring my pets here. I've been a very worried cat owner on multiple visits and these are the most professional and compassionate people! I can't say enough about their outstanding care, communication and deep love and respect they have for animals. Read Less
Sandi Villano
21 Apr 2018
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
I love Dr. Sutkay, however on a report sent to Cook County the office staff sexed my Great Dane based on what they felt was a masculine name, rather than the quite obvious lack of "outdoor plumbing" a... Read More
I love Dr. Sutkay, however on a report sent to Cook County the office staff sexed my Great Dane based on what they felt was a masculine name, rather than the quite obvious lack of "outdoor plumbing" a male requires. And this was after a physical exam. The new facility is exquisite! Read Less
g v
17 Apr 2018
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Good service and caring doctors. They'll be done remodeling soon and my review will likely change to 5 stars.
unlisted unlisted
29 Mar 2018
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
ignorant high and mighty idiots.would post original review but it wont let me. Incompetent staff that doesn't remember you without looking at computer. Its a shame because vets are good and one groome... Read More
ignorant high and mighty idiots.would post original review but it wont let me. Incompetent staff that doesn't remember you without looking at computer. Its a shame because vets are good and one groomer --not Kari.They are making place twice the size and I hate to think about what they remember then.I will never bring dog there again. Read Less
Kathy Toy
16 Mar 2018
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Excellent vetenary services. I have been taking my dogs here for over 30 years.
Jennifer N
26 Feb 2018
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Wonderful veterinarian's, caring up front staff, always able to get an appointment even at the last minute. Allowed us to board our youngest cat the same day, after I told them we had family emergency... Read More
Wonderful veterinarian's, caring up front staff, always able to get an appointment even at the last minute. Allowed us to board our youngest cat the same day, after I told them we had family emergency and we're leaving same day. We've boarded all our previous cat's there and they loved it there. When our two oldest cat's died year's ago, they sent us nice cards signed by all of there staff with little notes from each about how nice our cats we're. Read Less
Sam Ibarra
15 Feb 2018
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Everyone was super friendly. The vet that took care of my puppy beagle was so kind, and she gave awesome tips on how to care. It wasn't expensive either
Sue R.
28 Jul 2017
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
This is the best vet in the area. The staff is terrific they are kind and considerate and really enjoy their job. When I had to recently put a dog down they comforted me and made me feel that I was m... Read More
This is the best vet in the area. The staff is terrific they are kind and considerate and really enjoy their job. When I had to recently put a dog down they comforted me and made me feel that I was making the right decision. They were there to support me during this difficult time. I also brought my other two dogs in for an appointment and they asked how everything was they really go out of their way to make you feel really really good. They care they provide the dogs are superior Read Less
Derek A.
1 May 2017
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
We have been traveling north to Riser for almost 6 years, with now our 2nd dog to be a patient there. We have never received anything but the best - from the scheduling process, the front desk staff,... Read More
We have been traveling north to Riser for almost 6 years, with now our 2nd dog to be a patient there. We have never received anything but the best - from the scheduling process, the front desk staff, to the vets; everyone has always been caring and kind. Read Less
Kathy Johnson
28 Apr 2017
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
The staff is amazing the way they treat our pets. That's the best part about an animal hospital. They also treat humans very good too.
Stephanie Kuhn
28 Apr 2017
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Wonderful staff. Easy to get appointments. Always great with our fur-babies!
Lindy Stockton
20 Feb 2017
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Such compassion with my furry companion. He's in good hands. Dr Baksys spent the entire time on the floor with him during the intake to make him feel more comfortable.
Tim Breitberg
5 Jan 2017
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
The vets here like your animals. I've never had a bad experience here.
The only thing I don't like is that they have a fundraising box for CARE (the place that killed every other dog they had control... Read More
The vets here like your animals. I've never had a bad experience here.
The only thing I don't like is that they have a fundraising box for CARE (the place that killed every other dog they had control of while helming the Evanston Animal Shelter and made off with over a million dollars that was supposed to go towards expanding the shelter) and honestly, a CARE box is a deal-breaker, normally. You support them, I don't support you. However, I will excuse Riser for this due to how well they treat my animals. If the box is gone, 5 stars. Read Less
Deborah Foley
23 Dec 2016
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Everyone has their own opinions but I have changed vets after 10 years because I feel my dog was not diagnosed earlier for many conditions because of lack of regular blood testing. They seem more con... Read More
Everyone has their own opinions but I have changed vets after 10 years because I feel my dog was not diagnosed earlier for many conditions because of lack of regular blood testing. They seem more concerned with vaccinations and less concerned about regular wellness bloodtesting to screen for potential conditions. I won't be back. I miss Dr. Paris. Read Less
Pearl Gannon
4 Dec 2016
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
I try to see the same vet every time, but here it honestly doesn't matter. They are all very thorough and do for my service dog what needs to be done. The receptionists are wonderful as well and willi... Read More
I try to see the same vet every time, but here it honestly doesn't matter. They are all very thorough and do for my service dog what needs to be done. The receptionists are wonderful as well and willing to help how they can! Read Less
Tery Lockitski
30 Oct 2016
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Great service. Compassionate care. Very reasonable prices and great value. I'm impressed with how thorough diagnostic care is. Good explanations for treatment planning and advice for long term care
Jordan Simon
2 Sep 2016
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Best animal hospital in Skokie/Lincolnwood area. They saved my dog from parvo virus as a puppy (80% fatality rate with this virus if dog isn't vaccinated, my puppy wasn't) and we had a wonderful vet w... Read More
Best animal hospital in Skokie/Lincolnwood area. They saved my dog from parvo virus as a puppy (80% fatality rate with this virus if dog isn't vaccinated, my puppy wasn't) and we had a wonderful vet who knew the virus well and saved my white miniature poodle, who is now 14 years old. I trust Riser for life. Read Less
Reva Goodman
23 Aug 2016
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
I've been taking all my fur-babies to Dr. Baukert for almost 30 years. I have the utmost trust in him and the wonderful staff of Vets who have joined him over the years. I recently saw Dr. Sutkey for ... Read More
I've been taking all my fur-babies to Dr. Baukert for almost 30 years. I have the utmost trust in him and the wonderful staff of Vets who have joined him over the years. I recently saw Dr. Sutkey for the 1st time, who was kind, compassionate and direct in his diagnosis of my dear kitty, Nick. The front-desk staff is always friendly, courteous and efficient. It's comforting to see familiar faces! Thank you for all you've done for my family. Read Less
Nancy S.
5 Jul 2016
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Janice is gone:) Cannot thank the new owners enough for taking that initiative. Someone who probably made everyone feel uncomfortable and less than welcome has been removed. The new hires at the front... Read More
Janice is gone:) Cannot thank the new owners enough for taking that initiative. Someone who probably made everyone feel uncomfortable and less than welcome has been removed. The new hires at the front desk are welcoming and helpful.All of the vets here are wonderful and have cared for our pups, everyone of them, dating back to the mid 80's.Recommend without reservation!!!! Read Less
Kathe Serritelli
3 Feb 2016
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
I've been going to Riser since 1990, I've tried other vets closer to my home, but always wound up back at Riser. Dr. Ingrid Baksys has been taking care of my dogs since 2009, she is the most caring an... Read More
I've been going to Riser since 1990, I've tried other vets closer to my home, but always wound up back at Riser. Dr. Ingrid Baksys has been taking care of my dogs since 2009, she is the most caring and compassionate vet that has ever taken care of my dogs and I can't thank her enough for all she's done Read Less
Meagan Felsenthal
15 Jan 2016
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
We have been taking both of our dogs here since they were puppies. The staff is incredible.
The office staff always take the time when we're making an appointment to let us know what our charges will... Read More
We have been taking both of our dogs here since they were puppies. The staff is incredible.
The office staff always take the time when we're making an appointment to let us know what our charges will be prior to our arrival so that we can budget accordingly. They never get impatient or angry.
The vets, we've seen most of them, they're awesome. Our dogs get nervous, but as soon as they sense the vet and sense the "good" they settle down. They never rush through an examination or give shots and walk out. They talk to the dog, pet them, talk with us, and then proceed. Always professional and courteous.
We've also boarded one of our dogs for a weekend when we went out of town. Evidently they had him out by the front desk for a little bit and he hammed it up with other patients and "helped with paperwork". That made me feel better knowing they were treating him like one of their own.
Love this place and HIGHLY recommend them. Read Less
Kate Hall
23 Sep 2015
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Been taking my dog to Riser since I first got him as a puppy, and he still loves going in for a visit. Super friendly staff, and wonderful experienced vets, always there to answer to help. I would nev... Read More
Been taking my dog to Riser since I first got him as a puppy, and he still loves going in for a visit. Super friendly staff, and wonderful experienced vets, always there to answer to help. I would never dream of taking my dog anywhere else! Read Less
Erika Hatchett
21 Aug 2015
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
The staff is wonderful and the doctors are fantastic!
Sandi Harris Villano
29 Jul 2015
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
Dr. Sutkay has taken care of three of our Great Danes. They LOVE to visit!
Mercedes DiRenzobolduc
4 Jul 2015
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
I take Chili Pepper Bling Bling here and am happy with the Vets and staff.
cathy.moritz.7
30 Aug 2012
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
My family has been taking our pets to Riser for decades. The facility is great and well located. The people that are there, vets, techs, admins, are all very caring and friendly.Riser's care has been ... Read More
My family has been taking our pets to Riser for decades. The facility is great and well located. The people that are there, vets, techs, admins, are all very caring and friendly.Riser's care has been the standard that I set my expectations to for other vet practices when I have lived out of the area. Read Less
judymz
30 Aug 2012
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
My family has been a Riser customer since I was a child back in the 1950's (I even remember the huge fish tank in the old reception room). Without fail, Riser has provided the best of care to our dog... Read More
My family has been a Riser customer since I was a child back in the 1950's (I even remember the huge fish tank in the old reception room). Without fail, Riser has provided the best of care to our dogs over the years, through the good times as well as the bad. They are kind, compassionate, efficient and thorough. During the time I lived out of the area, I was never able to find a vet that I trusted as much as the team at Riser. In my opinion, they're the best. Read Less
lafew1
30 May 2010
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
We have had a challenge with cat treatment at Risers. The basics are covered, but knowledge of cat cancer, kidney stones and urinary tract failure seems questionable. They have annual rather than bi-... Read More
We have had a challenge with cat treatment at Risers. The basics are covered, but knowledge of cat cancer, kidney stones and urinary tract failure seems questionable. They have annual rather than bi-annual cat visits for geriatric cats, which seems of concern. I now understand that bi-annual is the preference. Riser never told us. Risers often refer to specialists, rather than appreciating the consequences. They seem to have difficulty diagnosing cat disorders. Perhaps, this is how it has to be for a general vet, but it is a disappointment. This deferral is frustrating. Many of the vets are newer in that the vets who started this firm or kept it to its renowned level have passed away or retired. This is not to say that they are capable with some animals and questionable on cats. Riser vets are great with dogs based upon our past experiences. The size of the dog clientele makes this obvious. Cats? Well, the jury is still out and a few questionable experiences in different situations make us genuinely concerned. Oh, on another note, when one of our cats passed away, after the emergency vet trip, Risers sent us a condolence card for the wrong cat. I encourage people with more favorable comments about Riser cat care to post, as well. Read Less
ms6945
22 Mar 2010
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
All Vets are good . . . until there's a problem. That's when you learn the difference between good and great. I've been with Riser since 1977 (Dr. Baukert). I did get PO'd about some billing issue ... Read More
All Vets are good . . . until there's a problem. That's when you learn the difference between good and great. I've been with Riser since 1977 (Dr. Baukert). I did get PO'd about some billing issue in the mid 90's (most likely, I was just having a meltdown from the three teens living with me). So I left Riser. Took my business to another local Hospital which on the surface seems great. Less than 2 months later I returned to Riser with an appreciation of the quality I had taken for granted. Dr. Baukert is a remarkably brilliant Doctor. In fact, genius would not be an overstatement. He is humble and compassionate. When there is a true emergency, (like when my dog was the victim of a hit & run driver; picked him up and sped to Riser about 3 minutes before closing) everyone seems to have an inherent knowledge of what needs to be done, their specific role, etc.) You can't help but feel a sense of peace and confidence. Several of the staff stayed long after closing and I remember noting that no one had to be asked to do so. If I needed to see a doctor immediately and Dr. B wasn't available, I never had to worry about the level of service or degree of competency. I've been faced with several emergency situations in these 33 years and am always impressed. Yes, a trip to the vet is expensive - that is a universal truth. I've taken some time to compare and Riser's charges are always at the low end of average. Last but not least, my daughter also asked/told me to be sure and mention that Dr. Sutkay saved her dog's life. Read Less
chicagowoman
14 Mar 2010
REPORT
☆☆☆☆☆
REPORT
They lie about what type of care your cat receives.