37 Reviews

Starch Pet Hospital

Des Moines, Iowa

General Info

Starch Pet Hospital in Des Moines conducts appointments with a multi-dimensional approach that allows pets time to observe before participating. The pacing emerges as an intricate response to the diverse requirements of Iowa's households. Upon arrival pets gain permission to investigate their environment. The process embraces scent-mapping along with deliberate movements and selective engagement as essential components. The clinical team observes the animal's responses to floor texture variations along with ceiling acoustic properties and vertical spatial elements. Each visit unfolds uniquely as some start with gentle palpation while others begin with visual exams or social acclimation. Pet owners receive invitations to disclose specific details such as their pet's preferred resting spots at home, the particular noises their pets avoid, and any changes in mealtime rhythms. Starch Pet Hospital delivers an array of services that encompass injury evaluation alongside immune system diagnostics as well as muscle elasticity checks combined with sensory aversion handling and chronic illness co-management. Examination formats undergo modification according to respiratory patterns, freeze signals, visual disengagements, and limb retractions. Every examination space comes equipped with tools for immediate adjustment including movable stools, variable lighting options, and optional barriers to minimize visual stimulation. The care process extends beyond the procedure and reaches its endpoint through decompression. Pets receive a reorientation period before departure. Owners receive intricate behavioral pacing guides detailing when to reintroduce stimuli and offer food or touch while identifying signs of emotional lag or physical soreness. Starch Pet Hospital collaborates with pets from Des Moines and nearby Iowa regions to guarantee that every phase of their visit—entry, treatment, and recovery—aligns with animals’ perceptions of movement, spatial orientation, and sequential processing.

Services

Boarding

Dental

Surgery

Vaccinations

Reviews

Carla DeVries

3 Aug 2018

REPORT

When Lily (Chihuahua Terrier) and I moved back to Iowa 4.5 years ago, I asked my friend Carla if she would recommend a vet. She told me she had nothing but good experiences with Dr. Takes. I took her advice and we have been very fortunate to have Dr. Takes caring for Lily ever since. My friend passed away quite unexpectedly only 3.5 months after we moved back. She was a friend and loving parent to her fur friends and those of others and could have left us with no better gift than that referral. Many tanks to Dr. Takes and the staff at University West and Starch. Read Less

Dave Johnson

20 Jun 2018

REPORT

Very helpful. Very kind and careful taking foot xray of our big dog. Gave us chewable pills to help manage her pain.

Patty Wood

11 Jun 2018

REPORT

Always a good experience for my furrbabies, which makes it a great experience for me. But, this visit was to check my kitty into their Kitty Kondos! She was there for 9 days, when I called to check in, they were always nice and would go back and check on her. Put me at ease to hear she was eating and behaving! But, the really great thing was when I brought her home... I called them the next day and asked what they had done to my cat... she has never behaved so great and I think I got a much better kitty back then I left there. Highly recommend and was very reasonable than other places I checked out. I take my animals there for vet services, didn't know they had lodging. Will be happy to use their kondo services again. They are the best! Read Less

Jon Ole Olsen

5 Jun 2018

REPORT

We have been taking our pets to Starch for a long time, perhaps 20 years. We have always received good service. The doctors and the staff care deeply about the health and welfare of our animals. From annual check-ups to major surgery we have gone through it all with both cats and dogs at Starch. I might have my favorites amongst the Vets here, but I would trust them all. Read Less

Mattie Coleman

18 Apr 2018

REPORT

Great place wont go no where else they take all breeds od dogs unlike most!

Arie Chi Chen

12 Apr 2018

REPORT

I had to have my dog's tooth extracted due to a complicated tooth fracture. My primary vet referred me to Dr. Takes at Starch Pet Hospital. Dr. Takes made the entire experience as calming and as positive as possible. She was understanding of my concerns and answered all my questions with honesty and genuine knowledge and kindness. Dr. Takes is not my primary vet, but through my wonderful experience with her, I feel confident & happy knowing that I can trust my dog, Coco, with her the same as I trust my primary vet. The front desk was kind, and their location at University West was clean and professional. Cannot say enough positive things about Dr. Takes and Starch Pet Hospital. Very reasonably priced and worth every dollar. Read Less

Arie Chen

12 Apr 2018

REPORT

I had to have my dog's tooth extracted due to a complicated tooth fracture. My primary vet referred me to Dr. Takes at Starch Pet Hospital. Dr. Takes made the entire experience as calming and as positive as possible. She was understanding of my concerns and answered all my questions with honesty and genuine knowledge and kindess. Dr. Takes is not my primary vet, but through my wonderful experience with her, I feel confident & happy knowing that I can trust my dog, Coco, with her the same as I trust my primary vet. The front desk was kind, and their location at University West was clean and professional. Cannot say enough positive things about Dr. Takes and Starch Pet Hospital. Read Less

Courtney Nevilles

9 Apr 2018

REPORT

This has been our vet for years and when I called to tell them about my pet passing and that his ashes were being delivered and the other issues we needed to go over, whoever answered the phone didn’t even say sorry. I then told her thank you for saying sorry for my loss as a prompt or to coach her on how Jon empathetic she sounded and she proceeded to tell me goodbye. I will be looking for a new vet home after this!!!!!! Read Less

Tristan Wall

14 Mar 2018

REPORT

Quick and professional service. Nice employees. Knowledgeable doctors. They never try to push something you're pet really doesn't need.

Anna Hurst

8 Mar 2018

REPORT

We just moved to Texas so I could go back to school and have "found a vet" here but when my dog got hurt, my husband immediately told me to call our vet in Iowa. They truly are my dog's pediatrician (and my cat's geriatric doctor) and we would trust them enough to drive 11.5 hours if need be. Although there was a full schedule today, they still told me that if my dog's nose didn't stop bleeding, they would open a spot for us (she doesn't know that we live in TX). They truly care about pet families. Please take your pets here because you would be doing a disservice to them if you didn't. When our dogs need their one year check-up, we will be making a trip to Iowa just for this clinic and staff. 😽🐕🐶 Read Less

JohnDana Custis

8 Jan 2018

REPORT

These guys are awesome. They have cared for our pets for 15 plus years. While they offer premium care, the prices are very affordable. The head vet and owner is a christian guy and he seeks to provide affordable services to those who cannot afford fancy pet spa treatment. The staff is very friendly. They know me and my dog's name at glance. The vets always provide care options with thorough explanations of each. They also explain different prices associated with each treatment plan. Read Less

Amelia Lobo

5 Jan 2018

REPORT

I can't praise them enough. They always have appointments available, even on Saturdays. I get my poodles groomed there as well. I had to put down my dog a couple months ago and it was the most positiv... Read More

Alex Blaker

11 Dec 2017

REPORT

I had to make an unfortunate trip to Starch when my cat Melvin had gotten sick. They scheduled an appointment for him that day and ran blood work to find out he had kidney failure at a young age. Dr. Halligan was so kind to us and incredibly gentle with Melvin. They kept him for the weekend and ran tests to help us hope for the best. Unfortunately the results weren't what we wanted and in the tough decision that no pet parent wants to make they helped ease the stress. She was so incredibly accommodating with us and gave us the time we needed. I couldn't say nicer things about them, from the calls I made checking in on him over the few days, to the moment we went to pick up his ashes. Thank you for everything Dr. Halligan and staff for your kindness. Read Less

Becky Shattuck

8 May 2017

REPORT

We had a great experience at Starch. The vet explained everything about the care in detail, gave us options, and everything was reasonably priced.

Doug McBride

24 Apr 2017

REPORT

This is the BEST place to trust the health of your best friends..Tried IA Vet Specialists and they only cared about money, not my pets. STARCH treats you and your pets like family...Love These People!... Read More

Jeannetta Fuller

3 Apr 2017

REPORT

Always go here for any veterinary needs. Caring, helpful, knowledgeable. They treat your pets like family.

Jon O.

3 Mar 2017

REPORT

We have been taking pets to Starch for a long time, even before their current location. We have had only the best service. I would highly recommend them to anyone. Dr Lori Halligan is my favorite, but everyone has been great. The groomers take awhile to get you in, so plan ahead. They even gave our cat Moe a mohawk once! Read Less

Courtney Tiernan

21 Feb 2017

REPORT

We have previously attended a different vet an hour away and was referred to Starch and University Pet by Trisha. I was SO pleased. We saw Dr. Frasuer and she was so kind and patient and thorough. This place is crazy busy but ALL of the staff were continually pleasant and helpful. We will definitely be returning and I greatly appreciated that they took the time with me and my dog and seemed to truly care. Read Less

Donald Mull

13 Feb 2017

REPORT

My dog ruptured her LCL and required a $3,000 surgery to fix. They did a different procedure for $825 and seems to have done a better job! Amazing with with my pup! Love this place!

William Lane

7 Feb 2017

REPORT

Outstanding animal care. Very affordable fees for services. Caring doctors and staff.

Grant Gillon

4 Feb 2017

REPORT

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Starch. Dr. Lori Halligan was our veterinarian and she did a phenomenal job of explaining what was happening with our dog and several options. The price was ... Read More

Lucina Reyes

2 Feb 2017

REPORT

Love this vet I've been taking my fur baby's here for over 7 years. I love the staff and vets here. They also have some really nice candles so it always smells good here.

Sara Stark

28 Jan 2017

REPORT

Love it there! They're very understanding as I have an older dog. Great with @[10203434806264739:George] & me.

Mallory Crain

25 Jan 2017

REPORT

I have brought my dog to Starch since I moved to Des Moines. Not only are they exceptional veterinarians, but truly wonderful people. They have always treated my dog and I with kindness and respect. They are honest in their recommendations and don't try to nickel and dime you for unnecessary procedures. My dog recently had surgery there and I couldn't be happier with how they cared for him. I will continue to return to Starch for as long as I live in Des Moines. Read Less

Rebecca Weaver Armes

12 Jan 2017

REPORT

I can't imagine taking our pets to another vet. We frequently see Dr. Takes for our small animals - she is phenomenal and I especially appreciate how she takes time to lay out all your options and explain why she's recommending a specific treatment. Because rats don't have the longest lifespans we've seen her several times to put one of them down and she's incredibly compassionate in those hard times. On the occasions we've seen a different vet on Dr. Takes day off we've had nothing but great experiences. Read Less

Jana Stover Winter

28 Dec 2016

REPORT

I've been taking our cats there for several years now. They treat them with tender loving care, which is very important to me! I'm also impressed with the way they take time out to explain things to me when in-home-treatment is required, to ensure I'm comfortable handling. Thanks to all of you! Read Less

JLynn Miller

27 Dec 2016

REPORT

I love love love Starch Pet Hospital! I have taken my cats there for 10 years. They are such a good and caring clinic! Starch treats myself and my fur babies with such love and care and knowledge. Ev... Read More

Jenny Murphy

13 Oct 2016

REPORT

I can't say enough good things about the care our pets receive from ALL of the people at Starch. From the doctors to the technicians to the front desk people....they are all top notch. A very sincere and special shout out to Dr Halligan and Bri for their professionalism and knowing exactly how to handle a very difficult situation. Read Less

Nancy Downey

1 Oct 2016

REPORT

The vets at the pet hospital are great. I would have given the hospital 5 stars except for one thing. The front office staff seem to think it necessary to burn a scent candle beginning in the fall and throughout winter. I have severe allergies and the space is too small to burn a candle like that. In the time it took for me to pay my bill, my eyes and nose started running and I nearly lost my voice. I complained about it last year to no avail. My point is that if it affects me that much, what is it doing to the animals? It must be horrid for them. They should not stop burning the candles just for me, but they should be mindful of the animals and not burn the candles. This is the clinic at 2222 University. Read Less

Jannean Elverum

13 Sep 2016

REPORT

Been using these guys since they were on Forest ave years ago, my grandmother started with her dogs, then us kids would bring home every stray there was and since I am her age when she first started using them I have never went anywhere else. Dr. Laurie Halligan, excuse the spelling if wrong, is wonderful and the whole team are very sweet. Gizmo 11 and Maggie 7 are still seeing her and we have had to put two babies to rest there as well. I gave never felt mir compassion. Great Vet!! Read Less

Kimann H.

16 Jul 2016

REPORT

I have taken my pups here for the past couple of years and I love that the doctors always has my girls best interest at heart and never just do something to make money. They also are great with working with you with costs. The first time I had to take Lexi here she had to have 5 teeth removed. They were great in making sure the cost was affordable. I also love the fact that when I took my other dog Zooey to have her teeth cleaned (at the recommendation of our primary vet place) the Dr called and told me that her teeth were not that bad and the tarter on their was minimal. She advised that she wouldn't want to put her under for a two minute cleaning and personalized it even more by letting me know if it was her dog she would not do it. Love the honesty and shows they are not about doing procedures for money. I highly recommend this place. The only thing is I wish they would get on board with care credit would be even more helpful! Read Less

John C.

20 Dec 2015

REPORT

i adopted a german shepherd (thru pet rescue) in 2003. i immediately took dakota to dr. martz (aka starch pet hospital at 22nd and university). dakota had a few health issues which dr. martz was able to resolve.over the years i always took kota to starch for health concerns or checkups. kota saw different doctors and technicians at starch throughout her life. the staff was always well trained; professional; and, affectionate with kota (a shy dog).later in kota's life dr. martz found a tumor in a rather delicate area. he was able to remove most if not all the tumor without compromising her ability to "move her bowels". it was an aggressive form of cancer that returned. dr. martz had no qualms about referring kota to an oncologist at iowa state u./lloyd center where she could get specialized treatment and chemo not typically found in a vet clinic.between dr. martz and i.s.u. kota's life was extended 3 years - 3 years of a good quality of life that i had my "buddy". kota eventually passed away but, at the average age for a g.s.d.i will eventually adopt another pet rescue dog - most like another german shepherd. the first thing i will do is take the dog to dr. martz or any of his staff vets for a checkup and vaccinations (if needed).on occasions i had to board kota at starch. i always felt confident that she was well taken care of.Dec 21, 2015 Read Less

Eric J.

1 Mar 2015

REPORT

Only Place to take your Pet. Dr. T is amazing. She also works at University Pet Clinic. We had to put our dog after 16 years down. After 6 Months we are looking for another pup. Dr. T will be our ... Read More

Lynette Sanders

29 Dec 2014

REPORT

My kitty Buggy at age 14 was having issues with his liver values being higher than they should, Dr Taken immediately ran xrays and did a thyroid panel on him and found out that he has hyperthyroidism Buggy had been seen by my regular vet for almost 2 months with high liver values and had lost a full pound and my regular vet never once thought of a thyroid panel, my Buggy would have wasted away and died had it not been for Dr Taken being so through in his care, I am impressed and very thankful, I have been dealing with some very sick kitty's for over a year now and have had lots of contact with many vets both medical and holistic along with 2 well known pet hospitals so I know a good vet when I see and experience one, Much gratitude for helping my Buggy Read Less

Rebecca W.

9 Sep 2014

REPORT

It's hard to find a vet in the Des Moines area who treats small animals/exotics. We found Starch Pet Hospital when we were looking for a vet to see my daughters hamster-Dr. Takes does an amazing job. ... Read More

Stacie M.

20 Jun 2013

REPORT

Love the service I receive at Starch! Have taken my 2 Poms there for care since I have had them, and the staff is always so welcoming and warm when we visit. We have boarded with them also, and have had many great experiences. We did return home early from a trip one Sunday, and were able to go pick up the pooches outside of normal business hours. The vets are so honest and caring- my dogs are not nervous at all when we go in, and the visit is always stress-free. Read Less

Allison J.

4 Jan 2012

REPORT

We have been using Starch Pet for our puppy, Bali, since we first got her and all of the vets here are very gentle and sweet. Bali leaps out of the car when we get there and is very relaxed in the exam rooms. This week, we had her spayed at Starch and the process was so easy and the doctors were amazing. I called halfway through and one of the nurses offered to go in the back to check on her, letting me know she was just resting but out of the anesthesia. I'm very impressed with Starch's excellent customer service and their love for our pets. Thank you!p.s. There is also a sweet little office kitty that Bali loves to play with - this is the only cat I've seen that can roll and play with a puppy - adorable! Read Less

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(515) 283-1576

FAQs

Where is Starch Pet Hospital located?

Starch Pet Hospital is located at 2222 University Ave, NULL, Des Moines,NULL 50311. It's easily accessible to pet owners in the Des Moines area and surrounding communities.

What time does Starch Pet Hospital open and close each day?

Starch Pet Hospital is open Monday 07:30 AM - 18:00 PM, Tuesday 07:30 AM - 18:00 PM, Wednesday 07:30 AM - 18:00 PM, Thursday 07:30 AM - 18:00 PM, Friday 07:30 AM - 18:00 PM. On Saturdays, it's open 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM. They are closed on Sundays.

Is Starch Pet Hospital open on Saturdays?

Yes, Starch Pet Hospital is open on Saturdays. Their Saturday hours are 08:00AM to 12:00 PM.

Is Starch Pet Hospital open on Sundays?

No, Starch Pet Hospital is closed on Sundays. They operate Monday through Saturday, serving pet owners during the week and on Saturday.

How can I book an appointment at Starch Pet Hospital?

You can book an appointment online with Starch Pet Hospital via our website. Simply click the 'Book an Appointment' button on their profile or use TopVet’s online scheduling. Alternatively, you can call the clinic at to schedule a visit.

What services does Starch Pet Hospital offer?

Starch Pet Hospital in Des Moines offers a range of veterinary services, including Boarding, Dental, Surgery, Vaccinations. From routine wellness exams and vaccinations to surgeries and diagnostics, they provide comprehensive care for your pets.

Does Starch Pet Hospital offer vaccinations for pets?

Yes, Starch Pet Hospital provides pet vaccination services. They offer core vaccinations for dogs and cats (like rabies, distemper, parvovirus, etc.) as well as any recommended booster shots. You can schedule your pet's vaccines during normal appointment hours at their Des Moines clinic.

Does Starch Pet Hospital offer pet dental care?

Absolutely. Starch Pet Hospital offers pet dental care services, including teeth cleanings, dental exams, and treatment of dental issues for cats and dogs. Regular dental care is part of their preventive services to keep your pet healthy.

Does Starch Pet Hospital provide boarding or kennel services?

Yes, Starch Pet Hospital has boarding facilities for pets. They can board your cat or dog in a safe, comfortable environment when you’re away. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during holidays, as space can be limited.

Do they perform spay/neuter surgeries at Starch Pet Hospital?

Starch Pet Hospital provides spaying and neutering services for pets. Their veterinary team in Des Moines has extensive experience in these routine surgical procedures. They will also guide you on post-operative care for your pet.

Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote

(515) 283-1576

2222 University Ave

Des Moines Iowa 50311

Get Directions

http://starchpethospital.com/

Business Hours

Monday

Mon

07:30AM-18:00PM

Tuesday

Tue

07:30AM-18:00PM

Wednesday

Wed

07:30AM-18:00PM

Thursday

Thu

07:30AM-18:00PM

Friday

Fri

07:30AM-18:00PM

Saturday

Sat

08:00AM-12:00PM

Popular Hours

12p

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