Wakarusa Veterinary Hospital

Have had multiple experiences of rude staff. Also I asked upfront on the phone the charges I need to board my dog and they told me it would be the fee for each night. They neglected to tell me he had to have multiple vaccinations and a fecal floatation in order to be boarded. I understand that the vaccination ingormation was being faxed from a different vet, but I've had multiple experience of the front desk staff throwing extra charges on me at the last minute. Communicate clearly to your customers what they need and how much it costs BEFORE you try to charge them for it. Also would be nice if the staff acted like they care about helping customers out instead of treating them poorly because they weren't aware of the costs of services. Read Less

I just have to say after a horrible experience at a vet in my town my experiences here have been awesome . My dogs have been seen by both Dr.Rowland and Dr. Amend. They are both really good. But Dr. Amend did my baby Bellas umbilical hernia and her spay surgery and it went well and after her surgery the nurse called to check on her as did Dr.Amend herself on the 2 nd or 3rd day. The nurses there take time to talk to you and answer questions or give advice. They didn't rush me out of the office.. I am no longer nervous to take my two dogs to the doctor. Dr. Amend is definitely my forever vet and but I would trust her Dr.Rowland and any of the other staff there.! They are the best. I Highly recommend. Read Less

My fiancé and I never really had great experiences with the receptionists here. One gal (who we dealt with multiple times) had very low energy and made us feel like she would rather be doing anything else other than helping us. We never felt like our patronage was valued. The service received on the front end was disappointing, especially since the vets employed here are AMAZING. They were great with my pup, who used to get extremely worked up when going to the vet. Ultimately, we have decided to take our pets elsewhere. Read Less

They are awesome. The entire staff is incredibly understanding, patient and thorough. My pitbull has some pretty intense social problems with people he doesn't interact with daily, and he was basically banned from another place. Yet this office's Doctors and their assistants are more than up to the task of providing him with the care he needs. I highly recommend this vet for anybody with a pet requiring specialized care. Read Less

The exam rooms are nice and clean. Staff is friendly and helpful. They try to keep your pets out of stressful situations while there. For example, they let me into an exam room early to wait so that my cat wouldn't have to wait with and loud and energetic dog in the lobby. They have water and litter for your pet if needed. Doctors are professional and seem knowledgeable. Prices are reasonable (as reasonable as any doctor can be). Online appointment and information system works very well. Read Less

I don't normally take the time to write reviews, but I couldn't help myself this time. This was only my second time to this particular clinic....first time was for my dog's ear infection and there were no issues. This time I brought both dogs in for an exam, shots, and heart worm meds. The older woman at the front desk wasn't initially friendly but I brushed it off. We saw Dr. Niedbalski and she was extremely pleasant. I can't really comment on her knowledge or abilities though because the exams literally lasted less than 3 minutes each. She checked their ears and teeth and that was about it. She recommended a teeth cleaning and the estimate for both dogs was $1000...no kidding.  I mentioned I was interested in flea and tick meds and she told me if I was thinking of buying online that I wouldn't have to because they would price match. A minute later I walked back out to the front desk and asked the unfriendly older female about price matching the flea and tick meds. She looked at me like I was a complete idiot and told me sternly that they didn't do that. I explained that the doctor had just told me they would and she brushed me off, saying she didn't have that kind of authority. Whatever. So then I paid for the visits....which were almost $500 total. I have NEVER paid that kind of money for a simple office visit, shots, and heart worm meds. So that kind of cost accompanied with the rudeness of that woman at the front desk? Bet I won't be back. Read Less

I took my 11-year-old cat, Miles Davis, in for a skin irritation. We were able to get an appointment the same day and were seen in a very timely manner once we arrived. The veterinary technician and the veterinarian were very gentle and comforting during her exam (she is super afraid of strangers, so this was important and greatly appreciated). The veterinarian took time to answer questions and give recommendations on improving her health and quality of life in general. We are only 5 days out from the treatment and I received a follow up call this morning to check on her progress, which is much improved. They made some follow-up recommendations based on her current status. Perhaps the best part of this call was that Seth talked about Miles Davis how I do. They really seem to care about your pet and want the best for them. We have a follow up appointment next week to ensure the problem is resolved. Based on my limited experience with this practice, I am so thankful for their presence in the Lawrence community and the care they provide for our pets! Read Less

Everyone is so nice and compassionate. We lost our older dog a few months ago, and the vet as well as the vet tech were incredible. They came in after hours, gave us all the information we needed, and helped us get through our very difficult goodbye. After, the staff sent paw prints and a heartfelt sympathy card. Read Less

Just a wonderful experience. From the reception staff to the vet techs to the veterinarians, everyone is professional, knowledgeable, and kind. I never request a specific veterinarian because all three are equally capable and competent. I especially appreciate the 24-7 answering service that is provided in case of emergencies. I have referred my family members, who, after switching from another vet clinic, couldn't be more pleased with the difference. Thank you for the excellent care you provide. Read Less

We switched to wakarusa from another vet and the difference was night&day. The staff are friendly and accommodating. We made two very last minute appointments without any hassle. The vet was very attentive to all my issues and took them very seriously. I would absolutely continue seeing this vet over the other. Prices are not bad either in comparison Read Less

I took my dog here for an emergency (allergic reaction with severe hives all over my dog's face and chest) about a year ago because my normal vet couldn't see our dog quickly enough. We had a great experience with the vet who helped us and the tech as well - both were friendly and helpful, treated me with respect and listened to my concerns, as well as explaining things really well! However, their receptionist at the time was absolutely awful and actually insured that we would never return. She treated us like we were overreacting about our dog (though the vet agreed it was the right choice to bring her in with the severity of her hives and the fact that she was very obviously in pain), refused to focus on the issue at hand (instead focusing on why our own vet couldn't see us, clearly just looking to discredit "the competition") and frankly was just rude. I hope that woman has been fired by now, this animal hospital deserves a much better first impression. Read Less

Unfortunately, their greed outweighs their compassion for animals. They charged me an after hours fee of $100 and a after hours tech fee of $26 on top of the regular visit fee even though I arrived before 6 and left before 6:15. When I told them I couldn't afford the after hours fee AND the tests necessary to diagnose my dog, they sent me on my way in tears (after they took my money). I'll not be returning. The tech was rude and condescending and I felt like they couldn't care less about me or my pet. Read Less

I took my dog Frankie in to this vet for the first time about a month ago. Her stomach was distended and she had a case of fleas we couldn't get rid of. They treated her for worms, fleas, and gave her a steroid for the itching. After some time, she started eating normally again and was acting like herself. Today I noticed her hind legs and abdomen were swollen so I called at 5:25, pretty shaken. They advised me that they would see her but if it were after hours I would be charged a fee. I was concerned that my funds would be an issue, and asked if they would work with me on payments. The technician told me she couldn't make a decision over the phone but that it would be best to bring Frankie in and go from there. I don't drive so I told them I'd find a ride and be there as soon as possible. A friend took me all the way over there, we weighed her in at 5:59 according to their clock. I even called when I was on my way to let them know I was still coming in. I brought a stool sample just in case but the technician told me, condescendingly, that if funds were an issue, I'd be better off not testing it. Fine. Dr. Gottstein checked Frankie out and advised me that they could do blood work to determine if it was a protein deficiency or something more serious, like a tumor. It would take 15 minutes but was out of my price range at the moment. I inquired again about making payments as I was very concerned about my pet. They couldn't care less AND charged me $100 for an after-hours emergency fee (the receipt was printed at 6:12pm)  AND $26 for the technicians "emergency time" on top of the $49 examination to basically tell me what I already knew. The tech rudely said that she "told [me] all this on the phone", as I was crying on my way out. I feel like they didn't address my concerns about her distended belly in the first visit and loaded me up with meds to shuffle me out quickly. The doctors are competent and caring but the support staff is rude and will tell you whatever they can to get you to come in and give them money. I won't be returning to this office and I really hope my dog's condition doesn't become life-threatening before I can afford another visit somewhere else, now that I'm out $175 for literally nothing. I understand caring for a pet costs money and will give my last penny if it means they're healthy but I feel like they misled me and took advantage. Read Less

I love Dr. Niedbalski! She has been our vet of choice for over 10 years and I will never stop taking my animals to her. She's very willing to listen to my concerns about my pets and doesn't rush the process. She's very efficient and quick to get the ball rolling to solve any health problems that arise. One of the things I appreciate most is that she talks to me as an equal. She doesn't dumb down or try to smooth over the diagnosis or her recommendations. I always leave knowing exactly what I'm supposed to do to care for my animals. Read Less

Our four year old huskies love going here. They could care less about the treats and enjoy the staff. Everyone greets our dogs with head pets and affirmations which is very sweet. Aurora and Maya couldn't be happier with their doctors. I feel the office is both professional and personable.Read Less

They take excellent and compassionate care of my dog, always go out of their way to address any questions or concerns. I have boarded her there a few times as well and she is always happy and well cared for. We are very happy to have found this great veterinary practice. Read Less

I was very surprised to see several negative comments about WVH. We've been going since December when we adopted our dog Kira from Lawrence Humane Society. They've always been very friendly to us, especially Drs. Niedbalski and Rowland, and while the experience at the front desk can sometimes feel a little brisk - can you blame them? They seem to field all sorts of calls, customer issues, doctor requests, and who knows what else all while keeping operations running. We recently had a serious bout with pancreatitis that they handled professionally and with lots of care. Called us every day with updates, suggested a course of treatment, and even saved me money by having a prescription filled at the local Walgreens instead of buying it from them. We will continue going here and when we adopt our next pup, they'll be our vets of choice. Keep up the good work! Read Less

We started out seeing Dr. Niedbalski, but are pleased to know the other veterinarians are caring and would be able to take care of our pets at any given time. All of the office staff are easy going, compassionate and keep us informed on treatments. Any time we need anything we can call and speak to one of the employees or vets. When it comes to scheduling they can fit us in any time. I also love that we can purchase our pet food there instead of going to an actual pet store. The office staff is always willing to help with anything that we need. They have never ever talked me into services that I didn't need or have had. Read Less

All about the dollar, not the dog... Staff is rude--even after seeing me once a month for over a year to purchase monthly meds, they act as if they don't know me. They don't particularly seem to like our dogs, didn't do a thorough exam, and charged over twice as much as our new vet. New vet offers online order and delivery of meds, 24/7 on call for emergencies or questions ("so you don't have to Google"), were friendly, and charged reasonable rates. Goodbye Wakarusa, you've gotten the last dime you'll ever get from me! Read Less

This place just, barely, goes through the motions of pet care. They seem to can't wait to get their money and send you on your way. Fees are nearly twice of other vets in the area. With the many vet options available in the Lawrence area, there is no need to bother giving Wakarusa my business. Our, terrific dogs, Steve and Cody both, thanked us for our selection of their new care provider. One who thinks the pet is prime over money. Read Less

Clean space. Friendly staff. The vet I met clearly is into maximizing profit and spent a great deal of time trying to convince me to purchase their foods. Interestingly, if you go online to sites which provide unbiased reviews of dog foods this vet's foods are in the bottom third regarding quality and nutritional value. Wish they would spell my name right. I also wish I could have a healthcare visit for my dog which focused on his healthcare and isn't significantly colored by the clinics financial agenda. Read Less

I think Dr. Rowland is a good doctor, but after taking in my dog following a bout of diarrhea (which has happened to her exactly once before in the two years I'd had her), I was subjected to some absolutely outrageous treatment by her vet tech, who was beyond rude, abrasive, and obnoxious. I do NOT need to buy crappy Science Diet food because of one bout of diarrhea, which was caused either by the two or three chicken nuggets my niece gave her - or the fancy raw food I was trying. Probably the latter, if not both.  I am NOT a bad person or a bad dog owner for not buying Science Diet food, which any informed consumer knows is barely better than Ol' Roy and is just a pyramid scheme in which vets are compensated for acting as shills for mediocre food. Do NOT tell me my dog is going to die sooner than she would otherwise if I don't buy Science Diet food, that is a horrible thing to say in addition to be completely false because that food is NOT healthy compared to many other superior brands on the market. Do NOT imply that me not buying Science Diet is practically animal abuse. I can understand a vet carrying the food - why not, given what Science Diet pays and gives for that consideration. What I can't forgive is the hard sell when it's just not that good at all, and certainly not being insulted and berated so viciously and being treated like I'm a terrible, awful person when my dog was in otherwise perfect health just because I won't buy food they sell on commission or percentage or whatever. I complained about that to Dr. Rowland's front office and the doctor called me back and actually defended the vet tech's attitude and actions, saying that the tech "just tells it like it is." RUBBISH. One bout of diarrhea in two years is pretty great for a dog. I don't deserve to be yelled at and insulted. I have never in my life been spoken to like that by anyone (except maybe my mother when I was 16 and she caught me smoking cigarettes) and I found it utterly shocking that the tech felt like that was appropriate, and then even more shocked that the doctor defended it instead of apologizing and making sure I didn't have to deal with that person again. I went back to feeding my dog her Whole Earth Farms canned food (both five stars on the reputable and objective site petfoodadvisor, compared to 2.5 for Science Diet) and found a new vet - one that values professionalism and kindness and doesn't have to pimp themselves out to Science Diet to keep the lights on. If you need a doctor and Dr. Rowland is the only vet in town who can see you, I think she's a perfectly good doctor. However, there are some GREAT vets in this town, not just good ones, so I'd recommend looking for one of those. I'm sure that I'll get some snarky comment from the business manager deflecting responsibility, like the one the last reviewer got about how a vet only looks in an animal's ears during a checkup if they see the animal scratching or shaking their head. The heck? That is crazy. I have never seen a vet fail to check a cat or dog's ears, eyes, nose, tummy, and toes - basic five point inspection. I know that Dr. Rowland always looks over the whole animal so it must have been someone else. Still, the attitude of this office is just appalling. These people have really got some nerve. Don't treat good, caring, informed, cautious, early-intervention pet owners like scum of the earth. Try that out as a business model and maybe your reviews will get better. Read Less

I had a really odd experience at Wakarusa Veterinary Hospital. I looked at the three reviews on here and figured they would be a good choice for a first-time pet owner.I brought my cat in and they were quick to get her in a room. The vet and vet techs were all fond of my little kitten and seemed very affectionate, but I found her overall examination to be lacking. They did not look in my kitten's ears during the exam, even after explaining she had lived on a farm with several other cats, which I found odd. They also didn't just de-worm her, they instructed me to get a fecal sample and bring it back, which I also found odd. After her visit, I noticed she was scratching her ears a lot, so I took her to another vet that diagnosed her with ear mites.  This could have easily been treated earlier had they looked into her ear canal during the visit.My biggest issue with this hospital was the pricing. For the first set of shots and an exam cost me over $100. Her rabies and follow-up was priced for $75. Then, maybe the biggest surprise, was how much her spay was going to cost. I was quoted over $300, the most expensive spay I have heard of to date. I ended up taking my cat all the way to Kansas City to have her treated at a more affordable ASPCA sponsored clinic and, quite frankly, is worth the drive and gas for the price.Overall, great people who care about animals, but the exam and prices leave a lot to be desired. Read Less

If you're looking for a vet, keep looking. You would be better off treating your own animal than leaving it to Dr. Marks (lots of information for home surgery on the internet). He charged $500 for a surgery on my dog. Days later I took the dog to a specialist who said the surgery was never performed. He is either a liar, totally incompetent, or both (I'll go with both). This office cares a lot about your money, but you and your animal not so much. You would like to think people like Dr. Marks don't exist, but unfortunately they are everywhere, and if you love your pet this is especially sad. Read Less

I have had my dog since she was 6 months old and shes now 9. This is the only office shes been to since I've had her. I've had great experiences with going to this vet. She's been in for her yearly shots. She had been snipped by another dog and had an issue with an eye afterwards. They did a great job making her comfortable and did a great job making sure I understood what was going on with the treatment. Read Less

Dr. Marks is excellent, provides several treatment options with understanding of your needs. I recommend anyone with any animal health care needs. Two other Veterinarians recommended surgery for thousands of dollars or euthanasia, Dr. Marks had an idea that worked for much less; end result is I still have my best friend. Read Less