Best Friends Animal Hospital And Urgent Care Center

I totally 100% find this place to give compassion and care to all... People don't realize that being a responsible pet owner means financially you have to prepare to take care of your baby just as if it were human... This Hospital Saved my dogs life numerous times. Yeah some animals pass away you cant take the blame out on a vet when its their time its their time... BEST HOSPITAL IN TOWN Read Less

When my otherwise healthy 9-year-old male tabby suddenly developed a urinary tract infection, I took him to one of my local veterinarians. My cat ended up contracting a nasty double-infection, staying at the local vet for 21 days, with repeated catheter insertion and extraction until his urethra ended up scarred permanently. He is such a laid-back, lovable cat, and it was horrifying to see how much pain he was experiencing. I kick myself for not asking for a referral to a specialist sooner, but I finally did. Best Friends in Billings is 4.5 hours away from where I live, but I'm willing to do anything for my little boy. We made the trek the day after Christmas 2017 right as a major snowstorm was arriving in Billings. My only regret was that I didn't learn about Best Friends three weeks sooner, as my cat would have been treated weeks earlier rather than having to suffer in pain. He might have even been able to avoid surgery. The doctors at Best Friends recognized that I'm a "pet parent" and not merely a pet owner, and treated me accordingly; Dr. Smith referred to my cat as "your kid" and "the kid" when he called to walk me through the post-surgery debriefing. As one of the hospital's owners, Dr. Smith went the extra mile and I enjoyed visiting with him the following day in person, too. Dr. Galvin was the one who checked us in, and she made sure my little boy got bathed after his initial exam, X-ray, blood draw, and bacteria culture, as the 4.5 hour drive with an open catheter meant that he was a miserable mess. Dr. Erickson was patient with me even as I was "one of those people" who continuously demanded updates on my cat's treatment, even though she was busy tending to other patients and it was the holiday season. Dr. Mansur was the veterinarian on staff overnight and called me at the hotel a couple of times to let me know when my cat wasn't eating and would need to be force-fed. She insisted that I could call anytime, day or night, and I did. Dr. Miller was the vet who checked us out finally when the Interstate cleared on New Year's Day, going over the post-care instructions in detail. As "high touch" as I was, I never got the impression that I was viewed by the staff as anything less than a strong advocate for my helpless little boy. Compared to how some places treat one's cat as something just a little above cattle, I don't take such sentiments for granted. The rest of the staff was also fantastic, especially the receptionist Angie who offered to take my cat's blankets home to wash them as she knew I was staying at a hotel. She recommended places to eat, and was so friendly even though I kept bugging them each of the 5 days that "my kid" stayed there during his surgery and recovery. One of the Veterinary Technicians, Anja, nearly brought me to tears when I saw how carefully she handled my little boy, ensuring he was comfortable and talking soothingly in her pleasant eastern European accent so he wouldn't be frightened. She offered him five different types of food when he continued to refuse eating, and insisted on sending me home with samples of prescription diet. With his stay at the hospital extended due to the end-of-2017 blizzard, I had plenty of opportunity to chat with other "pet parents" in the lobby. Each of them spoke highly of Best Friends. This has been way too long of a review, I realize, so I'll just wrap this up by saying: if you are a pet parent--and not merely a pet owner--you owe it to your fuzzy child to seek out only the best providers. Best Friends Animal Hospital in Billings is staffed with just such people. Read Less

Picked my dog up from one night being in their care, and he was terrified and covered in his own urine, which to me is inexcusable. Compared to my new veterinarian and his staff, the staff at Best Friends seem cold, uninformative, and not at all what I would call pet lovers nor people-pleasers. I sincerely hope others have a better experience than we did. Read Less

Dr. Pendray did a great job explaining to me in depth about my dogs Renal disease. He set me up on a plan for monitoring his disease and the medications/foods I should be feeding! Thank you Dr. Pendray! Read Less

Where to begin I have taken my cat into best friends twice. Everyone is so nice. I will admit there is some truth to best friends being expensive but I would rather pay to keep my best friend around. All of the vet's that I have seen have been professional and courteous to me, my situation, and my Max. They deffinatly do care about pets. 😸🐶🐈🐕 Read Less

I am new to Billings and took my dog to Best Friends because it was close by. My situation was not an emergency. My dog had broken her dew claw and was in pain. I told them that I needed to keep expenses down because I am working part-time and I'm in school. However, I did choose sedation because it was important to me that my dog did not suffer since she is a small Chihuahua. I ended up paying $157 which seemed exorbitant but I went ahead with it anyway. What angered me was that I signed a quote for that amount which included anti-inflammatory meds. Later on, the vet came in and charged me an additional $20 for the bandage, which was not on the quote, so I declined the meds to keep the price the same. To make matters worse, I called two days later to ask them to help me remove the bandage because I couldn't get it off without my dog crying out. Previously, they told me to come in and they'd remove it, no big deal. On the way to the vet, my dog removed the bandage herself. I went there anyway because I just wanted a quick confirmation that everything was fine. Well, they ended up re-bandaging her paw, even though they said it was "unnecessary", and then charged me an additional $26 -- all without asking! I will never go back to this vet. This place is all about extracting every last dollar from you. Read Less

I'm not a patient/customer per se, they bring in/host an eye specialist from Denver and I met the staff then.  They were very friendly when I came in with the patient and even when we left they treated us like we were part of their "family".  Even when I called to find out the schedule of this other dr they were super helpful over the phone and even answered questions I had.  I  understand that they are an urgent care and I will make sure to use them the next time I have an emergency.  Just finding somebody in Billings is a plus for after hours! Read Less

The staff is exceptional...I have to bring one of my kids in monthly for a shot and Lorenzo is always there to take care of her shot...she has her favs its harder on me than her I think. I have been going to best friends for many many years...hip surgeries, new babies, shots, teeth cleaning, and even saying goodbye. I can say my kids are not just a dog to this staff...Lexee spent several days in the hospital and while I was a crying mess they took care of her as good as I would have and were always accommodating so I could visit her...Billings is lucky to have such a care facility for our babies.... Read Less

My best frenchie boy was inadvertently injured by our newly adopted pup... pain, unable to move his head/neck and sudden onset of front paw "knuckling" brought us in from another clinic for an urgent CT Scan. Thank goodness BFAH has this technology as without it we would never have known Brice Benjamin needed immediate surgery to repair a ruptured cervical disk! That procedure was one week ago today and Brice is almost back to his pre-injured silly, lovable French Bulldog self! Thank you to all of you who took care of Brice Benjamin just like he was your own! We'll be visiting you all soon to say hello and thank you! Read Less

Last night we needed some urgent care for my boxer. Best Friends got me in right away with no waiting! The girls were so friendly and so good with my high energy girl. Thank you doctor Sophia! You were amazing!! Read Less

This place is the best. Unfortunately, we had to put our ferret down right before Christmas. We were treated with respect, care and kindness through the whole process. It was a very difficult decision, but Dr. Herron helped us do everything we could for our ferret, and words can't express how grateful we are Dr. Herron! When we went to pick up her ashes, I did not expect what we got. A box with her name engraved on it, a clay ornament with her paw print, a cremation certificate with a half a charm (the other was in the box with the ashes), and a heartfelt card. Everyone there truly cares about you and your pet, and they have an amazing passion for all animals. Thank you for everything Best Friends! Read Less

I cant say enough great things about the service and staff at Best Friends Animal Hospital. Dr. Slade is absolutely wonderful. I know that it was her diagnoses and care that helped extend our precious Lulus life. Our baby passed away on Christmas Eve and I am comforted to know that she got the best possible care during her last year. Dr. Slade called every couple of weeks to see how Lulu doing. This level of care and dedication is worth every penny spent. THANK YOU Dr. Slade and the entire staff at Best Friend Animal Hospital! Read Less

Love these guys ...my first experience with them was when I had to euthanize my dog ...they didn't even know me then but they were far more compassionate then the vet I was going to. That was 10 years ago. I changed my vet that very moment and haven't once doubted my decision Read Less

Best Friends may be a bit pricey, but for exceptional service and invaluable experience, you should pay well. When it comes to my fur-babies, the vets at Best Friends have always been wonderful. Dr. DJ Smith helped with all three litters we raised, and when our Duchess needed a C-section and we decided to fix her at the same time the facility did not double up the charge, though they could have. When we needed to make the hard decision to put down our wonderful dog, Anakin, they were so understanding and compassionate. They expanded their hours so you didn't have to pay emergency bills on weekends. They're bringing in the best vets and equipment to help treat animals in every way possible. Yes, this means higher prices, but that as the trade for superior vet care for our babies. I love this place and would highly recommend them to everyone.Read Less

Had an awesome experience! Dr. Shay and her vet tech were great with my 5yo dog who was having issues standing, she put our worries to ease and was very patient and loving to our baby, she was very thorough, explained everything and gave us options. I couldn't have asked for a better visit! Thank you to all the staff at Best Friends animal hospital! Read Less

Once again, Best Friends proved to me they are the best. Another issue with my Boxer brought me back yesterday. Dr Slade took great care of her and she is doing great. Between her and my other Boxer, we keep them on their toes and they always give the best medical care and I am forever grateful. Read Less

My ferret passed away in August and it devastated me. I called Best Friends (where I usually take my ferrets for check ups) and they told me to bring her in and they'd take care of her. A few days later I returned to pick up my Sadie's ashes and wasn't expecting anything else. The entire staff signed a card and gave me imprints of her cute little paws. I started bawling immediately just overwhelmed by their caring and thoughtfulness. One of the staff members even gave me a hug. I love this place, though it is a little spendy, it's totally worth every penny. Thank you Best Friends for making an awful heartbreaking experience a little bit better Read Less

Could not have asked more from the staff and Dr. Erickson. They went above and beyond, and saved our gentle giant Leo from a toxin. We were allowed to sit and visit with him as much as we wanted, which made those few really hard days much easier. Thanks is not enough! Read Less

Called in search of a stolen dog and was told that if someone brought him in and claimed him as theirs they would not help me. Every other vet hospital has taken info and been quite helpful. Was not impressed with their service Read Less

Let me tell you about this place!     A dear friend of mine has had her Shih Tzu companion with her for well over 10 years.  We were neighbors in 2005 in Washington State.      He recently got ill, and my friend took her baby to a local veterinarian. (not this one).   They gave her some ....difficult to accomplish goals for her administering medication to her dog.   This dear soul is 74 years old, and not able emotionally or physically to do what she was asked to.    Happenstance had her and I chatting via Facebook that night, and she told me she was worried about her boy, and told me what the Vet had told her to do.    I won't get into it, but I was very angry because a 74 year old woman can not do what they asked.......she was getting ready to take out a payday loan for the vet......., and she lives on a VERY fixed income I told her to PLEASE take her boy to an  EMERGENCY PLACE on Sunday, and have him evaluated and treated.      I knew the dog was dehydrated and needed IV fluids......and other things, but I knew he would not last long without being seen. She did, and here is where Best Friends comes in.   She took them toBest Friends Animal Hospital.... I had told my friend to give them my number (because I was going to help her pay).     They called me, and I spoke to the Veterinarian TWICE.    The did a PHENOMINAL job of taking care of Teddy, and were so polite, and helpful.    They were conservative on treatment, but still fully addressed the issues, and in several days her little boy was ready to go home.     Labs drawn ,IV fluids overnight with TLC,  antibiotics given, some teeth pulled and a dental.    It was step by step.   First they gave fluids and drew blood.    Waited for the result of that (and it was good) before progressing to the dental.     It was responsible, caring treatment, based on what is best for the animal.   The Veterinarian, a lovely ,skilled woman...... (Dr Brizkon) (forgive me if I mis spelled it).....said " I treat every animal as if it were my own".     That is obvious.   I can not say enough about the front office people who had this stranger they had to call, who "said" they were paying for the bill. (as well as the Techs, and Veterinarians)I told my dear friend I was paying for half, but as she was visiting her boy, I was on the phone paying for the rest.   She did not know until check out.   My wife totally supported me in this.      So after all this is done, my friend tells me she has been taking her pup to nursing homes to help the elderly.................God works in mysterious ways.......but I would trust ANY of my animals with this animal hospital, and staff.....any day. Read Less

The entire staff at Best Friends Animal Hospital is amazing. We met Dr. Smith 5 years ago in an emergency situation with our then 12 year old yellow lab Nala who was my life. Nala had Laryngial Paralysis which had been somewhat diagnosed by our current vet. She started aspirating and needed oxygen immediately and when Dr. Gocke spoke with me on the phone after hours and told me she could hear her labored breathing, and she needed help stat, that she would meet us in 15 minutes at the clinic, we were THERE! After being diagnosed, we were going to do surgery to repair her throat, but they found cancer growing really aggressively in her liver, and we had to let her go. Dr. Smith sat on the floor the next day as we were making the decision and he had tears in his eyes as we discussed it. Dr. Smith didn't know us. We met 24 hours prior. His tears were for an pet and 2 owners who he knew were hurting. He sat with us as we said goodbye to our Nala, and hugged me as I cried. I was determined, that if my heart could ever heal enough to love another dog, they would be my only choice for a vet. Six months later, 4 years ago, we adopted Gracie another yellow Lab. When Gracie was 8 weeks old, she began Puppy Socialization classes at BF with other puppies that were patients there. It was an amazing experience as they helped them all learn safe socialization skills. It transformed our girl in 2 months, and you could see the love for their work and our pups shine from them. Gracie is now 4, and we have added 2 more sisters to her pack. They all are patients of BF, they all love the staff, and the staff all know them. I have run into staff of BF out and about, and they always remember who I am, and ask about my dogs by name. We have been through 3 obstruction surgeries with Gracie, the most recent one this past January, only to find out the source of her obsession of eating things stemmed from acid reflux. The doctors didn't quit looking for answers, and reached out to me by phone, and email to let me know progress and possible solutions. I can't say enough great things about this staff! The doctors all bounce things off of each other, and work together to find the best treatment for each situation. I never request a certain doctor, as I love the fact that if they see different doctors, they will all know my dogs, and my dogs will feel comfortable around any of the staff. I can't thank them all enough for the stellar care they have given me and my pups! I highly recommend them to everyone!! Read Less

The entire staff at Best Friends Animal Hospital is amazing. We met Dr. Smith 5 years ago in an emergency situation with our then 12 year old yellow lab Nala who was my life. Nala had Laryngial Paralysis which had been somewhat diagnosed by our current vet. She started aspirating and needed oxygen immediately and when Dr. Gocke spoke with me on the phone after hours and told me she could hear her labored breathing, and she needed help stat, that she would meet us in 15 minutes at the clinic, we were THERE! After being diagnosed, we were going to do surgery to repair her throat, but they found cancer growing really aggressively in her liver, and we had to let her go. Dr. Smith sat on the floor the next day as we were making the decision and he had tears in his eyes as we discussed it. Dr. Smith didn't know us. We met 24 hours prior. His tears were for an pet and 2 owners who he knew were hurting. He sat with us as we said goodbye to our Nala, and hugged me as I cried. I was determined, that if my heart could ever heal enough to love another dog, they would be my only choice for a vet. Six months later, 4 years ago, we adopted Gracie another yellow Lab. When Gracie was 8 weeks old, she began Puppy Socialization classes at BF with other puppies that were patients there. It was an amazing experience as they helped them all learn safe socialization skills. It transformed our girl in 2 months, and you could see the love for their work and our pups shine from them. Gracie is now 4, and we have added 2 more sisters to her pack. They all are patients of BF, they all love the staff, and the staff all know them. I have run into staff of BF out and about, and they always remember who I am, and ask about my dogs by name.   We have been through 3 obstruction surgeries with Gracie, the most recent one this past January, only to find out the source of her obsession of eating things stemmed from acid reflux. The doctors didn't quit looking for answers, and reached out to me by phone, and email to let me know progress and possible solutions. I can't say enough great things about this staff! The doctors all bounce things off of each other, and work together to find the best treatment for each situation. I never request a certain doctor, as I love the fact that if they see different doctors, they will all know my dogs, and my dogs will feel comfortable around any of the staff. I can't thank them all enough for the stellar care they have given me and my pups! I highly recommend them to everyone!! Read Less

I brought my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel here on October 13th, 2015. I'm new to Billings and needed someone to see my dog ASAP. Everyone was so nice and professional and my dog's issue was taken care of immediately. It was a fantastic experience. Read Less

This is the ONLY place I trust with ALL my three dogs' needs. The level of care, the attention to detail, follow up and evolving technology and advanced care are absolutely unparalleled. I demand 24/7 care for my furry babies. Not only do they provide this, but all of the vets are skilled and dedicated to helping clients understand everything in lay terms. Read Less

my dogs actually love going here. The vets are awesome as is the staff. Particularly Brian and Heather. They are so kind to our boys.only had one bad experience with a tech here. hopefully not to be repeated. Read Less

This place is absolutely wonderful. Everyone here is so nice, and professional! I have taken all four of my furry kids here for years, and if I hadn't moved out of state I would have never taken them anywhere else! Read Less

Exceptional Staff that has seen us through everything from basic shots to final moments. They are caring and sincere in all they do. We can't say enough good things about BFAH! They leave no detail to your pet's health care plan unturned, and will go beyond the extra mile every single time. I have never felt rushed or unheard in any appointment, no matter what it was covering. I suggest them to all my pet loving friends in the Billings area Read Less