North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital

Saddens me to write this post but I am hoping to help avoid others being put in my position of sadness and loss of a pet. We used Dr. K as our vet for 10 years for our 3 wiener dogs. Our dogs are our babies and so sad I trusted him to care for our pets in the last few months. We ended up having to euthanize our one dog after an exploratory procedure under anesthesia went bad. This vet ended up rupturing my dogs ear drum attempting a biopsy and then causing a massive ear infection that quickly spread to his brain. I called the office and immediately went to their urgent care which 2 vets refused to give him oral antibiotics. Instead they referred me to a dog dermatology that specializes in the ear. In the 2 weeks it took to get him into the appointment he developed severe vertigo and after multiple tests, medications and procedures no one was able to help him. We had to make a very selfless decision to euthanize him as his quality of life was awful. He was so dizzy and unable to walk or do anything on his own. After confronting the vet as to why he would not give him antibiotics he said "hind sight is 20/20. We try to avoid antibiotics because of the issue with resistance." Are you kidding me?? 18 years of being a nurse I have never seen anyone with this kind of infection being refused treatment. I wish I would have never trusted him with my pets care- it was as bad of an experience as I have ever had. $5000 down the tubes and even worse I have to console my 7 year old daily about losing a pet unnecessarily. And to make matters worse he was going down the same path with my other dog. He developed swelling to one side of his face. He tried to take my dog under anesthesia for tear duct surgery. I had to request a simple procedure to avoid surgery and it ended up his tear duct was fine. I would have paid hundreds of dollars for no reason if I didn't request it. Then he thought it was a tooth abscess, after $1000 surgery the swelling returned in a weeks time. After 2 other opinions, he went to another vet to remove the tooth next to it which ended up being the problem. This vet assured me they refund my money and then lied and never gave any money back to me. They said they didn't think they did anything wrong and the swelling would return. He has been free of swelling for 3 weeks now so I guess they were wrong yet AGAIN.I write this post not to bash this office but to help others be in a similar situation. They have caused life threatening condition to one and would have been the same outcome with the second dog if I didn't stand up and go elsewhere. If your pet is declining or if they are ordering a whole bunch of test/surgeries with no response please do not continue care here.  I honestly feel like he was ordering expensive procedures just to make money. It breaks my heart to bash DR K but he did not do the right thing for 2 dogs within 6 months time. I would not recommend anyone trusting this office anymoreOur hearts break every day that we lost part of our hearts because of poor decisions including ours to trust this officewe plan to file complaints with the vet board and file a lawsuit so that this kind of care does not continue to be accepted Read Less

I was introduced to Dr Lydolph through a referall from a friend when my pet tore her acl and needed ttl surgery. Dr. Lydolph was amazing and my pup has done well even years later. We continue to see her and have appreciated her care and expertise. Fast forward to a few weeks ago my pup collapsed and I rushed her in right when they opened. They understood my panic and saw her immediately. Dr. Mauer entered in and spent time with me even though she had a full surgery schedule.  She explained we needed to perform emergency surgery. She was also very knowledgeable and caring. She spent time with me to make sure I understood risks/benefits and possible prognosis. They both at different times have gone above and beyond for my fur children and I am in debt to these two woman. Not to take away from the fromt desk girls and the vet techs. Everyone has been caring, patient and supportive. Thank you to you all. Read Less

Staff was nice/friendly which is the reason for 2 stars, but gave false expectation on prices. We took our dog to be neutered and we were quoted $380 including shots. Although we did our own research and vaccinated at home to save money we still had to get shots here. At least we were told this part up front so not as upset about that. We priced checked where this is our first dog, and this seemed to be a decent price. Then we go to pick up our pup and are told it’s $200 more than we were originally quoted. Apparently we weren’t actually quoted all the medicines and medical needs that were going to take place. The doctor stated that they should have quoted everything and she was sorry, but nothing was done to correct it. This is the exact reason of us vaccinating at home because it’s alreasy expensive enough to visit the vet, but then to be lied to about prices? Next visit we will try and locate a new vet. Read Less

Great doctors and staff. Shandi came in pretty sick a few weeks ago with pancreatitis and urinary infection. She was feeling really bad. Thanks to the great care of Dr Mauer and team. She is doing much better. We’ve changed her diet and still have a couple more things to address but all in all she is getting back to happy 12 year old self. Thanks again to the great team that is always there for us in caring for our 3 fur babies. Read Less

Nothing but amazing things to say about North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital! The entire staff is so wonderful and caring from the minute you walk inside. Our Mini Aussie mix, Baxter, has been a patient of Dr. Lydolph since the day we got him over 3 years ago. She is so wonderful and always goes out of her way examining Baxter, even during a quick visit. All of the other veterinarians at NMAH are amazing as well; my husbands family pets have been patients there throughout the past 20 years. Can't thank these guys enough for everything they do! Read Less

I've been bringing my now elderly dogs here for more than 10 years now, ever since we moved to the area. Never saw a vet here who wasn't patient, knowledgeable & great with my fur-babies. The entire staff is great; everyone goes out of their way to put nervous animals at ease, talking to them & giving them treats... every time we come in, my dogs are treated like VIPs. My 15 year old lab, Max, recently had simultaneously a serious skin infection & a herniated disc that left him unable to stand up without assistance. It took close to 6 months of medications, changing bandages, & constant TLC but his skin lesions have completely healed & he is walking better. An operation wasn't a real option due to Max's age, so Dr. Bancroft (love her!!!) even did some acupuncture for him. I trust NMAH much more than some so-called specialists (who wasted 3 weeks doing over $10,000 worth of tests before misdiagnosing Max 4 or 5 times with everything from flesh-eating bacteria to a stroke -- & then almost convinced us to put him down as "incurable"...) Well, Max may be old & frail, but he's still full of life & loves the attention he gets as a senior citizen. We wouldn't still have him with us if not for the ongoing care of everyone at NMAH, & our whole family is so grateful to you all! Read Less

We have been fans of NMAH for close to 20 years now...we've boarded our dogs there every trip we've taken--and we travel a lot--we can't say enough good things about how well they have cared for each of our dogs over the years. In fact, when I get out his travel bag to pack his food & toys, our Dakota gets so uncontrollably excited because he knows where he's going! And that pretty much says it all. Read Less

Dr. James is an amazing surgeon and vet. He saved my Timmy's life and gave us top quality service. He even came back by the hospital at 10pm to check on him while he was recovering. He is a fantastic vet, and the entire staff at this hospital is beyond amazing! The front desk staff were very kind and compassionate while we were waiting for our dog to survive surgery, and even gave us a private room with a couch. All my dogs go here, my sisters dog goes here, and my moms epileptic dog goes here and we have all had nothing but amazing experiences. We may have paid a bit more to have Dr. James perform the surgery but we had the best of the best perform major surgery and save our dogs life. Read Less

The staff here is awesome! Everyone I encountered seemed to genuinely care about me and my dog. I recently had to help My dog transition to Heaven due to Canine Osteosarcoma. This was the toughest thing I've had to do but they made the process as easy and comfortable as it could be under the circumstances. I'm very thankful that having gone through this it was with NMAH Read Less

I can't say enough about the great experience. I had to go there today with my foster dog Samson. Pricing was high but it was Sunday! I am happy they were open. Prompt friendly and made us feel very comfortable.Read Less

CJ, Marlie and Banjo are well cared for at this facility. They are extremely compassionate, empathetic and reasonably priced. I never have to think twice about the car our fur babies receive here. When we are out of town, boarding them is never an issue and we have no worries They are definitely top notch! Read Less

Long story short, my dog Scout ruptured an anal gland. OUCH! Hoping to avoid the Emergency Vet (cost), I sought out some other options from friends, and ended up at North Meck Animal Hospital. I called, was given an appointment for 30 minutes later. Arrived and was taken back and seen by the vet right way. The staff was FABULOUS, knowledgable, caring, interested (even asking non health related questions about Scout, just being genuinely friendly). We were in and out in under 30 minutes, and the price was fair (the biggest expense was the special antibiotic she needed). I've found a new vet for my crew! If you've been unhappy lately with your vet- give North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital a try! Read Less

I have had my kitten a week, and she is 9 wks old. I knew something was wrong, but my vet was not open. I called a lot of vets, closed. THIS vet took my info down and told me to come right over. The associate took me and my 3 small boys (I had no sitter) and the tiny weak kitten right into a large exam room. As soon as the Dr was able, she came. But first another associate came to talk and look at the kitten, who had gone from 2.5 lb to 1.4 lb. The Dr examined her gently and thoroughly, including the specimen I had brought, and agreed the kitten is very sick, suggesting keeping her over night with an IV and I hope she can come home today. Great service and impressive courtesy. I plan to switch my pet care to here!! Read Less

Yesterday we brought our sweet Peedee in to humanely end her battle with cancer. All the staff members were so kind and even cried with us. Dr. Aller was so compassionate and reassuring to us. It was one of the hardest things to do. But knowing that they treated her with compassion and respect even after she was gone meant the world. Thank you so much to the entire staff for helping all furbabies and owners get through tough times. I will forever be appreciative! Read Less

My cat was losing hair so I brought her here. Vet seemed like she was scared of my cat, my cat hissed a few times, but nothing too out of the ordinary. She's declawed ... Gave her 3 shots. Told me she didn't have fleas or anything. Cat was still itching a lot a week later ... And we found some fleas on her. Got some over the counter medicine to prevent so I wouldn't have to pay $170 dollars for shots. People who work here are nice. But a vet being afraid of a cat? And it is pretty pricey... Read Less

Thank you so much Dr. Schaff & Chris for taking care of Isabella for her surgery last week. Our family greatly appreciates your love, thoughtfulness & care for our "furr babies" over the past 16 years. Your Dr.'s and staff are exceptional! Read Less

This place is so wonderful. Everyone there has the heart of gold and treats my princess like she's there own. Everyone from the pharmacist to the veterinarians to the receptionists they are just so happy and always smiling and they take the best care of my gia everytime. They genuinely care so much. Im very thankful for north meck animal hospital. Read Less

Blown away by the care my dog was given and service we received at North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital! When my dog, uma sustained an eye injury Dr. Lydolph squeezed us into her schedule and saw us immediately. As she examined and treated uma she explained everything she was doing and made sure that uma was as calm and comfortable as possible. The receptionist and vet tech were also amazing--everyone was extremely warm, welcoming and professional. By far the best vet experience I've ever had, can't recommend NMAH enough! Read Less

Drove by today and had to write a good review. Agree with another reviewer, this place was great! They are in it because they love the pets, not just for the money. Always very fair priced, and Dr. Paul Kritzinger was amazing as our little dog had issues and worked with us on inexpensive treatments, skipping expensive surgery that likely wouldn't have helped. A few years later, our 15 yr. old Shih Tzu had to be put to sleep and they helped us through an incredibly difficult time for our family. I can't recommend them or Dr. Kritzinger more strongly. Great treatment for our dog and very sympathetic and kind. Read Less

Excellent! I've had nothing but great service and found their prices to be very fair. My pitbull can get somewhat bent out of shape when visiting but they know how to help her relax. The building they are in is downright cool looking, and they keep it very clean. Read Less

North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital is not our normal Vet., however we chose to see them for end of life care for our dog since our vet who has been caring for our dog through cancer did not have weekend hours.  I called when they first opened on Sunday and told them our situation.  They could not have been more compassionate and and understanding.  When we arrived they were prepared for us and brought us immediately into a room where we were made comfortable and given privacy.  Dr. Bancroft was unbelievably caring and empathetic.  She found the right balance of explaining the process with allowing us to let go in the way that was most calming for us and our dog. Although this was something that we were dreading, NMAH showed compassion to us and our dog , which made letting her go just a bit easier.  Thank you to NMAH and Dr. Bancroft, we relly appreciate your kindness and professionalism. Read Less

I am beyond thankful for Dr. Lydolph and her aggressive approach to diagnose my Blue Weimaraner. With what I was told by other vets were anxiety hives was actually cancer. Thanks to her knowledge and expertise my Ellie Mae is cancer free now. We love Dr. Franz whom has also treated Ellie Mae for a broken foot. And thanks to Dr. Allers who helped out with my other Blue Weims (Jethro) eye issue on an emergency basis and got me taken care of and directed into the right area of expertise needed. I highly recommend this facility for all of your fur babies needs. The staff is very professional at all times and wonderful with the care they provide. Read Less

My husband and I are both so very thankful for Dr. Lydolph and the entire staff at North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital. We have had several different veterinarians throughout Smokey's lifetime (he's a 15 year old Weimaraner) and my husband and I both think that this is the best veterinarian that we have ever been too. They are caring, knowledgeable and we felt that they had Smokey's best interests in mind in everything that they have done. I saw an earlier post where someone claimed that they felt that unnecessary procedures were done or recommended for their pet. We have not seen any of this at all! In fact, one of the main reasons we love this veterinarian is that she is very competent, honest and not once did we ever feel that they were recommending anything other than what was absolutely necessary for Smokey. Also, Dr. Lydolph called us to check in on Smokey after his surgery! So very thoughtful! We highly recommend North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital for all of your pet's needs.Read Less

Love this place!   We are new puppy owners, and Dr. Young makes you feel like you are proud parents!!! He gives us amazing tips every time we bring our puppy in for her shots or check up. Not only that, he also educates us on things to look out for too! Seeing that this hospital is 24/7, it was real inviting when we were scooping out places for our puppy. They also have a great program to leave your pet while you vacation with friends or family! You can even pay for more dog walks throughout the day! Read Less

I have gone to North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital for over 16 years and this week I had to put my sweet 16 year old Westie, Tia to sleep. Dr Kritzinger and Keri were wonderful! They were so caring during the process and you could see and feel their compassion. The procedure was explained carefully and carried out with as much sensitivity as possible. When asked if I would like Tia's paw print as a keepsake, I was surprised and thankful for this momento. Keri took such care in making her paw print so personal and special. My daughter now has it in her room and will keep it forever. I thank Dr Kritzinger for his many years of care and compassion. Thanks to Keri for her upbeat spirit through the years and for using her creativity to add some peace and joy in a sorrowful time. Our family appreciates all of those we've met through the years and with deepest gratitude we, Thank You!Read Less

When you're not prepared when an emergency arises, quality care is key. Lisa and her nurses stayed past their expected time to take care of my foxhound when he had to get staples put in his hind leg. Everyone was kind, calming, and treated my dog like he was their own. We recently moved from the DC area and were blown away by the fair prices and the quality of the care both our dog and we are owners received. We did not yet have a vet in the area, but we are certainly loyal to North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital now! Read Less

This place has been really good to us! One of my dogs recently had some sort of anaphylactic reaction for what we thought was a wasp sting and we went to our old vert because it was closer (mooresville animal hospital) and they basically told us go away there was nothing they could do. We rushed to North Meck and they instantly took us back and did everything they could. They are going to be helping my dog with her heart worm treatment injections well. We love Dr. Franz and what she has done for us so far. All the staff have been great as well.Read Less

My first two experiences here were great. Everyone was friendly, happy, pleasant, yada yada yada... My third experience - brought my dog in to see if he needed stitches on his paw pad, was told that he didn't, and was charged $62.  ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? The second time I brought my dog in they actually did something to help him and it was FREE! In what dimension does this even make sense? I'm sure that I won't be back. Read Less

Very Disappointed. Called ahead for an urgent visit appointment. Arrived on time. while waiting, 6 people came in and we're taking before us. 20 minutes later, made it to the exam room where we waited another 20 minutes. During this time, we could here people come in and leave. It took a total of 50 minutes before seeing the vet. Went to check out and was charged for an exam that we didn't ask for. $120 for 10 minutes. Not pleased and we will not be back.Read Less

First I would like to say that this is my first time visiting this animal hospital and it was horrible. While driving home from the hospital today, I got a call saying someone had found my cat though her microchip. I adopted lc from the animal shelter less than a year ago for my 7 year old son when I moved into my first house. She was a rescue and we were happy to have her. The vet on the phone said that the couple that found her wanted to keep her. When I got to the animal hospital the vet led me into a room where the couple that found my cat were waiting. The vet made no mention that I was going to meet the couple nor did she mentioned she was going to leave me alone. I assumed I was picking Lc up from the back.Since adopting her we've had a really hard time keeping her in the house because she is so skittish. I'm not sure of the circumstances that led her to the pound but she's always been standoffish. We live in a neighborhood were several of the neighborhood cats roam free but are well taken care of, she was no exception. The couple informed me that LC was going to the Y which is right across the street from us. They said they thought she was a stray because the Y had been feeding her. It was very awkward for me because the vet just left me in a room with strangers I didn't now. The woman was crying saying that my cat look like she was starving. As the vet could tell the cat was taking care of and of course she goes to the Y because she's getting fed both places The couple began to drill me about the cat. I thought it was very unprofessional and left me in a very bad spot. I felt very cornered and uncomfortable having to answer to strangers about the care of my cat. I felt I had no choice but to tell them they could keep her with no time to think about the decision. This lady who I'm sure is a very nice lady was crying which made it extremely awkward to be in there alone. I'm a Very responsible pet owner and took the cat to the vet whenever she needed and I didn't feel it was right that I should have to defend my care. i'm very disappointed with that and the lack of professionalism. The whole purpose of getting your animal microchip is so if and when there ever lost they return home not put it in room to feel like they're a bad pet owner. After telling them that they could keep her the couple called the vet back in and she seemed delighted with the decision. The vets reaction really bothered me because the vet didn't know anything about the cats history nor did she know anything about me. I'm very disappointedRead Less

We moved to Corrnelius about two years ago and the selling agent at Antiquity , ms. Carrie Settle recommended that we take our dog to NMAH which we did., which we did and have been doing ever since.They are simply, the best.....love the Doctors and the entire staff really understands what there clients (and their pets) need.I would recommend them to anybody! Read Less

The staff is super friendly, almost to friendly, but we like that. The doctors , we have met two, really seem to care about the pets. We just moved to NC from CT . They were really good at getting out info and helping us get settled Read Less

I moved to Huntersville from Boston 18 months ago along with my puggle and 3 cats; I had done my research and was actually in the process of sending their medical files to a different veterinary practice when I met a gentleman while walking our dogs at Birkdale. He told me all about Dr. Kritzinger at North Meck - he went on and on about how wonderful Dr. K. was so I figured I'd check out North Meck.I am so grateful to that man! North Meck is awesome - my husband and I love Dr. K., his technician Keri, and the rest of the North Meck family. It is very clear that as a doctor of veterinary medicine, Dr. K. knows his stuff AND has the benefit of consulting with the other doctors on staff at North Meck; this expertise is coupled with a true love of animals and just a calm and compassionate nature. A few months ago I found a lump under the chin of my 18 year cat - given her age and the location of the lump, I assumed the worst. When Dr. K. went to biopsy the lump clear liquid came flowing out of the benign cyst and the smile on his face said it all - you could tell he was thrilled it wasn't a tumor or something worse. My 4 year old bombay cat has a degenerative gum disease and Dr. K. has removed several of his teeth and will likely have to remove more in the future. Some vets can be very aggressive with their treatment and rack up the $$ but my experience with North Meck is they do what is necessary but don't go overboard. Coming from Boston this is very refreshing - I don't think I'll ever hear Dr. K. suggest reiki or chakra balancing! Recently I rescued 2 young female cats who I brought in for their shots and spaying - Dr. K. and Keri took wonderful care of them - I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw how reasonable the bill was. It's just so clear to me that the vets and staff at North Mecklenburg Animal Hospital do what they do because they genuinely love animals. I'm so glad I found a wonderful animal hospital for my furry family! Read Less

I've tried a few different vets in the Lake Norman/Charlotte area since moving here 4 years ago and NMAH is by far the best.  I have been taking my pets here for the past 2 1/2 years and they are very caring, very up to date on animal health and have always been flexible.  Dr. James is very knowledgeable and skilled and my Boston Terrier loves going to see him. He had knee reconstruction recently and it turned out better then we ever expected.  I highly recommend NMAH for any type of pet care. Read Less

I feel like the staff at North Mecklenburg Animal  is family. Everyone is friendly, caring and helpful. My 4 pets are my kids and I put full confidence in Dr. Schaff, who has been my vet for 8 yrs, to provide optimal care. He has helped to prolong the life of my 16 yr old cat who's been challenged with multiple health issues over the years. When he's not available, Ive had great experiences with the other vets as well. I highly recommend this animal hospital! Read Less

I took my dog there with a flee problem. The vet said she would give my dog the $40.00 flee pill and that all fleas would be gone. Took my dog home and she continued to have fleas. I never saw her give her the pill and I was not given one so the conclusion is they never gave it to her. I called and they said the best they could do is sell me another one at 1/2 price. Thats great but I already paid for one I DID NOT GET. Also said my dog had a heart murmur and really should have xrays. She was seen 5 months ago by another local vet who never mentioned that. Tried to do all they could to rack up the bill and after this incident I'm convinced couldn't care less about my dog, only money, BEWARE!!!!!!!! Read Less

North Meck took wonderful care of both my dogs! I have always received amazing service and care and they take the time to explain medications, tests, and treatment rather than just rushing off to their next task. I am sorry to have to move and leave North Meck as my vet, but when I called to ask them to fax my pet's records to my new vet, they were so helpful and had everything done in 5 minutes! I would recommend this vet to any and all! Read Less

NMAH has the most amaizing staff I have ever seen. The doctors are compassionate and loving and I would reccomend this office to everyone. What could have been the worst night of our lives, turned out to have a happy ending. The love and care that the staff gives is really amazing. Thank you to the staff at NMAH. You save lives and for that we are thankful. Read Less

I have used NMAH as my animal care provider for 11 years. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable and works hard to give good service. All the vets are caring and compassionate. Sadly I have had two pets euthanized there and everyone at NMAH was so kind. Dr. Kritizinger is our primary vet (and he's terrific) but I have met most of the others and have found them all to be very professional and competent. The only time I had a serious issue it was dealt with promptly and professionally and I have continued as a client. Veterinary care isn't cheap, just as health care for people isn't cheap, but they do their best to keep costs down while maintaining professional standards. I don't hesitate to recommend this practice. Read Less

Though we happened to have found a superb vet before using NMAH, we have boarded our dogs there and they are great. Would not hesitate to take mine there for care. The staff we have met have been wonderful. NMAH does not required a "trial" day prior to boarding and did not hesitate to take our corgis even though they were not our vets. They are also open for several hours on Sunday, for Sunday pick up. Highly recommended. Read Less