Mt Tabor Veterinary Care

The staff is very nice but the fact that the whole place is decorated as a living room with no examination tables, supposedly to make the dog more confortable is frankly ridiculous. I don’t go to the vet to cozy up with my doggie and read a good book, I go because I need a professional opinion. The vet I saw (Dr.Bussman) enters with her assistant and everyone gets on all fours with the Vet holding a flashlight on the problem area. I do not find this examination method to be very efficient, just ridiculous and in my opinion a manipulation to allow them to charge more. The Vet I saw (Bussman)only does diagnostic visits, if surgery is needed another vet-surgeon is called in ... katchink, katchink, katchink$$$... A prescription was given to my dog for her itching that was entirely ineffective (a friend who used to take her dog who had serious skin issues there spent tons of $ on ineffective meds prescribed by the same vet...The dog was cured by another clinic I recommended and a vet who seems to have effective solutions) the Vet really didn’t have a clue what the problem was with the growths on her rear (though the antibiotics she prescribed did help the inflammation). Same friend who has since stopped going there told me they tried to charge her $2000 for a teeth cleaning. I had my dogs teeth cleaned recently with a small procedure to remove a split tooth at a wonderful vet in Gresham and it costs me $217! He told me that had the tooth needed extraction the fee would have been the same. I wonder what the bill for that would have been at Mt Tabor Vets? How dare these people take such advantage of people’s duress about their animals illness? Is it because of the influx of wealth into Portland that this is permissible? Read Less

Very kind vet office. I stopped in just to check it out and drop off some materials and the front desk was very cordial. Upon a quick visit this seems like a very organized and kind veterinarian's office. Read Less

I cant say enough good things about this clinic and their entire staff. I lost my 13 year old corgi mix to kidney disease last week and they couldn't have handled her care any better. Another clinic told me she had a week to live and after receiving treatment from Mt Tabor we had 5 more months together. When Molly took a turn and I made a panicked call they couldn't have been more supportive. When we arrived they had a room ready for us, with candles lit and a very calm environment. They let me spend as much time as I wanted with her, arranged for her cremation, took a clipping of her hair and made a paw print for me. They stayed open late and I never at any moment felt rushed. Our vet that assisted us, Kristen was nothing short of phenomenal. She sat on the floor with us after Molly had passed and just talked and listened and supported. They have a grief counselor on staff Debbie who has given me a lot of support and comfort before and after losing Molly. Just all around a clinic that is doing something different and doing a outstanding job. I have another elderly dog who is 16 and I know when the time comes for him that Mt Tabor will be there to support us. Really just an amazing clinic. Read Less

I was a vet tech many years ago. NEVER have I encountered such a great vet hospital. First, there are no slick floors. There are no cold steel exam tables or antiseptic smells. The exam room has no fluorescent lights. There is a sofa that is dog friendly, or a padded bench in another room. Small animals are examined on an ottoman with a blanket if needed. The techs come in with a tray loaded with supplies (flea comb, thermometer, etc.) and does this preliminary check whi...le you are talking to the vet. This saves time and improves efficiency. Both women vets and techs most likely will spend most of the time on the floor with your pet. For many procedures (blood draws, vaccinations, urine cultures) your pet is NOT taken "into the back." Of course they have to mark up their meds and treats, etc. but they are fine if you want to get them elsewhere and make no judgments. I never experienced any thing like this in all my life in CA. I hope this is becoming more of a trend in Oregon. Oh....and the receptionist will bring you French press coffee, tea, or water! Makes me want to go back to work! See More Read Less

This is the best vet ever! Each room is set up like a living room with a sofa your dog can sit on with you. Even the scale has a rug over it so my dog sat on it without even knowing. They are so kind and so sweet to my dog. Literally - this is the best bet ever. Read Less

I've brought my dog to Mt Tabor vet for a few years. Twice for annual checkups and for a deep teeth clean. The vet techs, receptionists and veterinarians are all kind and gentle. My only critique is pricing. Though my vet had been forthcoming about potential oral surgery costs, the required preliminary exam ran me $400+ including flea meds and a vaccination. It had been less than a year since we had been there for the check up. While I don't mind paying for blood work and other tests for anesthesia, it would have been nice if they waived the small exam fee. After the exam I was told I would be called the following day for lab results and they forgot to call me. I get that things happen, but expensive lab results, good or bad, to me should be a priority. Luckily the nail trim was complimentary, because I didn't ask for one. If you're thinking about getting a deep clean be prepared to spend upwards of $1,000. Ours cost $1,800 with several extractions. This is a very clean, upscale vet. If money is no object I would absolutely trust your pet in their hands. Read Less

I've been taking my dog Abby here for over 4 years and have always had a wonderful experience. Abby gets very anxious and mouthy when strangers handle her, but the folks at Mt. Tabor have always been very calm and patient with her. This is a sharp contrast to some of the other places I've had to go to when a last minute appointment was needed. In those scenarios, the first thing they did was put a muzzle on her which only exacerbated the situation. Not at Mt. Tabor. Dr. Lisa Williams always is very calm and goes at a speed which Abby feels comfortable with. I can also say I never feel rushed there. It doesn't matter how busy they are, everyone takes their time to answer any questions I have. I've also received great phone service when I've had to leave messages after hours and get prompt call backs. Read Less

PROs: The location is legitimately across the street.CONs: Not once but TWICE now I have made an appointment over the phone, only to immediately be called back and told they made a mistake and they are already booked up. Both times were urgent and would've been at most a 15 min appointment. The first time this happened I was annoyed and kind of even more annoyed that they casually recommended another vet to go to (City Pets- do NOT recommend). But I chalked it upto a one time mistake.Tried again recently to make an appointment and while on the phone with me another nurse booked that slot. Extremely unprofessional and seeing as this was the second time you would think they would find a way to make things right but they truly don't care about the clients.As for the one time I actually got to visit and was scheduled right? Very expensive and the doctor seemed new and the vet techs second guessed her decisions around shots. Not exactly a great first impression and I hoped to visit again to get a more favorable opinion but this practice is a joke if your clients can't even depend on you to schedule an appointment correctly.It really sucks because this place is so close but I see how little they care so I'll continue spreading the word. Read Less

Three strikes in just a short period of time.  I just brought two new cats to Mt Tabor Vet.  I consider myself a master reviewer of services and expect consistent service and a high standard of quality.  That's initially why I went to Tabor.  I think Mt Tabor is doing some pretty cool things with their business model and mean well, but maybe has too many clients to serve and may be overwhelmed.  After my first visit, I had brought a senior who just needed a check in and my vet suggested I try several kidney foods  that they offered in the front lobby to consider whether my senior might enjoy one of them more than the prescription option she currently eats.  The vet made it seem like no big deal.  I purchased a couple of cans and then came back to within the week to buy another few and had a very different experience with the counter person who seemed rather put out that I was asking to buy cans- at a time, instead of the whole tray, I perceived.  I couldn't exactly tell, but she gave me a hard time about it but did still sell to me.  My next poor experience was just about 10 days ago when I tried to make an appointment for dentals and an appointment for my other new kitten to have follow up shots at the same time.  This time, I worked with a person whose style really rubbed me the wrong way.  I even communicated that I was struggling with her approach.  My shots had to be done at a certain time - could not be done 5 days later or the old shots would need to be done again.  At the same time, she stated that my cat's blood work was close to not being possible to use for her dentals at the date we scheduled...even though they were in the allotted time allowance, she would still have to check with the vet.  I felt that this highly structured person meant well but was taking things too far.  My cats are indoor only and I'm a risk tolerant person who doesn't appreciate rules for the sake of rules.....I followed the rules and was given two separate appointments on different days, even though I would have preferred both cats being seen in one visit.The third poor experience I had today started really well...I called with a concern about my cat and the person was kind enough to let me talk through the challenge with a nurse.  During our dialogue, I came to the realization that my cat really needed a visit.  Melissa couldn't offer an appointment until Wednesday and was happy recommend other places that might see Wookie.  Eeeeekkk.  It didn't instill confidence and it wasn't advice that I think most patients would be prepared to hear - especially if they are worried about their animal - as I was.  She explained that the appointments were all very sick animals today.  I understand what Mt Tabor is trying to accomplish with their model of focused attention for each pet when a pet has allocated time, but I'm in health care too and I know that it has great value to leave some appointments open for walk ins.  Perhaps Mt Tabor does this practice and either had already filled them or felt my cat's health didn't rise to the level of a same day appointment.  Melissa explained that Tabor only has two vets.  She gave me three clinic names to choose from:  City Vets on Division, Laurelhurst on Sandy (they have 5 vets) and Fremont.  I can only presume that Mt Tabor has overextended its panel to serve too many people and their furries.  Further, the rule of thumb for a cat is don't wait too long....So, I have to say Mt Tabor has good intentions and means well. ABSOLUTELY, but culturally not a good fit for me and for a whole bunch of other people I presume who feel like they are a priority for Mt Tabor vet until they have an experience like mine and realize they are not.  The speech is a good one about focused attention for each pet, until it's your pet who has to find a new vet and shop around to have your needs met.  The short of it is simply that I can't count on Mt Tabor Vet and that is all that matters to me. Read Less

My Bella, who is a very large, 9-year old Bernese Mountain dog, recently had surgery. She is also a special needs dog - totally deaf, PTSD and separation anxiety. Surgeries in the past were nightmares. Mt. Tabor Vet listened to me and made sure Bella was taken care of every step of the way. The surgery and recovery were a breeze and stress-free for all involved. I can't thank you enough for accommodating us, it made all the difference in the world! Read Less

An amazing neighborhood veterinary office. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. The vet was very good with our cat, the shots were simple and swift. The offices are wonderful, they offered me coffee and brought me a personal french press. Great service from entrance to exit.Read Less

I can't say enough good things about Mt. Tabor Veterinary Care! I have been working in veterinary medicine for years and I trust this clinic with the care of my fur-baby 100%. Everyone here is fantastic, Dr. Bussmann is especially sweet and caring. They go out of their way to make sure your companion is comfortable and cared for. I recommend them to all of my friends and clients. Read Less

Brought our sick, new to us cat to Mt Tabor and I was pleasantly surprised with the wonderful staff and care. They were obviously more concerned about my cat's health than making a buck. This is exactly what I want in my pet's healthcare provider. So happy we found a great vet for our fur child! Read Less

I've been all over town with my lil problem child, pup, but I finally found the perfect fit for us!! These guys are SO great, friendly, and sincere. I only wish I had found you sooner...  new 'go-to' vet for me!! Read Less

My pets have all received excellent care here. I especially appreciate their electronic communications. Their prices are appropriate, not exorbitant. In an industry with such a narrow profit margin (I can vouch for this, as someone who used to be a veterinary nurse), I am confident that they're maintaining a high standard of care, and no corners are being cut. Read Less

Lisa is the best.  We love love love her.  She is incredibly knowledgeable and kind.  You can tell her love for animals is always present, and she is also very friendly to us humans too! :) Both of our dogs have had some issues in the first year after adopting them from the Humane Society.  Our second dog, a puppy shepherd mix, has had a ton of GI issues.  We tried a variety of things to remedy the situation, and had been seeing a different vet at Mt Tabor as Lisa was always booked up.  Nettle was amazing and spent A LOT of time on the phone with us talking through what was going on and what next steps to take.  We finally decided to make an appointment with Lisa, and she took charge and immediately set about giving us something totally different to try-and it worked!  She's very thorough and explains everything.  She also follows up via email to make sure everything is ok. They're the best! Read Less

This place is amazing. Everyone is so friendly, and examination rooms are super comfy, and they have some real clever tricks for giving the dog shots or drawing blood. It's not cheap, but what vet is these days? Read Less

I adopted a cat from the Humane Society last year and chose this vet because it was closest to my house. Took her in after a few months of Lily having tummy troubles. They did a quick check up and helped me realize she needed a change in diet--one without chicken protein. The staff is amazingly helpful, attentive, and informative. They work with you to help budget the visit and don't do anything without letting you know the cost.I've called a few times with small questions about applying flea medication, and weird behavior from Lily and they are always there to help. They even call back to make sure everything is okay, about 24 hours later. I'm so happy that my first vet has also been the best vet. I trust these guys with anything! Plus the space is very clean and well-designed. Read Less

Our very first visit went wonderfully. After reading the Yelp reviews we were thankful to find a vet so close. The second visit was even great, but after having our cat endure oral surgery, I questioned a few things.For one, I never had contact with the vet other than via email after such a traumatic event for our cat. Everything was handled through the tech. After spending a fair amount of money, it would have been nice to have had at least one face-to-face interaction after the surgery with the vet.A few months after that, I wanted to get more sedative for our extremely anxious cat because we were travelling with him. I happened to be up on the 1-800 site and ordered the sedative, knowing full well that they would need a prescription from the vet. A day or so later I got a call from the vet letting me know that this site was not the most reputable. Great! The vet told me I could certainly get the sedative through them for not a lot more in cost, so I scheduled to pick it up. After doing so, I realized that the number of pills given didn't match with what they told me I would receive so I called.The tech that I eventually spoke with was condescending and rude. I explained several times that the amount mentioned in the email was not the amount I was given. She explained that there was a fee for filling the prescription. Really? I then mentioned that it still didn't match what I was originally told I would receive. We went round and round until she finally said to me, "Would you like me to send you an email? Will that help you to understand better?" No! I want you to provide better customer service!!!!! Never again.The next time we needed a vet we went to VCA Laurelhurst. Wonderful experience with each vet and tech and front desk person EVERY single time!For the same service, Mt Tabor is way more expensive and not nearly as friendly or comprehensive with their service. Read Less

I moved from Eugene and haven't been to a Portland vet yet. I have a six pound chihuahua who is very nervous and skittish. The employees here made us feel right at home and were very focused on keeping him comfortable during the routine check up. I enjoyed my visit and they have a photo booth for you and your pet!! Read Less

I used Mt. Tabor Veterinary for years, but they quoted me $800-$1,100 for my dog's dental work - - and then charged me $2,200 when I picked her up after the procedure. Without letting me know about the increase. Needless to say, I won't be going back. Read Less

Dr. Lisa Williams is absolutely the best. After going to another clinic in town where I had a terrible experience I was blown away by Mt. Tabor veterinary care. The staff are all incredible, the facility is wonderful, and the care just can not be beat. These people love their jobs and it shows!Read Less

This place was wonderful--it felt more like just hanging out with my dog in a coffee shop than taking her to the vet. They were very gentle and seemed genuinely interested in the dog. The prices were reasonable but most importantly they were nice and made us feel welcome.  Dog was calm the whole time--the cheese helped but it was ultimately the leather couch and wall decor that fooled her ^.^ the place just had a chill vibe.The staff was really knowledgable as well---and they made the whole process(2 vaccines and some medication) painless. They also had arguably better medications and vaccines than most.We will be going back here for sure :) Read Less

Let me start by saying the staff is very friendly & caring (they earned a star there) and the place is nicer than a (human) spa (earned another star) which could explain why their prices are so high.But they fumbled my first visit. They forgot to give me the container for a urine sample (which I've NEVER in the 15+ years of owning dogs ever had a urine sample for any reason & this was a routine exam) so they called to ask me to come back to get the container and then go home and get a urine sample and bring it back. That alone would be an 45 min trek round trip for me just for a piss container that they forgot. (yeah, not gonna happen!) Then I gave them my fecal sample during the exam visit and when I called a week later to get the results they informed me they forgot to tell the lab to process it so the lab threw the fecal sample out and that I would have to come back again to drop one off to be tested. (really??! wtf, first the urine now the fecal) Needless to say I asked for my refund on the fecal test that I had already paid $52. They politely obliged once only after I had to call back since the nurse was embarrassed and didn't know if they could process a refund. But I will say, the CCA at the desk was super nice about the refund and I was grateful for that because I was already fired up about the incompetency I was experiencing with the nurse. I also got a quote for dental work and they informed me it would start at a minimum $650 and go up to $1800. I've lived in many MAJOR cities (NYC, Atlanta & Los Angeles) and I've had dental cleanings on all my dogs (I have 3) including x-rays and extractions. I've never EVER paid over $500. I moved here from Brentwood - an upscale neighborhood in Los Angeles where the last dental I received at a VCA Brentwood was for one of my boys last years cost me at total of $438. So I was I was floored when I got the quote here. I called around to VCA North Portland and they too quoted me that= "special" Portland price of starting at $650 & up. I polled all my fellow breed owner friends on Facebook about their dental bills (this particular breed is prone to chronic crappy teeth) and EVERYONE was floored by the price quotes I'm getting in Portland. Only 1 of 18 people who replied said they had to pay $900 for a dental b/c they had so many extractions. But no one else was over $500. So I'm not sure how or why the Vets here think they can charge that much. But this is clearly fleecing of dog owners in Portland. So while this place is very beautiful, clean and the staff are indeed friendly... the sticker shock pricing & the lack of competency on my first impression/visit was enough to never go back.I did find a great dental place in Vancouver!! I did a review of them. They charge $185 for routine cleaning including x-rays. Read Less

I have nothing but great things to say about my experiences with Mt. Tabor. Every member of the staff has been friendly and extremely helpful, even when I've walked in the door without an appointment with questions. We see Dr. Lisa Williams, who is amazing. She is so knowledgeable and always explains what's happening with our dog simply and directly. She's performed two surgeries on our pup, one for a broken tooth that became infected, and one neuter surgery, and both surgeries have healed very well. Best of all, our pup LOVES Mt. Tabor, and actually enjoys going to the vet. Truly better than I could have hoped for. Read Less

First of all, the swag is not important, and if you choose a vet because they give you french press coffee or have nice decor, you're doing it wrong. But this is in fact the best vet clinic in town. By far. This vet clinic is the Beyonce of vet clinics. Flawless.I stopped going there a month ago for logistical reasons that are not relevant. The vets are utterly devoted to pets, like we're talking some next-level worship of puppies and kitties. I will never ever forget seeing Dr. Williams somehow get my ornery, previously abused Cavalier King Charles Spaniel onto her lap, belly up, which is not something he tolerates from anyone, and then lean her head in and cuddle with him. What a sight. I almost cried.All 3 vets are legitimately brilliant. And they give you a quote before doing any test or procedure, and they will honestly tell you what can wait and what is urgent. I seriously loved this clinic, and since I left, I have had zero luck finding anyone even in the same galaxy of good vet-ness.I wish I could find another vet clinic that I could trust with my sick dogs' care. Alas, there does not seem to be one. I've tried a couple, and one vet almost killed my dog (literally) with a wrong prescription (and I had to stay awake an entire night to make sure she didn't die as a result), and another clinic was all about making profit off unnecessary treatments while shaming me for being a negligent pet owner, without even knowing me before that appointment. So I'm pretty bummed I had to leave Mt Tabor, since my dogs are now without good care and are therefore the ones suffering, but I did have to leave, and that is just the immutable fact of it. I'm pretty pissed at the situation.Go to this clinic. You won't regret it. Shoutout to staff Matt, Theresa, and Josephine. Y'all need to ditch the snazzy photo booth and give those 3 a raise. :) Read Less

Mt. Tabor Vet is the absolute BEST and I dare anyone to argue that fact with me. Here are just a few reasons why:1. When you arrive, they'll ask if you'd like anything to drink - coffee? water? When you say coffee, they bring you your own single cup french press!!! Who does that?2. Their lobby has a wall dedicated to clients' pets that have died. It's awesome.3. My pets are always relaxed there because each room feels like you're visiting a friends house rather than a doctor's office.4. The vets AND vet techs get down on the floor with your pets and interact with them on their level. Face kisses and all.5. When your dog has to get shots, they distract them with a bowl smeared with easy cheese. EASY CHEESE, PEOPLE! It's the best. You get to be the hero and hold the bowl of cheese while they administer shots and whatnot. 6. And not to harsh your mellow, but my dog recently passed away and I can't imagine going through that experience without their support. They helped me the whole way with information, personal stories, hugs and even tears.Call them. You can thank me later. Read Less

Even though I moved across town, it is completely worth it to take my furry babies, Bella and Lucy to Mt. Tabor Vet. They sincerely care, are fair, and thorough. And it doesn't feel or smell like a doctor's office when you come in, so your pups don't freak out. Read Less

These people clearly love animals and their jobs. The building feels more like a cozy study than a medical practice center, which made me feel more at ease...I have always hated how cold and unfriendly hospitals feel and never could figure out how that was supposed to make anyone feel better! These guys definitely have a good place and I will recommend it to all my Portland area friends!!! Read Less

I normally don't review things but I felt compelled to do so here. Mt. Tabor Veterinary Care is the only place I will take my pets for care. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely care about animals. I am a vet on a fixed income and Mt. Tabor worked with me to find a payment plan when my youngest pug needed surgery, so I could afford to get her the best possible care. I strongly suggest you bring your pets to Mt. Tabor for your pets needs. Read Less

The wonderful vets and vet techs that work here go above and beyond to take good care of your furry one. Snickers has gone here for the past year and LOVES everyone here! Thank you for the wonderful work you do! Read Less

They're absolutely wonderful! I've been to a few vets around town and Mt Tabor has been the best by far. The office is warm and inviting, and I feel a lot of the design choices make it less stressful for my cat. The vets are warm and honest, which I really appreciate. They do sometimes recommend services that I can't afford/don't think I really need, but they don't make it awkward when I pass on them and they understand my situation. It ended up costing about $100 for my cat's annual visit +2 shots, which I think is pretty reasonable for the level of care received. Read Less

My dog Otto has an auto-immune disease (I know some irony there). Before we moved to Portland he was 5 months into his disease treatment that almost killed him. After 2 blood transfusions and lots of pills, we were fearful that we would not find a vet in Portland that could care for our 3 babies (cat and 2 dogs) like the people at CaringHands in Colorado did. I was lucky enough to find Dr. Sulis on the internet. She was voted Top Vet in Portland for a reason - she and her co-workers are EXCELLENT. And the cheese bowl is a hit with both the German's - Otto and Gus. Read Less

I recommend this clinic to all my friends. Dr Sulis is amazing with all my animals - but especially ones with ""special needs"". My dog is a nervous mess at clinics - but she is great at making him feel comfortable and her staff takes things slow with him, so he feels as comfortable as possible there. I feel confident he is getting the best care in Portland from the doctors, nurses and the receptionists. The clinic has a homey feel and soothing lighting too. The prices are very reasonable for the top notch care they offer and they aren't too pushy about getting everything done at once. This clinic has the perfect combination of top notch care for my pets and incredible client services. Read Less

If you enjoy spending hundreds and hundreds of dollars for each vet visit, this is the place for you. Mt. Tabor Vet care has a very knowledgeable and compassionate team of veterinarians and staff, but your hard-earned money is paying for MUCH MUCH more than that....like ""hip"" exam rooms with unpractical wooden credenzas and couches, free tote bags, internet use for clients, blogs, and coffee and tea at each visit. Is this a vet or a coffee house? I don't know about you, but I want my money to go towards great vet care and that's all. This place seems to cater to people more than animals. Some of the staff is also quite skilled at taking your small concern (ie pet's dry skin) and scaring you into an expensive visit (""it's probably ringworm"") without any real phone consultation. I think that the job of a receptionist/vet tech is to investigate the severity of symptoms and guide you toward the appropriate response. Two unreturned phonecalls from the vet was the straw that broke the camel's back. Needless to say, I'll be finding new vet. If any of you pet-owners out there are interested in a latte while you wait, this is for you. Read Less

I wish I had found this place sooner. Mt. Tabor Vet Care is the complete opposite of every other vet I've ever been to. Instead of a long wait in a chaotic (sometimes smelly) lobby with other ailing pets while you fill out a chart asking sly market survey questions like ""how much do you love your pet ?(ie, how much are you willing to pay today?), at Mt Tabor Vet I was immediately taken into a clean exam room that didn't look like an exam room, it was more like a tastefully appointed den or lounge in a home. Comfortable, quiet, soft lighting which calmed my cat down. All staff members are excellent, gentle and extremely caring. Instead of a hurried tech dumping my cat out of the carrier onto a cold counter, then whipping her into a reverse hammerlock so he could jam a thermometer in her rear, (which earned the tech a bite from my cat, yelling by the tech and further panic and trauma), at Mt. Tabor they (gasp!) actually took the time to meet and soothe my cat while they took her stats (including temperature reading under her arm--something I'd never seen before) Dr. Sulis was gentle and sincerely caring. She also clearly explained all the options and their costs, and based on my cat's temperament we determined the proper course. I found her fees to be reasonable. It was a very special experience. Read Less