Veterinary Referral And Critical Care

I cannot describe the trauma that we all experienced when Lucy was attacked just two days before Christmas 2013. She is now 14 1/2 years old, and a front leg amputee. She’s a very happy girl. The fabulous staff and board certified surgeon, Dr. Anna Aman at Veterinary Referral & Critical Care saved her life and encouraged us to be there for her as much as possible. We are so happy to have her at home and well. Read Less

I cannot describe the trauma that we all experienced when Lucy was attacked just two days before Christmas 2013. She is now 14 1/2 years old, and a front leg amputee. She’s a very happy girl. The fabulous staff and board certified surgeon, Dr. Anna Aman at Veterinary Referral & Critical Care saved her life and encouraged us to be there for her as much as possible. We are so happy to have her at home and well. Read Less

They probably rate a 5 for other people's animals but with our Kitty he was treated as just a cat. If we pay a $100.00 vet bill you deserve a patient room. At least that is what they do in Albuquerque, New Mexico. When you are seen at the vet office in ABQ, NM, you are given a patient room. They check out our Skittens and express his glands for a routine office cost visit. But at this Virginia location we are made to sit in the reception area. Skit tens is a Maine Coon partial breed. He was treated for chin acne. They shaved off his cute beard which was fine. It was later on that I noticed someone chopped off his Maine Coon signature fur locks on each side of his face as he looked like Sylvester the kitty in the cartoon Tweetie Bird. They told us kitty was allergic to chicken. So now we never give him anymore chicken except for the Food Lion rotisserie chicken. However, that day we decided to buy him the Hill's Science Diet dry cat food bag. We got home to find that the listed ingredient was chicken. So we bought him an unneccesary bag of dry cat food. If only the vet instead of the vet tech could had saved our wallet! Or was it that no one really cared other than to make a sale. My biggest complaint is that you should treat all animals with an office visit to getting a room just like humans get for a doc appointment but that's what you get when in Albuquerque, New Mexico! Thank you!, Read Less

We have had to come here for 2 pets and have been very impressed with the care they have provided. The vets are excellent and in a class of their own and the supporting staff are kind, compassionate and hard working. Obviously, the care is not cheap but if you need specialized attention for your pet, this is where you want to go. Read Less

First was a phone conversation with a woman who was not overly pleasant and provided our rescue with an inflated estimate of care (3 days of ICU) and demanded a deposit of 50% of that estimate charged to our credit card when the dog was checked in. The ultimate result- the dog was released from treatment in LESS than 24 hours yet they managed to justify keeping 85% of our 50% deposit on a 3 day ICU estimate. Plus, they offer no discount to rescue groups. I had them send me all the records. ( It's especially interesting that in one page of evaluation, they listed our dog as a Chinese Crested. It's a West Highland White Terrier.) Our rescue dog was cared for appropriately for the one urgent issue at hand, however in doing business with this VRCC I was overwhelmingly reminded too much from too many on the staff that at the heart of it all- it's just business and $$$$. Read Less

Brought my dog in because he has a chunk out of his ear while playing with his brother and this was the only 24 hr emergency vet I could find. After charging me 600 to patch up his ear I brought him back for his follow up and his rebandaging which I was told was all included from the surgery and they charged me another 35 dollars. He was breathing heavy and rapid after this visit so I brought him back and they offered a 2800 dollar surgery for a breathing obstruction issue. My dog sees his vet regularly and has never had breathing problems. His normal vet has never made any mention or concern of any breathing or respiratory problems from all the visits and all the test. Tgis vet is out to manufacture issues and subject your pet to uneccessary procedures and test just to charge you more money. I would strongly recommend keeping any animal away from this vet unless you want them put through rediculous test they don't need and want your bank account drained. Update: after being told by Dr Jordan that I was lucky they didn't charge me an additional 90 dollars for breathing issues they caused I took my dog to his normal vet who did a full physical and said he is perfectly healthy has no respiratory problems and thought recommending surgery to forcibly open his airway was reckless and dangerous to his health. Again horrible vets and continuously try to lie to cover their ass and charge you more money for unnecessary procedures and treatments. Read Less

Five stars hands down. We had to put our beloved family member Ebby down. This was a excrutating decision for us. The staff cried with us and helped us through this horrible gut wrenching experience. The doctor that put Ebby to sleep was also very compassionate. My little black angel will always be in our hearts and in our minds. Thank you. Read Less

These guys are beyond amazing, especially Dr. Harpold and Amy. They have been treating one of my cats for over a year now and I have never had anything but wonderful customer service up front, a doctor who is not only compassionate to us humans but the patients as well. I am also very forgetful on some things and often am last minute making appointments or asking for refills and they are always as accommodating as they can possibly be. Whether you need to visit with an appointment or on an emergency basis, I would recommend them over any other emergency vets in the area if you want wonderful compassionate service. Read Less

I will never take another pet here. My dog was ran over by a car so of course my main concern was internal bleeding, I was told blood work was not done that their main priority was making my dog comfortable (she had a broken femur); however, I was charged $234 for blood work and when I called to dispute this they said I had signed an estimate with blood work in that (of course I did when I was distraught). I never received blood work and was told MULTIPLE times that it was not done, that it would be done IF she stayed overnight. They were all about money and didn't care a bit about my dog. The front desk staff were fighting with the techs and veterinarian, it was absolutely ridiculous. Please, save yourself the grief and money by taking your pet elsewhere. Read Less

The care that my dog received was good! The vets and vet technicians seemed extremely knowledgeable and willing to help. My dog had to stay overnight, and I felt extremely comfortable leaving him in VRCC's care. My one complaint with the care my dog received is that the emergency vet I saw recommended several costly things that my dog did not need for his treatment. For example, my dog was very well hydrated, yet IV fluids were recommended throughout the course of his overnight stay. When I questioned this recommendation, the vet did say that he thought it wasn't necessary. However, this makes me question why it was even recommended in the first place if the vet did not believe it to be necessary? Further, the front desk staff is a hit or miss - some are very kind, helpful, and empathetic, while others are short and act put out when you call. Further, I have yet to actually have someone call me back when I leave a message and/or they say that they will. Very frustrating communication practices with long periods of holding. I know that this practice is reputable in the community and very good at what they do, but their client communication needs some serious work. Read Less

I brought my 11 year old lab to VRCC to get an MRI to rule out back problems related to weak hind legs. The neurologist, Dr. Clark, wanted to do additional tests while he was sedated such as a spinal tap. During the test, my dog regurgitated into his esophagus(he had not eaten since the night before so must have been gastric juices). Dr. Clark stopped the tests and tried to drain my dog's esophagus. My dog's esophagus became enlarged and dysfunctional making it impossible for him to swallow and force food to his stomach- a condition called megaesophagus. He got strong enough for us to take him home but after 2 weeks of feeding him gruel in an upright position he stopped eating and became steadily weaker. We ended up taking him back to VRCC where we had him put to sleep. Dr. Clark's desire to perform tests in excess of what we asked for required that he use more anesthesia for a longer period of time on an old dog. It is fairly well known that old sick dogs do not tolerate anesthesia very well.In my opinion, Dr. Clark did not consider that he was putting my dog at significant risk. I would advise anyone to think twice before allowing this vet to touch or test their dog. Read Less

Based on our experience, If your animal needs emergency assistance we highly recommend getting here quickly. We found this place based on our veterinarian's automated phone system's referral... We purchased a new to us home a few years ago, and moved in without a hitch. That next Christmas, the family got a Golden Retriever puppy from a very reputable breeder. His is 100% part of the family, but almost didn't make it. At about 6 moths old, the hound was frolicking around in the driveway and garage with me while I was washing a car. Suddenly, i noticed that he had his head jammed under the HVAC system in the garage... and I called to him to come to me. He did, but he had something in his mouth. That something was a small pouch of rat/mouse poison that the prior owner must have tossed under the HVAC system. Never knew it was there, but could see that the dog had chewed it open as the granular material was everywhere. Called the vet - but it was the weekend and they were not open. Their voicemail message referred us to this critical care facility if we felt there was a real emergency. We called this center, and they quickly explained the dire impact that this type of poison could have on a dog... and directed us on how to quickly try and get the dog to vomit and asked us to get there pronto. We did all that while on the go, car seats and floors be darned, and made it to the clinic in record time. They took the remnants of the packet and then rushed the dog into their treatment room to flush and pump his stomach and do something with charcoal... not 100% sure of the entire process. The staff was wonderful. Our kids were upset, as were we, but the staff's demeanor was great... though honest about the possibility of system shutdown. They kept the dog for two days and we picked him up on the third day, his bouncy, almost normal self. took a few more days for the charcoal to completely work through his system, but all was well thereafter. A couple years have gone by now and we continue to be thankful for what they did. Great facility. Caring staff. effective treatment for our hound doggy. Can you put a price on that? Read Less

An employee could have injured my family's already injured dog, because of their refusal to use his harness to help his mobility. We will not be using their services ever again, and I hope that this employee was spoken to and dealt with privately for the sake of professionalism and not for lake of concern. The fact that someone trained with animals would do this is deeply troubling, concerning, and angering. Read Less

First of all, the actual care of my pet--when my dog was with the vet and when the staff was assisting with his Ultrasound--was wonderful. Rather than put my dog on the cold metal examining table, the vet got down on the floor with him. I wish the front desk staff cared about the owners half as much. This is a critical care facility, so an appointment is just a marker to be in the waiting room. Emergencies and unexpected findings take precedence, of course, but it would be nice if the reception desk would tell you something, like "the vet is running 45 minutes behind." The vet was very good at explaining my pet's condition, but it was a lot of complex information. A letter via email reviewing the information was promised. I'm still waiting for it after 48 hours, a phone call (put on hold and forgotten) and an email. They want you to register online, but when you do, they don't check. They call to remind you of your appointment and tell you to register online even if you already have, then hand you the paper registration form to fill out when you arrive. Also, the front desk is very indiscrete, blurting out the amount of the charges so everyone can hear. This facility got the big stuff right, but it could do much better on all the rest.Read Less

I think that the vets there are the best! My dog has had 3 major surgeries there & both vets have been awesome. They always treat you right and really care about your pet. You can tell that the staff all love animals, they're great with the animals...and I know this because I worked there for a short time and really saw how great they are treated and how well they are cared for. The pets definitely come 1st at VRCC. Read Less

We brought our cat Zina there for an ultrasound to determine the cause of her vomiting after being referred by our vet, Dr. Fallon did a great job putting us at ease and explaining our options to us. Zina had surgery to remove a string she had swallowed and is now on the mend! We are so grateful to he and the staff there! Thank you! Read Less

Absolutely love this place! They are all so nice! They took my pit bull puppy in with open loving arms as soon as we walked in the door and were quick to action as he had a fractured hind leg! The staff were also compassionate towards my two young children one of which was very upset about leaving his puppy there for surgery! I definitely recommend this facility! Read Less

Dr. Clarke was able to see our two year old beagle promptly last month during a rapid decline. After a MRI and spinal tap he had a plan. Dr. Clarke was point on when he said we would see a change five days later. The staff are all so caring. Dr. Clarke was upfront with his thoughts on Reba and took the time to explain everything on the MRI. We have several more months on the healing road. Glad Dr. O'Sullivan referred Reba to Dr. Clarke. Read Less

We had to rush our Lucy in last night and from the phone call we made before coming, to our arrival at 1am, to our discharge this evening, we were so incredibly well taken care of. Every staff member we encountered was caring and patient in our time of need. I sincerely can't thank Brooke enough for her support yesterday in my emotional mess state over our pup and how wonderful she was today when we were happily discharged with a healthy pup thanks to your team! Words can't express how thankful we are for everything you did for us!! Read Less

The staff is awesome - competent and caring. Our 3 yr old beagle ruptured a disc and could have been permanently paralyzed but for the prompt care of the talented staff. The neurologist came in on a Saturday in order to help the surgeon with her pre-op assessment. They patiently answered all of our questions and put up with our daily calls and visits while she was hospitalized so we could check on her condition. Read Less

This is the best place to bring an you family pet for emergency and critical care. I highly recommend this place for critical care etc. The staff have always been pleasant. This is not your typical vet office. They care about their patients and their needs. They are going to do what is best for the baby we trust in their care. They will give recommendations to what they think your baby needs. They will ask what you want done and not done. They ask due to everyone's financial needs are not the same. I know these vets are not God, but they are helpers. They are human and do good and may not make the choice you would. They still have a heart as they are human. They have done right by all of my family and pets. Read Less

I love this place! Everyone here, from the ladies up front to the techs, to the doctors and surgeons are the best. They truly care about your animal and are very thorough in everything they do. I drive an hour to come here and will continue to do so anytime one of my pets need anything!!! Keep up the great work!!! Read Less

I was so grateful to find out about this critical care hospital. I had to take my dog there on emergency late in the evening. The staff was very friendly and comforting. They ran blood and kidney tests on my dog and took the time to explain the results in detail and address all my concerns. Their facility is also super clean. I had to go into the back area where they were keeping my dog to show them a spot on him that was hurting. I was amazed at how clean and nice it was. There was not one trace of pet odor. They have kennels that look like small rooms! The pets can actually stand up and have room to move and walk around! It's designed in a way that they can always keep an eye on your pet. My mind was blown at the layout and kennel sizes! I hope my dog doesn't need anymore emergency services but I can say that I wouldn't take him any other place after seeing that back area. My dog was in severe pain and could barely walk when he arrived. He has started his pain medication and antibiotics and I can see the spark returning in his eyes again. "Justice" says thank you for helping him feel better. :) A+++Read Less

This facility is truly top notch and I am so glad my veterinarian recommended them in my cat's time of need. The front desk staff are efficient, friendly and patience. The emergency doctors are helpful, communicative and empathetic. Their resources are amazing and everyone on staff is professional. I cannot thank them enough for everything they did for my Toona cat. I would recommend them in a heartbeat to any pet owner who needs specialty or emergency services for their furry friend. Read Less

Been there multiple times over the past 5 years with several different pets, both sick and injured. No matter when we have been there, the staff have been very friendly, helpful and kind. Each time, we were given a detailed estimate of the probable costs of treatment, including a low and high amount based on what may need to be done. The estimate was explained completely and all questions answered. There have been times that we had to wait awhile, but the staff kept us informed that there were critically ill and injured animals who needed immediate care. Our dogs have had scheduled surgeries, biopsies and other testing done. Each time, we were called with the results and given a complete explanation of what that meant for our pet. This is certainly a place that you never want to use, but are so thankful it is there. We used a few other emergency vet facilities over the years but the caring staff as well as the more reasonable prices keep us coming back to VRCC! Read Less

Awful experience. Everyone was very nice but we were there for 4.5 hours, spent $400, and got an incorrect diagnosis of esophagitis. I had to call my sister who is a vet tech multiple times and she told me that there is no reason they should have been doing the things they were/taking as long as they were. But they only had 1 vet on; it's just not right to have 1 ER vet on duty on a Sunday because they don't want to pay a second vet, resulting in people waiting for unnecessary amounts of time. They had our kitty back there to take an xray for over an hour!!! An xray should NEVER take that long. And all of that would be fine, but we wasted $400 for absolutely nothing. I just looked up the symptoms of esophagitis and he only had one, maaaaybe 2 of them. When the vet was telling us about her diagnosis, she obviously didn't sound very sure of it. She said it was her "best guess." Best guess?? I'm sorry but 4.5 hours and $400 should result in more than a best guess...which was clearly wrong...the internet has given me better information than that vet. EDIT: It was a hairball. $400 and 4.5 hours later for a hairball that we fixed at home with some $10 hairball gel from Petco.. Read Less

Excellent experience with two different dogs including one experience at 1AM at night. The staff are friendly and they are very straightforward with their tests and costs giving you a high and low amount so there are no surprises. Read Less

I LOVE the VRCC and the care they have given to my dogs. Dr. Falllin is always so friendly and takes the time to explain all the medical issues. I always feel confident that my dog is getting the best of the best of care. The staff are all very friendly and I always feel welcome. GREAT PLACE for Veterinary specialty care and Emergencies.Read Less

My mom and I took my dog in for surgery on her jaw yesterday. We met with Dr. Trevor, who seemed nice and competent. He explained everything very well and seemed to care about my dog. The rest of the staff were very rude. The receptionist acted like we had just spilled coffee all over her. She was annoyed and angry the entire time we were there. We went back today to pick my dog up, and the receptionists were just as rude as before. We were told to go to an exam. room after waiting for 15 minutes. They told us they would bring my dog out soon. We waited for another 10 minutes before a lady, who didn't have my dog, came in to explain the aftercare instructions. She just read off a paper we were already given with an angry look on her face. She sounded so irritated. The staff acted like we ruined their day by just being there. They glared at us every time they had to talk to us. I don't recommend going there if you have a choice.Read Less