Southern Hills Animal Hospital

We moved to Roanoke from Richmond several years ago and randomly picked Southern Hills as a vet for our 2 dogs. This was the best decision we ever made. Sadly, our Morgan was the first did we ever had to put down because of failing health (she was 13) and I have never been so touched by the empathy and compassion of the doctor who put her to sleep. We moved to Salem and decided to try another vet (for travel convenience) and, after 2 years, are returning to Southern Hills. The time has come to put our other baby down because at 13, her quality of life is poor and even with meds, she struggles to get around. The decision as to who will help transition her to the rainbow bridge is absolutely, without a doubt, the vets at Southern Hills. Read Less

This vet office went above and beyond for my cat. They call to check in on her and even ask about our dog as well. They are very intelligent, friendly, and willing to help. I highly recommend you bring your pets here for all of their needs! Read Less

Elvis is already doing so much better after his visit last night! They were so nice and made a scary experience easier to handle. The facility was very clean and they were way less expensive than the other 3 places I called! Thank you so much 😊 Read Less

The staff was friendly and informative throughout the entire experience from making the appointment over the phone to letting me know what was wrong and what my kittens needed during the visit. Wonderful experience, even my two kittens who received shots seemed to be in good spirits after it was finished. The communication was excellent, and I am pleased with the course of treatment. Safe to say I have found my new vet. Read Less

I first want to say that the staff there is very friendly and that was a nice experience. They were amazing with my cat. Beyond that, it was a ridiculous experience that could have been avoided. I made an appointment for 11:30. I made the appoint with only 3 day notice, but it was an appointment with an agreed upon time. I understand not being able to get in as soon as 11:30 hits, but waiting an hour or longer isn't acceptable. Things happen, and I remained patient. T...he vet was informative. When I talked to the vet tech about pricing she said I need rabies and respiratory vaccinations along with a fecal test which is normal with an annual check up. I asked the price and she said the vaccinations, exam fee, and the fecal test can be combined into the 3 year Feline package for $140 and it would give a 10% discount to other services that day. She also mention I should have a chemistry test ran to check blood count and thyroid to ensure she was in great health since my cat is overweight. I asked her the price of these test and she said they were $95. I then asked if that was added to the $140. Her response was yes. So at this time, I should have a total of $235. As I'm waiting for the test results to return, the vet comes in and ask if I could leave my cat for the day since they are having a hard time drawing blood. I agreed and went home. I received a phone call asking if a 4:00 appointment time for pick up could be setup. I agreed and left for the vet around that time. I arrived at 4:01 p.m. At 5 p.m., the vet finally came to talk to me about my cat's results. I asked about a diet plan and remedy for my cat's dry skin she has just started showing. The vet provided a bag of overweight management dry food for $28 and omega 3 pills for $21 bringing my total to $275 if you subtract the 10% discounts for the tests, food, and pills. I went to check out and was presented with a $425 bill. What they didn't tell me is the rabies (mentioned in was included in the $140 plan) was not included in the $140 package. Also, $160 for thyroid which was not included in the $95 tests (as mentioned it was). I was told sorry that it was not communicated with me and that I can speak with the office manager when they are in the office about the charges. I have called to dispute these charges and will not return to this vet after the added charges (that weren't communicated to me) and the extended wait times. Also, while I was there a lady was picking up her dog from a two night boarding and was charged for 3 days. The response from the staff was that they go by days and not nights there and they apologize that information wasn't relayed. They did however take off her 3rd day. See more Read Less

I first want to say that the staff there is very friendly and that was a nice experience.  Beyond that, it was a ridiculous experience that could have been avoided.  I made an appointment for 11:30.  I made the appoint with only 3 day notice, but it was an appointment with an agreed upon time.  I understand not being able to get in as soon as 11:30 hits, but waiting an hour or longer isn't acceptable.  Things happen, and I remained patient.  The vet was informative.  When I talked to the vet tech about pricing she said I need rabies and respiratory vaccinations along with a fecal test which is normal with an annual check up.  I asked the price and she said the vaccinations, exam fee, and the fecal test can be combined into the 3 year Feline package for $140 and it would give a 10% discount to other services that day.  She also mention I should have a chemistry test ran to check blood count and thyroid to ensure she was in great health since my cat is overweight.  I asked her the price of these test and she said they were $95.  I then asked if that was added to the $140.  Her response was yes.  So at this time, I should have a total of $235.  As I'm waiting for the test results to return, the vet comes in and ask if I could leave my cat for the day since they are having a hard time drawing blood.  I agreed and went home.  I received a phone call asking if a 4:00 appointment time for pick up could be setup.  I agreed and left for the vet around that time.  I arrived at 4:01 p.m.  At 5 p.m., the vet finally came to talk to me about my cat's results.  I asked about a diet plan and remedy for my cat's dry skin she has just started showing.  The vet provided a bag of overweight management dry food for $28 and omega 3 pills for $21 bringing my total to $275 if you subtract the 10% discounts for the tests, food, and pills.I went to check out and was presented with a $425 bill.  What they didn't tell me is the rabies (mentioned in was included in the $140 plan) was not included in the $140 package.  Also, $160 for thyroid which was not included in the $95 tests (as mentioned it was).  I was told sorry that it was not communicated with me and that I can speak with the office manager when they are in the office about the charges.  I have called to dispute these charges and will not return to this vet after the added charges (that weren't communicated to me) and the extended wait times. Read Less

Great experiences with Dr Preston Thornton and Dr. Christa Clarke (haven't seen Dr. Mary Thornton) They are thorough and caring. Everyone is friendly and helpful. Have been for well visits and urgent care. Read Less

When my dog, Bella, was unable to stand and wasn't bearing weight on one of her front legs, we called for an urgent care appointment. They had an emergency at the same time but the staff was really attentive and apologetic for our having to wait. Dr. Preston was great, very professional and took very good care of Bella who after meds and rest is now feeling much better. I will certainly consider Southern Hills Animal Hospital as my first choice for veterinary care in the future! Read Less

When my dog, Bella, was unable to stand and wasn't bearing weight on one of her front legs, we called for an urgent care appointment. They had an emergency at the same time but the staff was really attentive and apologetic for our having to wait. Dr. Preston was great, very professional and took very good care of Bella who after meds and rest is now feeling much better. I will certainly consider Southern Hills Animal Hospital as my first choice for veterinary care in the future! Read Less

We drive across town just to go to Southern Hills. They have taken care of our cats for the past 16 years and our new cats for the past three. Dr. Mary and Dr. Preston Thorton are outstanding and so is their operation. Read Less

I've been a client of Southern Hills for 10 years. While I've always been pleased with the team there, it was when I took my latest rescue Charlie there 3 years ago that I knew there was something very special about the team. I rescued Charlie from RCACP...his owner surrendered him. He was a 86lb of love but had behavioral issues....he didn't know commands, had severe kennel stress, didn't know how to play with toys, and was very anxious. Charlie LOVES to go to Southern Hills for boarding....we call it Disneyland because he gets that excited to go. The team at Southern Hills goes above and beyond to meet Charlie's needs. The thing I appreciate the most is they celebrate the small things with me ....be it a simple "he did really well during his nail trimming". We call Southern Hills their home away from home! Read Less

I took my dog, Bosco, to Southern Hills today. I am very glad I picked this vet! They fit me right into their schedule with short notice. When we came in we were taken right in, did the paperwork quickly, we didnt wait at all. Everyone there was exceptional!! Very personable, friendly and knowledgeable! The other good part of this place is the price. When I left I definitely felt like I got my moneys worth and I wasn't overcharged. I highly recommend the Southern Hills Animal Hospital!!!! :-) Read Less

We recently moved to Roanoke and it is so hard to trust someone with your babies. The entire staff and Dr. Preston Thornton at Southern Hills was very nice and put me at ease that my fur baby was in good hands. Thank you to all of you for helping us. Read Less

My kitty, Kama, had his first visit today and I don't think it could have gone any better!! From the moment you go inside, the staff at Southern Hills treats you like family. Everybody was so helpful, friendly, and accommodating. I so appreciate all the time spent going over all the services they have to offer your fur baby, and also how much time they spend with you during the exam being thorough and personable. Kama (and me) felt so comfortable I look forward to his next visit!! Thanks again! Read Less

I have trusted these wonderful people with my animals for years. Excellent care always! They are always very helpful, respectful and caring. I have had 2 dogs with special needs and they (doctors and staff) have always gone above and beyond what is expected. And I love the fact that someone is there 24/7. Wouldn't take my pets anywhere else because I know they are getting the best care possible right here. Read Less

I have had many pets over my 70 years of life and Dr. Preston and Mary Thornton and their staff are the best. Their love for animals and their dedication and compassion far surpasses others. They are there in the good and bad times and are always available to answer any questions you may have about the care of your babies. When Daisy was so sick, I could call them any time, day or night and there was someone to answer my questions about her condition. I trust their skills and their staff with the well-being of my baby. Read Less

I have been taking my animals to Southern Hills for at least 20 years and I wouldn't dream of taking them anywhere else. Dr. Mary and Dr. Preston are top notch! The staff has changed over the years but the wonderful care has remained consistent. They have always gone above and beyond to care for my pets. I also love the fact that someone is there 24 hours a day so I don't worry at all when I board my pets while I'm away. Can't say enough about this place so one word sums it up - EXCELLENCE! Read Less

I want to thank you for your determination, hard work, perseverance in making Rusty well. He has done a complete turn around and is back to his crazy self and it wouldn't have been done without you. The different meds you tried, the free baths, office visits which we would never have been able to afford. It paid off and we can never thank you all enough. Read Less

The price reflects the fact it's an emergency hospital! Of course it will be high somewhat. We took our Ginger there with extreme pancreatitis and she spent almost a week in their care. We were so SO greatfull to have her back and healthy! I could tell by her reaction that she really warmed up to the staff. I also noted that the back rooms were VERY warm in the middle of winter to make the animals comfortable. We've been coming here for years and are very happy with our experience. Thank you for saving Gingers life!!!! Read Less

I love the care my dog gets there. I feel very comfortable with the excellent care and the hour of service are great. If I have to gone for the weekend, they have Sunday afternoon hours for pick-up, which is extremely helpful. Read Less

Whoa, that previous review was really harsh. I can't really address the price issue for veterinary services, because we brought our dog in only for boarding. I took a look at the google reviews and they didn't seem fake. They were almost all written by people with multiple unrelated reviews that lived in the southwestern virginia area. I use yelp to find services, so I think it is important that businesses are accurately represented. One negative yelp review could steer away a lot of potential customers.I've only had a very positive experience every time I've been here. The staff has been extremely friendly and helpful and when we need to drop Penny (our dog) off for a while, we call in every few days and they give us status reports and tell us how she is doing. Our dog doesn't like the car, but as soon as she gets out and recognizes that we are at Southern Hills Animal Hospital she becomes very excited. All the staff we have worked with have treated her very kindly. Whenever we pick her up we can tell that she was comfortable around the staff and that they enjoyed interacting with her.I can't really comment on the veterinary services, but there may be some additional charges beyond boarding that you may need to pay for when you drop your animal off, so inquire about these. Our dog, for example, needed a couple vaccines prior to boarding. I feel very comfortable dropping off Penny to Southern Hills, and she is very important to us, so it's a relief that we found a trustworthy place that she can stay. Read Less

Pros:The building facility is nice and has ample parking. The staff is friendly and remembers who I am along with my dog's name. Both of the doctors seem friendly and interested in you and your dog.Cons:They seem very expensive! We've spent upwards of a 1k at the vet since getting our dog in July, 2011- this includes standard vaccinations, wellness visits, and two urinary tract infections. A lot of times they would be cagey about prices and only mention something cost extra after the procedure was performed. This is the main reason we switched vets.A search on Google for them turns up a lot of positive reviews, basically two a month for the last year. This is a small town, and for a place to get 2 glowing reviews a month is exceedingly rare especially since they never mention reviewing them when you visit them.The positive reviews are suspicious when you compare it with the rate of reviews for other Vets...even the most popular restaurants in town have a lower number of reviews...If you spend the time to read through all 50-60 reviews, you'll notice a trend and find that many of the positive reviews appear to be fake and repetitive with the same word style/phrasing. These positive reviews started after a few negative reviews last year, and seem to have done the trick of drowning out the negative reviews.Overall, the combination of fake reviews and high prices have led us to switch to Pet Vet whom I've heard several glowing reviews of from people at the Highland Dog Park and the Salem Rotary Club Dog Park. Read Less

Thank you all so much for everything you did for Brandy and us over the last few weeks. Everyone was so attentive to us when we came to visit Brandy - so we know she was in the most loving hands when we weren't there. Thank you for the very personal attention and kindness. We know Brandy appreciated all of the attention and care too! You do excellent work - keep it up! Read Less

We just wanted to thank you all for all the help and care you have provided to our dogs, Chai and Sugar. We always feel good bringing our girls to you for all of our pet needs. Thank you for listening, caring, and working with us! Read Less

Thank you for the loving and excellent care you gave to our cat, Midnight. We feel it was due to the wonderful care and attention that she received from you that helped prolonged her life. She lived to a ripe old age of 21 years and her quality of life was good. Thank you. We appreciate. Read Less

doctor mary thornton and her husband are the best doctors in the roanoke area, i have lived in sc for the past 7 years and i still carry my beloved babies to roanoke for treatments. i worked for her for almost 6 years, and i think she is the best. im not just saying this because we are friends. im stating the shear facts. Read Less

Dr. Mary and Dr. Preston, Thank you for setting your standards so high. Your hospital and staff are great. I feel like Taz recieves the best care when she is there. You are both wonderful doctors as well as wondeful people. Eric, Thank you for all your hard work caring for Taz and the support! You do a great job! Keep up the good work! David, Thank you for making sure all went well while we were there. Your support on the phone was SO comforting. You made me feel like everything was o.k. Thanks for making me feel more calm. Alex, Keep up the good work and professionalism. You will go far in life if you continue to work so hard. Benji, Thanks for all your hard work checking on us and making sure we were o.k. Keep up your great work! Lisa, Thanks for helping us over the phone and for understanding after my 100th phone call:) (worried Mom!) And thanks to everyone else that helped us and took care os ""Miss Taz!"" (and me:) ) Thank you! Read Less

We want to thank you so much for the wonderful care that you gave Prancer over the last 14 years Prancer loved you and the entire staff of Southern Hills. We always felt that we were in the best possible hands and that you would do what was right for Prancer. When we knew it was time to say good bye to Prancer, your kind words and compassion gave us such comfort. May God continue to bless you all in your animal ministry. He will miss you! Read Less

I just wanted to take a moment to say that I appreciate and feel very grateful for all the work, dedication and passion all of you have shown me and ""Sara"" throughout her therapy. Words could not express all that I feel for all of you. This is a special place and all of you are very special people. No matter what Sara's outcome is - all of you will remain in my heart and hers I'm sure. God Bless Read Less

Thank you so much for the lovely flowers you sent in memory of Bet. The decision was a difficult one and I really miss her, but I KNOW it was the right one. All of you have been so very kind during the 3 years that you provided such loving care of Bet and I especially thank you for that. I think she actually really liked to be there with you on the many occasions I left her there when I had to be out of town. All of you are very special people and I ""sing your praises"" to anyone who asks. Thanks again for everything. Read Less

This is just a small token of my appreciation for the loving care that you displayed to Taz and myself during his illness, surgery and passing. The flowers that you sent were lovely and much appreciated. You and your staff were always kind, compassionate and caring. I could not have asked for better care or people to take care of Taz. The last days of his life, I never worried when he was in your care. It meant so much to me to be able to visit with him before I could bring him home. I wish the outcome had been different, but I take solace in the fact that he had plenty of love his last days. I thank all of you for that. He was a special dog and will always hold a special place in my heart. Thanks again for everything. Read Less

Thank you so much for the beautiful flowers in memory of Batai. Thank you all for the diligent care you've given to Batai and my other pets over the years. Thank you for treating them like your own family members. You are appreciated! Read Less

Believe what you read.  This place is horrible and I'm shocked it hasn't been shutdown.  I worked there several years ago and have numerous horror stories.  The basic reality though is that the doctors are rarely in the building, their concern for their bottom line trumps your pets health and well-being, they use nasty chemicals, their "staff" lacks professional training and they are just plain mean to people.  Stay away.  Any other clinic or hospital in Roanoke is a better choice than this place. Read Less