Columbia River Veterinary Specialists

Shelled out all of my money for no answers, to leave with pet in worse shape and to be told "yeah I don't have pets because I can't afford them". Definitely didn't need that. We got the cat 6 years ago before life happened. Read Less

My boxer/lab mix got up this morning with eyes rolled back & gooey. We drove to our vet Hayden Meadows which is in Portland, we live in Vancouver. They didn't even look at him & said we might get seen in between appointments but no guarantee. We drove back & went to Hazel Dell Vet & they could see us but suggested Columbia River. I'm so thankful! Marissa, I hope I have the name right, came out to the car & took 1 look & suggested Benadryl for a few days as it looks like allergies. If it's not better in a few days to come back. No charge and walked away relieved and feeling like someone actually cared! Thank you so much! Read Less

Recently had to take our cat in to be seen for rapid changes in her health. The entire team was incredibly caring and compassionate. They provided us with multiple treatment options, and we're incredibly supportive of any and all decisions. They took an incredible amount of time answering all of our many questions, both in person and on the phone. Read Less

One of our dogs recently developed epilepsy and this vet ER hospital was a Godsend. Their staff, nurses, and doctors are exceptional. They were genuinely sympathetic and took their time talking with you. The only problem is that this is obviously not a secret so you may have to wait a while unless your pet has a life threatening emergency. Read Less

Excellent care from the first phone call we made to fortunately being able to take our puppy home. They were kind, compassionate, considered our puppys unique needs, good communication, clear, up front pricing, and overall fantastic. Thank you for making a stressful time easier and providing our puppy with great care!! Read Less

We took our 9 month old puppy there when he started pooping blood. They were so nice and helpful. They definitely made a bad night easier. The vet we saw didn't try to up-sell any treatments or unnecessary testing which was a huge relief. They let us know BEFORE taking him back the plans and stuck to what they said. They also gave us the supplies to collect a fecal sample for free so we'd be able to take it to our normal vet. So thankful they're 24 hours and helpful! Read Less

Amazing service from the initial phone call to the days following. They were able to get my pup in the moment I arrived and staff was very friendly. They even did a follow up call a couple days later just to check in with how my pup was doing! Very satisfied with the staff and service! Read Less

The staff took great care of my dog when he needed a rare surgery on his urinary tract. Dr. Novo was especially great - very knowledgeable and compassionate. The team took the time to explain everything they were doing in detail and were patient as I asked endless questions. The surgery resolved our issues and we haven't had any complications. Read Less

Dr. Novo had expert skills about my rotti's torn ACL. He explained the entire process in an understandable way. He knows dogs! Surgery went well. The tec (sorry I didn't get his name) explained after care throughly. No problem making appointments and no long wait in the waiting room. Waiting room is comfy with coffee/tea and water. Just wish it didn't cost so damn much!!$$!!  Open 24/7 to check in with pup or ask questions. Read Less

I had a terrifying experience in the middle of the night and had to take my dog in. I was immediately welcomed and the staff was very helpful. They were upfront about the costs and offered solutions and truly tried to help me out. My dog has recovered and I'm glad I was directed to this office. I live closer to St Francis animal hospital but they were closed, even though it's a 24 hour facility, and I came here instead. I'm glad I did and I would return - but I hope I won't have to! Read Less

Amazing vet ER! The front desk staff were knowledgeable and courteous over the phone and in person -- always checking in to give updates and see how we were doing. I had to visit 3 times in a month with my dog during "emergency" hours and was expecting to have to pay some crazy additional charge just because of the time of day, but they kept everything very reasonable and explained and okayed every cost before it was incurred. Initially visited them even though I live in Portland just to avoid Dove Lewis (which has terrible service and is ridiculously expensive), but will now always go back to and recommend CRVS. Can't recommend them highly enough. Read Less

These folks are just plain awesome! They get your pet in quickly and handle with care. I unfortunately had to make the decision to put one of my dogs down as he had severe medical problems that had gone unnoticed- the vet was super and gave us her honest opinion (she too would put the dog down in our situation) and made sure we had special time with him in a quiet room before the procedure was done- they even sent us a card and donated money in his honor to the aspca.If I have to bring my other dog in for emergency care- it will certainly be here! Just be prepared for a long wait - you can also make appointments with specialists here (cardiology etc) Read Less

While the outcome was not what we were hoping for, everyone was so compassionate and helpful. I was so upset with what was going on with my cat that I did not get anyone's name, but from check-in to check-out they could not have been more helpful. Thank you for helping us get through our heartbreaking situation.Read Less

I cannot thank them enough for their kindness and expert care of my dog. My small dog was recently hit by a car after she got off of her leash during a walk and we rushed her in here for care. They were busy, but they immediately took her into the back so that she could be seen by a vet because of the nature of her injuries. I was very shaken up and they kind ladies at the desk noticed that I was very flushed and gave me a glass of water while I filled out paperwork. Yes, they are not cheap but that should be said for any emergency vet. However, you get what you pay for. Also, they do parter with CareCredit for financing if it is necessary. My dog was seen by Dr. Seifert who was very thorough and went line by line through the estimate. They even let me said goodnight to her while she was being treated in the back. He called me throughout the middle of the night with updates on how my dog was doing and the results from the testing. In the morning, Dr. Paskowski called me with more updates and information on how her treatment was going. They took fantastic care of her and she is making a great recovery due to their care! They called me the day after I picked her up to check and see how she is recovering and to let me know that they are there if I have any questions or concerns regarding her condition. I feel very lucky that everything turned out so well. Thanks again to the team! Read Less

I cannot thank them enough for their kindness and expert care of my dog. My small dog was recently hit by a car after she got off of her leash during a walk and we rushed her in here for care. They were busy, but they immediately took her into the back so that she could be seen by a vet because of the nature of her injuries. I was very shaken up and they kind ladies at the desk noticed that I was very flushed and gave me a glass of water while I filled out paperwork. Yes, they are not cheap but that should be said for any emergency vet. However, you get what you pay for. Also, they do parter with CareCredit for financing if it is necessary. My dog was seen by Dr. Seifert who was very thorough and went line by line through the estimate. He called me throughout the middle of the night with updates on how my dog was doing and the results from the testing. In the morning, Dr. Paskowski called me with more updates and information on how her treatment was going throughout the day. They took fantastic care of her and she is making a great recovery due to their care! They called me the day after I picked her up to check and see how she is recovering and to let me know that they are there if I have any questions or concerns regarding her condition. I feel very lucky that everything turned out so well. Thanks again to the team for everything! Read Less

The people here were so kind to me and my puppy who got into some aspirin. They took him in right away even though they were slammed and after a few hours, he was discharged and I took him home. I was so impressed with the doctors and the technicians, everyone was so friendly and professional. It can get expensive and you do have to agree to pay up front so this place might not be for everyone, but in my emergency situation I was glad they were nearby!! Read Less

Do not EVER go to this place! They are just money hungry a-holes. Wouldn't help me and let my dog suffer because of money. I would never recommend this place anyone who truly cares for their animal. You are stupid if think they do care. Read Less

Very caring staff all around. Especially grateful for Dr. Gibbs whose incredible finger skills resulted in dislodging a stone for a female dog's ureter - a quick solution to a painful problem that would have otherwise required complex and costly surgery. Read Less

My friend had to put her dog down, they did an amazing job of making her and her dog comfortable. The staff was very understanding and caring. Not push at all. Gave them all of the time they needed to say goodbye. Explained everything very clearly. Would definitely go there again. Read Less

This place is amazing! They take the time to show you that they really do care. I trust every person there to care for my fur babies!! Every person I came into contact was compassionate, professional and wonderful! If you ever have an emergency or need a specialty, go HERE!! Read Less

went here with our Pug when she wasnt doing good, because the other two vets were closed or closing, even though we didnt have been there previously they were able to see us fairly quickly. After the Vet looked at our dog, it came down to having to put her to sleep and they gave us the time and privacy to come to terms and visit her one last time. I might not be back here because of me moving, but my father thought very highly of how we where and our dog was treated in a hard time. Read Less

My dog ate a gift-wrapped box with earrings in it. I drove her immediately to CRVS so they could induce vomiting. They wanted me to MUZZLE my dog IN THE LOBBY (didn't even take us back to an exam room) because she was "lunging." They also asked me to cone my dog because they couldn't figure out how to do it. (She's a 1-year-old lab/pointer mix. Not exactly Cujo). To CRVS: I would recommend hiring veterinary technicians who know how to handle sick, scared dogs (which is what I am paying you exorbitant fees to do). It's Dove Lewis from here on out; I wouldn't set foot in this place again. Read Less

Well, everyone, today is the day Lady should be able to leave the vet. At first, I didn't like the idea of her staying at the vet, but understood its necessity. I was expecting a very clinical approach to the pet I care about. This is NOT the approach I want taken with an animal who is in their care, because the pet needs to be comfortable to heal efficiently. I have turned the corner on this thought process. Columbia River Veterinary Specialists in Vancouver, Washington has an amazing staff that show genuine care for the welfare and happiness of the pets they are charged with. Anyone who truly knows me, knows my pets are a part of the family, and as a result, it takes a lot to impress me where my pets are concerned. The doctors and vet techs are outstanding at CRVS. The young lady who did triage on Lady (Jennie) did so quickly and efficiently, then kept her in a room where the team could work with her between more serious cases, and literally ran through the lobby updating everyone on the status of their pets every few minutes. She was friendly and personable, and the concern for the pets was evident even on a night that was insanely busy for them. The vet techs and doctors kept us updated on Lady's condition and where we were in relation to the treatment plan, and made sure we knew we were welcome to come visit as our schedules allowed. They made sure we understood the labs that were performed and why. They invited dialogue and questions about her condition and care. Most importantly, it was obvious that they care about my pet. The assistant Lady had yesterday from approximately 1800-0100 was a bubbly young lady named Kate. I have been around animals all my life, and can read animals fairly well. I also have been around other "animal people", but this young lady amazed even me. She was able to bond with the animals and get them to do what she wanted them to do without laying her hands on them in many cases. She was equally approachable by the owners. She told us of Lady's behavior during her prior shift, and how she was able to get Lady to let someone take her temperature and work with her when Lady just wasn't "feeling it" ( Lady had grumbled and showed teeth to the person when they were going to open the door to her crate). She even laughed when I pretended like I was going to eat Lady's food Kate had put together for her to get Lady to try it - a trick I knew would get her to eat every bite. I understand why she wouldn't put herself in that position though, because some dogs will bite if you are too close to their food dish. Bottom line, great experience with a wonderful team! Jennie and Kate made it hard not to believe in this crew and its abilities. Anyone who needs emergency care for their pet in the Vancouver area would be well served to give Columbia River Veterinary Specialists a chance to win their trust. They earned mine!Read Less

DON'T BOTHER COMING HERE. Drive down to Portland if you need emergency veterinary care. While the vet tech who initially greeted me was friendly (and for that one star) unfortunately failed in helping me at 2am when I brought my cat in for an emergency as she was heaving, vomiting and having a hard time defecating. While we waiting in the lounge area, there were no vet techs or receptionist I could speak to as my cat vomited again and was meowing. I waited for 35 minutes. No explanation as to what was going on. I might have been more compassionate if I knew what was happening, but no one was around. The fact that no one came to take my cat to the back tells me they already felt she was a non-issue. That is complete bullshit and makes me not want to take any of my pets there because clearly this place is unprofessional or caring. The point of an emergency clinic is to treat the patients with urgency and to address their needs not make someone wait a half hour. If my cat was not an emergency, then there was no need for me to drive down at 2am. I could've waited till 7 and called my regular vet--not to mention the costs to treat my cat will be cheaper than coming after hours. Telling me to come down right away and then not see my cat is totally unacceptable. That was a waste of everyone's time. Read Less

We brought our sweet Dachshund, Starlet, to be looked at for a cancer diagnosis she received from our family vet. Dr. McMahon was wonderful and went over her diagnosis, prognosis and treatment options very thoroughly with me. When we had to make the decision to let her go, Abby and Dr. Gibbs were there at 4am to walk with us. We are grateful for all of the love and compassion shown to our girl and family. Should we ever need their emergency or cancer treatment services again, we'll know our fur babies will be in excellent hands. Read Less

Hopefully the emergency vet medicine here is better than the internal medicine. The worst part is my dog is still uncomfortable and went away with no treatment. We went for second opinion on my dog who has bad allergies. Dr. Guess who is young and inexperienced wanted to do expensive tests upward of $6000. Two plus hours, $300, and no medications to even relieve some of my dogs discomfort later, still no answers. I suppose the name Dr. Guess is appropriate! Read Less

We had to take our sweet dog in at the end of her life, and I am so glad this was the emergency vet we chose. The staff is incredibly caring, and not only about the animal, but we felt they cared about us, too. Even though this was such a terrible moment, those women took us in and made it a night to remember filled with love and compassion. I truly want to thank all of you for everything you did for us and our girl. A million times, thank you. Read Less

we spent several hours here this last weekend and alot of $$. We are so impressed with the front staff and the Doctors and assistants. We received some sad news about our baby girl Lulu and they were very sympathetic and gave us time to process things. We met with Dr Guess today and got some better news and we greatly appreciate all her knowledge and the time she took with us to answer our questions. We left feeling relieved and absolutely love this clinic! Thank you to the ER doctor also she is amazing! Read Less

I just have to say that this place is amazing! Last summer, all three of our dogs were attacked by a much bigger dog; one of them (my oldest boy) was severely injured with a collapsed lung and neurological damage. It didn't look like he was going to make it. The staff was upfront and honest with me about his prognosis and how we should move forward. Even though it looked pretty hopeless, I asked them to try to do whatever they could for him. With their amazing care, he beat the odds and has made a remarkable recovery! He went from not breathing to being able to breathe but unable to walk with his back legs, to now being able to go on walks again, run around, and even climb up the stairs! He had a tough road to recovery, but CRVS along with his normal Vet helped him get his life back! They also provided excellent care to our other two dogs that weren't as critically injured, but needed some immediate attention to clean their wounds and make sure they didn't have any internal injuries. It was a terrifying time, but the staff was really caring and honest and gave me updates and allowed me to visit with the doggies during their stay. I highly recommend them, although I hope you never need them, lol! But if you live in the Vancouver area, I definitely recommend putting their location and contact info in your phone right now, just in case something happens (when you're panicking, the last thing you need to be doing is a google search!). I'm very thankful for the care my dogs got here!Read Less

Thank you from bottom of our hearts. The care and atmosphere that Dr. Paskowski and the rest of the staff provided our fur baby Jasmine in her last moments along with the support from everyone there for her mom and dad was incredible. You made making a extremely hard decision alot easier. We had everything we needed including as much time as we needed as a family with our baby. Thanks for putting together such an incredible staff . In my books , you will always be highly recommended. Thank you again. Read Less

This place is amazing! The fact that someone is there for your pet 24/7 365 days a year is wonderful. Animals are part of the family & should be treated as such. Just like any family member, we can't always plan emergencies during business hours. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable & very professional. The facility is top notch. Read Less

We recently had the very difficult decision to put 11 year old fur baby to rest. At such a horribly sad time, the staff at crvs were absolutely amazing. We felt that they genuinely cared about us and our dog. The comfort they provided was world class. Last night we picked up our boys ashes and were blown away at the love and care we received in the form of a little care package. Thank you for what you did for our family, we know without a doubt our baby was in good hands, which helped tremendously with our closure. Read Less

Their vets and veterinarian assistants obviously care about their patients and are good at their job. Now if only their administrators and front desk people had half the skills or brain as their vets. Their customer service is lacking, they don't talk to each other so they are never on the same page, they constantly mess up appointments (so make sure you call them and talk to multiple people to make sure they have you in the system at the correct time). While waiting on the front desk to tell me they made a mistake and then not let me in for my dogs appointment, I listened to a guy plea for the dog food they are supposed to carry for him and have forgotten to order for him 2 weeks in a row. This special food that he can't get at a pet store because of his condition and all they can do is tell him we'll order it on Monday and you could go to this vets office they have this big bag but no wet food. They wouldn't even offer they're smaller bag of food they had in stock as a temporary fix. Like I said great vets but overall poor customer service and an administrative office that could use a crash course in bed side manner and customer service.Read Less

To whom it may concern: Last week, I brought my cat in for care. Approximately 6 hours later, I made the decision to put her to sleep. It was a difficult, heart-wrenching decision which was not made lightly. Through it all, I found the staff supportive, helpful and informative. I appreciate their patience while I asked endless questions. I appreciate their kindness during the process. Now, I find myself reading a sympathy card which as been signed by the staff. Words cannot describe how much I want to say "thank you" for everything they did. Professional; sensitive; giving and concerned - all words which come to mind when I think of that night. The entire staff needs to be congratulated on their behavior; grace under fire is a talent few people possess. Read Less

We had to take out dog Scarlett we adopted recently in in at around 4:00 am on a Sunday because she was having accidents everywhere and crying because she was in pain. They answered the phone right away when we called and although we had to wait for a bit to get in to see the Vet, she (Nikki) was very informative and attentive. Scarlett has a little shy with new people and Nikki made sure she was comfortable with her before taking her into the back. They didn't take long to release her and sent her home with antibiotics and Probiotics and suggested a diet for her till she was better. Scarlett is feeling amazing now and CRVS even made a follow up call to see how she was doing. All the staff was attentive and compassionate. Bravo to CRVS. Highly recommend!!! Read Less

The team at CRVS is great! They are very friendly and never tried to up sell me on any pressures that were unnecessary. They explained what they were doing and how much everything cost before proceeding. I would highly recommend CRVS to anyone looking for a specialist or emergency vet. Read Less

I cannot describe how grateful I am for the entire staff of CRVS. I brought my dog in for a potential toxin/seizure issue. Though the issue is still ongoing, I am confident they will continue the same great care my dog has already been receiving. The receptionists & nurses were extremely helpful & friendly both over the phone and in person to me. They were like this with every client I saw them interact with. The receptionist Eve especially was such a sweetheart. The nurses are up-to-speed with the doctor's recommendations. The doctors were very professional and caring. They discharged my dog with a packet of information & instructions. I did wait a while in my initial visit, but that is to be expected at a walk-in ER. I am very satisfied overall & would definitely recommend them. Read Less

I had a quick question to see if I should bring my pup in tonight or tomorrow morning. And the vet tech was so nice. She made me feel so much better and really cared about the comfort of our dog. See you tomorrow morning.Read Less

We have come to know that staff here very well, our little pup bailey was diagnosed with a liver shunt when she was about 4 months old. And from that time until her passing about a year and a half later we made quite a few visits here. Each time the staff was amazing and so caring and loving. At our final visit, everyone on the team made sure that we were taken care of. We were seating in a quiet little room and we're able to spend the last moments with our baby there. I just have to say everyone is truly amazing. We are so blessed to have yall close by, and be able to have you to lean on. Even after her passing, we received her ashes in a beatiful engraved box, a beautiful clay heart paw print with her color purple on it, a lock of fur, and a beautiful card a couple days later. We also just received another present in the mail engraved "in loving memory of bailey" we havnt figured out if it's from the team here or not but either way, thank you crvs for taking care of our baby and us. Thank you so muchRead Less

From the moment I stepped in the door, I felt like my cat was in good hands. The front desk ladies were so efficient, compassionate, professional and helpful. The clinic was clean with lots of cozy seating. I think they may even have a Kurig! The tech (?) came out and kept me updated on what was happening. He came out probably about every 10 minutes to check on me and keep me informed. The vet (Dr. Seifert) was also wonderful. Sadly, the outcome for us wasn't a good one. We chose to bring our kitty home to be humanely euthanized. However, the staff and vet care here was TOP NOTCH! I felt like they genuinely cared about US, not how much money they were going to wring out of my credit card. They didn't break the bank. They could have easily gotten money out of us w promises of helping save our cat and prolong his life. They gave us ALL of the options. I didn't feel pressured or obligated either way. They were honest w me. Truly, a special group of people!i Read Less

My 9 year old Boxer and I have become quite the regulars as of late and each time we're treated exceptionally well. Dr. Kroll, the Neurologist, as well as the entire team, is very knowledgable and professional. They don't make you feel forced into doing anything you don't want to do, and they work with you on finding a solution that fits your dogs' needs, your morals and values, and your budget. The staff is very friendly and approachable, too. Dr. Kroll was also nice enough to send off my dog's MRI results to a colleague. I really feel like they care. The only thing I would suggest is finding a rug solution!  Maybe sticky paws on the floor to help with traction? Thanks for everything guys. Read Less

Both times I have taken my dog here, they have been great! They are always super friendly and take time to explain all the treatment options available. They're fair with the bill and don't charge you for anything you don't need. I am sitting in the waiting room now to have my dogs stitches removed, and I am really impressed watching every staff members interactions with the patients and the clients. Definitely recommend them! Read Less

Worst veterinary experience I've ever had. They only gave me two options for my very sick cat. A $1400 or $3300 plan for care. I've NEVER had an emergency vet hospital be so cold and merciless and not discuss options or break down a plan but only tell me to choose A or B. The receptionist was nice but a little too perky and smiley while talking to someone who is going through a sad and worrisome time. Tone it down and adapt to the person with whom you're conversing. I would drive to Tanasbourne Veterinary Emergency in Beaverton, Emergency Veterinary Clinic of Tualatin or Dove Lewis in NW Portland, all places I've received wonderful care, rather than ever go back to CRVS. Read Less

My wife and I's 3 year old miniature chihuahua Gunner started having seizures about a month ago. We went to another veterinary clinic that prescribed twice daily phenobarbital. He got a little bit better... and then his got progressively worse over the course of the next month. The medication made him extremely lethargic. When he wasn't laying in his bed, he constantly walked in circles. He wouldn't eat, he couldn't drink. Then he lost his vision and could no longer recognize my wife or I. The morning before we took him to CRVS, he had 4 of the most violent seizures he ever had, each lasting about 3 minutes. After these seizures, he did not come out of the postictal phase. We took him to CRVS and they were very accommodating from the moment we got there. They put a catheter in his leg just in case he had another seizure while he was in the back. They gave us every option for Gunner and expressed concern because he was having seizures at such a young age and having other symptoms that were not indicative of epilepsy.. He had not been himself since he started having seizures. In the end, my wife and I decided we would only be poking and prodding him to keep him around for us, not in the best interest of his health. Our dogs look up to us to make the right decisions for them, and in the end the right decision was to let go. I am so grateful that CRVS was here for us through this time. The Dr. was extremely helpful and empathetic for the difficult decision we had to make. They let us be there when it happened, to comfort Gunner. They gave us our space when we needed it, and when we were ready they let us know the next steps. Thank you CRVS for your amazing service and helpfulness. Thank you for not treating Gunner as another patient, or another accounts receivable. You treated him like your own, and you treated us like family as well. Thank you. Read Less

I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Krull at Columbia River Vet. He's been so great with answering my questions about all the options for my dog, who is having mini-strokes. Her mini-strokes were sporadic so they never happened in front of Dr. Krull. He suggested I send a video of them to him so he could properly diagnose her and he was able to provide me with options over the phone and email after reviewing the video. No other vet has ever been so accommodating in Portland. I really feel like he is treating my dog for her illness and not trying to make money off of me. He's straight forward yet compassionate which is hard to find. If you need a neuro, Dr. Krull is your guy. Read Less

My name is Leesa McCarty, I am using my sons computer. I cannot thank or speak more highly about CRVS. My vet diagnosed our Lilly with Lymphoma on 2/10/16. We went to CRVS within 3 days to speak with the oncologist. After explaining our options, success percentiles and cost, my husband and I decided to let her go and not suffer. Exactly 1 month from that date, it was time to put her down. We went to CRVS and they immediately escorted us into the "comfort" room. It was like sitting in your own living room. The tech came in a told us exactly what to expect and what would happen to her body afterwards since we did not want the ashes. They took Lilly back and put in an IV catheter. In the meantime the Oncologist came in a reassured us about our decision. They brought Lilly back to us and gave her the most wonderful last meal and left us for as long as we wanted to say our final goodbyes. I cannot tell you how comforted my husband and I were and how peacefully she went to heaven. The staff and doctors were genuinly sympathetic and caring. Thank you!!!!! Read Less

Great place.  We've been here a few times and one time to send our precious black lab to heaven. They were so kind and helpful and in a bad situation made it a little better. We come here anytime we have an Emergency!! Highly recommend!! Everyone is always nice Read Less

Took my cat here for a urinary obstruction and ended up having to put the cat down. I have mixed feelings about this clinic:The good:  vet was great, the case manager was great, they treated my cat well and were available for questions. They immediately attempted to ease his pain and provided him great care. The bad: the expenses of boarding an ill pet are crazy inflated. The cost for 12 hours of stay was estimated at 630$, and that's just for boarding and "nurse care". The actual procedure expense was doable but when coupled with boarding and the surgical costs the grand total came to 6-7,000$ with no guarantee that it would prevent it from happening again. Read Less

I cannot in good conscience recommend the services of the Columbia River Veterinary Specialists. Before helping our critically ill dog that was suffering from a blocked urethra and internal hemorrhaging, Dr. Elliott insisted on rerunning several very expensive tests that had just been done days before by our regular veterinarian -- despite holding the results of those recent tests in his hands. Some of these new tests were ostensibly inconclusive, so were run yet again, ultimately resulting in a recommendation of (expensive) surgery.I told Dr. Elliott that I faced what appeared to be a dismal choice: I could lose my dog or lose a few thousand dollars and my dog. Regrettably, euthanasia seemed the least bad option. After much discussion, Dr. Elliott estimated that with the surgery, the dog had about a 70% chance of enjoying another six to twelve good, happy months. My wife and I were thus induced to assent to the surgery. Much to our horror, within hours of Dr. Novo's surgery, the poor creature began suffering from seizures. Acutely concerned about our dog's immediate and long term welfare, we went to CRVS, where we dealt with Dr. Lanaux, the fourth veterinarian in two days. Apparently oblivious to the dog's wretched state, he asked if we wished to begin a chemotherapy regimen. Shocked, I asked if that would relieve the seizures. Dr. Lanaux admitted that it would not and that nothing likely would. The only real option would be to keep the dog heavily sedated indefinitely. Further, the surgery had not stanched the hemmorrhaging. Sadly, the poor creature, now more miserable than ever, had to be euthanized. Despite he nearly $5,000 we had spent over the previous four days for what was clearly a failed therapy, we paid yet another $50 for the euthanasia -- and then not inexpensive options for disposing of the body were proferred. I declined and buried my dog at home. There were neither apologies nor expressions of sympathy. I do not believe that the veterinarians at CRVS are malicious; however, it is clear that they are primarily driven by a business model designed to maximize profits while secondarily serving animals' medical needs. Read Less

I took my dog there because he had been vomiting and having bloody diarrhea and at no time did I ever expect a bill for over $900 for a stay of less the 24 hours . What really bothered me was that they tell you how sick your pet is then they present you with this estimate and then your told you have to come up with every last dime or you can take your animal home because they won't treat him or her , they wont work with you in any way on payment for services so if you don't have the money you might not want to go there! This is the only reason I'm not giving them five stars . Yes they treated my dog and made him well but were all business I didn't feel like the care was anyway personal it was all about the money and not once did I ever get a call after I brought my dog home to see how he was doing being that he was on medication for a week after he was released! Read Less

I was referred to CRVS by my regualr vets message machine for after hour calls. From the minute I made the phone call I knew I would be in good hands. We live about 40 minutes away so we started our journey. When we arrived the techs were out in the waiting area right away taking care of my dog who had been nutered by someone in my neighborhood and left....At the time I was not sure what had happened to him. Everyone was so kind and caring..We made it back to a room and when Dr. Paskowski came in he made himself comfortable on the floor with Bentley. Examined him, was so gentle with him and explained what had happened. i could tell he was as devasted as we were. He explained everything thoroughly to me from cost to care. Everything turned out the way he said. No hidden costs or surprises just caring people. They love what they do there and our there for our pets as well as the """"parents"""".I was at ease through the entire visit. Dr. Paskowski came out again explained all they had down for Bentley and all I had in store for me... I was lucky enough to have Dr. Paskowski and his team but I can only assume the rest of staff would be just as caring and comforting.. If you have an after emergency and don't know what to do, call CRVS you will never regret your choice. Bentley is doing great. It was a holiday weekend and if I would have waited Bentley may not be here with me today. We are blessed to have a pet emergency clinic for our animals. Thank you CRVS team you are absoultey the ""best"" Read Less

I was refered to this clinic for an ultrasound for my mini schnauzer and ended up having to leave her there for a week. They took excellent care of her and ME during the entire ordeal. They explained everything (prices, procedures, etc) thoroughly and made sure that I understood what was happening as I was in complete shock... The doctors and staff are caring, compassionate and dedicated to our best friends. I can't thank them enough. Special thanks to Dr's Paskowski and Dr. Lanaux and James! Read Less