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Can't stop raving about this place!
Maybe more so because the day prior, had the WORST SCAM experience at Urgent Paw Care in Duarte.
So where do we start... Our family dog got viciously attacked by a pitbull while taking his daily walk on a leash. We took him to our vet right away, but really couldn't see any marks due to his dense hair, but was advised by the vet, if we see anything, come right back. The following week while giving him a bath, that's when we noticed a puncture in his skin the size of a quarter! We took him right back to the vet and he advised we go somewhere where they would accommodate surgery if needed.
After calling MULTI places, I finally found Urgent Paws (and although it was 15miles out) we decided with all the great reviews, we would take him here.
On the phone, the assistance was great, and even when we walked in (we were the ONLY ones there) the VA's where great. Gentle with the dog, caring, petting him for assurance. Then we waited for almost 15mins + for Dr. Brown to come in. Right off the bat, her vibe was not assuring. My dog did not feel comfortable with her AT ALL. From the door, she had the VA give us a muzzle to put on my dog (which I understand for some dogs may get vicious). She then comes, checks his pulse, just LOOKS at the wound (doesn't even TOUCH IT) and walks out. 15+mins later, the VA comes in with the estimate of procedure.
The exam fee was $141
They stated we needed surgery (once again without even really LOOKING at his wounds) and the cost would be $2500+ - $3500+ depending. AND that doesn't guarantee that they would be even ABLE to finish the procedure. If during the procedure they feel they cannot finish, then we would need to get transferred to ANOTHER facility.
They told me I can get some time to think about it, BUT if I decide to come back the next day, since it would be ANOTHER doctor that would be looking at our dog, they would charge us ANOTHER $75 and the assessment from THAT doctor might be different. WHAT!
It seemed like they were just out there for the money..
So, I decided to call my friends with pets and contacted The Veterinary Care Center in Hollywood. They were REALLY friendly, and I got a spot for the next day @ 10:30am. When we arrived, staff was great. Didn't have to wait long for Dr. Klem to come in. He was SO friendly, even got comfortable with my dog, and was looking around his whole body not just for that one injury, but incase he had others from the attack.
They gave me different options, but I was told that he did NOT need surgery, and if they cleaned the wound, it would eventually heal itself within a month. BUT If we really did want surgery, it would cost $1500 - $1900 (due to his age and weight). OMG! The best place ever! AND their assessment charge was only $85 VS Urgent Paws $141..
Urgent Paw's Fee $141 (nothing done)
The Veterinary Care Center Fee $455.65 (everything included with a happy dog)
Thank you so much!
I also called them 3 days after our visit to get our records to make a police report and they were SO friendly, quick, and even asked how our dog was doing!
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I've had my dog for 13 years, and of the 10 years I've lived in LA, I've usually come to VCC.
Overall, I've had a great experience with them. Dr. Christian Amezcua did a tumor removal for my sweet girl Ellie when she had a mast cell tumor, and did a wonderful job. It gave her another 3 years of life. And after each treatment/surgery, they provided statements quickly so I could get reimbursed through insurance.
My dog Ellie became extremely ill this past week, and I brought her to VCC. The staff was warm and friendly, and urged me to go to MASH for an emergency doctor since there weren't any doctors available that day. After MASH provided a critical diagnosis, I brought her to VCC the next day to help her transition on. Dr. Rachel Brownell was my doctor that day and she listened thoroughly, help me reach a very hard conclusion, and held very sacred space as I held Ellie in her final moments.
Not every appointment was a perfect one over the last 10 years, but I do think all the doctors and staff here try their best to give you as many resources and options as possible for your fur baby. Thanks VCC!
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I came to this clinic during one of the most difficult moments a pet owner can face to discuss euthanasia for my 13-year-old dog, who is suffering and can barely walk.
For transparency, dogs are weighed and evaluated first, and if they are over a certain weight, the cost increases. Euthanasia is not guaranteed and is at the veterinarian’s discretion, which I understand.
What made this experience extremely upsetting was the lack of compassion and professionalism shown. Despite clearly explaining my dog’s condition, I was repeatedly pressured to try medications after I had already said no. Dr. Sherman stated that my request for euthanasia was “out of convenience” and described it as controversial, which was incredibly hurtful given my dog’s age and declining quality of life.
Dr. Sherman mentioned that there was a list of other clinics that provide euthanasia services. However, when I asked the front desk for this list, they refused to provide it. Instead, staff discussed my situation openly at the front desk, within earshot. I heard staff members talking about my request and making judgmental comments implying that I had decided to put my dog down without trying anything.
One front desk staff member even suggested, in a dismissive tone, that I could surrender my dog to a shelter if I wanted him euthanized. Being spoken to this way while dealing with an elderly, suffering pet was completely inappropriate and deeply upsetting.
While Dr. Sherman ultimately declined to perform the euthanasia which I respect the way the situation was handled lacked empathy, privacy, and basic respect. No pet owner should be made to feel judged or shamed during such a painful decision.
The exam fee was $85. If you are seeking compassionate end-of-life care, I recommend looking elsewhere. I personally had a much better experience with Honor Pet.
I hope this clinic takes this feedback seriously and improves staff professionalism and empathy, especially during end-of-life situations.
