This review is long overdue! MOST of the positive reviews on this Yelp profile were written under the previous management and veterinary team. Since a change in leadership a couple years ago, the entire veterinary staff has turned over. The prior team was excellent, and in hindsight, their departure should have been my first red flag! I brought my senior dog in for a regular checkup, and we discovered two unrelated health concerns -- one chronic condition and one separate illness we were monitoring because it could become worse. I felt strongly pushed toward medicating the chronic issue, even though I had researched that conservative management could sometimes be appropriate for older dogs. When I expressed hesitation, I felt pressured and made to feel guilty for even considering alternatives. The prescribed medication required frequent dose adjustments and repeated lab work, which quickly became expensive. Even though it was explained that finding the correct dosage would take trial and error, I was still required to purchase a full month's supply in advance. When the dosage was changed faster than expected, I was left with unusable medication and no reimbursement. This felt like an unnecessary and avoidable expense. There could have been a system in place to give me only sufficient medication until they figured it out. Meanwhile, we were monitoring the second issue which would later become more serious. Over the course of many visits within a year, we were seen by a different doctor every time, making continuity of care difficult. I also received conflicting recommendations from the different doctors about how to proceed -- including differing opinions on whether intervention was advisable at my dog's age and I was even told that the medication my dog was on for the chronic condition they pushed me to treat a few months ago would conflict with any medication prescribed for the other issue which was now more serious. Why didn't anyone mention that? During one visit, an interaction between staff and my dog led to a required follow-up and unexpected charges. In 15 years of veterinary visits, never had I had an issue like this before. I felt the situation escalated unnecessarily and was not handled with the level of communication or care I would have hoped for. At my final appointment, I specifically scheduled with the one doctor I felt I could trust, but at the last minute I was seen by someone else. Ultimately, I sought care elsewhere and have not looked back. read more

When they were owned by Dr. Hagedorn they were the best vet! I took my animals there for the last 20 years. Now I wouldn't even bother. It is unlikely that you will see the same vet every time. They try and up charge you on tests that are not necessary. I spent thousands in a matter of weeks. And my cats came home sick after the visit. My one cat after 3 or 4 visits was still sick. I switched to another vet and after ONE visit and the correct medication he is fine. (The Good Vet on Main and Chicago) I am so disappointed and disgusted on how they conducted their business now. I will never go there again. What a total racket they have going on over there. Shame on you guys. Truly! read more

The quality of the Veterinary care here is good, but everything else has gone downhill. For example, they can or won't send electronic prescriptions, either they have to snail mail them to you, or you have to go in and pick them up. Once they sold me syringes, but didn't have the actual medication available, then when it was sent to me, I was charged extra. Or just this morning I had to go in again to pick up her prescription, but by the time I walked over to the pharmacy, the pharmacy told me that the vet licensed to prescribe the particular drug. My pet needed had expired two days ago. It's an unending saga, and I honestly would not use them if they were not within walking distance. read more

SHAME ON BRAMER AND PET OWNERS BEWARE! On a Monday, they diagnosed my cat with blocked urethra due to bladder stones and referred us for an ultrasound at a specialty diagnostic center to determine what type of stones. The ultrasound was done the next morning, and I paid extra to rush the results to Bramer that same afternoon. Bramer received the report on Tuesday afternoon and then I waited....Wednesday came and went and they did not respond to a message I left at the office. Thursday afternoon I called and left a voicemail, and no return call. I sent a message through their web form. Friday morning I texted them. It wasn't until Friday afternoon at 2pm that they called back to let me know that my cat would need surgery to clear the blockage - but they couldn't perform the surgery that day and they were closed during the weekend. They also said the surgery couldn't wait until Monday (a full blockage would probably be fatal for my cat) and recommended going to an emergency vet. I called Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) the instant I hung up the phone to let them know I was bringing my cat in (they're 30 minutes away). The representative told me that they weren't the most affordable option, and that getting the surgery in a local vet's office would be $3,000 - $4,000 less expensive, but Bramer didn't leave me that option when they SAT ON THE REPORT, I PAID TO EXPEDITE, FOR THREE DAYS. Bramer left my beloved cat IN PAIN for three days while they did not respond to my messages. That is CRUEL. They referred me to the ultrasound and should have been watching for the report. The extra cost is difficult for me to absorb, but it breaks my heart to think of how many people would be faced with a 5-figure vet bill and would feel no other option than to put their animal to sleep. It is IMMORAL for a vet to force a pet owner to make that decision because of their bad service. I was a loyal client for nearly 20 years and Bramer cared for five of my cats over that time. I will never go back. I've spoken to Evanston friends and neighbors who also used Bramer in the past but have since moved to other veterinary offices. When Bramer was purchased by a corporate owner, not only did all their vets leave the practice, but apparently profits started to be prioritized over the quality of care. Pet owners: do not trust your beloved fur babies to this cold, cruel, and immoral corporate machine. read more

I've been going to Bramer for over twenty years, with five different dogs and two cats. Under Dr. Hagedorn and the other vets working for him, I had nothing but excellent personalized service. August 2025: I've tried to give the new owners the benefit of the doubt. But I've had it. I communicate not with humans, but with bots who send far too many emails. Dr. Hagedorn (and before that, Dr. Rahn) knew my pets by name, they remembered their interactions with my pets and with me. Now I get impersonal service from a different vet every time, with no sense that they care at all about my pet or about keeping me happy as a client. This might as well be a car wash -- nobody there seems to care about anything except running me through the line and collecting their fee. UGH. I recently unsubscribed from their emails -- and even that was handled by a bot. If this had been taken care of by a human, they might have been able to keep me as a client ("we're so sorry you've had a bad experience, Ms. XYZ. We value you as a customer -- what can we do to improve your experience with us?"). But they handled it the way they are handling everything -- automated, with no concern for the customer as a real human being. No thank you. read more

I used Bramer Animal hospital years ago with my first dog and I could count on seeing the same doctor to get consistent care for my pet. Now, the focus seems to be on maximizing the amount of money they can extract from pet owners. Policies are confusing, capricious and inconvenient. Exams are more expensive every year regardless of the number of vaccinations my pet receives. The Bramer Animal Hospital of previous years exists now in name only, and it is a real shame for the community. read more

This review is long overdue. And yes, I know about their recent changes. All I'm offering is my experience, which has not suffered as a result of the change in ownership/management. Bramer has been our vet for 5 dogs over a course of 15 years, give or take. We have never, and I emphasize NEVER, had any issues or concerns with their level of medical knowledge, level of service or professionalism. Everyone we have even met there has been absolutely wonderful, from the vets that have departed to the new vet now and of course to all the vet techs and front office staff. I have also found their pricing to be very reasonable. We have been fortunate to have had such a great vet for our furkids. Most recently they fit us in quickly for last minute shots and paper work and gave us advice on travel meds for the kids. They were just as friendly and helpful as the very first time we walked through their doors. But, now, we are leaving the state and will no longer be able to bring our babies to them and that does make me sad. I only hope lightening strikes twice and that we find another awesome vet. Thank you Bramer for giving Bella, Hampton, Napoleon, Cooper and Winnie the attention they needed and for always being there for them. They have their tags and meds and are ready to travel! read more

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Two dogs over twenty years. Bramer has been a really wonderful place to us. The admin, vet techs and vets have always been efficient, warm and comforting when needed. The first dog was there all the time and through all her issues, no matter which vet we saw, we got top notch treatment. Our second dog seems to be a little sturdier so we go less often. We have appreciated having a consistent level of care and expertise that is also friendly and welcoming. Highly recommend. Editing to add a note of distress about the long time vets leaving now that Bramer is under new ownership. I am troubled by this, and now sure how it will affect my relationship with Bramer going forward. My review is based solely on my experiences with staff that have left the practice. read more

I was told my 4 yr old cat needed two teeth pulled and when it came to surgery day and they put him under, they called me last minute and said they had to actually pull 8 teeth and I had 5 minutes to say yes or no. I said yes because I was concerned for his health but I ended up having to spend thousands of dollars. (He never showed any signs of pain when it came to his teeth) Then the doctor was apparently feeling too sick to talk to me when I came to pick up my cat. After they up charged me for a few other things I slowly realized that he probably did not need to have 8 teeth pulled. My other friends have also had experiences like this at bramer after the management changed and they also switched. I don't think they have you and your pet in their best interests! read more

Our cat, Nessa, is our precious kitty and we love her like a daughter. As a result, excellent vet care is of primary importance to us. That is why we are a tried and true Bramer Animal Hospital family: we want the best! We have now been seeing Dr. Valerie Schoen for 4 years now over the past 6 years and she has become like family. She treats Nessa how we treat Nessa: with love, kindness, and care. She is an expert at what she does and always knows exactly what advice and care to give to keep our Nessa happy and healthy. She also is equitable and will not try to upsell you. These positives are particularly notable because (1) the first year we moved to Evanston, we tried a different vet clinic (Broadway) and the Doctor was extremely rude and treated Nessa like a business-transaction object. We found Bramer the next year and LOVED it. However, we moved in the city (Chicago) in 2018 and tried a local vet (West Loop). (2) This vet shamed us into getting a round of special bloodwork, but failed to tell us it cost $260. We walked away with the largest bill by 4 times that we'd ever seen before Although Bramer is a far drive for us, the care and trust we built there was enough for us to return in 2019. We've gone back every year since and will continue with Bramer as long as we love in Chicagoland. We've also noticed that some vets prioritize dogs over cats. Our experience at Broadway reflected this. Bramer and Dr. Schoen have always made it clear that they treat all pets with equal respect, love, and care. As a result, this is a safe place for all pets! If you haven't found the right vet, or are disappointed with your current vet, I highly recommend you consider visiting Bramer! You won't be disappointed! Finally, we have appreciated the safety measures taken by Bramer during the pandemic! Thanks for keeping all of us safe! But we are also excited to hear Bramer will be opening up along with the state in mid June. It'll be great being back together. Thanks for being a part of our family, Bramer and Dr. Schoen. See you next time read more

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I took my cats here for many years and was happy. However, under the new management (2024) prices have gone up more than 2x to very crazy levels. The new vet also pushes for tests and other items that might not be completely necesary (I paid over 600$ for blood tests for my cat that led nowhere). It just doesn't feel anymore like a place where they have your best interests in mind. I moved to a practice in Northbrook (where one of the doctors that used to work here is now working) and I am happy with them. Prices are reasonable and the interest is in getting the pet healthy, not just squeezing money out of you. I would not recommend this place anymore. read more

Our dog is particular. She's little and easily frightened. She is 7 years old, and Bramer took decent care of her in the past. They won't let owners stay with their dogs, when they take them in back. When the place was sold, all the DVMs left. We now got the Dr. du jour. On one occasion a couple of years ago when they took her in back to trim her nails, she was highly agitated when she came out. The last time they tried to trim her nails, she wasn't having it. They gave me tranquilizers to feed her. If she wouldn't take the pills, they have liquid you can force into their mouths. She's never needed tranquilizers before. What changed? She needs a routine physical & Lepto shot in August and a Rabies inoculation in September. Only a doctor can give the rabies vaccine. I asked if a tech could do the Lepto in August and we'll have a doctor do the Rabies shot and exam in September, saving me $$$. No, the doctor has to do both the exam in August and the Rabies shot in September, making more $$$ for Bramers. I'm thinking what we need is a calm, patient vet who is cost-conscious and lets me stay with Baby. What we don't need are tranquilizers! read more

Hope Yelp readers will click on "Newest Reviews" first to see what has happened to Bramer under private equity. I'm a longtime customer at Bramer and ever since its owner, Dr. Hagedorn, sold the animal clinic to a private equity firm called NVA, the service has been...I have no words. Four of their longtime veteranarians have departed; no one answers the phone; it's impossible to make appointments. Do not take your pets here as of October 2023! More details on Bramer's private-equity owner: https://peprofessional.com/blog/2019/06/17/ares-omers-sell-nva-jab/ read more

Absolutely not. They've sold to a private equity firm and they're treating their longtime clients with disrespect and dishonesty. I'm so disappointed in the owner selling like this and the communication from the staff during and since. Won't ever be back. Following my vet to her new position. read more

I have been a client of Bramer Animal Hospital for nearly 20 years, I believe. They have had four of our dogs as patients, and so I have seen nearly every doctor there, because sometimes one of your dogs finds something the squirrels drop in your yard and eats it, or your dog gets sick, hurts their shoulder, gets cancer, etc. So I have definitely been to Bramer for more than routine visits. I believe they always got it right. My dogs enjoyed long happy lives. (My current "puppy" is a spry 14 year old dachshund we adopted when she was 7.) And they have been super compassionate when the dog's life in this world is over. I find all the Doctors to be super knowledgeable and caring to the animals. I receive all lab results back in a timely fashion. The front desk staff are always helpful and follow through with appointments, medicine refills, appointment reminders, clear invoicing and much much more. I am always treated with respect. Oh, and they run on time! I have never been left waiting a long time! I will be a client of Bramer's for hopefully a long time to come! read more

Bramer Animal Hospital - A happy and healthy Bramer Animal Hospital client. - Veterinarians Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

Bramer has been our vet for many years (40+) and they have taken exceptional care of our pets, dogs and cats. We've always appreciated their compassionate care. We are hopeful that the example set by Dr. Hagedorn continues through whomever comes in to lead the practice. read more

I am SO sad that Dr. Hagedorn is retiring! All of the vets at Bramer who have ever seen our cats have been just great, but Dr. Hagedorn, who has treated our cats for the past 25 years, is truly exceptional. We're going to feel lost without him, and I will miss him very much. He saved our Frenchie's life last year. She was 13, and suddenly became desperately sick with some kind of liver problem. This was during the height of the pandemic lockdown, and Dr. Hagedorn made time for us to bring her to him every day for 8 days in a row. It was touch and go for a while, but Dr. H.'s instincts for how to treat her were spot-on, and he pulled her through. Today, she is strong, healthy, and happy, and will reach her milestone birthday of 15 on November 13th. Dr. Hagedorn has patiently advised and guided us in the care of our cats with his great store of insight and knowledge and many years of experience. And he really cares! He always advocates for whatever approach is the least stressful, uncomfortable, or painful for the cat. And he never pushed for unnecessary measures. We feel so lucky to have had him for our cats' vet all these years, and we are immensely grateful to him. We will continue to bring our pets to Bramer, and we hope to for many years to come. The entire hospital and staff are caring, competent, and compassionate. They have our continuing trust, and we highly recommend this hospital to anyone in need of veterinarian services. read more

Bramer Animal Hospital - Minnie and Frenchie Klein, March 2021. - Veterinarians Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

I used to highly recommend Bramer Animal Hospital and they come to me highly regarded. But they made an already stressful and difficult day of having to put my cat down worse. While I understand they have policies, the were rude, dismissive, and nasty and didn't even their records correct. I will never use them again or recommend them to anyone. It seems like they only want to see pets when it's easy money: a quick check up or a shot. For anything else, the answer is always take them Somewhere else like the emergency center that they love to send you too. While my pet was dying I would expect an animal hospital to at least show a little compassion. Not make me feel worse. read more

We have been bringing our cats to Bramer for almost twenty years and just love everything about the hospital. The staff are wonderful, knowledgeable, and compassionate. We had to say goodbye to one of our cats a few years ago and felt complete trust and support through that emotional process. More recently, our other cat had to undergo surgery for an intestinal issue and continues to need support, and he actually seems to look forward to getting in the carrier to see Dr. Swiatkowski (I don't mean to single anyone out because everyone there is great) whose calm and reassuring manner puts our cat at ease. He's also had to deal with another cat of ours who was, suffice to say, a bit of a hellion--but Dr. Swiatkowski handled her with aplomb. All in all, I definitely recommend Bramer to anyone who needs a vet. They're fantastic. read more

Yes they are busy, yes they will direct you to an emergency vet if your pet is having an emergency (unless they have a spot at the given time). But if you ask me, that's just common sense. I've been bringing my dog here for seven years, ever since we found out he had a chronic lung disease. Dr Driscoll was not only the best vet I have ever had the pleasure to work with, but was also just a good human being. Even though she has left the place, I still bring my dog here. The level of care your pet receives is well worth every penny that you spend there. As long as I am in the area I will be taking my pets here. read more

Bramer Animal Hospital has a wonderful history of outstanding animal care, of which we've happily been a part of for the last 10 years. Unfortunately, the pandemic and new ownership and new management have brought many changes, none of them for the good of the clients. So, as of now, none of the vets responsible for this practice's proud history--as in not one single vet whose work is reviewed on yelp before today -- works at Bramer Animal Hospital anymore. Called today to make an appointment to find that Bramer doesn't have a single permanent vet on staff. All have left the practice. They are operating entirely with "relief" vets. So I'm here on yelp today looking for a new practice. read more

I have been bringing my pets to Bramers since 1991, back when Dr. Hagedorn wasn't the seasoned veteran he is now. I can not speak highly enough about every single veterinarian, vet tech, office and reception workers. Sincerely, this is a group of individuals who are absolutely compassionate when our animals have been ill or had to be euthanized. They never recommend expensive tests unless they are absolutely necessary - even recommending against procedures that would have earned them a sunbtantial amount. read more

This may prove the hardest review I have ever written. I can not speak any higher of the amazing Dr. Retseck. From the very first moment we brought our cat Freya in to have Dr. Retseck take a look at the lump that had formed on her paw, we felt the care and love she has for her job, her patient, and the families. She was gently and caring when she had to deliver the news to us that it tested positive as Cancer, and from that point forward was the most clear and concise as to our options and paths of anyone we talked to. She was attentive and helpful to our extra calls and e-mails as we set on our course to combat the awful virus that had formed in our little girl. Her patient after care and helpfulness is honestly second to none, and she helped us feel like we had someone on our side who cared and was open to the overflowing amount of questions and concerns we had. She went above and beyond to provide us names and information on procedures that were beyond Bramer's ability and even continued to take our calls when the other Vet Hospital was lacking in answers, help, and customer care. This all equated to a result of a successful surgery and clean margins post amputation. Most importantly I will forever be grateful to her for the way she handled when the Cancer returned. Sometimes you can do everything right, but Cancer is unforgiving and it stacks the deck against you. Less than two months after we got those clean margins from the other vet, Dr. Retseck had to deliver the news that it was back and in Freya's chest/Lymphnodes. Once again we were treated with the utmost care and concern by Dr. Retseck and she stood by us giving us care and guidance through our remaining months with Freya. Although my wife and I are heartbroken by the loss of our baby girl far far too early, we are so very grateful to have had Dr. Retseck's care and guidance. Thank you Dr. Retseck for making one of the hardest times in our lives a little less scary and helping us to feel less alone. read more

Bramer Animal Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

I have upgraded my review because of how Stephanie handled everything. We had a prescription in to CVS that was not being refilled, they said that they sent a message to Bramer to get it refilled. I called Beamer and they said they never received it, it was sent to a doctor who is no longer there. Wouldn't you think they would have a general receiving end for this?! Then she said you haven't been here for over a year. Yes, I said, we have, Well, she said that doctor is gone now too and a new doctor has to see you in order to refill. I was so upset, our dog has seizures and she is down to one pill! Stephanie took the brunt of it all, not to mention I had the flu and could not get in there. She called the next morning and said she talked to the new doctor and they will send in a two week script until we can get in. Mind you, it still does not make sense to me since we have been in there within a year, but if I were Stephanie I'd be scared to talk to me again, I give her a lot of credit, they are lucky to have her. read more

I can not praise Bramer enough. Dr Retseck has been our regular vet but on occasion we've seen other doctors as well. From the time I first adopted her until I had to make the hard decision to say goodbye they've made us both feel welcome, loved, and well cared for. From routine care to emergency care they have done an excellent job. 2 years ago on Christmas Eve she developed an infection in her toe nail. They got her in that day then communicated with me on the phone over the next week. Their front desk staff and veterinary techs and assistants have always been really good too. read more

The two good doctors that I've been taking my babies to for years left after the new management took over the hospital.... I will no longer be going there. read more

a Always thankful for the knowledgeable and helpful staff!! Thank you Bramer! We have been customers for 30 years and trust our animals with you! read more

We had been very happy with the care given to four cats over 25+ years, including seeing two senior cats through their final days. HOWEVER, in 2023 the new ownership since Dr. Hagedorn retired & sold the practice has managed to drive away every DVM we've seen there. Drs. Bellamy, Schoen, Retseck, and Swiatkowski are all gone or leaving within a calendar year. Time for a permanent change for our cats. read more

The staff are very friendly and extremely helpful. The waiting area is comfortable and relaxed. My cats see Dr. Swiatkowski, who is a great vet. He takes great care of my cats while talking with me. He puts the cats and me at ease. It's always good to see him and I have great confidence in him as a vet. I've been taking my cats to Bramer for years. I highly recommend them. read more

Brought my 2 puppies here since Dr Schoen did such an excellent job with my other dog. She is still amazing and knows how to interact with dogs (of course and their moms!) Very pleased that she answered my questions thoroughly and addressed all my questions. Definitely recommend! read more

We have sad, mixed feeling about Bramer Animal Hospital. We took many, many cats to them for many years. They were great and kind and helpful and patient. But their attitude is "wait and see". This cost our cats a lot of time that could have been spent getting better. For some, it was too late. Due to Covid, we had to switch to an animal hospital that is a lot closer to our home. The new hospital is much more pre-emptive in their approach - suggesting more tests and diagnostics. This can get expensive, but at least we are forewarned and know our options. We now left with feelings of regret that we did not act sooner for some of our cats and do more preventative tests. I think Bramer can do more to give people the full range of options/alternatives, instead of their usual cautious (cost-saving?) approach. I am still very grateful to Bramer for years of help. But we will not be returning :( read more

This is a very, very good veterinary practice, both the doctors and the support and admin staff. They have gone above and beyond to take care of our cat (and me!) over the last 9 years, and if we weren't changing countries there is no way we would ever leave Bramer. If you are looking for a vet, look no further. This is the one. read more

Bramer Animal Hospital - The Cat Himself - Veterinarians Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

I cannot recommend this vet highly enough. I have been taking my dogs there for over 15 years. They are compassionate, knowledgeable and couldn't be more responsive to their clients. Recently our aging lab has had multiple and different issues going on. Several times we thought he was near the end and every time they fit us in and accommodated Blues health needs. Dr Ken Swiatkowski is hands down the best vet I have ever experienced. He is the best possible combination of highly intelligent and competent but equally caring. He is also super dedicated to his patients calling after hours, texting on days off. I will always be grateful for how wonderfully they served both my dogs. read more

I recently took my cat in for her annual checkup. Dr. Katherine Bellamy did a great job! She is thorough, knowledgeable and so kind to my pets. I know she is leaving Bramer. I will be so sad to see her go! read more

The absolute best doctors. Not only fully informed but communicative, empathic, patient, and kind. Truly everything we could hope for in vets. read more

Great place to bring your cat for annual check-up. Staff is friendly and helpful. Wilbur the cat seems happy and so am I.

I recently transferred my animals to Bramer and couldn't be happier. Dr. Resnick (sp) is professional, but personable, and seemed very comfortable examining my kitties when I brought them in for their annual vaccines/exam. The front-office staff are friendly and efficient and very compassionate. When Dr. Resnick took my kitties to the back to administer their shots, I could hear the vet techs through the walls gushing about how sweet and cooperative my kitties were being. Felt kind of like a proud mama! lol From appointment setting to check-in, exam and check-out, the entire process was seamless, with minimal wait times throughout the process. I look forward to building my relationship with this hospital. I was with my previous vet on and off for more than 20 years. He's retired now and the clinic just isn't the same--plus it's a 20-minute drive from where I now live in Evanston. Bramer's is only 5 minutes away. I am happy I finally made the switch. read more

Bramer Animal Hospital - The three amigos - Veterinarians Near Me - Evanston, Illinois

My fabulous vet! I drive out of my way to take my pup here, and my brother goes here too, they're very good. The layout of the office is v. good too - easy to get nervous animals in and out w/o too much interaction w/ other nervous animals - if that is an issue with your pet. read more

While happy to administer regular shots and dispense overpriced meds, when I called this morning reporting that my dog was uncomfortable and scooting on the carpet, I was just told they had ONE appointment an hour from now (which I cannot make happen) or I'd have to wait until November. Now that's what I call customer service. STAY AWAY! read more

Just a great all around, well run veterinary operation. I moved there from another vet who had retired and sold his business about 10 years ago and I was not happy with them at all (we have had dogs and cats since 1983). Switched to Bramer based on advice from friends and I cannot recommend them highly enough. 5 stars! read more