When you walk into the BVSPCA there's a wall with the names and dates of the animals who have been there the longest. Why then would they rush animals through - who were brought in as strays and had names attached to their microchip? It'svery interesting to me that a non profit who prides themselves on being "good guys" is worried primarily with image. Their CEO Adam Lamb makes over 400,000 a year and Mike Kaviani their COO makes over 100,000. My indoor outdoor cat was taken there and adopted out. The details of which are unnecessary as my legal standing is moot. I will never see my cat again. An animal I adopted and had for seven years. I'm writing this review to inform people of three things... first, is that if you adopt there is a chance your animal could be sick - there's no way they did necessary tests in the amount of time they had my cat. Second, there's a chance an owner could come forward and claim your pet. Third - I wrote a review before ... and was contacted by Mike Kaviani personally. During that call he asked me to remove my reviews. Which I obliged. I've noticed the goal, was and will continue to be damage control but I'd like to directly speak to Mike in this review and say that since it takes negative reviews to get your attention... maybe you will change your policies. I honestly believe that at the very least I can use this opportunity to save someone else from the heartbreak my four children are experiencing. read more

I'm truly sad to be writing this review, mostly because my heart breaks for my foster dog. My dog passed away three years ago, and I wanted to pour my time and energy into helping a dog who needed a break from the shelter. I had never fostered before, but I genuinely wanted to make a difference. I filled out the "Be a Foster" form online and was told someone would contact me--but I never received a call or any follow-up. I had participated in several shelter skip days with them, so one day I went in person and asked if I could do a skip day and overnight, with the hope of eventually fostering. I took home a dog named Wreck It Ralph overnight, which then turned into a foster situation. Unfortunately, I was given almost no direction or support. I wasn't provided bowls, a crate, paperwork, or guidance--just his medications and a small bag of food. Eventually, they texted me some paperwork. Because it was so difficult to reach anyone, I had to return in person several times just to get basic information or items that were needed . The coordinator repeatedly told me he had called me back, but I never once received a phone call--even after confirming he had the correct number. I ended up fostering Ralph for 42 days and got to know him very well. On two separate occasions, I sent detailed write-ups about his personality and behavior to help him get adopted. Even after speaking directly with the manager, Rebecca, I never received so much as a courtesy email acknowledging that my messages were received. The website was never updated with helpful foster-based information, and they chose not to use any of the updated photos I sent of Ralph after he gained some weight and his personality started shining through, continuing instead to use older skip day photos from before his foster. I see other foster dogs profiles written with updates from their foster parents, and updated photos of them in foster care. Why is my dog and experience so different? It's not even about me but making sure Ralph is set up for success and he's just not. This was incredibly disappointing, especially as my first foster experience. I was proud to give Ralph time to decompress, feel safe, and show his true personality outside of the shelter. Sadly, this organization made me feel completely undervalued, as if my experience and insight into the dog didn't matter at all. I know fosters are hard to find, which makes this even more disheartening. I would absolutely foster again--but I will be looking to another shelter. This one offered little support, lacked professionalism, and didn't even provide the basic courtesy of acknowledging feedback or communication. read more

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I had a great experience at the West Chester SPCA. I came in on a weekend and although it was quite busy with intakes and people coming in and out, the staff was great. Our heart strings were pulled towards a small dog named Cheeko who was on quarantine at the time. Since he was still quarantining we weren't able to play with him or touch him but one of the girls happily dressed up in protective gear so we could see him interact with her to see his temperament. We ended up getting him and he has been such a wonderful addition to our family. The staff has been amazing throughout the adoption process and very knowledgeable. They gave me clear instructions and information for his wellness visit and scheduled him to be neutered (which was included in the cost). I know your job is thankless at times so thank you for all that you do for these fur babies. Thank you! read more

Brandywine Valley SPCA - Puppy - Pet Services Near Me - West Chester, Pennsylvania

Would give zero if I could. Adopted female kitten with obvious head tilt brought her back concerned they kept her for days because the vet wasn't there then said nothing they can do to remove polyp in ear. Take her somewhere else that can do it. They also spayed her and glued the incision shut which the kitten licked open and is now infected 2 weeks later. Called told them it's been just over 2 weeks they said bring her in right away. After a 50 minute drive we get there then they say sorry, it's over 14 days so you need to take her to the clinic who isn't even open for another 2 days. They aren't somewhere I'd recommend - for anything. read more

I adopted a beautiful dog from here and he was so sick that he died one month later, I wasn't told anything about his condition. I spent almost $2000.00 in vet bills and couldn't save him . My whole family was devastated, we had just lost our 14 year old rottie just 2 months prior and then we lost our new adopted dog, we lost 2 dogs in 3 months! read more

I am updating my yelp, once I spoke directly with their office and explained everything, they dud all they could to fix the situation. I appreciate how much they care for the animals and want the best for them. Special shout out to aj who did great follow up thru our situation. My pet is now happy and healthy. I am recommending my brother go there to adopt as well. read more

While my adoption story was heartbreaking and ended in euthanasia, I must commend the SPCA organization for an immediate follow up. Not only did the CEO call me directly, he shared his plan for implementing a new policy for animals relocated from other states. I don't think it gets better than that. Further he will provide assistance in locating a new pet for me to adopt. I think the lesson learned is that potential adopters need to stay in touch with the organization if issues arise. Many adopters walk out the door and never interact with staff again. I don't think my ending would've been different, but I think it may help someone in the future. read more

This facility does so much good for pets in need! The kennel workers clearly care so much about all of the animals in their facility. They get to know them, give them love and great care while they are there. They ask alot of quesrions about what you are looking for in a pet to ensure they make a great match. And they get so excited when someone gets adopted into a forever home. They offer so many amazing resources to you upon adopting your new family member. They even followed up with us a few days after we brought our new baby home to check on how things are going. I've adopted from here a couple of times and will always support Brandywine read more

All the cats in the main area were sneezing or coughing. The others were sleeping so I hope they were ok. It was upsetting to see. There was an awful smell in the cat room (not a cat smell) and it was so humid in there. The smell was overpowering. The dogs either looked sad were aggressive growling and barking and there was no one monitoring this. It was busy but this is not ok. read more

Great and friendly service at the Lancaster branch. Very helpful and nice staff, answered all our questions that they could.

We adopted a dog on Sunday 8/3/2025 at 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester PA. We were told that he was in good health that day. We took him home and that night he started coughing and not eating. We thought something isn't right. So my husband took him back to get him checked on 8/5/25 and was told he had an upper respitory infection and they gave him medicine for the upper respiratory infection and the not eating. Then the next day 8/6/25 he was worse his breathing was grumbly and he still wasn't eating and he was coughing up mucus and drooling down the front of himself and watering from his eyes. So we took him to our vet and found out he had a severe case of pnemonia and needed oxygen treatment and medicine to get better asp or he'd die. Our vet could not belive the shape he was in and how someone could let a person adopt such a sick dog when he was suppose to be in good health. Called spca and they said they had they oxygen treatment there and so we took him back up for the oxygen treatment. We were to get updates on how he was doing and we havent gotten any info yet.We even called and left messages still no update on him. We were told we would get the updates so you should follow through with that. Every time we call we don't get a straight answer or have to leave a message on voicemail. We want to get him back in good health. Once he's home with us and in good health I will never ever adopt from here ever again. You say your a no kill center and you care about animals but you sure don't show it when you let an animal be adopted when they are not in good health. As for the staffing there are a few that were nice but there are some that should not assume things before knowing the truth and open your fucking eyes if a animal has slobbered mucus that dosen't normally its possible they are very sick. So you need to update your training and care of those animals that you put up for adoption and you need to make sure you tell the adopters the truth and not lie about the medical history. I am so angry and frustrated that my adopted dog has to go through what he's going through. If i could give you a zero rate I would. read more

Many kind animal lovers helping make matches - did NOT appreciate the pet insurance hard sell before they would finalize our match!

Staff is very rude and condescending. Also they don't always tell the truth. Last year my girlfriend adopted a cat that they told her was perfectly healthy just to find out that her sweet girl had a very bad heart murmur. Highly recommend going to a different shelter when adopting read more

TLDR: Do yourself a favor and choose another rescue that doesn't allow their dogs and cats to spread illness and respects those paying for their services. My experience with BVSPCA dates back to October 2022. My husband and I were interested in rescuing a cat (or possibly a dog) when we moved to the area. Each time we visited over the next year, all cats were sick. The dogs were neglected, sitting in their own urine or feces, water bowls constantly dirty, and sick. Because of these consistent conditions over the span of ONE YEAR, we decided it was best to use another rescue that values the health and wellbeing of their animals. After we rescued our two kittens from a different (and much better) organization, we were able to schedule them for spay. 24-hours before the spay, we found out it would be at BVSPCA. Because one was already in heat and we were unable to get them in with our local vet, we had no choice but to allow the spay to occur at BVSPCA. I gave them one more chance. Well, my mistake for doing that. When calling to request a check-in from the team at BVSPCA because they were still under their care, the woman working the phones on 11/29 at 2:50pm was extremely rude and condescending. Lady, YOU took a position at this organization, you are there by CHOICE. Not sure how doing your job is so inconvenient when someone is calling; in which you are clearly NOT qualified due to your low intelligence warranting you to put others down, your urge to instantly become defensive over simple questions, and your poor customer service. I will never EVER recommend BVSPCA to anyone seeking medical care or adoption. To Brandywine: based on the previous reviews, it seems as if it's time for a change for the benefit of your organization moving forward. read more

Writing this for others who have a misconception of the SPCA as I did. Have a feral cat, was told try to befriend it, better chance for adoption. I put food out and realized there are MANY cats here. Spent a month befriending these cats. Was told bring them in Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday between 9-9:30am. Very small timeframe, was difficult to do. After trapping a cat on a Thursday, I drove to Malvern, I was told Dr. was not in, cat would not be accepted. Had to take cat back home & release in the woods. Other cats saw this one being trapped. Now none will come to me. In addition if this was successful, rules are I get cats back to be released into the woods. After several calls, I spoke to district manager Kim, was told me someone would call me about the situation, never got a call. At a loss now, too many cat, no support from SPCA. read more

I went to drop off some gently used toys and the remainder of my dog's puppy food because the vet gave me the okay to transition to adult food. I decided to give them the puppy food along with the container I had stored it in, seeing that I purchased a new one as well. I wasn't sure where to put it and when I had asked, the lady in a rude tone said, "Right over there." I get they were busy at the time when I was there, but after that encounter/experience I had, I think I will be dropping off future donations to Lucky Dawg Animal Rescue or Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue instead. read more

I went to four shelters and a private rescue before making the drive to Brandywine Valley SPCA. Their website was great and convinced me to make the trip. They seem to be on top of keeping it updateThey had so many more dogs than everywhere else I had tried. The selection included every size, age and personality. We had lots of requirements regarding age, getting along with kids and other animals and they had several for us to chose from. The volunteers were amazing and helpful. The staff was great, although they were crazy busy the day we were there (a Sunday). Long story short, we found the sweetest dog. He has fit well into our crazy family and we love him dearly. Keep up the good work! Need a puppy, dog, cat or kitten? Go here. read more

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Sgt White is a great ambassador for Brandwine he has the patience and courage to speak freely but he is also very capable in making sure that you understand the situation and the work it may take for individuals to make a difficult decision easier if they need guidance or counseling on how to respond in a uncomfortable situation that they find themselves overwhelmed his demeanor and leadership skills are very valuable to our community and the organization I believe read more

Got a call from Mike and had a nice conversation with him. Reassured me that I would get a refund for the troubles that I went through, I have still not have received my refund. Very unprofessional person and place to deal with. read more

I recently needed to have my 15 1/2 year old dog, that was deaf and blind put to sleep. I was dreading this moment. The SPCA not only took outstanding care of my pet, that yes I considered a family and my first born, they took great care of me as well. Everything was explained in advance as well as explained while it was happening. I was provided all the time I needed at every stage before the process moved forward. Once I was told he was gone I was then left with him alone as long as I needed. All workers there provided tissues as well as their condolences. I never had to send one of my beloved animals to heaven before and thankfully the compassion and care we were both shown made it a little easier. Thank you for that, I will be forever grateful. read more

Brandywine Valley SPCA - Pet Services Near Me - West Chester, Pennsylvania

Two experiences in the last 3 months. First with our cat. We adopted him as a kitten through a local rescue. The rescue uses BVSPCA for spays and neuters once the kittens are at least 4lbs. Our boy went through surgery fine, but ended up with ringworm a week after his neuter. It was terrible for him to be locked away from his siblings, but we didnt want to risk spreading it tonour other pets. We tried calling but never heard back from anyone. Our vet treated the ring worm, and after a month of quarantine, he was much better. Just a couple of weeks ago. We brought our great dane to be neutered. I spoke to a wonderful woman on the phone (in April) who got him scheduled as quickly as possible . Due to his large size, I was told they only had one extra large dog kennel available. I was fine with the three week wait as everyone else was booking into August/September or wouldn't take on a giant breed. Upon arrival for his surgery date, they did not have him in the schedule. Honestly, I should have taken this as a sign not to leave him there. The manager was called, and we were told to wait until all the drop offs were completed to see if they would have room for my boy. Surgery went well, but two days later, he started urinating blood with clots and coughing. Incalled several times to the number given on the business card. No response or callbacks. Went to the BVSPCA. Was told by a kennel staff member that the only vet on duty was working with the shelter animals, not on the animal hospital side and to call my vet. I then called the main number (two hours north of us). I was told the only location open would be Wilmington, but I wouldn't get there before they closed and to call our vet. Got antibiotics and had a urinalysis done at our vet. Our boy had a RAGING uti. Bad enough that our vet wanted to do further blood work to be sure his liver and kidneys were OK. He is 2.5 yrs old and has never had urinary issues. Turns out he also contracted kennel cough and then gave it to our three senior dogs. I called as soon as the BVSPCA was open again. Explained the situation and that now over the weekend our other dogs have gotten sick. The response from the front desk was, "Well, what do you want us to do about it?" with a very rude tone. I asked if they would see our dane or our other dogs. They said for a $65 examination fee per dog including the dane, that was just neutered, and we would have to pay for medications. Thank God we have an amazing vet. We have spent over $1500 in the last two weeks on vet visits, emergency visits, multiple medications, nebulizers (due to respiratory distress), and trying to get our babies better. We are still struggling. Our dane has lost 20lbs due to his illnesses. He was already lean to begin with. I have left voicemails with the main office as well as the local office with zero luck. I understand that it's a risk to take your dog anywhere, but to be so nonchalantly and rudely brushed off with the above comment and then no phone calls or follow up... it is beyond unacceptable. read more

First of all, anyone who donates time and money to this organization, I thank you . Everyone has been helpful when I come in to donate and ask for a receipt and it's no problem. I have one thought though. I'm under the impression that items donated are used for the dogs and cats that are staying in the shelter. I have donated several very nice dog beds only to find out that they were given away to someone adopting a dog. Why not let the new owners buy a bed for their pet and give the beds donated to a dog who is staying in the facility to make them more comfortable? Some of these dogs aren't sleeping on anything soft. I'd like to see my donations used for the right purpose. read more

what a great supportive team at the West Chester location. They were the only ones who offered help to me and a stray cat I was helping during the fridged temperatures. I am so grateful they were able to take him in and get him neutered and put up for adoption. I gladly left them a huge donation for all their love they give to all the rescues that show up on their doorsteps. I will always recommend them for all your adoption needs and rescue help. lots of love to them Rachel Nettleton read more

I've had such a horrible experience here that I'm almost speechless. I had found a terribly neglected cat in my yard, and was trying to find a place that could help it. This ASPCA advertises that it's a no kill shelter that takes all animals. After being ignored for a long time, I approached the woman at the desk and explained the situation. She coldly told me that they couldn't take animals from my township. I said, "But, please, this cat is so sick!" Without glancing up she replied, "Not my problem." In tears now, I asked her for any suggestions as to what to do. She repeated her line. Now, maybe there's a reason that they CAN'T take cats from my town... but how much would it cost to have a little human sympathy? To be, at the very least, polite? I can't understand how someone with her attitude towards a suffering animal can be working in an animal shelter. It certainly makes me question everything about the organization. Long story short- avoid this shelter at all costs. Definitely don't try to drop off an animal there, and I would think twice about adopting from them. If this woman is any indication, I shudder to think about how they treat animals in their care. read more

I saw a cat I wanted to adopt on the website so I emailed AND called to be sure cat was available because I am 40 minutes away. Received email back that cat was available, no one else interested but I called to be sure and was told yes, cat here and no other applications or interest in cat. I dropped everything, left work early and drove there only to be told by another employee that the cat had been adopted out earlier that day before I even called/emailed. Very poor communication and zero respect of people's time and effort to adopt. There was no one else at the front desk when I arrived, it's not like they were busy yet the young man at the desk seemed annoyed that I was bothering him, so unprofessional. read more

This is NO KILL SHELTER 1st of all. They depend on donations & are under staffed. They take in as many animals as they can. I have adopted both dogs & cats from this facility. The Animals are given Food, Water, Shelter & Medical Care. They even pair them up so they won't be lonely. They have a trainer working with some of the dogs. They depend on Donations & People that generously give them their time. They are limited. So many throw away animals & not enough good homes. I donate on a monthly basis & have put them into my WILL. Some of these animals come from HORRIFIC SITUATIONS. I wish some of you would keep this in mind before you decide to judge, the fact that now they're NO KILL now is huge! You could easily take the cat or dog to your own vet & pay for PRIVATE CARE. The same thing can happen w/some breeders. I'm asking you consider these things before you judge them. I will continue to support them as a little compassion, patience & TLC go a long way. TRY loving this pet for life, care for it in every way possible. The money you spend is nothing to what an animal (pet) especially a rescue gives in return. read more

My favorite location! Best staff, volunteers, and veterinary support. Totally worth stopping by

Although I am very thankful to my adopted my dogs from here. I will say I am disappointed with the response about finding out what my dog was. I just wanted them to sign a paper stating one breed because I was moving and they wanted to know an exact breed. They told me no- I have to pay money to find out (I already spend $500) on the adoption. They legit shrugged me off and that was that. Also, when I adopted my other dog they misplaced the papers for the adoption and my husband and I waited for close to 2 hours to adopt and leave. read more

Absolutely terrible communication and no respect for the dogs. I emailed YESTERDAY and was told I could come in today no problem. I arrived and immediately was greeted by an angry man. He was not respectful and obviously hated his job. So I told him the dog I was there to see and he went to the computer and said the dog was given away LAST NIGHT; meanwhile three other employees just sat there talking and filing their nails (would've been nice to get a heads up or known a policy). When I walked into the kennels there were no volunteers, no social distancing, the dogs were sad and scared. There was one dog who was barking at a family and no employee was there to mitigate. This is not a shelter I would get a dog from and if they had better communication and care, I would adopt a dog just to get them the HELL out of this place. read more

I brought my dog to the hospital in Frazer today at 2 pm during walk-in hours. As soon as I walked in, the receptionist said we're not accepting any more walk-ins as we've had seven walk-ins already today. I told her the website said walk-ins end at 3:30 pm and we drove from West Chester to see the vet for emergency services. She did not care about my dog's well being at all. Plus there was a guy sitting in the room who became confrontational with me because I told the receptionist they should update their website if walk-ins are cut off before the allotted time of 3:30. I'm never bring my animals back there again. read more

BE CAREFUL ADOPTING FROM HERE! Just adopted a dog and had to take it to the ER less than 15 hours of having it due to aspiration pneumonia. The dog was sick in the shelter and the staff was aware but refrained from telling me and pawned the sick dog of on me. Was then told to bring the dog to the west Chester location for treatment. What do ya know, the dog comes back worse then before and was told it was better. Not only that but Meg A. told me she would call every day for updates but i had to call her every single time . She never answered for the past two days i even left voicemails and she couldn't even show her face when i picked my pup up she hid the whole time. Talk about a place that has little to no regards for animals and no knowledge at all. I would never adopt from here again even if was my last option. This establishment has to be the most unprofessional i have ever seen in my life. They had a high school volunteer bring my dog out and try to tell me about the meds and had no clue what he was talking about. Im writing this so no one has to go through it with their newly adopted pet. Its a shame to see how they operate. They definitely are not in it for the well being of the sheltered animals. Again please be careful adopting from this shelter. They have all the sick animals together and pass the problem off to the adopter without any warning. They have horrible barrier nursing for the pets. Adopt at your own risk!! read more

I had a terrible experience today at this facility. My dog suffers with anxiety. He was scheduled to be neutered today. They made me wait outside more than 30 mins after my appointment because my dog barked when I brought him in to be weighed. I watched as everyone dropped their pets off with no waiting period while they ignored my calls and tried to jot give me any contact when they came outside to pick up other pets. Finally someone was sent out to explain that because he was anxious I would have to stay during the procedure or reschedule. I just don't appreciate my time being wasted, they were going to leave me outside until I left on my own Instead of being upfront and had me wait close to an hour. I wouldn't recommend anyone to use this facility! read more

Adopted a pet from this location. The cat was very ill. It has been to the vet several times and keeps getting diagnosed incorrectly. My cat is only 4 months old and has been on antibiotics 3 different times. I had scheduled surgery for my kitten and they stated that he was too sick to receive the surgery. Put him again on antibiotics. Did not give us a diagnoses of his condition. I am not happy with the services we have received for the kitten. I asked if the kitten was sick when he was adopted and they told me he was not. He should have been checked from vet previous to the adoption. read more

I've used this clinic before and had good service this time left a lot to be desired. There should be a separate telephone line to call for wellness clinic side with hours listed on the website page. I called and was trying to set up an appointment but couldn't and was told that they accepted walk-Ins till -5:30 pm. I arrive there at 5pm and are told no they stopped at 4:30pm. I was told to come back tomorrow or try an SPCA or ER. Um I was at the SPCA. Stanton area was already closed. Since it was after 5pm no other vets are open and tried the ER. They had a wait time of 4-5 and then called later and they were still another 5 hour wait. Also they don't have enough parking I had to wait for a bit to park legally. My poor cat I believe has a UTI and just trying to get him some meds to feel better. read more

Just received a call that Tamsin kitty did well in her spaying surgery. What a relief ! I brought her in because of the Lucky Charm promotion. Thank You Sincerely, Joni H. read more

The staff at the West Chester campus were excellent at helping us find the right dog for our family. We spoke with a staff member at the front desk about five candidates. With her help, we narrowed our choice to one dog. The next day we came back with our two dogs and our whole family. Staff members were great at managing our dog meet and greet. We have big dogs and I was concerned about how it would go. They truly understand dog behavior and the meet went great. Mush is as wonderful as they said he would be. We highly recommend adopting from Brandywine Valley SPCA! read more

I would highly recommend BVSPCA. The staff is friendly and helpful. Calling to schedule appointments was a breeze. Tom is super nice helpful. I have 2 cats that were spayed and neutered at the Malvern location. The facility was clean and all staff were knowledgeable and helpful. The procedure and aftercare was explained and all my questions were answered. My cats will be be back for their yearly check ups! read more

Do not go there for their walk-in hours. I arrived before the published walk-in hours ended (1.5 hours before the clinic closed) and they had me wait another 20 minutes to tell me that they wouldn't even look at my dog who had an obvious eye infection. When I said that I arrived before the walk-in hours were over I was surprised to be given a sarcastic comment about arriving too close to the end of the walk-in hours. This cost me an hour and a half of my time after work - time that I can hardly afford to waste. I took my dog to West Chester Animal Hospital the next day. They were absolutely wonderful! read more

Two days ago, 12-13-2029, I went to the shelter to meet a dog I was thinking of adopting, Rigby. He is 5 years old and had not been adopted at the mega adoption event. I took my 4 year old SPCA rescue dog with me to meet Rigby and see how they got along. Things were going well until a Rigby starting biting my dog in the head and ear. We could not separate them for what seemed like forever. My dog was cut and bleeding and referred to their vet center in Malvern to be seen. Rigby turned on a dime from being playful to horrible in a split second. My dog is on antibiotics and pain meds for a week and is very lethargic with a swollen head and torn ear. The staff was obviously untrained for such occurrences. The vet office on Coffman Street spent less than five minutes assessing my dog because they were so busy and didn't even clean the bite sites. Extremely disappointing experience all around. read more

They are wonderful there. They seem to get a "bad reputation" but they provide excellent veterinary services at a reasonable cost. I came in last week for my puppy's appointment and I got the date wrong, it's actually for the next week. It was about an hour before they were closing but still took us for the visit! They were extremely accommodating and I appreciate the staff there. read more