This was by far the worst vet clinic experience I've had. The office is extremely unorganized, and the woman who answered the phone, Jeannette, was very rude. She put me on hold for over 20 minutes, and when she returned, she sounded annoyed and eager to end the call. I ultimately decided to go to another vet, and when they tried to request my pet's records from Canyon, they were told no records existed. When I called to follow up, I was told they had been given the wrong name. I then asked Jeannette to email the records before my appointment on Wednesday, and she said she would but the records were never sent. Overall, this experience was frustrating and unprofessional. I would strongly recommend avoiding Canyon Clinic. read more

Honestly we stayed with them when we first got our puppy but they proved to be the most DISORGANIZED and archaic veterinary hospital ever. We needed up going elsewhere but we requested our dogs records to be sent over to the new vet and it was requested dozens of times by me and once by our current vet and they still never sent them. Jeanette is awful at her organization. She blames the vet himself but I think it's both of them. They are so technologically behind other vets it's astonishing. It's like going to a vet in the 70s and they are truly disoriented by their own system. It'll be a downfall if not addressed. There are great vets in the Castro valley area like Eden Pet Hospital or redwood pet hospital. If you want your pets records done effectively, correctly and professionally then DO NOT GO HERE. read more

It's Dr. Barrett. I wish we would have met him a long time ago. Trixie had some issues with her teeth and found Canyon. As with any veterinarian clinic, it costs extra for "emergency" visits. Thankfully we were not in that mode. We made a 1st time appointment brought her in and the teeth were cleaned and a tooth was removed. Dr. Barrett explained the whole thing up front. No B.S. and a very nice "bedside manners". Thank you Dr. Barrett again for our 3rd visit just to pick up meds for 4th of July anxiety. My dogs do not like fireworks. They shake, require holding and comforting for several hours while the population attempts to light off every firework that came off off the largest container ships that came into the Port. After the meds, Lola's stress reduced by 97% while Trixie was at least 90% until our neighbors started launching mortars in the street out front, bringing the experience to a whole new level. We didn't call em, but somebody did. And the show ended prematurely, and that was ok with us. We adopted Lola a few months ago. She going to get a cleaning soon. Dr. Barrett did a super job on Trixe, and after 3 visits (it actually only took one) if someone asks me where to go? Easy, Canyon Veterinarian Hospital! read more

Canyon Veterinary Hospital - Left is Lola, right is Trixie! - Veterinarians Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Just spoke to Jeannette who was very rude. This is the 2nd time she's been rude, she once yelled at my dog to hush. Once I asked her for her name she put me on hold and did not want to assist me. I then called with another phone and she helped immediately. I asked her if she can fax me my dogs last weight to I can get a prescription for him. She tried really hard to get me to buy nexguard, neuter and chip my dog out last visit. Dr Barrett was cool but will not be bringing our dog bag. read more

I've been trying to call this vet to book a spay appointment for my cat. The first call went through and this front desk lady named Jenae picked up the call. Understandably so, she put me on hold because she had other people on the line. I waited about 20 minutes or so till it was my turn. But when she picked up my line, she hung up! I called back immediately and she reintroduced herself and was going to put me on hold. I stated that I was put on hold and was hung up on, but her response left me displeased. she said "well I didn't hung up, so do you want to stay on this call and be put on hold or not". I understand she's having a busy day but the sass and attitude is insane with no apology. read more

The low cost spay and neuter clinic is the best, took my 2 females to get spayed and it didn't break the bank purrrfect and they kept them overnight all for $ great price read more

I have been taking my shih tzu here over the past year. Dr. Barrett has provided excellent care for my dog. The office is fairly small, I appreciated the staff following all COVID precautions, such as enforcement of facial coverings and no overbooking. Every time I went to the office, I was the only one there, so the office itself was never overcrowded. The first time I visited Dr. Barrett, he diagnosed my shih tzu with canine atopic dermatitis. I appreciated the time spent he had educating me about the disease, answering all my questions and discussing what we can do to help my little guy get to a better place. He asked what products I have used to clean out his ears and together we reviewed the product labeling online to verify if the ingredients were problematic for my dog. He never tried to push or sell his products in house. He said what I have is fine for now and if I would like to buy more, he does sell something there. I appreciated his honesty. After strictly following his diet recommendations and prescribed medication, my shih tzu's skin has subsided and eventually resolved. Many months later, I noticed my shih tzu barely being able to walk. Dr. Barrett to the rescue. I was able to get an appointment immediately and he was diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), I was devastated. Again, I never felt rushed, he took the time to educate me about the disease and developed a treatment plan so that I can avoid the condition from getting worse. I came back the next day, he took x-rays and my dog stayed overnight. Dr. Barrett along with his staff called me to provide updates throughout his time there. The next day I picked him up, followed all the instructions provided and within weeks, my little shih tzu was back to normal. My family is forever grateful for his guidance. I tried doing my own research and asked Dr. Barrett if I should buy vitamins and a back brace, etc. and he said don't waste your money, you don't need it. Based on my own personal experience, I would highly recommend Dr. Barrett. He has done wonders for my dog and I will continue to take him there for all of his needs. read more

Canyon Veterinary Hospital - My shih tzu always a little frightened before seeing the vet. - Veterinarians Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I wish I had found Dr Barrett and staff 40 years ago! By far the best veterinary hospital we've ever used. Dr Barrett is kind and really loves cats. He did everything he could for our cat, and he is honest about what's best for your animal. We will be back! read more

Dr. Barrett and Mary were superb at caring for our precious little Charlie. He is on the mend healing very well from his neutered surgery. He is back to being adventurous again. Dr. Barrett and Mary were very nice and kind people. read more

Canyon Veterinary Hospital - Braving the Amazon Jungle - Veterinarians Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Dr. Barrett is one of the nicest veterinarians I have ever been to. My dog was completely happy for her yearly exam - super low-stress environment. The staff was also calm and quiet. It's obvious everyone enjoys their work here. We were in and out in a timely manner. Parking in a huge lot for the shopping center. Super clean facility. I will say that Dr. B stikes me as the type of vet that loves animals, and that is his first priority. The last vet practice we were at was great if you are the type that wants every possible test run on your animal, and appreciate a large practice with many multiple vets, an ER, a pharmacy, latest tech, etc. It was definitely a different atmosphere! Canyon is a small practice. It seems like everyone there cares. It's clean and neat. We highly recommend it! read more

Nice staff and Dr. Barrett is very kind, gentle, sharp and conducts the exam and any shots in a way to minimize stress to the animal. My tiny, small, shy cat wasn't even aware she had been stuck with needles. She had an ongoing skin allergy that we were able to figure out...wood pellet litter. So be aware it's not always a food allergy. read more

Our family would like to extend our gratitude and love to Canyon veterinarian hospital, Dr. Barrett and his entire staff for always showing such compassion, love and understanding when it came to our fur baby Ginger. Dr. Barrett always took in consideration of Ginger's age and her health conditions while evaluating her over the years. He was never quick to over medicate, over charge or recommended excessive procedures that were unnecessary for Ginger. Dr. Barrett always took the time to explain the pros and cons when it came to making decisions regarding Ginger's health care. When Ginger became very sick and Dr. Barrett couldn't do much more for her we knew it was time for us to help her cross the rainbow. Dr. Barrett's staff, Mary, Donna & Pamela were amazing and compassionate during this difficult time. They were very helpful & gave us the referrals to where we could bring Ginger to crosse the rainbow in peace. Dr. Barrett does not do cremation at his office, so it was very helpful to have the referrals. We chose VEG SAN RAMON. They were amazing as well. Run free Ginger read more

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Doctor Barrett is the best vet I've ever been too. He's able to immediately hone in on the issue and he has a very gentle rapport with the scared pets. I came here from another local vet practice and I'm glad I switched. Dr. Barrett for life! read more

I needed to find a new veterinarian for my dog after our doctor retired. I was so happy to find Dr. Barrett. I liked him right away. He was very kind and caring and my dog felt comfortable during the exam. He took the time to explain about her ear problem and the best way to treat it. The staff is very helpful and well organized. And a special thanks to staff member Pamela for her compassion and kindness. read more

Knowledgeable vet who is very attentive and loves pets. He gives each patient the care and time deserved. Answered questions with patience and kindness. Minus one star for the incredibly slow staff...I have seen tortoises move at a faster rate of speed. read more

I have been on the hunt for a new Vet for my Great Dane, who is a senior and has all the typical big dog medical issues. His current vet moved out of the state and, as an employee at a handful of vets in my 20's, I don't trust many places. I scheduled an appointment - easy enough. My immediate impression at the appointment was not great, however, as I was waiting in the exam room, the first thing I hear from the vet before he comes in is, "Holy moly, look at this guy's record!" Likely implying the length of my dog's record. I had this appointment scheduled for weeks because they were booked out. I had his records sent timely. I expressed when scheduling my appointment that my dog has a very extensive record and sees SAGE specialists. To hear that his vet seeing him that day had not even taken a look at his record until approximately 20 minutes after my scheduled appointment was not a great feeling. I liked the vet that I saw, until realizing that he didn't even really touch my dog outside of pets and checking his heart (he has a heart condition), but this should be the standard bare minimum. He made several promises that he will review his record thoroughly and give me a call - I have yet to hear from him and I had that appointment Monday last week. Still paid the exam price (with new client discount - thank goodness), which 100% did not feel worth it. I do think that this vet is knowledgeable, however, as his views align with the new vet that I ended up choosing. I didn't like a story that he shared about how clients mishear things vets say sometimes - which absolutely happens and I know well enough. But he said this in response to me explaining what a vet (who misdiagnosed my dog in 2019) said about my dog's kidneys after a couple of tests. If he had went through my dog's records properly, he might not have told me a story that doesn't have anything to do with my situation. My dog liked him well enough. The staff was nice. I would have appreciated if the vet would have asked if it was okay to reschedule this appointment since he very clearly was not prepared. He and the staff knew my goal, which was to find a new vet close to home, outside of his specialists. In my opinion, it didn't seem like they cared enough to keep me and my dog as long term clients. I only go to vets that come recommended to me, so there are great reviews of this place by a trusted acquaintance over at Companion. However, I just found it wasn't for me or my dog. 3 stars simply for the knowledge that the vet has and the friendly and nice staff. Would probably recommend this place for those that don't have an extensive record for their dog. Side note - This is also a vet that handwrites everything, which I try to avoid at this point, as I constantly have heard from the specialists we see regularly that it can be impossible to read their notes. read more

My poor little doggy, Lil Leo has had diarrhea for two days. I was initially thinking that it would go away. This AM he pooped with blood in it. and Luckily he pooed on the doggy pad and i saved it. Called this AM the front desk person was very nice explain to me that i can drop off the sample today and he can come in tomorrow at 10am. Hoping nothing is too serious with him and will update my review with an experience once i go in tomorrow. I am gonna start yelping veterinarians/hospital visits more bc these reviews i definitely yelp before taking my pets there so these reviews r important to me. Will keep u posted. read more

Dr Barrett is an amazing vet, because he takes the time to observe, to explain, and he does not push treatments that most vet offices (the corporate ones who have profitability - not animal welfare- in mind) are happy to recommend regardless of the advanced age of the animal. There are a lot of dog owners in his waiting room, but I see Dr Barrett for my 2 guinea pigs. Not many vets bother about guinea pigs. (it's not profitable, right?) I feel very lucky that an acquaintance (who herself has dogs and cats) gave me Dr Barrett's name when I told her I needed to find a knowledgeable and kind vet for my "unusual"pets: Dr B. is that doctor. read more

We seriously cannot recommend Dr. Barrett. He takes advantage of pet owners who's defenses are down because they are worried for their pets health by guilting them into the costliest route without discussing cost. After he is paid he tries for even more money which is considered "fleecing". Simply put, avoid this vet but if you want the full story feel free to read on. Our slightly older cat was throwing up a lot. Online it said it was possibly Gastritis (irritation of the stomach) so we brought him in to Dr. Barrett's office. We told Barrett we thought it might be Gastritis. He looked the cat over for lumps and bumps (there were none) and decided our cat needed blood work. We were like okay umm but could it be Gastritis? He said Gastritis could be a symptom of many things trying to scare us and that he wanted to do a blood test. At that point we felt confused and pressured so we said ok innocently believing he probably wouldn't rip us off. Of course because he 's shady, he never discussed the cost of the blood test and the fact that it was actually quite expensive to have done. He then quickly had the cat taken away to get its blood. 20 minutes later and after he took the blood we were called to the front desk and given our bill. It was $690 Dollars! After we paid, the receptionist/assistant said she would call us with results. $690 dollars and we're just a phone call? No offer of a printout of the cats levels just a phone call? Next day we decided screw their 'phone call' and drove back to the office without the cat to get the results in person. Yeah, for $690 we should definitely be offered and given a printed out copy of the cats blood work. Before she even told us the results she said Dr. Barrett wanted him to stay overnight for more tests and X-Rays! "for what", we thought to ourselves, another $800? LOL We replied..umm can we have our results please? She then told us all his levels were fine. Ummm can we get a copy of the test please, we asked. After we were given a copy she said we needed to bring the cat in again to get antibiotics. We said. Can you just give us them now please? After what felt like pulling a mouthfull of teeth she finally gave us $45 worth of the Clavamox antibiotic and a generous side of attitude. (her arms have a bunch of tattoos so you know who I'm talking about) She said they'd call to check up on him but never did. Guess they were unhappy with us. Guess the $735 for a kitty tummy ache wasn't enough money for them. Maybe they'd have been friendlier if we coughed up another $800 for x-rays and an overnight. In the end, the antibiotics helped (Clavamox) but he was still puking a little so we put him on a senior diet (our idea not Barrett's) and now he's 100% fine. Of course Dr. Barrett could have suggested a senior diet and some Clavamox antibiotic in the first place and watched how that went. Instead he decided to rip us off. read more

We brought our 15 year old dog in who had multiple things going on with her that indicated that her body was shutting down, including not being able to walk any longer and no longer having control of her faculties. When Dr. Barrett saw us, he did a lot of talking but hardly listened to what we had to say about what was going with her. We found it odd that he didn't want to know what her symptoms were but quickly attempted to push several blood tests $$$ and said that she would be fine waiting for test results over the weekend...Huh? Our poor senior dog was in serious, obvious pain but we were not willing to let her continue to suffer while we waited for test results because it was strictly about our dog's quality of life and nothing else. When we told the doctor that we needed to discuss it further alone, he changed his demeanor and quickly told us to go out to the lobby and figure it out. We weren't feeling a lot of compassion from him, but instead we concluded that he was trying to take advantage of our sadness and milk more money out of us. This was surprising due to the fact that Dr. Barrett knew the complete history of our dog (after several recent blood tests from just a few months ago) yet he completely ignored her medical records and us trying to bring it up...But like I said, he was doing much more talking than listening. We took our girl to another doctor that same day to get a second opinion and they confirmed (without trying to milk us for more $$) that she was at the end stage of life based on her history, symptoms, etc. If she were a younger dog, this would be a different situation altogether, but given her age and medical history, it was pretty plain to see that she was suffering and there wasn't much that could be done at that point. :-( If we ever have another dog in the future, we'll be going to another veterinarian. read more

Just returned from a second visit to Canyon for our chihuahua/jack russell mix rescue. Sadly, she was diagnosed with congestive heart failure, but Dr. Barrett put her on some highly effective heart medications. In just three days, I can tell my sweet girl is feeling better. I hope the medication continues to work, so we can postpone saying goodbye for as long as possible. At our prior veterinary hospital, a brief exam would be followed by an expensive list of diagnostic testing. I always left feeling guilty, like I couldn't really afford proper care for my dog. I'm so grateful to my friend who recommended Canyon. read more

I was tired of vets that only want to get rich off their clients. I wanted a vet who would treat my dog without running $2k-$4k in tests before they will treat your dog. Dr. Barrett did a couple of test that were nominal and then perscribed a few drugs to treat my chihauhau who has heart failure. Rudy is a 12-13 year old rescue dog. he had been abused his 1st 9 years and I wanted him to have the best last years he could. He had been coughing all day long and I took him to a different vet who first said he needed and abuterol inhaller. Then they wanted a heart function test for 299.00. Then they wanted an EKG and a canine cardiologist to read the results, etc etc etc. Dr. Barrett listened to his heart, looked at the 1 test result's and prescribed heart meds, blood pressure meds, and a duretic. Now Rudy is running round, and enjoying his last couple of years. The other vet and their $2k-$4k in tests would have had Rudy put to sleep because I couldn't afford the cost. Shame on them and their greed! Thank God for Dr. Barrett!!!! read more

Just moved to Castro Valley and happy to be in walking distance to Canyon Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Richard and Mary in the front desk are amazing and friendly. My little Banshee enjoyed all the attention (and treats) during her first visit. Thank you for your time and attention to my little baby! We look forward to future visits. read more

Canyon Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Well, I just became a proud owner of a Husky/GSD puppy (Raven) and was looking for a vet to establish care. I looked through Yelp to pick the perfect vet and I chose to come here. I called a couple days ago and was able to make an appointment with ease. The lady that answered my phone call was extremely friendly and helpful. I came in this morning at 9:00am for my 9:15am appointment and was greeted by a staff member with great warmth. She helped me get checked in quickly and was eager to answer all of my questions. I have had 2 previous dogs, but this was my first puppy so I wanted to know as much as possible. After I had filled out a form for Raven, we were brought into the exam room. I only waited a few minutes before Dr. Barrett came in full of energy. He seemed genuinely excited to see Raven and treated my puppy as if it were his own. He performed a full exam and seemed extremely competent. He asked if I had any questions and was patient when explaining everything to me. As someone who is about to attend medical school this fall, I give him full marks on his "bedside manners", excitement, passion, and patience. He was extremely clear in his instructions and left no stones unturned. Following the exam, I was checked out by the same staff worker and she followed up with the same instructions given to me by Dr. Barrett. I was extremely pleased with my visit this morning and will continue to come to this location as long as the service remains stellar. read more

Canyon Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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I moved to the Bay Area almost 10 years ago and have been looking for a good vet ever since. I've tried 6-8, and find that each one has major flaws. Most of them throw every treatment and test at you, regardless of need, in order to drive up the cost. And if you question them, they'll guilt you. Not this place. Dr. Barrett and his amazing staff are exceptionally knowledgeable and friendly. I truly do feel like they have both my pet and my wallet's interest in mind. They all seem to really care about their work, and treat everyone with kindness and respect. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would. read more

Dr. Barrett and his staff are exceptional! You can tell they genuinely care for the animals as if they were their own. We always leave knowing we received all the necessary information to make the best possible decision for our fur babies. Also, their prices are very reasonable. read more

Coco was initially hesitant to go in and be examined but since the first visit he loves the professional doctor and Mary and Donna and could not wait to go on his subsequent visits. He had a very nasty anal infection common to big dogs. He went in on an emergency basis and was seen after a short wait. Doctor gave him strong antibiotics for 14 days and had 2 follow ups where he was thoroughly examined and he was even offered to stay at the clinic and be under observation. Fortunately he was totally healed real fast and was of no need for any procedure thanks to his rapid treatment read more

Dr. B, Mary, and Donna are the best team to make animals feel welcome and help them get better. We travel 45 minutes to see them because they are the best! Thank you for all you do for our fur babies. read more

Omg we are so lucky to have found this amazing Dr and his awesome nurses for our new puppy. We have been for two visits and both went great. The Dr is maybe the nicest guy in the world and our girl adores him. The front desk ladies were super nice and helpful. Prices were very reasonable too. If I could give them more stars I would. read more

Canyon Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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At first I was a bit skeptical about their services, but I must say they took care of my little cha cha very well. Dr. Barrett was very knowledgeable and caring. I recently lost my little for baby after 10 years. The staff there was very helpful and compassionate. It was really hard to lose my little girl, but canyon veterinary hospital made it very easy to say goodbye. Their services are a bit expensive, but well worth it. If I get another dog she will definitely be taken care of here. read more

Canyon Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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I recently had my cat fixed at this veterinary hospital. I also had him get his vaccinations too. He was a stray that came to us several months ago. Canyon Vet hospital was very gentle with him. My partner dropped him off on Tuesday, he had surgery Wednesday morning and then we picked him up on Thursday. My cat stayed there for two nights at no extra charge. I called to check up on him Wednesday and Mary said he was doing fine. She even said that the hospital loved him because he had such a loving and playful personality like a puppy. They gave us pain meds for him for the next couple of days and since then our cat has been great. I will continue to bring our cat to this vet anytime he needs it. read more

Going to a new vet, you hope that they don't rip you off. Hopefully I can help you avoid that experience. Our pet's two night stay at Canyon cost us almost $1,000. What really inflated the bill was the pain medication. 10 doses at $34 a dose. The same medication on petmeds.com is $30, with 10 doses to a bottle. That's a 1000% markup. The staff and Dr. Barrett are really nice people, very friendly. The way they inflated the bill with that markup and multiple check-ups per day at $35-$45 a pop though - I feel ripped off. I'll never get over it. read more

So grateful for this kind and caring vet. Dr. B. had to break the news to me today that my cat has cancer and needs surgery. He took the time to sit with me for twenty minutes, and to discuss everything with me clearly and thoroughly. He let me know exactly what my options were in a clear and concise way without pressure. My past experiences with veterinarians have been very rushed and I have often left feeling confused and not knowing what to do. This was not the case with Dr B. He even gave me a hug on the way out, as I was feeling emotional. 5 stars for compassion and kindness. Thank you. read more

This is my very first time to be here. Appointment time was 10:00 am, and I couldn't be able to get Inside until 10:40am. None of the vet I have ever visited in the past 3years had me wait more then 15min. Very disappointed at this place read more

Canyon Vet in CV is a much better option. He's the "House" of veterinarians. Maybe seems unorthodox for asking certain questions that appear unrelated to the issue but everything is well-thought out and his genius may be misunderstood. He was the ONLY vet who was able to find a solution to help my dog. The ONLY out of many. (you can read my review of Castro Valley Animal Hospital here https://www.yelp.com/biz/castro-valley-animal-hospital-castro-valley) read more

We take our two dogs and our tortoise to Dr. Barrett. He is, quite honestly, the best vet I have ever known. He is caring, kind, considerate, smart, down-to-earth and honest! When our tortoise had an accident and needed his leg amputated, Dr. B. treated our pet and us as if our tortoise was our child. I've known other vets who treat pets like a number. Dr. B treats pets as if they are human. I am a nervous wreck when it comes to all of my babies (animals) and Dr. B understands. He realizes that our pets are our family members. I really like that he gives my doggies little treats for good behavior and lavishes all my pets with words of affirmation. In addition, his office is always clean and bright. If you love your babies as much as we do, then do what is best for them and take them to see Dr. Barrett. You'll be thankful you did! read more

A pleasant and honest Dr. with a helpful staff. It's so refreshing that Dr. Barrett didn't take advantage of our sweet dogs condition. My husband and I were looking for a new Veterinarian because of our last experience with another veterinarian. I highly recommend taking your pets to Canyon. read more

I have been driving to Oakland for years to take my dogs in for Vet treatment. After using Yelp, I scheduled a " get to know you" appointment with these folks. The office staff was very helpful, and the Dr. was attentive and built great rapport with me and my dog. I'm very happy to have found a new Local Vet! read more

Love love love Dr B!! We've been taking our miniature poodle, D.O.G there since he was just 6 weeks old, almost 13 years now! He's saved us boatloads of money thru the years and is always so kind and friendly with D.O.G!! Oh, and Donna and Mary are the absolute best! Donna is always on top of things up front and Mary is so gentle and sweet with the animals! Love to see Allie (Dr B's pooch) there when we come in for our visits! read more

Canyon Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Bringing our cats here for 15 years, and always have a good experience. Dr. Barrett provides practical care, communicating needs & concerns (or none). Risks & benefits of more invasive care is always presented. Donna & Mary are wonderful. Appointments are easy to make, and rarely have a long wait. read more