I had a horrible experience here. I took my foster dog, a 10 month old pittie mix here for a vet visit. They treated us terribly, stuck us in a SUPER small room while I heard the female vet say that she wouldn't see us becuase my dog is too "out of control" (he wasn't, he was anxious being in that small room waiting for so long..(I was anxious in there myself!) When we first walked in he was wiggly and friendly, he did nothing wrong but jump up on the counter with his front legs looking for a treat. The male vet then walked in (bc the female vet refused to see us) and was extremly rude, asking me if I had an appointment, which clearly I did, and telling me that there was nothing he could do for my guy and that my guy needed training(we were just there for an updated shot). Finally I made up an excuse to get out of there, telling the vet technician that I have NEVER experienced such a hostile environment at a vets office. CLEARLY they were prejudice against my dog because he was a pittie mix, that's the only thing that makes sense to me. I would NEVER step foot in this place again with those two vets. I immediately made an appointment at a vests office on 42nd st, and we had the best experience and everyone working there was so kind to my guy. read more

During our worst moment we were met with an arrogant and judgmental attitude. I didn't lash out because I just had power through the moment I was facing. I would never recommend her to anyone. read more

Dr. Ficara neutered my dog and it was such a quick, smooth process. We came in a week before the procedure to do some blood work and make sure he was in good shape. She answered all my neurotic new puppy mom questions. I had to travel across town and it was so worth it. I would absolutely recommend her and Dr. Schaubhut who was helpful with holding. Plus, Downtown Veterinary Clinic has way more character than those big chain vet practices. They even have an office cat. read more

First of all - from real professional veterinarians the issue was the NSAIDs alone. As I told you multiple times his cone was never off and he never had the chance to lick or infect his own incision. We did come back to you TWO times in the matter of less than a week with issues of vomiting and diarrhea and you did nothing but give him more NSAIDs which was concluded as the problem from the start after a $15,000 exploratory surgery and to clear the sepsis from his system. You incompetent "vets" should be lucky my dog is alive. I PRAY NO ONE EVER GOES TO THIS SHAM EVER. Try to blame me or my boyfriend for this just to cover your own asses. Absolutely PATHETIC read more

I've been seeing Dr Schaubhut for 15 years with my cats. The first time was on Eldridge Street with a cat who had an untreatable cancer when it had reached the time when her suffering was too great. I was impressed with his compassion. His simple words made me feel better. And at a time when many vets charge you exorbitantly just to cremate your loved one, I felt he was fair. I've been to many other vets during my life of pet owning and find Dr Schwaubhut refreshing. He's genuine and a little straight talking for some people, but I find it preferable to vets who give you the runaround or advise treatments that are more for the owner than the pet. I had Dr. Ficarra perform surgery on my calico last year to remove a mammary tumor, mainly because Dr. S was not available that day and I decided to go ahead. I don't really know her that well but I'm sure I will get to know her better. My cat is doing well as of now. The staff is very nice and seems to love the animals. We're going back for checkup soon so I'll revise if anything changes. read more

I've been taking my dogs to dr ficara for over 10 years. She is the most kind and accommodating vet and person I've ever met. Carol and terry and the whole crew are so friendly and caring I know my fur babies are in great hands. I go in all the time with small questions and sometimes my guys are super sick and they never make me feel stupid or make us wait will always find the time to squeeze us in. Dr ficara cares so much she gives out her personal number to her patients which says alot. Recently I had to put one of my dogs down and they were so helpful while I was such a mess. Thanks u for everything we are so thankful read more

I used to go to Downtown Veterinary Clinic for my sweet puppy dachshund and they were very friendly and professional, but when I requested a Rabies Titer certificate for international travel from them and they misspelled the country of destination... After already charging me north of $400 for the certificate, I pointed out that they made a mistake and they asked them to fix it. They said there was nothing they can do even if it is their fault and that I would have to pay for fixing it as well. As every dog owner in New York knows, taking care of your pet is expensive, and it is even more expensive when your vet makes mistakes and makes you pay for them, after complaining to them and asking to talk with one of the main vets, they brushed me off for more than two weeks and blocked my phone number. Putting aside the rabies titer certificate mistake and my $500 (400 for the initial certificate and 100 for the additional fixing), this type of behavior is disgusting and disrespects their clients. They sure are professional but I'm sure many other vets in the city charge as much as them and will own their mistakes. read more

Dr. Janet is only after your money. I went 3 times last year and Dr. had blood tests done of 500 dollars with visit and no diagnosis. Fortunately I changed my vet. My cat has cancer and now she is treated for her real problem. read more

We brought our cat here over the course of six years. The doctor and receptionist always seemed scattered, but fine. It wasn't until our cat became severely ill that I realized how poorly prepared they seemed. Perhaps this office was great once, but nowadays they seem to be going through the motions. After two visits and rounds of tests, our cat was obviously ill. Having lost 30% of her weight, the doctor's bedside manner included repetitively telling me how severely our cat was starving, but only offered up a slew of varied potential causes. She offered more tests for which she could not remember the names. The receptionist seemed disconnected and tried to charge us for a test that had already been administered instead of the more comprehensive one. In the end, we were told that our cat was "fine" because they couldn't find anything wrong on the tests they'd done. I sought a second opinion and within one visit discovered that our cat had cancer. I'm not sure how she could have ever been diagnosed as "fine" in her state. We won't be going back and I wish I'd left sooner. read more

I love this place! Dr. Ficarra clearly loves animals, and it shows in the way she handles and treats them. I take my puppy and two young cats there and we are always seen promptly, in clean (if slightly worn) offices. Her techs are also very friendly and good at what they do. I've never felt like I was being blown off as I have with so many other vets. She even gave me her pager number in case of emergencies. She also makes house calls, which are much more expensive than in-office visits, but must be enormously convenient if you can afford them. I really can't say enough kind things about Downtown Veterinary Clinic. If you live in the area (or even out of it, like I do) and need to find someone who will honestly care about your furry friends and treat them like her own, this is the place to go. read more

Worst vet in tri state area, if you care about your pet please don't bring them here. They gave my kitty a shot that I specifically asked them not to do and that he didn't need bc he was already vaccinated and when I picked him up they told me they had given him the injection that I specifically declined (for free?) and now my beautiful cat has a permanent bald patch from it. They also won't fill a prescription for my cat unless I drag him back into that office in the city. I would give zero stars if i could. Pay attention to the negative reviews here, AVOID AT ALL COSTS. Scarred my poor kitty shame on them. read more

I took my cat Tripod to Dr. Schaubhut here yesterday at his new office; I was happy to see him, and I'll definitely make the trip across town--especially for this one, who has pre-existing conditions. Fortunately, the sore I found on him was a false alarm; it was apparently the result of a scuffle with my other cat, but I brought him in because he was overdue for a checkup; the sore gave me the impetus to take him in right away, before it got worse. The staff was nice, friendly, and caring; Tripod was clearly unhappy to be there and they tried to make him feel at home. I don't have any experience with Dr. Ficarra; she apparently wasn't even in the office at the time, so I didn't even meet her. read more

We have been staying in Chelsea for the short-term. Our 4 year old dog needed a wellness check and updated vaccines. We decided to find a vet in the neighborhood instead of trekking back to our vet. We are very happy to have found Downtown Vet. We reached out to schedule and received a response quickly. The team was really friendly. Dr. Ficcara was thorough with questions about Walter as he was a new patient. The visit was quick, vaccines were provided. And they called back the next day with results for heartworm and fecal test. Very easy to work with. read more

This vet needs to close down. Went in because my senior baby was at her point and it was time. He made the whole situation uncomfortable. Told me to step out because I was a mess. I didn't. Was yelling at the nurse and Receptionist because of things that they knew more of then he did. Unfortunately this was my second visit there because of convenience and both times were not pleasant. Both Vets are not worth your money, time or pets hardship. Please walk away. read more

Downtown Veterinary Clinic is my favorite vet in Chelsea. They were so kind to my cat when I had to put him down. As we all know it's such a hard decision to make and a terrible process . They made me and my cat feel as comfortable as possible. They were so kind. Money was not their main focus like many other vets in the neighborhood. They really took their time examining him every time I brought him in. They even gave him a nickname and sent me a heartfelt condolence card which really helped. I highly recommend them! read more

I brought my rhodesian ridgeback puppy, Nika, here for all of her vaccinations, spaying, and general checkups. They took wonderful care of her every time. Don't be seduced by the size/decor of other veterinary practices--finding a vet you can trust is difficult, and for what it's worth, I found everyone at DVC, from Carol at the front to Drs. Ficarra and Schaubhut, to be helpful and direct, and their primary concern was always the health of my dog. I have been to other veterinary practices in Chelsea whose main concern seemed to be squeezing every last dollar out of each visit, taking advantage of pet-owners' concern and lack of knowledge. The vets at DVC never did that. On one occasion, Dr. Ficarra even gave me her personal phone number in case I had questions over the weekend; I took care not to abuse this but was very grateful for her thorough answers. Not being a vet myself, I can't evaluate a vet's medical competence but I can give you a quick summary of my experiences: Because DVC has a smaller office and staff, its hours of operation are understandably more limited than other places. When I had to bring Nika somewhere for a weekend emergency, I couldn't take her to DVC. That day, she was diagnosed with lymphoma and began chemotherapy immediately with an oncologist at BluePearl, where she continued to be treated until she tragically succumbed to the cancer. When I notified DVC after her passing, they emailed me back immediately and sent a very kind sympathy card. These might sound like insignificant gestures, but for a heartbroken owner, they meant a great deal. Considering that the staff at BluePearl couldn't even remember my dog's name after I'd been bringing her there twice a week for half a year, the fact that DVC showed compassion and care for her even after she died is indicative of their deep commitment to their patients. I thoroughly recommend DVC to any pet-owner. read more

I really felt that Dr Schaubhut wanted to soak me for as much as he could get out of me. He didn't seem to care about my dog's health issues or about the costs of tests or treatment. He arbitrarily decided to "in-house" the blood-work which is more expensive and usually done when time is of the essence. After the unnecessarily quick results,I got no explanation of the blood work. I got vague muttering while viewing the x-rays. I got an edict that additional urinalysis would be done for Cushing's Decease. I was not asked to give permission for the testing which I took it on myself to refuse. I got a very pushy vet tech wanting to give my dog"his first dose"of a medication without an explanation of what the med was,why the dog needed it, or the cost. The vet tech should be working in a used car lot. That is her overall manner. Dr Schaubhut needs to revamp his approach to clients. We are not mindless imbeciles to be dictated to. I am not overfeeding my dog as I explained multiple times. My dog has peeing, panting and joint issues. I got zero help with these. I paid $420 for exam, blood work and x-rays. I got no meaningful information. Yes, expensive! Plus, this is money for nothing! The "we are here to squeeze as much money out of you as possible " vibe is true. read more

This place is an absolute rip-off. Each time I've been here I didn't leave for under $400 and I'm not talking about anything major. Just an exam...which just includes a quick check of the ears, teeth and a squeeze on the back is $81. I can do that myself for free, just unfortunately can't give out certificates of health. I'm surprised I wasn't charged for the treats they gave them to be honest. They will nickel and dime you for the sake of raising the bill. For a while I thought maybe it was just the cost of veterinary services in the city, but the last two times I've been to this vet, I have overheard others in the waiting room comment on the cost of Dr. Ficarra's services. I went to Downtown Veterinary Clinic because Dr. Ficarra seems to really love animals and it was convenient to my apartment as I have to walk to get there. At first, I dealt with the cost because of my dogs and thought maybe it was because I was bringing in two at a time. However, I began to bring one in at a time and the bill would still be over $400. I'm talking routine procedures! Nothing fancy or complicated! This vet tries to find something wrong with your pet and if they cannot, they use scare tactics to try and get you to pay for xrays, blood tests etc. They say they need to check for x or y, when you know full well there isn't a need for the tests they want to run. A while back my dog had a urinary tract infection. They told me they could not take a sample of the urine or stool there in the office but that I had to take the sample. So I took the sample on the way to the vet (in the rain no less) and gave it to them. A year later, my dog had another infection, so I went ahead and took the sample and when I got there, they told me they couldn't accept it because it was a 'free' sample and the test could be compromised. They used it anyway, but then wanted to run xrays and blood tests. I let them do it because they said it could be cancer and that of course scared me. The doctor comes back out and says she took an xray but didn't show her what she needed as she didn't capture the right spot, so she had to take another. Of course, she charged me for her mistake and there was nothing wrong with my dog. Today was the last straw. Last fall, I needed health certificates to fly my dogs out of New York. Because they had been there recently, they just prepared the certificates and all I had to do was pick them up. This year, because my eldest dog hadn't been to the vet since his last vaccinations, they said I needed to bring him in for an exam to get the certificate. Fair enough as they hadn't seen him in a year. But...I was told my second dog was ok as he had been there within 6 months. I walked my dog to the vet and Dr. C.W. Schaubhut examined him (as stated in my first paragraph...if you want to call that joke an examination...ear check, brief look at teeth and squeeze on haunches for $81). I asked about my second dog's certificate and I was refused because he said he needed to be examined. I told him that I was told I didn't have to bring him in because he was just there and they didn't have to see them last year either as they were there previously and I received the certificates. He said he couldn't possibly give me a certificate as he hadn't seen my dog. I said again that his staff told me I didn't have to bring him in and last year they did the same thing. He raised his voice to me and asked 'just who I spoke to' out front. He went and rudely asked the girl sat out front who gave me the info. He came back and told me the same thing and I said every time I come here it's a hassle and you never have your information straight. He told me to just go to another vet (also in an insulting and raised voice). So basically, Dr. Schaubhut just needs $81 to check ears and teeth for my dogs to fly on an airline. What a joke. He can verify they are immunized and are able to hear and eat while on the flight. I don't call that anything that requires a vet's particular skills. I'm left thinking that it's because their rent is too expensive for them to manage so they have to try and swindle money out of people that are concerned for their pets or need verification of information. If they can't pay their rent then they need to move. I'm guessing at Dr. C.W. Schaubhut's age he has no other choice but try to take money from people for no real purpose at all as he can't find anything else to do that requires less thought for the amount of money charged. Stay away from this establishment. Their services are not worth the money they charge. The only positive about this place is the staff out front is friendly. They are not at fault for their doctor's incompetency and greediness. read more

I was going to write a rave review about these wonderful, caring Vets. I've been taking my pets to Dr Schaubhut for over 20 years and know that he plays by the book, and puts the pet's health above the owner's demands. So I looked over the 9 reviews presented by Yelp and they were not balanced, fair or reasonable. The business is not allowed to respond to reviews. Then I looked at the 21 reviews Yelp excluded from their evaluation. Almost every one were from people who had been going to these Vets for many years and all gave them 5 stars. I know I would rather read reviews from experienced pet owners who have years of extensive knowledge about these Doctors than read the fits of new pet owners who are confused and inexperienced. Yelp has done a disservice by excluding these reviews. I recommend you read all 21 of them--and I pray this review does not get censored too. An update--last August my precious Maine Coon cat was very sick. The vet where I'm staying in PA did bloodwork and gave him fluids, then recommended Sammy see an oncologist. He was showing signs of acute luekemia. I sent the tests results to Dr Schaubhut for a second opinion. He called me back and told me i had to put Sammy down immediately. What a shock. I asked if i could take him to the PA vet in the morning. No. i asked if i could wait an hour. No. Schuabhut knows me well. I took Saamy in to the local animal hospital. He was droopy and starting to hallucinate. I held him as they sedated him. Later i was told that Sammy could have started screaming in pain at any moment. That would have been so horrible for both of us. I really have to thank Dr Schuabhut for standing up for my Sammy and seeing that the right thing was done, even if it was very difficult. read more

I was an absolute wreck about having my dog Mattie's teeth cleaned- they have to go under anesthesia and even though she is in great health and the risk is minimal, it was enough to induce some major anxiety. I elected to have the anesthesiology specialist, Dr. Hess, attend the surgery for added peace of mind. The day of, I asked the front desk if I could meet Dr. Ficcara, who would be performing the cleaning, as I have only worked with Dr. Schaubhut in the past. No problem at all- within a few minutes I was in the back room, meeting both Dr. Ficcara and Dr. Hess. They proceeded to pore over every page of Mattie's health records with me and discussed past medical testing compared to her latest bloodwork to get a picture of her total health profile. In those 15 minutes, we even solved another minor medical issue which simply needed a change in her diet. Before I left Dr. Hess promised that if she in any way felt concern over her breathing, etc., she would stop the procedure. I can't tell you how relieved I was when I walked out of that room. It was clear that the doctors take even routine procedures like a teeth cleaning seriously, and didn't make me feel like a crazy lady for being so worked up over it! Thanks Dr. Ficcara and Dr. Hess, for a great experience. I should also give a shout out to Dr. Schaubhut, who I followed to this practice after closing his LES office. The Dr. supports a minimum vaccination schedule with titers, which I am very much in favor of. He is very direct and to the point, and will never try to oversell you. When Mattie had to see a specialist, he reviewed the specialist's notes and recommendations for treatment and gave me a very honest opinion of what he thought was valid and what he thought was a waste of time and money. I trust him 100%. read more

Yesterday 'Mack the Knife", our senior cat, a rescue from the WTC 9/11/2001, at the ripe old age of 17+ was helped gently into Eternity. By my good friend and trusted veterinarian of 35 years, Dr. Schaubhut. With his usual mix of competence and heartfelt compassion, the Doc and I spoke a bit about Mack's serious health issues, quite extensive by then. We all agreed that 'enough is enough. Let's give an old pet a rest.." Those moments are always difficult for any loving cat/dog owner. We experienced a similar event with our Lexie a few years ago when she developed lymphoma. And were also treated with respect and caring, as was our seriously ill pet. Having access to this clinic as we do, and an established relationship of trust and friendship with them, makes those sad decisions easier to bear. Our deepest thanks to all at DVC. read more

I usually go to Heart of Chelsea but had an emergency and I have nothing but great things to say about this Vet. I was literally trying to throw money at them to fix my dog but they reassured me he was fine. It would have been so easy for this Vet to take major money from me and I was ready to spend. But he didn't want my money that badly. He cared about my dog. Not profits. Thank you all. read more

I have so much respect for this Veterinary clinic. I have been researching vets all over NYC about a surgery my puppy needs since he has cryptorchidism, and Dr. Ficarra got back to me so quickly and gave a clear, specific account of what needed to be done. She cares about animals so much and is so kind and caring and skilled as a vet. I highly recommend the Downtown Veterinary Clinic and Dr. Ficarra highly. read more

As a long-time customer of Dr. Schaubhut I was dismayed when I heard the East Village Vet office had closed but happy to learn he had moved to another NYC office. Dr. Schaubhut is still THE GREATEST vet despite the fact that the new office charges 2-3 times what the East Village charges were. I took a kitten to the Downtown Veterinary Clinic for a check-up with Dr. Schaubhut but later made the mistake, when dropping him off a few weeks later to be neutered, of not specifying Dr. Schaubhut do the procedure, as I had assumed Dr Schaubhut was listed in the file as my cat's vet. When I picked the kitten up later I found out Dr. Ficarra had done the procedure. I was also being charged a "re-examination fee" since she was not the vet that had examined him only a few weeks previously! On top of that there were extra charges for pain-killers that I had not been told about when inquiring about the cost of the procedure. My kitten was not harmed but I was not happy someone other than Dr. Schaubhut had treated him. I'd had some terrible experiences with other vets before I found Dr. Schaubhut back in the 90's and do not care to ever go through them again. He is a genius! Dr. Ficarra may or may not be a good vet, that is not what this review is about. I know from experience that I can trust Dr. Schaubhut whom I HIGHLY recommend. Just make sure that if he is the vet you want, you let the front desk people know it, in no uncertain terms. It is my understanding that he is not there every day so call ahead to find out when he is available before making the appointment. read more

Came here because of Dr Schaubhut and all of the staff have been wonderful going OUT OF THEIR WAY to help us when both of our doggies were sick. They give the care that's needed, fast, get right to the heart of the illness diagnose and treat without some long drawn out process designed to milk you out of money. THANK YOU!!! read more

I was apprehensive of finding a new vet since I moved to the city, but am so glad I chose them! Dr. Hess and Dr. Ficarra are very friendly and personable. They took great care of my Maltipoo. read more

I met Dr. Ficarra when I was volunteering at Social Tees Animal Rescue. She provided vet care for the animals in the shelter. I adopted an older chihuahua mix from Social Tees who had two giant tumors on her stomach and Dr. Ficarra removed them right before I adopted her, I assume for a discounted fee however I was not required to pay for the surgery. Dr. Ficarra was our vet for the 10 months that I had my dog (she was put to sleep this week). She was so wonderful. She gave me her personal email and cell phone number if I ever needed to contact her in an emergency. One Saturday I had to go to work but my dog had needed to be sedated at the vet because of pain in her neck that needed to be taken care of. Dr. Ficarra took my dog to her apartment with her after the clinic closed so she wouldn't be alone and I could go to work. Her staff was always so wonderful and seemed to really care about my dog. Many of them have also volunteered at the rescue. Dr. Ficarra knew that I was unemployed at the time and she always gave me a discount. The doctor also makes house calls but I was always able to bring my dog into the clinic. Although I don't live in the neighborhood and it's a big of a hike for me to get to her clinic, I know I will go back when I get another dog. read more

So excited to learn they have acquired Dr. Schaubhut from East Village Veterinarian!!! Must go check them out for sure....I'm following him. Rating based on the obvious. read more

Dr Ficarra is one of the most competent, caring veterinarians I've ever met...and I've met many in my years. We were told about her clinic when we got the love of our lives from Mighty Mutts Animal Rescue 16 years ago. We've had two cats and two dogs under her care ever since. i can't tell you how many times SHE"S GONE OUT OF HER WAY TO HELP. The staff is friendly and competent and have a great bedside manner. You know right away they love animals or Dr. Ficarra wouldn't have them working with her. The clinic is everything you'd want it to be, clean and professional Dr Ficarra still works with cat & dog rescue groups. There are always rescues at the clinic she is finding homes for. In a city full of vets trying to make as much as they can Dr. Ficarra got into this work for all of the right reasons...She GENUINELY cares. My animals like seeing her...even when it's time for shots. That impresses me the most. I highly recommend Dr Ficarra. She takes animal care very seriously. Though we now live in Brooklyn I wouldn't even consider using anyone else. Dr Ficarra is the best . read more

When one of my cats had chronic problems, I was desperate to find a new vet. I walked into Downtown Veterinary to feel the place out questions and bumped right into Dr. Ficarra. She spent a good deal of time with me at no cost. Her answers were straightforward and I could tell Hyde would be in good hands. When I brought him in, she was very gentle with him and we discussed all the treatment options before deciding what to try. We also talked frankly about my budget -- and it was scrupulously honored. After I brought Hyde home, I got several calls from Dr. Ficarra and from the staff to see how he was doing. All in all, a very good experience! read more

We think that doctor Figaro is proberly the best vet in the area. Having visited almost all the other ones in the area I can say without a doubt that she genuinely loves animals. She is caring and compashionate as are all the staff there. I had an emergency with my dog on Christmas morning and she made herself available for us even gave us her cell number!! U don't get that in new York city most places only care about giving u the largest bill. Thanks dr f we are big fans and I would recommend anyone who loves there dog as much as I do to check out there new office and am sure they will get the same great service that I have gotten in the past Thanks again and I'm sure we will be back soon.... read more

Amazing, caring, staff. Super smart Dr.s. I would not trust just anyone with my Rat Terrier. My dog behaves like Cujo at the vet. They have loved him anyway. This team goes out of their way to explain everything. I don't really review often, but I just had to make it public, how much I appreciate the work that these Doctors have put into my dog to extend his life. They have been the best! read more

They've been fantastic, both the two times our cat was sick and trimming his nails every month or so. Really kind and professional.

Glad to find Dr Schaubhut again. He's cared for my 3 cats on & off for 16 years. I thought my little Petey was on his way out at 18 he had stopped eating & drinking. It turned out to be an ear infection & dehydration. read more

I would first like to say that I have been a pet owner my entire life, however I have never had kittens before so I came in looked for some advice and for the kittens to be examined to make sure they were healthy. The lady at the front desk was very friendly and chatted with me briefly while I waited. The vet tech was also very nice and was trying to give me some advise on kittens and how to keep them from getting into things etc. Now the doctor... Dr Ficcara was condescending and rushed from the beginning. She was very impatient with the kittens who were understandably uncooperative because they had not had a lot of prior human contact and were scared. She examined the smaller of the kitten first, and immediately noticed a small sore on his mouth. She then told me that he had some terrible and contagious disease and started warning all the other employees in the clinic that they would have to take precariously measures with other patients. Then, another doctor came in and after he examined the kitten, he concluded that it was just a little infection on his lip which was nothing to worry about... Then Dr Ficcara proceeded with the examinations on both kittens, and while nothing really terrible happened (yet) she decided that the larger kitten would be too difficult to get a temperature on, so she skipped it (but still charged me for a full exam). She also decided they both needed the feline leukemia test which I agreed to, however when she tried to draw blood on the kittens, that's when the disaster started. Long story short, she had to have 3 people pin down 1 screaming kitten while she drew blood on him, and then had to drug my other kitten twice (to the point where he couldn't even move anymore) to draw blood because she insisted it had to be done on his neck (he also impaled himself on the needle twice before, hence the reason he was drugged again). Dr Ficcara's overall manner was just very bad, and she made me feel like I was burdening or wasting her time by bringing my kittens to her. Needless to say, I will NOT be returning to this clinic again! read more

I have had a lot of pets in my life, of one variety or another, and have therefore had my share of vet visits. I have NEVER had such appalling treatment, care, service as I had at Downtown Veterinarian Clinic (9th Avenue in Chelsea). Perhaps if you are a continual customer who forks out tons of dough you'd get better service. But as a first time customer (my cat = the patient), the care and attention we received left a lot to be desired. There was absolutely no follow up. Dr. Ficarra was rushed and condescending. Everything, I mean EVERYTHING, was a charge - and none of the charges were disclosed up front. After spending over $1000 I had to take my cat elsewhere - West Chelsea Veterinarian Hospital - where I received AMAZING service and treatment. If you care about your pet, do not take them here. And yes, they are OUTRAGEOUSLY expensive for what you get. read more

I had to put my beloved cat Maggie down because she had a mass in her stomach which another vet failed to diagnose and wanted to charge us a ridiculous amount of money for ultrasound testing, x rays, etc. I heard Dr Schaubut was at this practive and decided to take Maggie to him. He knew right away what she had and we didn't have a choice but to put her sleep. It was heartbreaking and hard to do. He said the right things to put us at ease and we felt very moved by his kind words. My husband and I cried for a whole week for this cat and sometimes we still do. We didn't have her for very long but we loved her very much. She was special. The whole staff was very kind and treated us nicely. Even sent us a card with some of Maggie's fur in a bag that broke my heart but it was very nice. I hightly recommend this vet practice. Clearly we're all going to experience different things at different times but they definitely have the best interest of all animals in mind. This is what they dedicate their lives to do and it shows. By the way we traveled all the way from Staten Island to this clinic and do not regret it. I didn't have too much interaction with Dr Ficcaro but she seems caring enough. read more

I am so glad to know that Dr. Schaubhut is in practice here. He's a straight up vet who is on point! I'm certain his knowledge of homeopathy helped my precious BooBoo (May 17, 1998-January 28, 2012). We miss her but comforted that she was well taken care of. read more

I don't understand why the negative reviews about Dr. Janet Ficarra, but we have taken our five cats and one dog there for as long as she has been on Ninth Avenue, and I think she is terrific! A great and dedicated Vet, an excellent manner - what's not to like? She is aces in my book! read more

I scheduled a house call with Dr. Ficarra for my sick kitten, and she never showed up. I waited around all night! I received a not-terribly-contrite phone call the next morning from the receptionist stating that "an emergency house call" had come up. That would have been ok had someone called me in a timely manner to let me know that the doctor had to cancel our appointment. Instead--nothing. Incredibly unprofessional behavior; I would never trust my cat's health to this institution. read more