Alexandria, VA - El Paw Veterinary Clinic is our go to vet for our furry brood of 2 Golden Retrievers and 2 cats. Mind you we don't bring them all at the same time :-). We all really like the separate entrances for dogs and cats. This keeps curious dogs away from our stressed out cats and keeps our dogs from trying to make friends with unwilling cats. Very convenient! The exam rooms for both dogs and cats are very large and comfortable. And always clean and neat. The vet techs are all super friendly and helpful. Last time the tech even helped carry my pet carrier. We find the vets to be knowledgeable, caring and ready to answer all our questions. We never feel rushed and they give us a number of treatment options to consider as well. We will definitely be returning. read more

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First time puppy parent here. Dr. Yungk and the entire staff are amazing. They took the time to explain to me the vaccinations what they were for and the timing of when my pup would be ready to go outside. I even got a recommendation for a puppy training class, which is going well. Very recently, I thought something was wrong with my pup because they were slightly more relaxed. In my mind, I was looking for all kinds of causes. Not that she probably settled in after eight weeks in my house. The staff was very kind and reassured me she was healthy. Even to the extent that one of the staff members went out in the rain to try and collect a urine sample. I cannot express how thankful I am. read more

We have been coming to Elpaw for 3 years now because of their quality of care for my girls. The Front Desk staff have always been friendly and super helpful. I am able to request an appointment and usually get an email or call the very next day. Dr. Yungk has gone above and beyond, with having gotten us through multiple health issues for both dogs. She continues to really listen to our concerns each visit alongside showing such love to them. read more

Elpaw Veterinary Clinic - Veterinarians Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I always liked bringing my cats here, staff was always kind and helpful and I liked the cat/dog separation as one of mine had anxiety issues , and bringing her in was stressful already read more

One reviewer talked about how hard it was for her to get her dogs vet shot records. I don't understand how that could be the case because Elpaw prints the shot record at the bottom of every receipt they give. So you literally can just grab the receipt from the last appointment you had,And there is the most up-to-date shut record for your dog! I have found the vets and the staff to be helpful and kind and to go the extra mile for me. They even have Saturday morning hours which a lot of vets don't have. I think they're great! read more

Don't waste your time calling them. You wont be able to get an appointment for a month or longer.

You will not find a better vet than Dr. Yungk. She is the absolute best. When she worked near our home she saved our dog's life -- literally -- by continuing to operate when most vets would have said our 10-year old was a goner. Three hours later the dog emerged from surgery, the mass ended up being benign, and Dr. Yungk had successfully peeled it away -- one strand at a time -- from the side of her stomach without any issues. Our dog ended up living for nearly an additional 6 years, thanks to Dr. Yungk. When she moved to Elpaw and we got a new dog we followed her there, even though it's about a 30 minute drive. Worth it. If you like taking your dog to a vet that rushes through the appointment, doesn't listen, doesn't seem to like dogs, and is unable to communicate, then you should find a different vet than Dr. Yungk. She is the best and my wife and I could not trust her more. read more

They don't care about getting you in, while the vet herself is nice, doesn't matter because their front desk staff is unhelpful, unprofessional and lacks common courtesy and sense. I came here one time, and it will be the last time. Particularly disturbing was that I had an emergency with my cat, who they had seen, and when I asked Kate to have the vet call me she refused saying they didn't even have any appointments. If you care about your pet, I recommend going to someplace that actually cares and will have a common sense and courtesy to call you back! read more

Dr. Yungk (and Pearce) are compassionate, thorough and honest. Dr. Yungk really went above and beyond when I was working on weight loss with one of my kitties. I am so appreciative of her time and concern. The front desk staff and techs are good as well. We moved to a new state and found our new vet's office as a whole just doesn't run as efficiently. It is true that you have to make an appointment in advanced, but this has been standard every vet's office we have gone to. I also love that they post pictures of clients on their FaceBook page! I would recommend Elpaw to anyone looking for veterinarians that are competent and truly invested in the health a well being of your fur babies. read more

Do not go here if you value your time and good customer service. I've lived in Alexandria for 6 years. I've had my lovely mutt for about the same time. I moved from Potomac yard to landmark area 2 years ago. Last year i decided to go to El Paw since i can actually walk there from my house. The vet techs are awesome. The vet was fine but brief. The receptionists were the worst. They are unprofessional and lack common sense. I never received the vaccination records after my appointment although i requested it there. I was told to request it by email. Never got them. Today i called at 1000 and was told that they were too busy to help me right away because the person responsible for sending records was busy updating and sending records for surgeries. 4 hours later i call again But insist this time. Now the receptionist can send it directly to the groomer by fax but the email will still have to wait... Huh?! If you value customer service don't go here. If you need vaccine records quickly, don't go here. read more

I've only been here once but had a great experience, despite the covid precautions that we must do to stay safe. It was easy to book an appointment. I brought my cat here for a wellness exam with Dr. Yungk. She and the techs/reception are really nice and seemed to have treated my Sesame really well. The doctor also called me with the lab results and asked how she was doing post visit. I was able to have my questions and concerns answered and left with a positive experience! Seems like Sesame didn't mind the visit either! Thank you Elpaw! I also look forward to using their boarding services when I travel. read more

My goldendoodle is prone to ear infections due to floppy ears. I saw Dr. Young in April for a full annual blood work up and 5 shots for my baby. I called to get ear medication as he is having a bad ear infection and won't stop shaking his head. He cries if I even poke his ear. Because Dr. Young is now on maternity leave they are requiring the 2nd vet see my dog to prescribe antibiotics. How can you not trust your other vet vouching he needs the antibiotic and she saw him less than 6 months ago! Time for a new vet-they just want your money! read more

Love this clinic! I take my cat here for regular checkups, emergencies or even just for a nail trim. The staff is always patient and kind, and they're clearly well experienced. My cat needed to undergo a dental procedure here, and her health has improved dramatically since then. If it weren't for the fine staff at Elpaw, we would not have known. Plenty of parking too! read more

This is by far the best vet I've been to. Both of the vets are incredibly experienced and kind, and the staff is lovely and prompt. My dog Pickles is anxious, and they treat him so incredibly kindly. He's typically scared of men, but all of the vet techs have been so sweet and patient with him. Compared to other vets I've been to, they're also very fairly priced. I never wait long for appointments and always feel so welcomed when I walk in the door. My dog actually runs up to the doors! The new building and facility is also very pretty. I can't say enough good things about Elpaw! read more

Been going here for about a year, and haven't been happy. If I could give no stars to this place I would. Staff is lazy, unfriendly and not helpful. After Dr. Pearce refusing to fill my dog's medication (he's in congestive heart failure) due to an outstanding balance of 31.00- which I didn't know about, nor was told when I called in for a refill. It wasn't until I called back several days later inquiring about the refill- I was told about the balance and Dr. Pearce's refusal. I find it completely disgusting a vet would refuse life saving medication for 31.00! After thousands of dollars I have spent for the last year. I will NEVER return. The place is a dump, and the people could care less about your pet. read more

The vet has treated both my dogs, including having to put my dog to sleep. I found all my questions answered thoroughly and very timely calls about test results, in addition to the vet giving results in a compassionate manner. I never felt rushed off the phone when calling or being called about next steps. When I needed to make end of life decisions for my dog, I felt I was given all the options and that the process minimized the pain. When it was time to relieve him of his pain, they had a room waiting for us when we came in, explained the entire process, and timing for each medication as we put our family dog to sleep. Other than perhaps an at-home euthenesia, this is about the most compassionate care you will receive when it is time to say goodbye. read more

I have been bringing my dog and cats here for years and have always received great service. The staff is friendly and Dr. Pierce is compassionate and is very good at explaining the care that is needed for my pets. I also have to say that Franci and Tracy are the best. You can tell that everyone who works here are animal lovers and really care about you and your pets.. read more

LOVE THIS PLACE. Called El Paw at 1am when my pup began peeing blood. Bright red, she was crying, blood. Doctor called me back at 8am to say she was in the office, during the blizzard. Bring her in anytime she says- just get here safely. I jacked a cab out on the street, slowly made my way there, and doc saw Ali immediately. Turns out she had a pretty funky bladder infection. An hour later, we found a ride back home,stocked with meds, and puppy is back to her psycho playful self, Thanks doc! Thanks for being there when most of the city was shut down! read more

I have been taking my cat to Elpaw Veterinary Clinc for nearly two years and I am very satisfied with their service. My experience with the veterinarian assigned to my cat has been teriffic. She is prompt, very knowledgeable, and doesn't mind answering questions. They take care of dogs as well, though I can't vouch for that side of the business but I imagine you'd be treated the same as I have. The main reason I go there is because their prices are reasonable, and they accept spay/neuter surgery vouchers from the Fairfax county government. The receptionists can be a bit surly, especially if you place your pet carrier on the counter! They could be a tad bit more welcoming also. Several times I have not been acknowleged, even when standing right at the counter. These are minor quibbles but could be easily fixed. If you're looking for a depenable, affordable vet, Elpaw is a good bet. read more

Knock knock. Who's there? 1965. Or at least that's where the building in which you'll find Elpaw (not to mention the office itself) is firmly planted. From the Cold War brick to the cheesy retro looking signage out front, this place is a real throwback to "Unsafe at Any Speed" and granny glasses. When you enter the waiting room you feel like you should have worn your bell bottoms and love beads: it's a study in 60s brown -- beige, burnt sienna, raw umber. But it's a very pleasant place to bring your pet for servicing. True, the front desk staff can occasionally be brusque, but overall I find them efficient and practical. The waiting room is divided into a "dog side" and "cat side;" we bring our cat, so we sit on that side of the waiting room. We are usually the only people waiting, and I reeeeally appreciate that Elpaw doesn't operate like a people doctor does by double- and triple-booking appointments. We are usually seen within 5 - 10 minutes of sitting down. The assistants are friendly, well-trained, and helpful. Our vet, Dr. Pearce, is very knowledgeable, patient, and great with our scaredy-cat. She's a real professional. All the staff really make us feel like they love our kitty -- the impression left is that caring for your pet is very important to them. We have really liked our experience with Elpaw. They are conveniently located, efficient with the appointments, and really reasonably priced. read more

There are 2 vets that I will ever go to. One is in MD and I found one in VA.. which works out since I'm always in either one of these states. Dr. Han is AMAZING! Years of experience, check! Great understanding of not only your dog's needs but your family's needs, check! Polite, honest, respectful, easy going, check! VERY knowledgeable, check! What more do you want?? Parking is plenty in front of the office. There is a separate cat and dog waiting area... cute. read more

These guys were just OK. The vet herself, Dr. Pearce, seemed knowledgeable but wasn't overly friendly. When I went I was a first time cat owner and she seemed rushed. I asked about tips for nail trimming and she said "well just have patience is all I can say. A few at a time til he gets used to it" - I really wanted to know about the best technique, the best kind of trimmer, etc. Also, I had just gotten my cat from a shelter that gave me all the paperwork and assured me he was up to date on everything. Dr. Pearce gave him a "booster" of some kind, and didn't even tell me why. To me it just seemed like it was something else to charge me for. Additionally, the facilities are kind of dated. Might be OK to look 1970s on the outside, but for example they also had an oldschool thermometer. Needless to say, that's the part of the visit your pet probably hates most, and my cat had to sit there getting his temperature taken for a solid 30 seconds if not longer. Time to update that technology, guys. When I go to the doctor, my temp is taken in under 5 seconds. My fiancee's vet is the same way: super quick temp reads. I don't know why Elpaw still goes with the ancient methods. Anyway, I'll be switching to my fiancee's vet (Del Ray Animal Hospital) going forward (time to consolidate!) Elpaw has nothing horribly wrong about them, but if you're looking for a technologically advanced shop with a friendly practitioner, this may not be your first stop. To be fair, the front desk staff was pretty nice! read more

My 2 favorite things about Elpaw is 1. They treat my pitbull (who's growled and pissed all over there floor many times) with patience and no judgement and 2. they never try to up sell me anything. I've taken both my dogs here (German Shepherd and Pitbull) for many years. Their prices are fair and I see nothing but honesty with Dr. Pearce. I like that they send me reminders of when my dog's shots are due. My pitbull had surgery once there and they took care of him really really well. I'm absolutely satisfied and will continue to be a customer here. read more

I had my first visit to Elpaw earlier this week. I read a few reviews here commenting on the reception staff, so I kept that in mind when I booked my appointment. They seem young, that's all. They were friendly and we cracked jokes on the phone. When I arrived, a tech came out to visit my cat in the waiting area, which I thought was nice. I also liked the fact that there are separate waiting areas for cats and dogs. Dr. Pierce was really knowledgeable and to the point on our data, situation, and plan of action. She really knows her stuff. However, they don't do much beyond bloodwork. We had to obtain a referral for Ultrasound, X-Rays etc. This is why I am giving them four stars instead of five. Otherwise, my experience here was really great. read more

I've been taking my cat here for a while. They charge fair prices, seem to genuinely care about your pet and have a nice clean facility with separate entrances for dogs and cats. During christmas I had a hard time finding any places that weren't totally booked but Elpaw came through, as they do boarding for cats if you are a patient / customer with them. I've done routine shots with them and also had my cat looked at for a nasty ear infection that cleared up after a few days with the medication they gave me for it. My cat even seems to like it there, when he saw the vet assistant he went running out of his carrier to go get greeted by him. I don't feel like they try and upsell me too much other than dental care, but can't blame them for trying to recommend other services while they have you there. read more

I have been taken my dogs to Dr Pearce since 1997. She is the best vet that I have ever had (and I've had several). She is very knowledgeable, experienced, and compassionate. She also makes herself readily available. I appreciate that she prescribes appropriate treatment without creating unnecessary charges. I just can't say enough about my how absolutely pleased I have been with Dr Pearce's care of my babies! I trust her implicitly and recommend her without any reservation. read more

Dr. Pierce and her staff are AMAZING! We recently moved into the area and found ourselves in need of a place to take out kitty named Molly. I decided to call Elpaw to secure a second opinion for Molly. The staff at Elpaw are courteous, professional, and extremely caring. A feature worth pointing out is separate kitty entrance:-). read more

We are profoundly grateful for the excellent care Dr. Pearce provided over 13 years to Choco, the Airedale in our family. From beginning to end, you guided us with expert knowledge, kindness and generosity. Thank you so very much for your help in making Choco's life as healthy and painless as it was. Thanks also to the entire staff at El Paw who always pampered Choco. You were always responsive, professional and gracious with our entire family. Best wishes to you all. read more

Elpaw Veterinary Clinic - Veterinarians Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

We've been going to Elpaw for 20 years and it's a wonderful place to take your pet. Great staff. Dr. Pierce is wonderful. She was very compassionate and considerate toward my 10 year old girls when we had to put our beloved cat to sleep; while we were surrounding her to say goodbye as she took her last breath. read more

Dr. Nadia Yungk is a new vet to this practice, and she is just great! We were so impressed with her knowledge, attentiveness, and kindness towards our border collie mix. She was thoughtful in her approach, and she clearly knew the research about the issue. I could not recommend her more highly! read more

I would rate 5 stars were it not for the rebellious teen who works at the front desk. I was ready to write a terrible review, but after being hung up on when asking for the assistant/receptionist's name, I marched my way into the office very upset. Thankfully, to two other ladies at the front desk were very sympathetic/empathetic to my situation and apologized for the adolescent's behavior, saying they would be sure to pass the word on to the Vet for me. Long story short, my dog had an emergency due to a severe infection of his ingrown tail. I called at 3am requesting their soonest available appointment as my dog was in very obvious discomfort, not allowing me to sleep. The adolescent receptionist called me to tell me their soonest available appointment, I said okay, and asked if there was anyway we could squeeze him in as am emergency - she called back and asked me to drop him off, but they close at 6 and I work past 6. I said I would just sit tight until my 10am appointment. She said she had already booked another client for 10am and now only had an 11am. I told her I was very upset and asked for the number to an emergency clinic. I asked for her name and she hung up on me. I immediately called her back and asked again and she told me she was not going to give it to me. I told her I would be in immediately - she hung up. When I arrived she was outside smoking. She immediately knew who I was and I said, "I take it you are the little miss sunshine that I spoke with on the phone earlier?" She looked up at me from texting on her cell phone long enough to roll her eyes and look away. I ended up at Alexandria Animal Hospital. My dog was diagnosed with a severe infection, so much that he has enlarged lymph nodes, and he needs surgery. I was very impressed with AAH and most likely will not be going back to El Paw given this experience. To be clear, El Paw was great to me with the exception of the hoodlum that they hired to work their front desk, and their prices are extremely reasonable, probably the best that you will find. However, when it comes to my dog's wellbeing, the higher price is worth it to have my pet's health care provider understand when I am worried and who is willing to be just as concerned (or at least portray as much) about his health as I am. If you get this receptionist on the phone (extremely rude and not willing to budge their schedule to accommodate an urgent need - immediately writing you off), I suggest calling back and asking for someone else. The other ladies were extremely helpful and very nice. Lord knows how many other customers this girl has driven away. I know I had a similar problem with her when trying to schedule my first appointment a few months back. In such a terrible economy when there are so many competent and pleasant people looking for work that would do an excellent job, having a girl like this working as an intake for your business is inexcusable. read more

Everyone here is very friendly and responsive and they treat my dog so well. Their customer service is fantastic. They've been wonderful about helping me gather records for my dog and have been fast and friendly with the process. read more

I started going to Elpaw when I moved nearby. Don't let the 70s look fool you. I find it unpretentious and charming and I might be sad if they ever remodel. Dr. Pearce is down to earth and knowledgable. She listens to my concerns and explanations but doesn't go crazy ordering a bunch of expensive tests without warrant. Another reviewer complained of high prices. I can't speak for that, but I have shopped around for cheap vet care in the past and my pets suffered for it. I would rather put my dollars toward peace of mind to an office I trust. Regarding office staff and techs, I couldn't be happier with how nice they are to me and my pets. They always fit me in for an appointment and spoil my dog with petting and treats. On the day of the earthquake last year, I was stuck in insane panicked DC traffic while my cat was at the office recovering from dental cleaning surgery. The staff was super supportive and offered to stay past closing time until I could get there. My pets have undergone routine exams, illnesses, vaccines, surgeries and dental cleanings at Elpaw and we've gotten through it all as efficiently and hassle free as possible. read more

I'm a fan of their boarding...I bring my cat here for boarding and I can tell they take good care of him and he seems to like it and doesn't hiss like he did at another vet/boarding place I took him too. Like the other reviewers mentioned about upselling, my husband actually noticed this. You have to do your due diligence and speak to the Vet. My cat had an exam while boarding, but I spoke to the Dr to make sure some symptoms needed to be checked. During my cat's boarding, an exam was performed, his shots supposedly administered and a nail trim. When I picked him up, they gave me an invoice with the services performed and when I questioned who trimmed his nails, they checked and told me they overlooked this so if I didn't ask, I would have paid for a service that was never performed so I'm trusting that Dr. Pierce gave my cat his shots as well! A few months later, I asked for a prescription for our cat that I can give him so he can be relaxed to travel by plane as a carry on, and the staff gave me different answers from I have to bring the cat in for evaluation even though he was just there this year for his annual check up and was trying to charge me $75, $55 or $35--they could not even give me a specific price and I questioned why do I need to bring in the cat when all I'm asking for is a prescription so he can fly as a carry on and no health certificate is required by the airline. In the end, after numerous calls, they finally gave me the prescription, now I can see why others say "upselling" about this place but good grief just to get a prescription? Overall, I am happy with the boarding and my cat enjoyed his stay there as they were good to him. read more

We bring our dog here and have always had a great experience. It's easy to get appointments and the staff is nice. The doc is also knowledgeable in shipping dogs abroad in case you need a good resource. read more

AMAZING VET - I've been to almost every one in the area, and Dr. Pearce is by far the best. I've never had to wait, and when it's an emergency they fit you in. My cat receives the best care and TLC for the lowest prices. I won't trust anyone else. And it's the only waiting room I've ever seen that has a separate room for cats and another for dogs. I'm just BEYOND impressed!!!! read more

I have never been more satisfied with an establishment as I am with Elpaw. I truly don't even know where to being! Every staff member there is caring, invested, and knowledgeable in all matters relating to paws!! Not only am I treated with the utmost respect, but my kitten Olivia is too! Their customer service is beyond splendid, getting her paperwork and making appointments is a breeze. I never worry about my kittens' safety when she is in Dr. Yungk's care because I know that she is with the best. Dr. Yungk herself is intelligent and attentive, she even personally called me to check up on my kitten when she was sick! Dr. Yungk also went out of her way to find an animal hospital near me, that could take my kitten immediately. Without her help, I am not sure that my kitten would have gotten the proper help when she did, I'm not sure she even would have survived. To top it all off, they are affordable! If you live in the Alexandria area and need a vet Elpaw is THE place to go! read more

The vet techs have no idea what they're talking about. When asked what hookworms are, neither of the techs in the room could talk intelligently about what they were or what they did. They even had to hand me a pamphlet instead of explaining it to me. This makes me question the level of competence for the entire staff including Dr. Pierce who likely hired these techs. You should probably look elsewhere for better vet advice. The VCA is further down 236 but I trust their techs and vets far more than I trust this place. read more

My 6 year old rescued Pit Bull needed surgery for Mast Cell Tumors and Dr. Han was terrific. While he doesn't do surgery, his staff was extremely kind and caring. His associated performed the surgery with great success and no scaring. Sydney is not good with other animals and the staff made sure that the coast was clear when we arrived for all our visits. We waited in the car until they called me and let me know it was safe to come in. Sydney has had surgery for these tumors before and the cost was much less here than in California. Thank you all for helping take such good care of the "Princess". As with any medical care, it is important that you let the staff know what you expect and come with questions. If you come prepared and informed you will not be disappointed with the care you receive at this very caring facility. read more

The exterior looks a little old and rundown but inside is a very nice vet clinic. As I walk in, the ladies working the front desk were very welcoming. They also provided my dog with treats when they saw how scared she was. I met with Dr. Han, a sweet vet working at the clinic since forever he tells me; and he was great at answering my questions and concerns as a first time owner. It seemed like he loves what he does and that's great that he never lost his passion for pet care! The assistants were awesome too. I'm glad I went to this place. But I wish they worked Sundays. read more