Been with FVH for 8 years and just moved to a different Vet. I missed an appointment when my wife died. They didn't know the reason, but they also didn't bother to ask. Then I missed a second appointment for reasons that were my fault. You only get two strikes at FVH. Since then they require me to pay in advance like some kind of bum or they cancel the appointment. And how long will I be in the penalty box? Forever! Also, this "fear free" claim they boast about is none sense. The ask me to sedate my nervous dog before bringing him in. Boy, there's a breakthrough in care ; your pet won't experience fear if he's high as a kite. They even insisted on putting one of my dogs under for a nail trimming! He was sick and woozy all night long. And FVH's response? Take the dog to a pet groomer next time. Lame. read more

They have a great system here and made my dog feel very relaxed. The staff is always very helpful. Glad I found them.

Their techs are either untrained or incompetent or both. After being a regular client for over ten years, one year ago I took him in for routine vaccination. Two techs entered the room and proceeded to grab the dog in what looked a wrestling move. The 18lb dog struggled while tech tried to inject into his chest. I commented my displeasure at their method, and received a nasty letter a couple of days later. Then just last week I went in for routine exam and the Vet said he was due for vaccine. Without thinking I agreed. Then the same two techs came in and did virtually the same this time having to use two needles. I demanded that they do it professionally without success. Two days later Vet Tech sent another nasty letter titled "ending service" ( as if I would be taking my dog there anyway) read more

We first stared using this clinic over 12 years ago. A lot has changed. Where before it was a very open and friendly environment with excellent customer service, it has now become cold and technology driven. The quality of care is still fine but the lack of personal interaction and what seems to be a race for the buck drove us to find another clinic a few months ago. Often in the past year it might take 2-3 days for somebody to even return a phone call and their emphasis seems to be that you HAVE to use their online app (which is bug-prone and often doesn't work) to schedule anything. I can chalk up some of this in the recent past to the pandemic but that has been over now for almost 3 years. Our pets are our kids for most of us and we want assurance that our vets and their technicians consider the owners as much as the animals. read more

Great vet. Calm and gentle and thorough!! Dedicated to taking care of your dog.or cat.Highly recommend.

I've been taking my dogs here for 25 years. Lately Fairhaven Vet has not lived up to my expectations at all. This "fear free" thing means they feed your dog a constant onslaught of treats and peanut butter while they "examine" them, even when they're in for intestinal problems!! "Can I give your dog these treats?" "NO! You should be recommending I fast her for 24 hours and then start slowly on chicken and rice." Even I know that. Wtf. The first time they did this fear-free-gorging-on-treats thing (in for routine care & vaccinations), I didn't realize they were going to do that, so now, instead of being calm and waiting for the vet to enter the room, my dog paces in anticipation, waiting for all the treats she's going to get, searches the room for treats, then can't cooperate with the exam because she's looking for the treats. I guess if you love animals you become a vet tech, but it doesn't mean you understand anything about animals. Why is this protocol? Now on to the providers. I have LOVED the providers for the last 20 of my 25 years there. But now I have to choose carefully. There is one provider in particular that DOES NOT LISTEN to anything you say. They will info-dump on you, say all the things in the world it could possible be, then not ask any questions about past behavior, diet--whatever the issue--and recommend a ton of tests that don't even account for what's in front of them and what you as the owner have to say about your dog's history. I have had to specifically not ask for this provider. They still have some of the great docs I've loved in the past, but you can't get appointments with them (maybe they only do surgeries now), and really, it's this new "fear-free" model that has made the service go WAYYYY downhill. The other thing is that their website invites you to make an appointment online and "chat" with a "provider," but it doesn't mean it. You click on all the things, get spammed with texts and emails, then get sent back to the "chat with a provider" prompt. You simply can't make an appointment online but you will be assured that you can. It's maddening. I'm seriously considering moving to another clinic. read more

Great for routine care - kind to pets, thorough, sensitive, knowledgable. However hard to get appointments electively or emergent and difficult to even contact. For yearly care, highly recommended. If anything comes up, I cannot recommend. read more

I have gone to this vet for years with my 2 older dogs. First off I hate that they constantly state they are "fear free" when all that means is they want you to give your dog a bunch of trazodone when you bring them in so that they are so drowsy they have no idea what's going on. Second, they often have same day appointments but will only give it to you with an extra "emergency" fee even if they know it's not really emergent. It's just a good way to charge extra. They don't seem to be able to get regular patients in, in an appropriate amount of time. Of course when i call the vet, it's usually because something unusual is happening (swollen paw, eye infection etc), then they say they can get you in about a month out.. it's absolutely pointless. read more

I have a severely reactive dog and I wasn't sure how visits to the vet could ever go well for him. I told the staff at Fairhaven Vet his issues and they put together a game plan. I was very pleased and impressed how smooth the visit went. I took my boy back to get neutered and they handled it so well. The staff is very kind and understanding toward difficult dogs. Life with a reactive dog isn't easy, but Fairhaven Vet took excellent care of him and put me at ease. There's no question I will be going to Fairhaven Vet for all my pet needs. read more

They told me that they aren't currently taking new clients, but will resume in September, which is the first time I've ever heard of this "clients" role within a veterinarian hospital. Reach out in September and they said they still aren't taking new clients, and I have cat that has been throwing up multiple times and I just want to know what is going on and they outright refuse to help. Thanks for causing me so much stress. read more

I've had a lot of animals and been to a lot of vets. I worked as a vet assistant when I was a kid and I have to say this is the best vet experience I have ever even heard about, let alone experienced myself. The staff was AMAZING. They made our puppy feel very comfortable. During any hands-on exam portions of the visit, there was the Vet doing the exam and then an assistant petting or feeding tiny treats to him to make him feel at ease. Things were explained well. They didn't talk down or assume I knew more than I did. It was a great balance. When it came time for the shots the same thing: vet tech giving the meds and the assistance distracting him. When he got his shot he didn't even flinch. The 'no fear' concept really applies here. It's not just hype. It was as wonderful an experience as I could have ever hoped for in a vet visit. As I was leaving I made the joke "I wish MY doctor put this much time into making me feel as comfortable as you all put into making my dog feel comfortable." As long as I live in Bellingham, this will be our new Vet Clinic. read more

Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital - Rowdy Approved. - Veterinarians Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

We had our first appointment with Dr. Mike Hinckley yesterday- Kelden's first wellness checkup. I was very impressed at how patient and gentile Mike was with our pup. He took his time and did not rush our appointment. He made sure to cover even just the basics of puppy life, including recommending some puppy classes. I was extremely happy to hear Dr. Mike was well knowledgeable about recent dog research such as it will be healthier to neuter Kelden at 1 year of age rather than earlier or that grain free diets really aren't good for dogs. I appreciate that extra effort! Thanks Dr. Mike and the Fairhaven staff, you're doing it right with our precious fur babies in Bellingham. read more

Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital - Kelden being a great patient - Veterinarians Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

I'm very thankful and happy that they fit my senior pug, Earl in this week. He had a tremendous hole inside his neck which turned into a huge swollen puss-filled mass. Dr Wendy and her team really came through for us. He's literally jogging now. I haven't seen him move so fast since 2017!! read more

We made an appointment with these people when we were new to town. First they required we prepay on the phone for our appointment, $60.00, but I was a few minutes late and they canceled my appointment and told me that I would have to prepay again,$60.00. Well you can see where this is going. No problem as I have two dogs. I was new to town and handicapped. They cancelled both appointments and KEPT my $120.00. NO COMPASSION. THIEVES!!! read more

FVH is well deserving of its high review rating on Google. I've been taking my two Cavaliers to them since the beginning of 2020 and I've experienced nothing but the best care and love towards my animals from their front desk staff to their vets. Even when they are swamped with patients, I've never felt rushed or that my pets received less than their best. One of my Cavs had been struggling with chronic allergies since she was a puppy, the worst part of which were the awful ear infections she would get year round. It has taken a toll on her hearing. Until I met with Dr. Kennedy, no vet had taken the time to truly listen, take a detailed history and recommend alternatives when previous treatments had failed or proved to be unsustainable. Now Lily has the right meds and nothing has worked better. She isn't bothered by chronic ear infections anymore, doesn't itch and chew her paws non-stop, and can enjoy herself all seasons of the year! Thank you FVH for your dedication to our pets. read more

We have entrusted the care of our three "children" here for the last few years. The care is always thorough, compassionate, and conservative. We never feel pressured to do expensive treatments, medicines, etc. The veterinarians are very realistic to the costs associated with care and treating known or unknown issues, which I appreciate. I have always felt like the care given here to our animals is amazing and beyond any care we've had in the past. I've been here a lot during covid with two senior animals and find appointment times are appropriately scheduled given the issue, refills promptly refilled, and the staff are always friendly and helpful. I love the no fear business practice. Our Zoe gated people and does well here given the extra steps they take. Highly recommend the staff here for the love they've shown our fur babies. Also love printed receipts with photos of my pets during their appointment, too cute. read more

Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital - Our Zoe getting weighed and snuggling a blanket inside while we wait! How cute to see a pic printed on the receipt. - Veterinarians Near Me - Bellingham, Washington

I truly appreciated my vet from earlier days, but my access to her became non existant so I elected to consider options..... I AM SO GLAD I DID..... FAIRHAVEN VET is truly the most compassionate, knowledgeable, caring set of staff I have ever encountered over numerous years. There was no manhandling of either of my two cats, and there was no instruction to "back away as the staff only knew best", I am truly grateful for the stress free environment, the time taken to examine and educate to my cats' health condition. The personal touch and caring I encountered and witnessed is absolutely extraordinary and compassionate. Staff had read the medical information before the apptmt, and entered the room prepared to identify primary concersn and to proceed with exam and vaccinations given as my animals were ready. Actual discussion then occurred in the visit as the cats relaxed, and when Ii could receive the information. Additional phone call later confirmed plan and my understanding. Costs were discussed, and quotes provided, that were reasonable and commensurate with other clinics. The extraordinary thing is having given the range of prices that could occur, they did in fact conclude in this visit under their quote. I am so grateful to work with this clinic and staff. I did not realize such an experience was possible. HIGH RECOMMEND THIS CLINIC. SSproule read more

Over the course of 50 years, I have had many vets. Some have come close, but none impressed me as much as Fairhaven. Many vets do the coochie coo dance and go through the motions of caring. At Fairhaven, the compassion is palpable. You feel at home. When our beloved Cocker Spaniel, Kinzie endured crises they shepherded her back to health with love and caring. As Kinzie neared her trip across the rainbow bridge, we knew they took it seriously. We could see the anguish in the doctor's face; at one point he was close to tears. He went to the wall in caring for her, and gave us another year with our beloved little girl. Kinzie lived 14 years. This is a debt that can never be repaid. After a year of mourning, we now have another Cocker Spaniel. Even though we now live in Everson, I won't even consider another vet. read more

We are long term pet owners who tried Fairhaven Vet after many positive recommendations. I was impressed about everything from our first visit. I love their Fear Free approach. Everyone was kind and gentle, handling my pets carefully and offering treats. My cat hung out on the window perch after the exam and even got his shot there. He hardly seemed to notice. We were given honest advice with pros and cons for my geriatric dog. It was a stress-free visit with professionals who clearly care. read more

The staff and facilities here are amazing. Absolutely everyone we came in contact with at this veterinary were warm and accommodating. We are new(ish) to the area and needed quick care for our older cat and they were able to fit us in right away. Our doctor had a good grasp on how to treat our cat quickly which was very comforting. They have an app available where you can request appointments and access information on pet care. I can't recommend this place enough for your fur babies! read more

Our dog loves this place. Treats, "fear free", a caring listening Dr, we won't go anywhere else. Very caring and kind people here! Highly recommended ! read more

I am absolutely appalled by the service we are receiving- or in this case, not receiving! We have been taking our dogs to Fairhaven Vet for 6 years, and when we have an emergent issue during business hours- where my dog cannot walk on one leg, they tell me it's a week out for him to be seen, or we can establish care elsewhere and maybe he can be seen there sooner. That is absolutely unacceptable when we are established patients. read more

I've visited here twice since moving to the area and have been very impressed with the friendliness of the staff and the honest, helpful recommendations for my dog's health needs. I was able to call in and have my dog seen the same day for a quick ear treatment. Although I had to wait 20 minutes once in the office to see the vet tech, the staff up front kept me informed and apologized for the wait, which was due to another pet emergency. The waiting room is never really crowded, which makes the experience more pleasant for my anxious dog (less chaos makes the visit go a little easier!) Our vet, Wendy, was so kind and really took time to talk to me and share her knowledge about my dog's allergies. Sometimes a vet visit can feel so rushed and hasty, but I was so impressed by the attentive care here. Glad to have found a great vet in Bham for our dog! :) read more

Absolutely five-star service. I have seen several vets here and each is thoughtful, articulate, kind, and supportive. All are animal whisperers, as is every technician I have met. I will not forget the care we received from Dr. Johnson about five years ago when we seemed to be in the office just about every other day with our beloved young puppy, whose health suddenly declined at a rapid pace. Dr. Johnson helped to sleuth out what was causing the curious symptoms and supported us in an open-hearted way when we were forced to consider difficult options. And just last week, Dr. Kummer went well beyond the call of duty with his thorough research on the series of steps that we need to follow in order to bring our dogs with us to live in Europe next year. I would say that the staff of Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital bring an extraordinary level of care to their animal patients and their families. read more

I can't say enough positive things about this Veterinary Hospital. Firstly, I grew up in the neighborhood and the hospital has been there as long as I can remember. (I grew familiar with it in 1992 when we moved a few blocks away.) Since then, I have moved to several different cities and have never received such "A" quality service" before for my furry loved ones. Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital was very helpful and friendly and willing to go that extra mile to make *sure* my chihuahua and I both were taken care of in minutes of short notice. In such a short time frame of needing to get victory's health certificate, drive to seattle to put her on a plane ALL within 3 hours timing...they gladly accepted us without an appointment. They welcomed us! We were having a lot of trouble finding a vet in Bellingham that could take us on such quick notice. When we phoned in to Fairhaven Vet, they asked us how soon we could come in, and we were literally within the neighborhood (almost in a panic) trying to find any vet to take her to. Within 5 minutes (I kid you not!) we were walking in the door to the pet hospital. And from the moment we walked inside, everyone there was so kind, and willing to help. We were literally in and out within 15 minutes, with her *full* examination, and health certificate and all! The vet (forgive me for not remembering her name) was so wonderful and good with little Victory. (We've been to several vets in our lifetime) and not once has she EVER allowed any of the doctors to hold her, without trying to bite them, or scream. That was so much of a surprise, it nearly took my breath away. I was given complete reassurance in the hospital at that point. So yes, Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital is *highly* recommended to everyone! I will come back again when I'm in town and bring her with me. The service is exceptional, and they are truly the *best* pet hospital I've been to! :) read more

Words cannot even begin to describe the amazing crew at fvh, for over 6 years we have trusted them with the care of our fur babies and they always have gone above and beyond our expectations, the care they show for my pets and myself is truly amazing. When the end time came for my little love, they made what has been one of the most devastating things I have ever done a bit easier to handle, the support and sympathy they showed is something I will forever be grateful for. As long as they are in business I will defiantly be bringing my little ones to them for the wonderful care they offer. read more

Obviously it is pricey to take care of your pet well, especially when there are many issues. The people here genuinely care for each animal that comes their way. They each work very hard to keep our pets and also us, as pet parents, comfortable. I have been to multiple vets in Bellingham and this one is by far the best! read more

Even though I was mistreated terribly by two staff members and "fired" as a client in April of 2021 (which put Toby at risk), this 5-star review is in regards to the team that gave such stellar care to Toby from 2014-April 2021 while we lived up in Bellingham. Dr. Kummer (was Toby's primary vet until Dr. Hinckley took over but still had phone chats with me), Dr. Hinckley, Dr. Godbey (Toby only saw her once in April of 2016), and Dr. Schasch (was all systems go in November of 2020 when Toby's kidneys started acting up) all provided stellar care to Toby. I am forever grateful. You all were so gentle, kind, thorough, and always had his best interests at heart. Toby and I moved down to Eugene in July of last year. He settled in with ease as he always did. A wonderful vet provided care here. Sadly, Toby passed away on November 8th from an aggressive form of lymphoma. He was guided over the rainbow bridge at home through the gentle care of his vet and vet tech. Of course, I was right there by his side. Had Toby not received the topnotch care that he received in Bellingham, he most likely would not have been with me on my move to Eugene. Thank you so much, Dr. Kummer, Dr. Hinckley, Dr. Godbey, and Dr. Schasch! read more

See all

We have been in four times with two different cats, and all four visits were so different from other vet clinics we have used. The level of kindness and care is really remarkable, from the front desk staff getting us to a room right away (even when a bit early) to the vet and techs really taking their time discussing issues with us and getting to know our pets. We had Heather for our last two visits, and her compassion made the whole experience much easier. Our poor old guy was very sick, and the techs called us at home each day to monitor his progress. I just can't say enough good things about the level of care we received. One tip for new patients~ when they email you before your appointment look for the link to fill out all of your pet's symptoms and information. Heather actually took the time to read all my notes, and starting out on the same page with the vet makes the appointment much more productive. Also the Petdesk phone app is very handy for asking them to call you when they have time between appointments. read more

We chose this place because it was close by but would drive a lot further to it if needed. Very clean with a friendly staff and vets. We have had to come in last minute plenty of times and they always made time for us and were always very helpful and knowledgeable. They were always super patient with our nervous chiwini and never felt rushed. Highly recommended. read more

Best vet I've ever been to. They have air diffusers with the calming cat pheromones. They put a heated towel over your cat crate when you first arrive to help calm your anxious cat. Then they let him roam free in the patient room for a bit to explore before the vet comes in. They care about your pet as much as you do! read more

I love this place I get the most honest considerate medical advice for both of my beloved Dogs. The no fear waiting private room situation makes the experience fantastic for the pets too. read more

Great first time experience for us and our pet. Clean pet friendly environment. Conveniently located off Fairhaven Highway close to I5. Would recommend highly to anyone seeking high quality care for their pet(and who doesn't). read more

We started taking our pets here because of the good reviews and couldn't be happier! They have worked with both of our dogs and helped them become less anxious of going to the vet over time. Veterinary care is never cheap, but I think the prices here are reasonable and we've only receive top-notch care and attention. Our cat needed urgent care for an injury and they were able to get him in early the same day (had they not been able to, we would have taken him to the emergency vet) - we were relieved! They were quick to bring us in and evaluate him, then go over the itemized estimate with me. I felt confident leaving him in their care. Overall, we are extremely pleased with the quality of staff and service at Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital - we will continue taking our furry family members there as long as we live in the area! read more

Wonderful experience with vet Heather and the vet tech whose name I have forgotten-sorry!! Both ladies were polite, friendly, and great with my dog-he loved them immediately. Very professional, easy dialogue between myself and the vet. All around enjoyable experience. I have to give kudos to the front desk attendant(s) as well. Very professional and friendly on the phone and in person. This will definitely be my choice in vet clinics while I'm in Bellingham! read more

The best place in town. Dr. Johnson is our favorite vet ever, but we have received excellent service from each person there for each of our many dogs over the last 20 years. They spend lots of time educating, comforting, and supporting owners and pets. read more

We are so grateful for Dr. Wendy. She's been our primary vet for a few years. She is gentle, thorough, patient with my many questions, and takes a good amount of time to explain things in detail so I can make educated, thoughtful decisions. I never feel rushed. She calls for follow up, and if we arent home takes the time to give ample information on our voicemail. She referred us out to an excellent specialist, quite appropriately, when our dog had issues arising from a tumor that their diagnostic equipment was unable to locate. The office staff has been great, as have all of the techs. They know us pretty well at this point, and it's nice to have a developed relationship with them through the years and the health challenges. read more

My family have been taking our pets here since the '80's! Dr. Hall has been a family friend for years, he and his staff are tremendous. They are knowledgeable, caring, and so much fun. I travel a lot for work and sometimes have to take my pup to another vet out of state if he is coming due on boosters... Fairhaven Vet is always greatly missed, no one in this fine country can compare or measure up! Thanks FVH! :) read more

Best veterinarians in Bellingham! The doctors and techs truly care about the animals under their care. They go to great lengths to make your pets comfortable during their visit. The doctors are very knowledgeable and are always willing to answer my questions, no matter how many I have! read more

Our friend's have been long time clients of FVH. They had been bringing their pets and spending money at FVH for nearly 10 years. Yesterday, they picked up their dog from a kennel and noticed something was terribly wrong. They called FVH and were turned away because they only had one doctor on staff. And because they didn't have any appointments available. The pet died the next day. In all truthfulness, there was nothing that could have been done to save the pet. But I am writing this review because of the callous, thoughtless treatment they received from a business they had faithfully supported and patronized for a long time. Where was the compassion and loyalty to the pet and the family ? read more