It started with calling the wrong place to confirm my appointment for my 16 year old Mini Australian Shepherd and I am so glad I did! I was put at ease from the first moment we walked in. This was a second opinion appointment and it was very refreshing to be met with a logical step by step affordable approach rather than a huge list of all encompassing unnecessary treatments totalling a mortgage payment or two. The caring demeanor, patience, and communication from MELROSE VETERINARY was so unexpected and welcome and the continual follow up thereafter was the icing on the cake. I wouldn't go anywhere else! read more

We've been going to Melrose vet for 26 years now. 9 Huskies, and 3 cats in, we used to really believe in this place. They've added staff, removed empathy, and it's all about money now. They've been treating our 9 year old cat for the last 2 plus months. She was losing weight, and becoming lethargic, but they couldn't find a problem and weren't concerned. They recommended a tooth cleaning. She took a turn for the worst today, and I rushed her in just after opening. The girls at the front desk told me they were short handed and I'd have to go somewhere else. They didn't call a doctor, they didn't ask to take a quick look at our girl they just told me to leave. I went to Fredddie's where they opened over an hour early to help me out. We ended up losing our girl because Melrose couldn't diagnose her cancer correctly in multiple visits over 3 months. It took our doctor at Fredddie's 30 mins to diagnose the issue. 26 years, and they turned away my dying cat without a second thought. I'm sick. We'll never be back. I hope Dr. Richieri sees this and makes changes. He was always great with our animals. read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - This is our cat that we had to put down today. Minnie didn't deserve to be treated like this - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

Overall this business was very prettitory. They charged me for multiple things that my dog didn't need. She had walking problems and was struggling with eating. I paid for blood work which showed she had cancer. Then they demanded i pay for a rabies shot anyways. I paid for meds for her and they insisted on more tests which only verified what we already knew. So within 2 weeks they charged me $700 for a test i didnt need and a rabies shot for my dieing dog. After the 2nd test they recommened it was time to put her down. I spent one final day with my dog and when I brought her in i was charged over $400 to have her put down and cremated. It's outrageous we created my Grandmother this year for $200. The final cherry on top and main reason im leaving this review is the fact that after all this, when i went into their office today to pick up my dog's ashes they gave me the wrong dog!!! Thank God I noticed it was the wrong name before I left. These people left me feeling completely used. They made this process of losing my dog so much more painful and showed no real care. I'm never taking my animals her again. read more

The owner ³said he didn't know what else to do. I sought a second opinion at bressi Ranch pet hospital ..they didn't know me but saw. me the next day. 4 days later..Saturday, Monday, Tuesday Wednesday. They had a diagnosis for me...my dog has s tumor on the upperr left Jaw which is also compressing the nasal passage..could actually show me other exray. and that was why he couldn't breathe not a Good diagnosis for a 13 year old dog 3 months vs 4 days.. something is wrong with this picture ..my dog suffered because of melrose inadequacy to treat him appropriately no read more

Everyone here is wonderful. CARING PEOPLE (all caps on purpose). ESP. Dr . Lisa Leraas

We'll never be able to thank you for all you have done for sonali and of course us. So thankful we found you all. You will always be in our hearts. She had a chemo treatment today, and that usually warrants a trip to the beach. So here she is at her favorite place. read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

I took a few days to process this before writing. Our last visit to Melrose Veterinary Hospital will be just that--our last. My partner has been going here for years, but the care has steadily declined. This last visit confirmed our decision to leave. Our bulldog needs regular anal gland expressions. The first few visits were okay, but as she grew more anxious, they suggested sedation. We followed their advice, but during one visit, they said she tried to bite. When we asked to be with her for comfort, they refused, claiming safety concerns. We respected that, but it made each visit more stressful. For her most recent annual exam, we gave her a lower sedation dose than recommended since the full dose left her limp all day. We provided a muzzle if needed, and they took her back. We then heard her crying and barking, which was heartbreaking. A tech returned saying they couldn't get an accurate heart rate due to her stress. Later, another tech asked how we wanted to be billed, skipping over the exam entirely. When we questioned it, we were told it was done in the back. This was unacceptable, an annual exam should involve the owners. The doctor never even returned to speak with us. Adding to the frustration, they had placed a "biter" sticker on her file, yet still chose to take her in the back and attempt everything at once. Had they done the exam and vaccines first, her stress level would have been lower. We immediately sought a new vet. The difference was night and day. They welcomed us, listened, and prioritized our dog's comfort. They allowed us to be with her, and encouraged positive reinforcement and didn't prioritize sedation. Our dog left the new vet stinky and feeling much more confident. At the new vet, we feel seen, heard, and valued, more importantly, our dog is treated with patience and care. Melrose Veterinary Hospital no longer feels like a place that prioritizes animals' well-being. By the end, it just felt like all they cared about was how fast they could get us in and out--just profits. Don't settle for the closest or most familiar vet; as pet owners your voice matters as their advocate. read more

We went here for years but just moved. I think the only thing I miss from moving is being able to go to Dr. Richieri. He has taken excellent care of my 4 dogs and 1 cat. He did a tumor removal on my shepherd and oh my gosh no scar. it was beautiful. I know some woman who would like to have him do some cosmetic work on them. My shepherd had many health issues but he kept her going strong for a long time. Now we moved and are going somewhere else and my Maltipo needed to have a tumor removed and man the scar is ugly and very inflamed and nothing like what Dr Richieri had done. I'm so sad we can no longer go here. I very much recommend him and will miss him soooo much. read more

I would highly recommend this Melrose to anyone as I was recommended by my sister and friend Lance. I was quoted for a tumor removal and teeth cleaning and extraction 7200 at VCA in Oceanside. This place was great my dog is at home recovering. The clinic was very informative and would give me updates when she was in surgery as well called to find out how she is doing. I felt very comfortable that my dog was in good hands. Valerie Webster read more

We love our vet. They are so good with Ruby, never pressure us into any decision for our dog and takes the proper time for every pet they meet with. read more

Had to bring my best friend for allergy shot....was in and out in ten minutes. Very efficient and sound service. I have been coming for years now and it's still a great place. Best pricing for services. Knowledgeable staff. Plenty of parking too!! read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Great vet services!! - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

I've been bringing my fur baby here for 10+ years now. The prices haven't broken the bank, even after a few scares with my baby. He was diagnosed with FIC. I was a basket case. The girls were so nice and understanding, even after my 10th call to make sure I was doing everything right to care for him. I don't trust groomers, so I bring him here for his mani/pedi and toosh shave. My baby has trust issues but is always ok going with the girls when they have to take him back. So if he trusts them, then so do I. read more

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I highly recommend this business. I have 3 dogs and 1 cat and all of them have been here. Always easy to get an appointment and efficient when we're there and very sweet and very patient w some of my slightly stressed out animals (because they're at the vet for their shots- it's like us being at the dentist. We can all relate ) They are so nice and do not try to guilt me into extra expenses. I've been a dog owner for a very long time, so I've been to a few other local veterinary businesses before I found this one. I am happy I did. read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

I love this clinic. They have been treating our pets for the last several years. Whenever we need an appointment, they usually have one within days. Medication is easy to pickup and staff is very friendly. When our pet had to be put down, they gave us the necessary time to process and followed up with a card about how sorry they were for our loss. I would highly recommend to my family and friends. read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

They saved my 4 puppies!! I took in a litter of Mexican puppies and quickly found out one of them had parvo- which is the worst. The team was quick to see my boy, kept things very clean, and went above and beyond to make sure he and his brothers are all healthy. They also gave me space to cry, and ask them a million questions. They gave me options for different price points and talked me through everything. I can't recommend them enough! read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - 4 Mexican puppies & their foster mom - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

I'm so happy to report that my experience at Melrose Vet has been very consistent and I still trust them with both of my fur kiddos. I was able to get a same day appointment for my dog who developed a hot spot. During CoVid, the process was that they would come get your fur baby from the car and the doctor would call you to discuss. Which I didn't mind. On my last visit, they allowed me to come in with dog so I was able to meet with the doctor to describe symptoms and ask any questions. The office is very clean and the staff is very friendly. Once again prices are reasonable/comparable. If you're looking for a new go to place to take your fur child, I wouldn't hesitate to take them him. They are in good hands! read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Waiting in the exam room. - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

If I could give 10 stars I would. Dr. Richieri and his staff are exceptional. I've had a lot of animals in my life, and seen a lot of vets, and it is so hard to find one that you trust. I trust Dr. Richieri with all my pets lives -- he cares so much about the animals and his experience is that of one of the best vets in the area. Cannot recommend enough for your furbabies health and care. read more

I came in for a vaccine appointment for a kitten and asked them if they could trim my his nails in addition. When they came back they said he was "too feisty" and could not finish his nails trimming. I was offered to buy sedation pills for next time which also did not sit right with me because the vet should be equipped to handle kittens nail trimming. I wasn't offered a refund or to finish the other half at his next visit. When I got home it just didn't sit right with me how this vet visit went at all because he is not a feral kitten so I was confused how they couldn't finish it. Was it maybe because he was given the vaccine first? The next morning I was about to trim the rest of his nails and the first thing I noticed is THEY CUT HIS VIEN AND THAT IS MOST LIKELY WHY HE WAS "FEISTY". I am also upset because the vet didn't tell me?? I paid $16 so you could cause my kitten pain and you won't even tell me about the mistake but blame it on my kitten being "feisty" but you guys LITERALLY CUT HIS VIEN AND THERE WAS CRUSTY BLOOD LEFT OVER. I am so upset because accidents happen but TO LIE AND NOT TELL THE OWNER ??? I literally drove over an hour to come here because I trusted this place but not anymore. read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Dark spot is vein exposed on nail on left, you can see what the nail should look like on the right side. - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

They are amazing. We are so glad we found them. We no longer stress about going to the vet.

This is the place! The help is awesome! Prices seem good and promo's rock! Check it out! read more

Melrose vet has been outstanding with my two dogs. We are always seen promptly and all the staff we've encountered the past few years have been attentive and helpful. One of our dogs needs routine meds and they always have it ready in just a couple of hours whenever we call for a refill. We also had a dental on one of the dogs so far and they were very communicative all day long and his teeth looked shiny new! read more

I made an appointment for a first time puppy visit, and when I showed up they refused to see me due to double booking on their end. Everyone was super rude and apathetic, none of the receptionists offered a smile when I checked in or any real apology once they informed me of their error. I will not be returning, what a waste of time and resources to get here. They didn't even bother to call me to tell me they canceled my appointment. Unprofessional and unacceptable. read more

Thanks Dr Lisa for taking care of my little Jasper's dry eye problem! After a couple of days putting two different drops two time a day they are clearing up! read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Jasper - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

Good vet, legitimately attentive and caring. My dog had an ear infection, they told us what to do, gave us the medicine and told us to schedule a follow up a week layer to double check it was going well. Pretty standard operation, take him a week later and yup he's all good, no need to keep using the medicine. Took them all of 1 minute to check his ear. They charged me $50 to tell me he was fine. Not once was I told the appointment would cost $50. Why would that not be told ahead of time? Every Vet I have been to charges no fee for the check up. Maybe they rolled the cost into the initial exam, certainly possible but at least I felt like the checkup was a courtesy. Melrose Vet told me it was needed to do the checkup a week later, but neglected to tell me it was a $50 fee. I would say that's poor business practice, let's at least have some transparency. Again, good Vet not great business practice. read more

7 Years down the drain in 5 minutes. I have been taking both of my dogs to Melrose Vet for the last 7 years. Every time they get sick, every time they get hurt, to buy joint supplements, vaccines, and even taking them every two weeks for nails/anal glands. I'm there at least twice a month with them. NOT ANYMORE! My dog is allergic to the lepto vaccine. For 5 years, the routine has been Benadryl shot - Lepto Vaccine - Observation - Take home Benadryl. Well, for the last two years they have taken out the observation. I understand, they aren't baby sitters. I can wait in the lobby. But today! Today they decided to send a tech out by the name of Corine to talk to me like I'm a child. I asked them for take home Benadryl for her on the phone nearly a month ago when I made the appointment for her. I asked for it again at the front at check in. She came out to tell me that it wasn't necessary since they gave her the Benadryl shot. My routine for 5 years has always been take home Benadryl. Rather than explaining to me what changed, she decided to start an argument with me about how "We had this same conversation last year." (No, we didn't). "I don't see it in the chart." "You can get it over the counter, we are so busy." (She repeated this 5 times.) "You should have called ahead of time." (I did). And her tone the entire time was like a kindergarten teacher addressing a room of 5 year old's. I have never in my 7 years of going here felt so disrespected. I'm genuinely saddened. I've been taking my dogs here for 7 years. I like all but one doctor there. I genuinely like many of the techs there. However, I will not tolerate being disrespected. Not one person tried to step in and make it right when I was clearly upset. This shows me I'm not as valued as I once thought. I'll be taking my dogs and my money elsewhere. read more

We just moved to the area recently and I was looking to make a transition after 4 + years at my previous vet. After reading about Melrose on Nextdoor I decided to take the leap and make an appointment there for sweet baby Jay. The vet was extremely kind and informative. I never felt like I was being upsold and instead, felt the best interest of my dog (Jay) was put first (as it should be). The staff is always friendly and kind. Do expect a wait though as it's always bustling with lots of customers. They do their best to get people checked in and out but there's high demand as other people have similar sentiments to Melrose being a trusted vet to go to. Thanks for making the transition to a new vet very comforting thus far! read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - No place Jay would rather be this afternoon. Getting checked in for his first appointment. - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

You folks have my heart! And my kittys file but yeah.....I was really blessed to have such great care taken for my very old cat who is very frail and skittish especially at the dr. Thanks again for the significantly lower prices then other vets. Trust me, I compared even the clinics prices. All were more expensive by far. Even the cost of the prescription was almost 60% less! Same meds! Whooooooa!! Thank you again and we appreciate you! read more

Response to business owner's response. Yes, I was expecting to borrow cash to cover the procedure, I got a check, that's what I had to work with and I was not about to complain about it when I was being done a favor. I've never stiffed you for a single penny! For the record, I was only left with the option of rescheduling out another two weeks out and I only cancelled the procedure and PAID the xray bill when it was clear that I was going to have to find someone else that could do the procedure sooner, I noticed that you failed to mention that I paid you for that. You suffered a net loss of $0. I know how business works, I wasn't asking something for nothing. I simply asked if I could give a check for the deposit instead, otherwise I would have had to withdraw the cash over two days. I would have happily logged into my bank account and shown the balance, that would have avoided all of this. However, I was NEVER given that option, I was flat out REFUSED, so either you're not being honest about accepting checks with proof of funds for the sake of optics or I was discriminated against, or deemed otherwise not worthy, by your company. I am beyond offended by the veiled insinuation, via posting of legal consequences, that I am suspect of wanting to pass a bad check and suggesting that I was up to some shady scheme to rip off a vet that I was trusting to save my dog's life. read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

I've seen Dr. Hirschi several times, she's so sweet and caring! I used to go to mohnacki but all they do there is try to guilt you in to all kinds of unnecessary services! Melrose is not at all like that! They just tell you exactly when you need, common sense approaches, and the prices are very reasonable. I'm just mad at the years and money I previously wasted elsewhere. read more

Took my dog in at 8am. They called 2 hours later saying they messed up the paperwork and have not started the procedure on her yet until they get the paperwork figured out. My girl has been there no scared for over 5 hours by herself. This is the second time they've messed up their paperwork. I absolutely will never go back again read more

I honestly can't thank Dr Richieri enough for the care he's given us for the last 6 years or so, he actually operated on my dog to remove a tumor when nobody else would. And my other dog suffers from focal seizures which are small seizures where she doesn't actually seize or convulse. Well This past Sunday she had a really bad grand mal seizure. Of course I was panicked, my husband called his office and left a message thinking we wouldn't get a call back till Tuesday since it's Memorial Day weekend. The Dr actually called us back within minutes of leaving a message. He reassured us and made us feel a lot better, gave us some advice on her meds. I feel Like you can't find anyone like this anymore, someone who truly cares enough to call us back on a Sunday, and on Memorial Day weekend! Thank you Dr Richieri, we are so thankful for your care. He saved us $1000 at least for a emergency vet appointment that didn't need to happen. read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

Great family business. Twi is exceptional. ( I hope I spelled her name correctly ) ha ha...‍ Don P read more

We have been going to Melrose Vet for years so that's an indication we are happy clients. It seems as though they have increased their help in the office, that is a plus. We find that the doctors and staff are very friendly and compassionate. The flow of the patients coming in is a hit and miss, kind of like a hospital. The most frustrating part is when you have an appointment, and you are called in a 1/2 hour late. Yes, this happened, but only once, waiting for that long of a time. I believe things come up, so I am not going to dwell on this one time. So my visit yesterday was a good one. A new doctor in town, she was very kind, and explained everything going on. I'm happy to report that over the years coming here, it's only gotten better. read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Oreo doesn't want to be here... - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

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Scammers. My wife has been using this facility for a while to take care of our poppies. She is the one who usually picked them up and pays for it. Last couple of times I have dropped off and picked up and noticed a trend. Last time which was 3 weeks ago I took my dog there because he started to have red spots under his belly. The dr examines him and said " itI was probably something in his diet. You know the wind could blow different direction and dogs get allergies". Basically saying I don't know what is going on. While I was there, he said it's been a year since his last dr visit let's do a complete exam. I agreed. His examination revealed that my dog is extremely healthy, very active for his age (6) and he has perfect fur and his teeth are very clean even tho his last cleaning was 2 years ago. However he recommends cleaning every 2 years (of course he would recommend). I paid $77 for his visit. Today was his teeth cleaning, 2 hours later after drop off they call to let us know that the suspect heart murmur ( he has been going there for 6 years) and they want to x-ray his chest. Racking up the bill to $700+ to tell me it's nothing important. This is a predatory practice to charge pet owners for the services that are not needed just to make more money. This is the last tome I would take my dog there. Looking for a recommendation of an honest veterinarian in Carlsbad, vista San Marcos area. Thanks read more

As longtime dog owners and Oceanside residents, we have used several veterinary doctors in the area. All were pretty good. We were introduced to Melrose Veterinary Hospital several years ago, when taking my mom's dogs for visits. Over the years, my wife and I have met most of the staff. We found the doctors to be very friendly, willing to spend time to thoroughly explain the diagnosis and treatment to my 90+ year old mother. We switched our aged dogs to Melrose Veterinary Hospital a few years ago. Over the years, we have been very happy with the doctors and staff. During the recent covid situation, the staff has worked very hard to provide safe (for owners and pets) treatment. Very professional. Staff is top notch. read more

All the doctors and techs we saw so far (been with them for a year) have been super detail oriented, kind, respectful and professional. I never felt like they are trying to "over prescribe" services and tests or try to up-sell. They were always financially sensitive and helped me prioritize the expenses. Whole hearted recommendation!!!! read more

I have been going here since 2007. The staff is always very friendly and helpful. The doctors are always very helpful and informative. The prices are reasonable and the work is good. They offer a wide range of services and products, and they tell you what you need, no up selling. Great place to take your dog. read more

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Melrose Veterinary Hospital is always such a good experience for Mowgli! With contactless payment and social distancing (you wait in your car) enforced, I feel safe and comfortable making sure my kitten gets good treatment and everyone stays as safe as possible. Mowgli always leaves the office with a happy face and wagging tail! Thank you to our friends in the office read more

Melrose Veterinary Hospital - Mowgli excited to see his friends at Melrose Veterinary Hospital! - Veterinarians Near Me - Vista, California

Literally not going to see anyone of the vets other than Dr Richieri anymore, if I bother coming here anymore at all. I've found 2 of the vets to be condescending and one of the staff members too, very judge mental and essentially said I was lying with "that's not true" coming out of her mouth. It's good that they mostly work with animals because they clearly don't know how to speak to humans respectfully. My family & I have been coming here for over 10 years, so I've stayed because they have all the history of my pets, but I'm about done. That being said, I would highly recommend Dr Richieri, he is very intelligent and while the other vets couldn't solve our problem with my dog, which resulted in having to bring her back multiple times and cost a fortune, he did it the first time I saw him. read more

CONS -Always chaos -never organized -Won't call in prescriptions, must pick up paper prescription. -waited 10 minutes to pick up paper prescription even though called in and told it would be ready and waiting -rude through ignoring you in waiting room -jumped in line despite signing in because someone recognized someone -mostly confused when I show up, late to get us in then read charts after we arrive. Again, very unorganized. I stick up to my end by making it in at scheduled time, they are late then read charts after we arrive. Maybe build in 10 minutes prior to my appointment to know why I'm in. PRO -dogs didn't die read more