This was the first veterinarian's office I took my rescue dog to when I moved to the area and I have not been elsewhere because of the outstanding, professional service we have received there. I have always had positive and accommodating treatment from the office staff and all the vet techs and doctors as well. On my most recent routine visit we had an appointment with Dr. Johns and Hailey the vet tech was assisting us as well. Hailey was the sweetest and took her time to understand our situation and gave us useful information. As always Dr. Johns was pleasant and affable. She provided us with useful information and was never pushy on any course of treatments, etc. It should also be highlighted that the office is always clean and orderly. There is ample parking in the shopping center parking lot making it an easy experience. We appreciate the excellent staff at Sarasota Veterinary Center and will continue to return so that they can care for my senior dog. read more

Sarasota Veterinary Center - Nice waiting room area - Veterinarians Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

I ordered flea treatment from chewy on 6/1 and because the annual is due on 6/12 they denied my dog the treatment. The office rude and told me even though it was not a year yet they would not approve the order. I have 3 dogs under their care. I will find a new vet going forward. read more

Moved from NYC/LI & chose this vet center on an emergency basis and they were the best ever. So happy to have found a class act in veterinary care with great physicians and superb staff. They took care of my dogs's condition in the New York minute and I especially like that. God bless you all. Thank you for taking care of Finley WPB read more

I have been seeing this vet for a few years now and have finally had enough. I see them out of convenience to my home to begin with but after waiting for over an hour for an appointment and even urgent ones for that matter I have had enough. As an RN who understands how medical offices work, do not book what you cannot handle, and do not ask a client to come in same day for an urgent matter and then have them wait 1+ hours. read more

I wish I could give zero stars. Bought a Pomeranian puppy from Petland and they have a deal to go see these people for free. Made appointment for 1000 am, I arrived at 0945, 1105 I was still waiting and asked them what the problem was but they said I was next at 1045. I understand a little wait 15-20 mins, sure but over and hour wait is ridiculous and they didn't even apologize or at least communicate why there was such a long wait for us, even though other people had appointments after us and went in before us. They were hesitant to give manager information. Linda, your location is lackluster and abysmal at best. DO NOT GO TO THIS LOCATION. I know that our appointment was a free one because of our purchase so they pushed us aside and made us wait. Im sure they do this so they don't have to do a free visit. How sad and pathetic this company is. SARASOTA VETERINARY CENTER, I WILL BE DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO REDUCE YOUR TRAFFIC. THANK YOU FOR GIVING ME SOMETHING TO DO. read more

I have never taken the time to write a review before, but I believe others should be informed about the consistently poor experience I've had with the front desk staff at Sarasota Veterinary Clinic on Cattleman Road. I say this with the utmost respect for the veterinarians, who have been exceptional--professional, compassionate, and clearly dedicated to the wellbeing of their patients. It's unfortunate and disappointing that I will no longer be working with them due to ongoing issues with the administrative staff. Several weeks ago, while checking out after a vet visit, I scheduled a grooming appointment through the front desk at the clinic. At no point was I informed that an additional vaccination or a fecal sample would be required prior to grooming. Had this been clearly communicated at the time of booking, I would have had no issue addressing it in advance--and I would have scheduled the necessary appointments while still at the clinic. In fact, during that visit, the front desk created a travel certificate for my dog, which required them to review vaccination records. That makes it even more puzzling that they failed to mention any outstanding requirements. Instead, when I arrived for the grooming appointment, I was unexpectedly told that these requirements had to be completed first. I am not a pet owner who neglects preventive care--quite the opposite. I simply don't believe in subjecting my 14-year-old dog to the stress of grooming, a vaccination, and a fecal collection all in one visit. Moreover, the idea that a vaccine given the same day would prevent disease transmission in that moment is scientifically flawed. One would expect veterinary professionals to understand how immunization works and how long it takes for protection to develop. To make matters worse, the front desk staff deflected responsibility and claimed I had never submitted my dog's medical records. This is simply untrue. I brought a complete folder of records to both of our recent visits, and they were reviewed by the vet tech. How else would we have known which vaccinations were due at our last visit? Rather than acknowledging this or trying to be helpful, the front desk continued to shift blame--stating I failed to provide records and refused services. I did not refuse services; I was simply never informed they were required. As we all know, a business is only as strong as its weakest link. Unfortunately, in this case, the front desk has become that weak link--undermining the excellent care provided by the veterinarians. I sincerely hope the doctors take a hard look at how poor communication and lack of accountability at the front desk are affecting client relationships and the long-term reputation of the practice. read more

Worst vet experience I've ever encountered. We just moved from Chicago and I found this place very close to my home. Let me start with most dogs are anxious when going to the vet. I have a 9 lb. Chihuahua terrier mix. She was a rescue and yes she has trust issues and is fearful around people. They sensed her nervousness and did nothing to ease her anxiety they didn't even acknowledge her. They asked if she did better with me in the room and I said yes defintely, Yet they took her out of the room anyway to give her shots and do the exam. Then the dr comes in and complains to me that she's very anxious and snapped at them when they tried to give her the shots and he recommended I giver her drugs before her next appt. Are you kidding me? At her last vet there was never an issue. They were gentle with her and did what they needed to do and understood her fear and always did the exam in the room. Never been to a vet that didn't know how to sooth or handle a 9 lb dog who was clearly afraid. I walked out and will never go back there. They have no business handling animals as they seem to have no compassion or qualities whatsoever. I know my dog better than anyone and they should have listened to me when I told them she will do better with me in the room. Horrible place. read more

I have been going to Sarasota Vet Center for the last four years, since I moved up here from Naples. It's hard to find a great place that you can trust with your furbaby. I walked In without an appointment and asked some questions about their services and in-house diagnostic capabilities and surgery. They offered a tour on the spot (not many will do that). It was clean and busy. A bit noisy too, as patients were coming out of surgery and in recovery. Overall a very good experience- hence my return for four years! Everyone, from the time you walk through the door till you exit is friendly and professional. It's obvious they love animals. Dr. John's is our primary Dr and we have seen Dr. Fifarek on many occasions when Dr. John's is out of office. They are both very caring and hear my concerns. The listen then offer their expertise and recommendations! We do not vaccinate and only check titres and not once have they made me feel indifferent. My girl is a senior now and she gets the utmost care and respect every time we go in. Not to mention, if you have an urgent need, they will do anything they can to get you in that same day! It's clear they love my girls and others that come in. I can't begin to imagine any bad review and can only think there was a misunderstanding or the human had a bad day! I'm not big on writing reviews, but when I see a good thing that gets knocked down, especially with animals, I'll share my pint of view. read more

I moved from Bradenton to Sarasota in 1986. I have been taking my cats to this veterinary practice since then. I'VW always had several cats at a time and have experienced the treatment and attention that all of the staff. i and my myriad of kitties have been treated with the kindest and exceptional care even during the darkest of times. I wouldn't take my cats or any other animal anywhere else! read more

This was my dog and I's first visit to the vet. I was worried about how he would react to it, as my dog is old, stubborn, and skittish. Turns out my fears were unfounded. They were very friendly and professional and treated my dog with care. He didn't even complain when his nails were trimmed (he HATES his feet touched) and when he got his shots! The doctor even got down on the floor with him to examine him because he doesn't like to be picked up. I was thoroughly impressed. Gave us a free first months heart worm and flea prevention meds. A month later I had ordered them on Chewy. Chewy contacted my vet who then contacted me. The vet said they can provide the meds ongoing, which was advantageous as they can track the dosing. PLUS they price matched Chewy (who has terrible customer service btw). SO far, so great! Highly recommended! read more

Sarasota Veterinary Center - Chico feeling good after his visit... - Veterinarians Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Pshh what a joke of a vets office!! I don't know where to start so I can grab your attention to warn you on the practice this place claims to offer! But if you have been to an Aspen dental it's pretty much the same thing..Offering treatments and taking very drastic measures without actually diagnosis of the problem. Don't recommend this office at all! You will also be very very sticker shocked when you get to the front desk. read more

They like to perform unauthorized procedures without your consent and you will get sticker shock when you get to the counter. This is not just me its happened to others. Their fees rival what humans get charged for similar services like X-rays etc. I think the vet techs may be working on commission. read more

Staff is rude dog has been going there for a year and then they want a copy of my drivers lic and more information then I already supplied for a county issued dog tag. Compared themself to a medical facility to people. Office manager didn't even come out and attempt to defend the need for more personal information. The person from the desk tried to state that they make decisions on animal disputes? Avoid this place read more

I LOVE LOVE this vet! I highly recommend! Extremely knowledgeable- patient- loving and caring to your pet- I am very protective of my big and they handle him with utmost care and professionalism! Their vets are also "Minimalists" so they do not force on extra vaccines your dog or pet may not need.. Very important for me and my pets health ! Thank you for all you do for helping animals !! I am so glad we found you all especially being new to the state of Florida !! read more

Sarasota Veterinary Center - Veterinarians Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Dewey, our black cat that was dumped at our ranch east of Sarasota, FL. over ten years ago, developed masses including a long segmented one under her armpit and it was obstructing her walking gait. Dr. Fifarek operated on Dewey and the latter mass was located in a sensitive area with nerves, blood vessels and muscles. Dewey was walking so much better, even with stitches, within less than 24 hours after surgery. Dr. Firfarek personally called to give us the pathology report. He explained Dewey has a rare condition for a cat and provided some recommendations to maintain/improve Dewey's health. Both the front office and nursing staff also were professional and helpful. It was an anxious time for my husband and me but the office visit experiences were excellent ... and Dewey took it all in stride. read more

Sarasota Veterinary Center - Veterinarians Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

This is the vet pet land covers for 6 months with the purchase of a puppy. Office visits are covered , vaccines are not. On our first visit my puppy got a 5 minute exam and then told she needs 6 vaccines. Looking at her health record and being in the medical profession myself I knew this was not appropriate. She was 3.5 pounds. I took her to my trusted vet on Clark road who told me she already had too many vaccines and that we needed to draw titers before administering any more. He also found problems with her knees as he actually took the time to examine her. I will never bring an animal to this vet. read more

My fiancé and I were in Florida for four months from NYC this past winter and brought our puppy with us. When we arrived in Florida our puppy was 8 months and when we left he had just turned a year. This vet clinic was recommended to us by a neighbor and I thought I would just need to go for his monthly allergy shots and/or if anything happened. Unbeknownst to me, we would be here several times during the four months. While we were in Florida, my puppy had a few ailments that required vet attention! They were so accommodating here and always were able to fit me in. Dr Fifarek got my puppy's on-going gastro issues straightened out by putting him on a special diet. His approach was pragmatic while still being compassionate, which I appreciated. The clinic is clean and staff is friendly. read more

Very cold experience for end of life service. First they traumatized me with telling me one thing, which I made arrangements to. When I called the day before to ensure everything was in place, they then said no we can't accommodate you? Then said we can?? Then, they took my dog and when they brought her back to me, she was obviously traumatized as well. They made a very stressful and emotional time, horrific. read more

I waited 65 minutes and paid $182 to have the doc say he couldn't tell what caused the sore on my cat, that it was not a concern and would not give antibiotic (cream, pill, nothing) but if it gets worse I can then bring him back (pay again) and get what I came for. The staff is abrupt, bordering on rude. Required I allow them to scan and keep my driver license & number on file - saying it was the law. Been to six other vets in Sarasota over the past 13 yrs and none of those required it. Wanted to give them another try with our new'ish kitten ... went here about 8 years ago and my dog didn't like it. Thought it might be a better place now. It's not. read more

The main issue I had was the fact that costs were not disclosed upfront- you have to ask because they wont just tell you. I was told this by the staff at the front desk. It cost me $360 for a visit. It included the exam, inflammatory meds and blood work in order to get the meds (which I've never had a vet do). My pup has had those meds in the past and never needed blood work. I think the lack of transparency bothered me more than anything. And for this reason I will not be going back. read more

Dr Smith might be good but Dr Fifarek isn't. He insisted on putting my 2lb puppy on 30 days of Flagyl (an antibiotic for the digestive tract - did she really need this), 30 days of deworming (Giardia) and another 10 days of doxycycline (for a total of 20 days) for no reason and they push their poor quality food because the same company that owns the clinic owns the company that makes their food. Rice, Chicken by products and corn... by products includes everything people don't want including tumors, heads...... and what dog in the wild eats rice and corn? And those are the first 3 ingredients. I took my puppy to my own vet. she had her stool sent out and there were not parasites or cysts. By the way dr Fifarek. they're called cysts not eggs. and to tell me "Oh there were a couple" was the stupidest think I ever heard. My vet had me stop all meds. I told you my puppy stopped coughing 24 hrs after the first round of Doxycydline that Dr prescribed that you should have perscribed when you saw her a couple days earlier. I called you the next day and told your office she was getting worse and no one called me back so I called the next day and saw a Female Vet who was very sharp. A lot of the staff is rude, unhappy and unfriendly and also pushes the junk you call dog food saying the puppies love it. Well puppies like butts and sometimes eat poop. Then you Dr Fifarek refuses to give me my free heart and flea medicine. The only way I will go back to you is if I can see Dr Dave Smith of that female Vet. And the free Groomings? The office can't keep a groomer. read more

This place just wants your money. You will constantly be hard sold additional services. Every time your dog needs a shot, they add on an additional exam even if they saw the dog just a few months ago. They are overpriced as well. In addition, I boarded my 2 dogs there once and when I picked them up and put them in my vehicle, one of them immediately had explosive diarrhea( I gave them a chance to go to the bathroom before getting in the vehicle). I called the Vet to see if my dog had any intestinal issues while she was staying with them and they said she had not, that all of her stools had been firm. Believe that if you'd like folks, I do not. read more

Dr. Dave is such a caring vet. The office staff is very friendly. Dr. Dave is very knowledgeable and loves my dog Kai. A great office all around. read more

Sarasota Veterinary Center - Kai - Veterinarians Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Shout out to Sarasota Veterinary Center team of veterinarians that have been caring for our 4 legged family members for the past 8 years (since we moved). Love the service that we receive, and the staff is wonderful! Happy World Veterinary Day, Saturday, April 24, 2021. Betsy-girl, Saywer-boy and Toby-boy and their two legged pet parents. read more

Dr. Dave, is the best vet I know . I literally travel hundreds of miles to see him if something is really wrong with my dogs . Dr. Dave diagnosed my dog with a heart murmur ( at least 3 previous vets missed ), he helped Jack live to be 17 with congestive heart failure. He is very knowledgeable, cares about animals and won't rip you off. Kellie read more

Dr. Dave Smith is the best vet we have ever found. We are so lucky to have found him. He truly listens and addresses all of your concerns. He is extremely knowledgeable, honest and personable. We trust him explicitly with our 11 year old GSP, Beau. Beau loved Dr. Smith immediately. The staff was very welcoming and helpful. The office is spotless. We give the highest recommendation possible to Dr. Smith and his staff. read more

It took a day for the office to contact our vet in NYC to make sure our dogs vaccinations were up to date. This was annoying, at first, because we just wanted them groomed. The office called to set up a grooming appointment with Linda and asked us to think about getting a "lepto...?" shot with a 3 week booster because something is going around Florida. We agreed. Yesterday, they were groomed and vaccinated. Scooter and Roxie never looked so good. The groomer, Linda, needs to be cloned and sent to wherever we are. We are tough customers and we were very very pleased with the entire process and the cost of everything was half the price of the same in NYC. read more

First let me mention this is the vet on record for Fruitville Petland. Yes, the store that buys from puppy mills and has sold many very ill animals. If I had been aware of these morals I would never have utilized Dr Smith and probably saved myself a bunch of heartache. Beware also Dr. Smith is very money motivated. Dr. Smith also mutilated my pup during a very straight up dewclaw procedure. Dr Smith spayed, removed dewclaws and mouth warts from my pup. They insisted my pup stay over-night. I have had dozens of dogs altered, as I have been an active foster for decades, and never had a dog remain over-night. One of the internal stitches came thru the skin causing a festering wound. When I picked up my pup the next day, within minutes of being home I noticed my pup standing in a puddle of blood running from one of the dewclaw incisions, which they had removed the wrapping from when they sent my pup home, I applied a pressure wrap and immediately returned and had the wound wrapped by the vet. When I brought the pup in there were 2 visible warts in her mouth, yet the bill said they removed 22! This is a pup, I think I would have noticed 22 warts in her little mouth. They wanted me to buy a canned food they were selling because she had a sore mouth. For 7 days this would have amounted to about $140.00. I refused and simply mashed her food, she ate just fine. I went back 2 days later to have the wraps on her paws removed and even though I expressed concern about leaving the paws unwrapped, I was told this was best for her. Within 2 days the wound had split on both paws leaving gaping holes on both paws the size of pennies. I went back to the vet and was told to wash the holes 3 times daily and apply a cream. By the next day I was so uncomfortable with these gaping wounds and the raw meat protruding from them that I took her to another vet. He immediately cleaned the wounds, displayed disbelief at the fact they were not wrapped, gave me some more antibiotics and told me to return in 3 days to change them. It is now 3 weeks since the surgery, her spay looks nasty and she might have to have a repeat surgery on her dewclaws to close the holes. I also went to a 3rd vet for an opinion, he shook his head, said he has heard of this vet. I am now over $400.00 on top of the almost $1000.00 charged by Dr. Smith to fix the issues that were created by Dr. Smith. Also every time they saw my pup they took her to the back so I could not see what was going on. Also I mentioned twice that the room I was in reeked of urine. Two different rooms. I would NEVER recommend this vet to anyone. I have also noticed that with negative comments, someone on staff comments with very passive aggressive responses. read more

We used this vet center when our dogs were puppies. After moving back to the area after several years of being gone, we returned. Our dogs love going here and the staff is amazing. Our American bulldog does not like veterinarians but he absolutely loves Dr. Dave. The place is always clean and operates efficiently. If you're looking for a caring place to take your fur family, this is definitely the one- High recommend! read more

I have a new puppy and not the frist in my life. Im new to Sarasota and found this Center. I was put on hold for several minutes... to schedule my first appointment.. Did that, then there I waited... after a hour past my appointment time then i made it to a room, I was in but waited another 1/2 hour before seeing the DR. Went back to pick up medications - 20 minutes, called to talk about surgery, 12 minute wait only to be rush off the phone. Made it to the appointment , 1 hour 45 minutes no DR I had to leave because I had to work. What is sad is I love the DR and its to bad that "business" around him is not at all support by anyone who works at the front desk. read more

We came to visit for vacation from North Carolina. My dog became sick, they worked us in two separate days. They also called for follow up. I highly recommend them. I am very picky with my dog and felt as if I could trust them even though I had never been before! read more

Best bet for a Vet! Dr. Dave Smith took the extra time to go into detail explaining the do's / don't with our new puppy..and bounced her back from a bout with a cough. Complete confidence in Chewy's new Dr! 5 stars and 2 thumbs up!! read more

I brought my 3 dogs here for the first time with diarrhea. They ran many unnecessary tests for a straightforward case of diarrhea without other accompanying symptoms and never spoke to me about cost until they handed me a bill that was over $600. I've taken my dogs to my previous vet in Atlanta for the same issue in the past and yes, they did cultures, which are completely warranted, but never charged me anywhere near $600! Needless to say, I will never take my dogs back to the Sarasota Veterinary Center. read more

Let's face it, going to the vet can be super traumatic. My american bulldog, Sassy doesn't mind going at all, being that Dr. Smith and the staff are super sweet, friendly, and VERY gentle. I started taking her here when she was just 8 weeks, and they were SO HELPFUL about giving me ALLLL the information a new puppy owner should have. (and believe me there is A LOT!, like having a baby!!!) They were nice enough to recommend insurance, tags, shots, meds, ect. And answered A TON of questions, being that I hadn't owned a dog in years! They have been great!, the wait time is minimal (even on a Saturday) and they really know what they are doing! Great place, would recommend it 100% and more!!! read more

My little Silkie dog LucyLou was having issues with not going to the bathroom...I had used this clinic before so was sure they would fix my beloved LucyLou back to good health in not time....they took her to the back and did a battery of tests on her along with x-rays and really did not say what the cause was as i had company and was worried she was fed part of a hotdog by my house guest and was just a blockage and was worried she may have been snake bit as she was favoring her hind leg. She eventually was able to poop. her health however slowly declined to the point 2 days later she was dragging both hind legs and had to be euthanized. The doctor at the emergency center said she had a slipped disc in her back causing her to become paralized and in much pain and a 7000 dollar surgery might not be the fix. If you love your animals do not take them to this clinic. I am heartbroken at the loss of my LucyLou. read more

Dr. Dave & Dr. John have taken great care of my two dogs over the last 8 years. Both my dogs are rescues and one came with a lot of health issues so I have had to make many visits with her to his office. With every visit, I receive a phone call checking on my dog the next day and the staff has been very helpful in accommodating me quickly when I need a unscheduled visit. Dr. Dave considers the most cost effective solution to my current situation, always doing his best to keep my costs as low as possible while still giving exceptional care to my dogs and I appreciate that so much. read more

My dog loves Dr. Dave! Cayenne loves to see him, He is great with her. I highly recommend Dr. Dave for all your animals needs! He loves pets and it shows! Karen B read more

I did not received good service, one of the Vet techs, her name Angelina Hahn, was quite rude and unattentive. I will not be be bringing my dog around this place. Aside from this- the vet techs are not in school or are registered with the AVMA. I recommend to be extremely vigilant of the establishment . read more

Sarasota Veterinary Center - Non registered Vet Tech (photographed) - the level of professionalism is non existent in this center - Veterinarians Near Me - Sarasota, Florida

Extreamly rude staff very unprofessional, ALWAYS on hold for way to long every time I call. When my dog had to get eye surgery, they "forgot" to call me and update me on my dog. But I gave them the benifit of the doubt and took him back, nothing changed. Desk girls are extreamly rude, always have been to me thought I could get past it but for almost a year going, I will not be treated like that. Also whatever vet is in the pictures I have never seen or has ever looked at my dog. Will definitely not take my dog back here and wouldn't reccomend anyone too. read more

This place are horrible customer service, they do not care about your pet, they only care about your money. I came with my sick cat. I asked them to put gloves and sanitize the room and table. The female doctor was very rude and quick, rushing and angry, did not spend much time examine and explaining what is wrong with cat, the 2 injections were very expensive, I asked for discount, they said that I can talk to manager, they started argue with me, I tried to make payments of $226 with 2 debit cards, forgot my pins because I was so upset, they yelled at me, I left the office to put my cat in my car, the office assistant run after me and block my car exit threaten me with police if I do not pay and knocking with anger on the window of my car, I asked them to send me the bill because I can not pay with debit cards, she still block my car and do not allow me to leave by yelling at me "The payment at the time of the service!!!" I told her that both of my debit cards are declined because I do not remember my pin number and that I have to go to my bank, but she was still continue blocking my car exit and threatening me with police. I called them from home explaining that I will make a payment asking for discount and explaining that my cards did not worked and asking to send me the bill, but they continue argue with me and threatening me with police. In few days the Sheriff Department knocked on my door demanding payment to Sarasota Veterinary Center threatening me with the fraud charges, forcing me to drive to the clinic and pay them with the cash. I explained to the manager Linda that the medication did not helped and my cat still sick and that I did promised to get discount and that the doctor and staff was rude and that the service was bad, but she did not care - she took my money and said that I can bring my cat again for new follow visit with different doctor. I do not recommend to visit this office on Cattlemen because they overcharge for services, they do not use gloves and sanitize the office and equipment all the time, they only care about your money and they rude and abusive, and if for somne reason your card will decline they will threaten you will police and will send police to your house. read more