I consider myself to be a discriminating shopper when it comes to veterinary care. My daughter is a veterinarian in another state and I have spent a lifetime with dogs and cats in addition to earning my living as a professional dog trainer. I have found the vets and staff at The Highlands Veterinary Hospital to be knowledgeable, thorough, aware of current research, compassionate and caring. I would recommend the practice to anyone who is looking for excellent care for their animals. Brooks Watson Wantage, NJ read more

Thought I found a great new vet, only to call when my 13 year old dog had a seizure, for them to tell me to take her to urgent care - for a 24 hour seizure watch! She passed within 12 hours! They NEVER called back or offered anything to ease her pain. It was well within their hours of operation! If she was a young dog, I could understand, but not a dog already on medication for TIA's and 13 years old! Letting her suffer for 12 hours, just to die in pain! DISGUSTING! And they never called back after I said she passed! Thanks! Thanks so much for your concern! I guess if you don't get a paycheck, it's just not worth your time. read more

The Highlands Veterinary Hospital - Veterinarians Near Me - Sparta, New Jersey

My dog was a patient of Highlands Vet Hospital for several years. He received excellent care with the utmost of compassion. His crossing of the rainbow bridge appointment was very warm, dignified, and loving. We stayed with him throughout. So after a period of grieving I decided to adopt a senior dog and of course chose Highlands to give this dog the absolute best care for all her life! read more

We got into a car accident due to hydroplaning and I took my dog to this animal hospital. My dog was bleeding from her eyes and her nose and they still refused to take her and service her just because they don't take walk ins... HOW IS THIS A HOSPITAL AND DONT TAKE WALKS INS. This so disappointing. DO NOT RECOMMEND... read more

Great experience having my kitten neutered. Caring staff and reasonably priced. My little guy was recovered quickly and is healthy and happy. read more

Love this vet hospital. Everyone I've dealt with here is great. Scheduling appointments is easy and they will work with whatever you need. Emergency, heck come right over. Every time I've had to rush my girl over they were prompt to help. read more

Dr. Nancy is simply the most compassionate veterinarian my family has ever met. We have been coming to her for years now to take care of our pets. We don't live close but the drive is worth it to have our pets see her. Recently we had to put our beloved Lab to sleep after a very quick and debilitating disease. It was such a difficult decision and Dr. Nancy was there for us providing the support we needed. I highly recommend this office. read more

If I could give them 10 stars I would. We got amazing urgent care for our cat. Everyone is so kind and caring. Dr. Beth and tech Chris handled our cat with care and rendered fabulous treatment. Hands down the best vet we have been to. read more

Dr Hamlin is fabulous !! The staff is so nice and accommodating. Hours work great with my work schedule. And they are very affordable. Dr. Carol did my dogs surgery and I was informed at all times throughout her surgery how everything was going. Thank you all ! -Melissa O. read more

I will be the first negative review, apparently. I, too, thought this was a caring and compassionate place. I went there with 2 of my older dogs who, primarily, had dental disease. Due to COVID I was required to remain in the car (fine) for the first 2 visits and allowed to join my pet in the examining room the third time. I was impressed by how polite and courteous the receptionist was. My phone interactions with the administrative staff & the vets & my in-person interaction with the vets were uneventful. The next (last) encounter was a scheduled return visit which I was\ permitted to swap out for a rapidly declining older dog with an episodic, chronic gastrointestinal ailment. My concerns were (1) to determine how sick she was; (2) to determine whether I could care for her at home, or have her admitted to the hospital for care. First, I arrived in the parking lot 1 hour early, notified the receptionist that I was there & waiting in the car/asking her to call me if they could see me earlier. At the time of my scheduled appointment, I phoned for an update - they were not ready for me. About 15 minutes later I was told to meet the vet tech for intake. The door was not specified & they alleged I was not there. I was there about 15 feet away at another door. At the visit, the vet checked old records from 2 other veterinarians (one community, the other specialty). I tried to explain the history and treatment. I learned that they do not admit pets for overnight care. They drew blood and the analysis, though misinterpreted, suggested that she was sufficiently sick to warrant hospital care. The vet, who was very nice, agreed to a few temporizing measure, subcutaneous fluid infusion & an antibiotic injection. I left ($270), knowing that I would go to the Animal Medical Center in NYC where my pet was admitted to intensive care for several days. Fortunately, she made it, following extremely costly care ($1000s). During the visit I indicated that I needed to leave ~ 90 minutes after the visit time because I had an airtight obligation at 7 pm and lived 1 hour away. Following that I headed to Manhattan as fast as I could go. No one called for follow up. After my dog was discharged, I called to get an appointment for the dog whose appointment had been swapped out. Within a couple of hours I received a phone call indicating that a decision had been made that they no longer wanted me as a customer - and informed me that the appointment I had made was cancelled. I was informed that a letter was in the mail. My phone conversation discussed below. Here is the letter I received a few days later with all of the records that had accumulate over about 8 weeks for my 3 pets: The Highlands Veterinary Hospital 49 Woodport Road Sparta, New Jersey 07871 973-726-8080 973-726-8775 (Fax) Carol Ose-Diehl, DVM Beth Auger DVM Nancy Shay, MVB Hamlin Lucena, Jr. DVM Ellen M My address Dear Ellen M, I am writing to you regarding your relationship with our business. It has come to my attention that there are problems with our working relationship. Our staff is to be treated as you would expect us to treat you. This was not the case during your visit on 6/15/21. As an alternative, we would like to suggest that you select another veterinary hospital who may better suit your needs. We thank you for your past business and wish you the best of success in finding another veterinarian that will be a better fit for you. Attached are copies of all your pet's records seen by us. Sincerely, Alida Meakin Hospital Manager When told that I could not come back, I was accused of raising my voice and cursing at the receptionist - that she had been listening in on phone conversations. THIS IS COMPLETELY UNTRUE. I wanted them to see my pet who was very sick - I would not create a disturbance or speak inappropriately, BECAUSE I NEEDED TO BE SEEN. I was also disrespected when I mentioned that I am a physician & naturally felt qualified to discuss the lab findings and condition with the vet. Alida said 'Yes, you told us that many times' in a derogatory tone of voice. The call ended when Alida hung up because she said there was no more to say. BOTTOM-LINE: Saccharine politeness is not true caring. Prick that thin veneer and the thin skin of over-sensitivity comes through abetted by the exercise of petty power. DO NOT TAKE YOUR SICK PETS THERE. This is a 'happy' place for 'well-baby care.' Considering that I had had reasonable and non-controversial prior interactions & that my animal was acutely ill and close to death, warranting ICU care in a major tertiary care hospital, you would think that THEY WOULD SHOW COMPASSION AND UNDERSTAND CLIENT ANXIETY UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES. Where is the training? Where is the opportunity for discussion. Yes, I am a physician and have treated very sick patients with extremely concerned family members for a long time & part of that care is understanding & dealing with the EXPECTED psychologic stress. NO EMPATHY! read more

So happy with this place. We adopted a dog a few weeks ago and went to a vet in mine hill and had an awful experience. Not only was my visit cheaper here, but the quality of service, the cleanliness of the place, and the friendliness of the staff is just premium in comparison. I'm so happy to have made the switch and glad that I can trust bringing my pet here. read more

I have been going to Highlands for about 10 years. I can't even express how grateful I am for their compassion during a difficult time when my dog got cancer. They were there through the end and even followed up after to see how we were doing. Now, they are there understanding how to help us acclimate to a new puppy. We usually see Dr. Hamlin but all the staff is great. read more

I feel that my pets get the best possible care at Highlands Veterinary Hospital. I've been taking my cats here since 1995. We've been through cancer, hyperthyroidism, asthma, heart disease as well as more ordinary feline conditions. The doctors and staff are very knowledgeable and passionate, particularly in the sad loss of my pets over the years. read more

Everyone at Highlands is great! The reception staff is friendly and courteous and you don't have to wait hours to see a vet as in some other veterinary hospitals. We love Dr. Beth! She is very compassionate and kind and it's obvious she really loves animals.. Highlands is top notch! read more

I have been going to Highands for about 10 years. I live almost 2 hours away but in my area I can never find a vet practice that can even mildly compare to Highlands. Not only do they treat my pet they are very compassionate to pet family members. My dog of 13 years died in November and I cannot say enough about the care they gave me. They even had me bring him in after his initial hospital visit! I have often told them that they should also treat people I have never had a doctor as good as they are. read more

I love this animal hospital. I have had pets a long time and have been through a few vets, most are out for the money. Not this crew. They truly love animals and are in the business of making them happy and healthy. They also have great hours and are very accommodating for those of us that work. Sadly we have had to put down 2 of our cats in the past 5 years, both experiences while very painful were made easier by the compassion of the vets and the tech staff. The last time we were at the hosptial, there was a person who wanted to put down their 6 year old cat, just because he was putting down his older cat. The Dr's wanted nothing to do with that and took the cat in until they could find him a safe and happy home. I recommend this office to everyone I can. They truly are wonderful people. read more

The staff is completely rude.. brought in 2 male cats to get neutered. On the drive to the veterinary office 1 of our cats had an accident & urinated in his carrier, we all know how unpleasant that 'cat pee' smell is, my family & i cleaned it the best we could & we were obviously embarrassed. The girls behind the reception desk said very loudly in the middle of the waiting room 'wow it smells like cat pee really bad out here, who is that?' Are you kidding me? You work with pets everyday you're telling me you've never dealt with it before? But you chose to embarrass people instead... disgusting excuse for a business. read more

Well I have been back a few times since this first review. Dr Hammlin is pretty much the only thing this place has going for itself. He's the ONLY reason I go there. read more

My family has entrusted the care of our very 1st puppy, "Bear" to Highlands...and when it was his time to cross the Rainbow Bridge, there was no question as to whose hands we would share his comfort with. The staff is so loving and compassionate. These folks are real!Then when we introduced our new pup, Grizz, they all just fell in love with him as quickly as we did. Now that we got Grizz a mate, GiGi...she is the talk of the office and just eats up the attention when we go in for her check ups. This staff is attentive and sweet. I receive email reminders of appointments and important health checks. I love the way they treat my beloved pets! i cant say enough. read more

We have been clients at HVH for over 20 years, starting back in 1995. That says it all! We continue to return at least annually and have had five cats over the years cared for by Dr. Carol and the staff. Never have we been treated by anyone who was not both professional and compassionate. And knowledgeable about a variety of issues and always helpful. What's not to love! read more

poor customer service all rude as hell .. called to get cream for my dogs eye for an allergy that i know would have relieved it as he has had it before..was told i would get a call back by 2 pm and i never recieved a call.. I now have requested my records they just lost 3 dogs , and 3 cats .. so long your too rude for my taste .. read more

My husband and I were traveling from Tennessee to New Jersey to visit with family. We camp at the Mahlon Dickerson Reserve each year. This year, we knew we might be facing a tough time traveling with our aging Yorkie and sure enough, we had a rough first night at the campground. In the morning, Ozzie made it very clear to us that "it was time". We asked the park manager to recommend a vet. We are tremendously grateful that he suggested The Highlands. Words cannot express how kind and compassionate the doctors and staff were. You would think we had been long-time clients. Thank you so very much for helping us through this difficult time and for helping Ozzie to pass peacefully. read more

Been bringing my little "girl" here for over 7 years. Always feel like Sunny is well taken care of. And she loves all the attention she gets, especially from Dr. Nancy. Would definitely recommend it! read more

This review has been a year in the making. We have been here multiple times in that year. At least twice for annual check-ups (initial & follow-up) and countless times for all those other maladies that afflict our loved ones. We have had the pleasure of having been cared for by Dr. Carol, Dr. Hamlin & Dr. Auger. All of whom are more than capable and qualified. All of our well care (sick) visits are incredibly thorough. Dr. Carol Spayed our little girl. The procedure was flawless and recovery a breeze. Diagnosis and medication were spot on and appropriate. Cost is always a concern. If we found cheaper service elsewhere we would still bring our little girl here. The support staff are courteous, friendly and pleasant. When we pull in the driveway our little girl goes CRAZY. She can't wait to get inside. As many times as she has been poked and prodded she loves the attention at the Highlands Veterinary Hospital. Really deserve a 4 1/2 Stars. Held back a 1/2 on principle, no one is perfect. read more

Recommended by a friend who used this vet when it was time to put down their large 100 LB dog hemorrhaging from a large tumor. The vet came to their house because it was impossible to try to drive him to a vet office. When it was time to put down our beloved OLLIE, I contacted them. OLLIE closed his eyes for the last time, under a dogwood tree in our backyard surrounded by family members. The Vet helped make a heartwrenching event easier. HIGHLY recommend!! read more

I take all my dogs there excellent staff and doctors. i would recommend them to everyone .very compassionate caring staff

We have been clients of The Highlands since their doors opened in 1997. I usually see Dr Carol or Dr Hamlin, although Drs Beth and Nancy are great as well. I first met Dr. Carol and Dr. Marie (retired) through the Noah's Ark Animal Shelter in Ledgewood, where I was a volunteer. The Highlands was one of the practices that helped the shelter with vaccinations and spay/neuter of our adoptable animals. As they were kind, compassionate, dedicated and knowledgeable, I chose to see them for my own dogs and cats even though I live about half an hour away. Over the years I have seen staff come and go, sometimes with great sadness, sometimes without ... The practice overall does an excellent job of maintaining a crew of people who are professional, accommodating and helpful. As with any business, some other reviewers have commented, there are always exceptions :) or people who have bad days. But I find that people who are not a good fit with the care philosophies of The Highlands do not stay long with the practice. From middle of the night emergency calls, surgeries, sadly unexpected euthanasia to routine shots and yearly physical exams, I have taken so many dogs and cats through the doors of this building that my file has certainly outgrown its original drawer in the cabinet, and I will likely continue to do so until the sad day that the doors close forever or I have no more pets to bring. I have never been turned away in an emergency. I have never been made to feel like my opinions or wishes as the owner are being discounted or ignored. These two things are of the utmost importance to me and The Highlands generally exceeds my standards for both. I myself have on rare occasions has my appointment bumped for someone else's emergency, and the staff is always apologetic and scrambles to find a new time to help me. I do not begrudge this at all since I know if I was the one with the emergency (and I have been!) the staff would put my animal's welfare and comfort as a priority. When referrals are needed I have found that they have sent me to specialists that are equally knowledgeable and competent. Their all breed health clinic that they run every spring is a hectic experience but a great service for the dog and cat community. Definitely recommend with full confidence. read more