Extremely disappointed with the lack of professionalism and consistency from the front office staff at Thurman Veterinary Clinic. I called around 8:30 a.m. this morning to establish care for my two French Bulldogs and was told that they were accepting new patients but it would be a month out. The receptionist began collecting my information to create patient charts, discussed scheduling appointments for June, and was in the process of preparing the required $40 per pet appointment hold fee when the call was disconnected. When I called back later, a different receptionist informed me that the clinic was not accepting new patients and that I would not be able to establish care there. When I explained that another staff member had literally begun the intake process and was preparing to collect payment for appointments, I was simply told, "I don't know, but we're not taking new patients." The complete lack of communication and consistency was incredibly frustrating. Based on the glowing reviews, I expected a much more professional and organized experience. While I cannot speak to the quality of the veterinary care itself, the customer service and handling of front-office communication left a very poor first impression. read more

My husband and I have been coming here for our dogs' needs and care for over 2 years now and I highly recommend them. They can get extremely busy and it has gotten a little more challenging to get an appointment but I always commend the level of care and customer service we get from this place. Everyone is so friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable. They are also really good at following up on upcoming appointments or vaccinations due to make sure your pets are up-to-date. If you are looking for a vet center, as much as I'd like to gatekeep them, this is the place to be. Highly recommend them! read more

I've heard a lot of great things about this place for probably close to 7 years or more. However I was never able to get my dogs in here because they were usually full with customer capacity. End of 2025 I got a new puppy and still after calling in November they were still not taking new patients. Out of the blue a friend that goes here said back in April they were taking new patients and I couldn't even let him finish before I jumped on the phone right there and then and found it was true and finally got my puppy Fenway scheduled for his first checkup. I came in today for the first time and was completely blown away to the service and care you receive here. This isn't your every day GP type doctors office you typically see or find with a "Veterinarian" ; Thurman truly built every step, every part of the design to animals as the true patients and not the owners. It actually quite impressed me as the first initial impression. We were taken to a room where I swear you could bring a horse inside and still have plenty of room to move around and sit along the benches. It truly blew me away. It was literally every detail to this place from top to bottom and everything in between. Then came the care. The love and care my puppy Fenway received was above and beyond I have seen from any Veterinarian office in my past with all my dogs. Fenway had Julie Mischke today and she throughly did an examination and his last vaccination shot without an even flinch or movement of worry from Fenway....which by the way is a Maligator aka Melonwall I mean Malinois lol. He was completely chill and at ease here from the very start and with all the people working here. The entire staff from front to back was absolutely great and amazing and above and beyond. I could not be more happier with a place than this place right here. I can see why this place can get almost near impossible to get in with the way they do business here. Above a 5 star rating here and look forward to coming back soon for his next checkup. Thank you Thurman Veterinary staff!!! You are @FenwayMaligator approved read more

Thurman Veterinary Center - @FenwayMaligator ready for his first checkup and exam enjoying the AC before his 1:30PM appointment - Veterinarians Near Me - Bakersfield, California

Dr Mischke (sp?) is very warm and obviously loves what she does. Our dog loves her. He almost calms down when she comes into the exam room.

Tried making an appointment and receptionist hung up. She had a bad attitude from start. Expected more from a 5 star rating vet.

Im so thrilled to have a great vet clinic for my babies. I drive 1.5 hr to go to this clinic. I've seen 2 different doctors there, both were great. The staff is outstanding. When I order pet meds, they approve the prescription promptly. I had an emergency and they got my dog in same day. I've been through different vets in California, moving around. I tried both my local ones. This vet clinic is one of the best I've ever used in every way. Im so glad someone recommended them to me. read more

First time going to this vet. Very professional and friendly. Staff is very helpful and knowledgeable.

My fur babies have been coming here for years. No matter what the situation is they always treat us kind. They have a wonderful staff and a new vet that my fur baby seen for the first time and she is also great like Thurman. I enjoy this vet and put my trust in them completely. read more

The best vet clinic you can find for your fur baby! Very kind, caring and professional

I've been taking my pets to Thurman for many years now. The staff are friendly and efficient. And the doctors, both, take time to answer our questions and give us guidance as we work to keep our dogs healthy and happy. Overall, going to Thurman has been a great veterinary experience. read more

Just canceled all future appointments and will be finding a new vet. I think this one used to be good but because of their popularity the service is awful and the staff is rude. They also don't honor appointment times. There is another review from a Scott about how Thurman has changed from service oriented to $$ oriented. There's also one from a cowgirl user name that had a horrible experience with rude staff who then turned to blame her. I didn't take them too much into consideration when I initially decided to try this clinic. If you are reading this please check out their reviews because it feels like they mirror my experience. I had an appointment at 315 with Dr thurman. At 345 after sitting there since 3 when I checked in I asked how much longer. That's when for the next 20 minutes they kept saying " we are cleaning the room" " your next on the que" meanwhile you see pet after pet go through and they say nothing. I wasn't being treated like a patient,but treated as an inconvenience. After finally getting in a room the woman who showed me to the room apologized and said the tech will be right in just everything is behind. I said I hope that doesn't mean my appointment is rushed. That's when she's assured me I will have someone dedicated to me and my cat. When the tech came in she said " I have 9 minutes before I have to clock out" That's when I asked for the office manager because now I'm being jerked around. When she came in she was rude, would cut me off from explaining why i was upset, And gave me a weird story about a dead dog to make me feel bad for complaining. She also said her techs weren't being unprofessional for lying about wait times and immediately saying they need to clock out. When she left and I finally got a tech to look at my cat im frustrated and past my limit. I cursed under my breath. That's when the office Manger tried ato take the opportunity to kick me out. Because it's now my fault and I'm the problem for my reaction. (I'm autistic so prone to crying/meltdowns) I had to grovel to get my cat seen because the staff is so on their high horse. When Dr thruman finally graced me with his presence he barely looked at my cat. He spent 5 minutes. Now I just want to leave so I say yes to whatever the treatment was and it's now 430. I'm tired and my cat is overwhelmed. If you go to this vet please be aware they play dirty and becsuse They are popular you and your pet might not be important to them. Also, I see a "business manager" likes to respond to the comments and try to explain over the bad reviews.....that's a red flag in a business I think. Instead of taking feedback they seem to be doubling down on their behavior. Which again is the behavior I'm complaining about in the first place. They don't care about you or your pet. EDIT: I see the manager left a response. Oo gee I'm soo surprised. They blamed me for my experience and not themselves. If those were the words or the way the staff presented themselves i would have had no problem. I wasnt explained about tech appointment differences until i was finally brought into the back. Front staff only says "next in que" "or the room is being cleaned" I also find it disgusting to try to guilt someone with someone else's loss of their pet in order to excuse poor office management. Like why do I need to know about someone's tragedy? I'm sorry for them but it's not what's relevant here. The only abusive language I used is when I cursed under my breath but in the presence of the vet tech which was enough of an excuse to treat me even worse. Bottom line I was treated terrible today and the staff and the doctor only spent 5 minutes with my cat after being there for 2 hours. Also I paid 180 dollars there was no discount but ok lady. read more

Waited on hold hold for 30 minute was next in the queue the automated dialer stated no one to answer the phone because you probably going to Lunch - Will never call or go to this office! read more

Thurman Veterinary Center - My Dog is sick but the office wants to go home! - Veterinarians Near Me - Bakersfield, California

We have taken our dog Trigger to Thurman Vet for about 4 years now and the service is always excellent. We have seen all the vets in the practice and each and every one truly cares about our dog! They speak to owners with kindness, and understanding. I really appreciate their conservative approach to care, and the "realness" about treatment options. Front desk is AWESOME and amazing with scheduling! We have had some semi-emergencies and they always find time to squeeze us in. Price is comparable to others in town, but service has been outstanding. read more

Thurman Veterinary Center - The old man - Veterinarians Near Me - Bakersfield, California

Today we took our 17 month old puppy Abby in for her check up and shots. Dr. Thurmond was our vet for years taking care of our other baby Snicky. She was !5 1/2 when Dr. Thurmond put her to sleep. Abby was very excited to greet the other dogs and especially liked the doctor. She got three shots and still had a wagging tail. We love Dr. Thurmond and feel confident that our babies are getting the best care. The office is clean and new and the doctor runs on time. I highly recommend Dr. Thurmond for excellent care of your pets. There are now three veterinarians at this office. I would suggest making appointments early as there might be a wait for a appointment. read more

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This is a very busy, yet efficient office. I had been waiting for the opportunity for my dog to be a patient there, so I jumped on it when they opened up a small, limited window, for new patients! I was very satisfied with my dog's initial/annual checkup/shots visit. I highly recommend them! read more

It was not a no show when I called to inform I No longer had the dog I was supposed to take !!! If the staff taking the calls didn't understand or didn't lisen to what I said that's not my problem ... You wait 3 moths to send a email out to schedule a app for my current puppy you guys been seeing and to throw that out their about the late fee about dog I no longer had done with this my service won't be here thanks bless yur bussnies... read more

Have only been going there for less than two years with my dog, and have Elvis had great service. Dr Mischke is great, and this last time we had Claire for a veterinary assistant. She was wonderful, so kind. read more

Called to try to make an appointment for my dog and was immediately turned down. First it was they didn't have anything for the rest of the week which is fine but then they weren't accepting new patients. I guess if you need a vet look somewhere else if you're not a patient there currently. Thanks for ur help read more

Entire staff I dealt with are welcoming and efficient. Strongly recommend Dr Thurman's office veterinarian services!!

My dogs and I love Thurman Veterinary and especially Dr. Thurman. I have a very old Corgi and a middle-age Jack Russell terrier, and they both had some serious problems after a feral cat took up residence under our home and had kittens. The cat had a bad case of fleas and after scratching one of my dogs he also got ringworm. Both dogs had to be treated for fleas, and the one dog had to be treated extensively for the ringworm. This led to months of doctor visits as it was a very stubborn case. We also had to monitor his liver due to the kinds of treatment that he was on. Dr. Thurman was wonderful and caring, and kept me informed about everything as we went along and explained all of the blood work and the various options for treatment. Dasher is doing well now and is recovered from both infections and I can't say enough things about Manhattan the help Dr. Thurman and Thurman Veterinary gave my dogs. We go out there also for nail trims and once a year exams and my dogs actually seem to enjoy going to the vet. Which is kind of a miracle. We used to go to another well-known vet in town and we did not have very good experiences there. So I am extremely grateful for the concern that Dr. Thurman has for his patients and their owners. read more

Very caring staff. Dr Miskee diagnosed our sick pup with Diabetes. Monty was rushed to the Animal ER for three days. It saved his life. He's still under the care of Thurman Veterinary. We're very happy with his continued care. We highly recommended them. read more

I contacted Thurman Vet Center via Yelp to get more information about dental cleaning for my dog. The response was quick and the details helpful. I made an initial consultation appointment so they could do bloodwork. After the all clear, I made an appointment for the following week. Drop off is easy. Just park and give them a call. A vet tech came out, discussed the procedure, reviewed the paperwork I signed, and took my dog in. I'm very happy with the outcome of the procedure. I was sent reminder texts and emails prior to my appointments. read more

Thurman Veterinary Center - Veterinarians Near Me - Bakersfield, California

Always receive top notch vet care for my dogs. The ladies who work the front desk to the vet techs on back I am never discouraged by the care my dogs get. read more

Both Dr. Zaleski and Mischke have been awesome. Dr. Mischke helped treat my cat who was losing weight rapidly and found that she had hyperthyroidism. She prescribed meds and she bounced back. She also treated my cat who was having kidney failure and such but unfortunately it was just too far gone where we had to put him down. Dr.Mischke showed compassion when we had to make that decision as she assured us there was not much else we could do as he was just in bad shape. Dr.Zaleski checked my cat today as she was not eating and drinking and was rapidly losing weight. Based on her breathing she recommended an X-ray before we do very expensive tests. As she found out my car had built fluid in her lungs and was struggling to breathe. She made a point that in her condition that if we drained it that there is a high chance it would just come back and we would have put her through more stress for nothing to end up at the same result. We unfortunately put her down too but the fact that she is considerate of what tests to run too in order to get a more forward diagnosis is what I appreciate. Not like how the VCA animal hospital who don't care how much they charge you read more

I think this is the best vet center. The space is good the care is better. I see the doctor for my dogs Manny and Baron most times that I am there and the med techs are wonderful. Dr Meshki is fabulous. I'm greatful for this center read more

I've been looking for a new vet to visit since our usual vet has been difficult to schedule with, and I would highly recommend this clinic. The vets we've seen, Dr. Zaleski and Dr. Thurman (as well as their vet techs/assistants), have all been incredibly kind, knowledgable, and thorough about our concerns with our two dogs. We were able to schedule a dental cleaning for our 4 year old corgi within just a couple of weeks since our initial appointment. The front desk staff are also very quick to answer calls and schedule appointments. For the actual appointment itself, we were seen just minutes after our scheduled time- I think we've only waited about 5-10 minutes max to be seen. The waiting room and exam rooms are also very clean and welcoming. I was telling my family that there must be something in the air at their clinic because our dogs, usually super reactive in public places, were perfect angels while waiting to be seen. All in all, very excited to be bringing my dogs here and super happy to have found this clinic. read more

After a terrible emergency visit and a bandage coming off, I called my primary vet and literally every vet in town. No one had an opening for just new bandages, or it wasn't enough of an emergency for them *cough cough* VCA! I finally got through to Thurman and they had an appointment the very next day! The staff was so kind and helpful with my wild girl, they did the best job with her And for half the price of the emergency vet (who also did a great job) . And sent me home with enough medicine to keep my girl chill until her tail amputation. Thank you so much to the team aT Thurman for making my girl feel better, for easing my worries and not breaking my bank. You'll definitely become our new primary for both dogs from now on! read more

Thurman Veterinary Center - Coming off sedation but happy and not chasing her tail or hurting herself anymore. - Veterinarians Near Me - Bakersfield, California

When it came time for my dog to undergo a procedure I put all my trust into the Thurman team. They were kind and walked me through every stage of the process. I could reach out via email and text for any additional questions I had. My nerves were all over the place but rest assured I'm glad I went here and will continue going here for all my pups needs! read more

I have been using this vet for 15 years. His office staff have been getting worse and worse. They don't communicate. Then blame the customer. You won't be able to make an appointment anytime you need either. If your animal is sick, it will be 2 weeks until you can get in. Good luck. They will probably give some excuse about being really busy in the comments and try and back peddle, making it look like I'm the problem. The customer isn't always wrong, like they make it seem in their replies to comments. The sad part is that I know of a lot of their former clients who have said the same thing. This scheduling problem started in 2020, it's not new. Update They were the ones who miss communicated. I wasn't trying to schedule the day of. I was double checking on my appointment because their communication through text wasn't clear. Caitlin was the one being rude on the phone, but keep acting like I'm the problem. Sad in that you guys keep loosing clients due to the office staff's attitudes. A little bit of customer service goes a long way. I did communicate my frustration to Caitlin but she kept talking over me. Keep making excuses for poor behavior Marissa. Instead of always blaming the client, maybe start looking at your staff. Update 2- Marissa just called and quit me as a client. They really don't like being called out for being rude. Been there for 15 years, so even if you think you have a good relationship with this vet. Remember to just take all the rudeness or you will get dropped. read more

I understand that its not a good time to take new clients--completely understand, however I recommend that folks message the Vet Center via yelp before calling...that way you'll at least receive recommendations/referrals for other places that may have availability. I called twice within a two week period and asked for other recommendations, but was never given any other options. Not one...even after asking for one both times. I'm not from this area in California so this was quite infuriating to hear over the phone knowing that I have a sick pup and no local vet recommendations from a highly rated place like this which I would have assumed was well connected in the area. Very disappointing and infuriating as a pet owner. read more

I've been a customer of Thurman since shortly after they opened. Travis Thurman was the vet that initially saw our animals and he was amazing and deserved all the Best in Bakersfield awards he received. He always told us that if we had a problem to bring the animal in and they would work him into the schedule and we did and they were always worked in. Things have changed in the last couple of years. Thurman has gotten big and forgotten what customer service is. I should have realized last year things were changing when we took out dog in for a back leg that was bothering him. Julie Mischke told my wife his hip was arthritic and told us we needed to take him to an orthopedic vet in Los Angeles . Now this was diagnosed with no X-rays and her claiming she could "hear the bone on bone" which neither of us could hear. His leg had been improving for the previous month and we decided to wait. Within one month his "hip" was completely healed. He doesn't favor it and walks 2 miles a day with us. One of our dogs experience an allergic reaction last Friday and his face started swelling. My wife was very concerned and I told her to take him to Thurman and she was immediately turned away because they didn't have time. Being a longtime patient that spends between $5,000 and $7000 a year on boarding and vet visits, I called to talk to the office manager or Dr Thurman and was told they weren't available. Thurman has changed from a small service oriented vet to a vet that only cares about pushing patients through for the $. It's sad to see this but it always seems to happen when businesses get too big and service goes downhill. Thurman is wonderful as long as you have an appointment for checkups and shots but heaven forbid your dog needs them for a real problem. And don't believe the "best of Bakersfield", they send out emails and text messages every year asking for votes from their customers. I was referred to Travis by a friend of his father and couldn't have been happier at first. Go back to your roots Travis, at one time you were the best in Bakersfield. read more

Take new patients that would be nice. Was recommended by another vet who also is not taking new patients

We needed to put our pup to sleep as he was so sick and Dr Thurman and his staff were so amazingly kind, compassionate and sympathetic to us and our sweet pup. As heartbreaking as this experience was, Dr Thurman made it so much more bearable for us all to say goodbye and set him free. A big thank you Dr Thurman for your gentle nature and kindness. Zydeco (8 years old) read more

Best vet in Bakersfield. We went to another vet and he was money hungry and overall the clinic just gave us bad vibes. We are so thankful to have found Thurman Veterinary Center! read more

We have been clients of Thurman Veterinary Center for years and always receive the absolute best care. Their office is modern, clean, and inviting - with treats available to help pets feel more comfortable. The staff are very professional, friendly, and always willing to accommodate my busy schedule. The doctors are incredibly thorough and sincere when seeing our pets, ensuring all of our concerns are heard. Dr. Thurman even remembers our pets by name and previous visit details each time we come in. We are always offered options for care and find a treatment plan that works for us. This past year we had to put our 13 year old chocolate lab down and the entire experience just reiterated my love for this place. A very sad time in our lives was made easier by the kindness and love we felt at Thurman. Even with the office being busy that day, we were met with sincere condolences and were able to spend as much time as we needed to say goodbye. I truly cannot recommend enough. read more

Dr. Thurman and his staff are amazing. Everyone is very caring and helpful. Dr. Thurman takes the time to examine and make your fur baby feel at ease. You don't feel rushed, he takes his time to answer questions. read more

Thurman Veterinary Center - Veterinarians Near Me - Bakersfield, California

COVID-19 has seriously challenged us all. Forcing businesses to reevaluate how they handle normal services in a not-so-normal time. We have been very impressed by the caution and care Thurman Veterinary Center has implemented. This includes car service where technicians only take the animals from the car into the building and back. It's not perfect, but they've adapted to this changing climate. Today our beagle had his stapled removed. When he came back home with the boyfriend I noticed only one incision had staples removed, the other was still intact. He called back and the tech was super apologetic and made it right. While we weren't upset she did go above and beyond with customer service. This was much appreciated. We'll continue to come to Thurman because of the quality of care, communication and customer service. read more

Thank you Thurman veterinary center. These past few years have been rough for my family and I. We lost two dogs and every time we came in for assistance you all have held the upmost respect for my family and I during those rough times. Words can not express how much I appreciate you and all of your kindness to each situation. Losing a pet is not fun. It's like losing a family member and you all make a difference to all the moments. So I again appreciate you all and thank you all for everything. read more

It was my dogs first visit here and I will definitely keep bringing him here and my other dogs as well.

ALWAYS INCREDIBLE SERVICE. The people are patient, kind and I am always treated with respect. Your pet will be highly cared for at this center. read more