After seeing two Vets during the last ten days, we ended up here on a Friday night on Memorial Day weekend. Joey was really in pain and massive diarrhea, I am guessing from Meds previously prescribed. I think the muscle relaxer. Got to VCA, From Peg at the front desk to seeing Dr. Kosmo we felt listened to. Even though we still do not know exactly what kind of injury, which may be a pinched nerve or soft tissue injury they were very thorough with test, etc. They presented us with a written estimate, charging the lower end. The ER Dr. Kosmo called with a very long conversation about everything they saw that was immediately available. I was most impressed with the page long instructions for meds that was very detailed. I am used to just being handled a bottle with simple instructions. He has been very comfortable since then. Today is Monday night. No crying out loud. No tossing around trying to find a comfortable position or whimpering. We've all got sleep. Joey's not out of the woods, but sooooo much better. Can't say enough good things about this hospital. Oh, did I mention they clipped and cleaned up the hiney mess while sedated. Thank You! read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - Joey - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California

EDIT: I gave an extra star since someone from the hospital called me regarding my review, so I'm glad that they take these reviews seriously. I also want to give an update that my dog is doing fine and didn't have any additional symptoms, so I'm glad I didn't pay thousands to hospitalize him overnight. I took my dog here because he ate a chocolate brownie which is toxic for dogs, so I had called to inquire if I should bring him in and based on his weight and the amount that he ate, they advised I take him in which I did. I knew that it would be pricey since this is an emergency pet clinic and I'm so thankful that they were able to induce vomiting and get him to throw up a significant amount of the brownie and save his life. However, I got the sense that they were trying to upsell me. Just the emergency exam and induced vomiting alone already cost almost $500, but they also wanted my dog to stay for 8 hours to be monitored because they said there was still a risk of toxicity. When they provided a quote, it was going to cost almost $3K which to me is ridiculous! I opted to take my dog home and monitor him myself and fortunately he is fine. The receptionist who also helped me didn't seem very friendly like she didn't want to be there. I get it that it was after midnight but considering that people are there because of an emergency and worried about their pets, it would be helpful if she was a little bit more empathetic and caring. They also overcharged me for what they initially quoted for the meds and I realized this after I had already gotten home, but I was able to call and leave a message and they credited me the difference. However, their explanation was that there is a price difference when a patient is going to be hospitalized vs. outpatient care and the technician forgot to relay the price difference. So you mean to tell me that the exact same medicine cost more just because I opted to take my pet home rather than pay $3K to keep him overnight?!? Clearly an indicator that they care more about money and profit than our pets!!! I'm glad that they were able to help my pet since it was the only emergency option (another VCA hospital would have cost more and was further) but I don't like when people try to take advantage in vulnerable and desperate situations! read more

We were referred here from our emergency vet after our pup had a seizure after getting meds. I was grateful to have gotten in quickly to see the neurologist and have them do an assessment. When we got there, the neuro tech met with us for a bit and answered many of our questions since the neuro Dr was meeting with another patient and giving them some bad news so we were completely patient to wait. The tech gave a helpful demo of the emergency nasal spray that we hopefully will never have to use. Dealing with seizures is completely foreign to us and both the vet tech and the Dr were kind, thorough and helpful in answering our questions and providing advice and their opinion on our pup. I'm so glad we came here for our neurology needs. These caretakers made the experience much more comforting in a time that we really needed love and support around us. Thank you guys! read more

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No one wants to take their pet to the ER, but if you do, I can't recommend VCA enough! We brought our cat in on a Sunday night--the staff quickly determined she was going into heart failure and started treating her right away. The entire staff was so kind, and the doctors took the time to explain everything they were doing and answered our questions. We had to leave Sally overnight, and the staff was great about returning my calls and giving me updates. VCA worked with our regular vet to make sure Sally would get proper care when she was discharged. So far, she's doing great! We're so thankful to VCA to giving us more time with our girl read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - Sally in her O2 chamber. They let us get some pets in before we had to leave her for the night - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California

We arrived for our 4pm appointment with Dr. Geiger and left at 7pm. Not because we were waiting around but because of the thoroughness of our Neurologist. We have lived in Vet's offices for a year due to my dog having an autoimmune disease that destroyed his platelets and a septic staph infection, along with other terrible things. The year of high dose steroids has caused extensive issues for my dog (some my vet believed were neurological) and we were trying to figure out solutions to these. Dr. Geiger ran a neurological assessment on my dog for about 45 minutes after the tech asked some really poignant and thorough questions. I was really impressed with her as well. The remaining almost 2 hours consisted of Dr. Geiger going over every single thing you could imagine. Making determinations that it is not X or X because we can manually move Y which doesn't cause pain, explaining things about his neurological functioning vs mechanical functioning in a way a layman could understand. We made a plan to schedule a CT, thank god not an MRI. He felt those would give us the answers we need to rule out other causes. We are going to get some advanced panels done after he is completely off Prednsione and we will meet back up with Dr. Geiger when a clearer picture has evolved. VCA should be thrilled to have this Neurologist- thoroughly impressed and will refer all friend's dogs to him directly. read more

I brought my dog in with a bleeding paw. I called before I went in and was told there was a 3 hr wait to see a vet, but they sold dog collars. I asked if anyone there would be able to at least look at his paw to advise me whether I needed to see a vet. I was told they had a triage nurse available.. when I got there, they called out some tech, a woman who refused to give any advice at all. She didn't even want to sell me a dog collar. Someone at the front desk told her she could. They were of absolutely no use whatsoever. If I bring my dog in with a bleeding paw and they don't even have a nurse or someone to advise, what to do, what use is it? And a 3 hr wait? The waiting room was empty. I understand the corporate rules and regulation bit, but there should be at least a nurse or someone who can offer help. I'd stay away from this place and figure out another alternative. Sadly, they are the only 24 hr hospital close to me. Poor service, and left me feeling like my dogs' bleeding paw was his problem, not theirs. read more

The team is always knowledgeable, professional, and honest. They are kind and understanding of animals being stressed. We've used the oncology specialty care services and been incredible happy with the support, the communication, and the outcomes. Highly recommend. read more

I've brought my cat here several times because of his urinary issues. They always take great care of him and are very compassionate. Surgery was recommended this last visit. The cost was more than I could afford. They were so understanding. One of the Tech's recommended another place that would do a great job of much less. My little guy is doing very well now. read more

Before coming here, I went to Veterniary Specialty Group in San Marcos. The first thing I asked was if we could put my dog on a hydrolyzed diet and they said no. They did a ton of expensive tests and told me the solution to my dog's nausea was upright feedings, even though she does not have ME. I was at a loss and really just wanted to find a vet that would help me with diet trials for my dog. Dr. Reece did just that. He has been incredibly helpful so far and even suggested we put my baby on anti nausea meds before and during the diet trials so she would not be hurting. So far she is doing great and I finally feel there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Highly recommend this place and Dr. Reece. read more

I brought my dog to VCA Animal Specialty Group because she had what appeared to be a corneal scratch with some cloudiness. At my very first appointment with Dr. Anne Cooper, before we had even seen how the injury responded to medication, she discussed two invasive eye surgeries that "might" help--one involving the eyelid and another involving the eye itself. As a pet owner, hearing major surgery discussed at the very first visit over what appeared to be a healing scratch was incredibly frightening. I was not comfortable considering invasive procedures before we had even tried conservative treatment, so I chose to proceed with medication first and spent the following week asking detailed questions by email about my dog's diagnosis, why surgery was being recommended so early, and whether there were less invasive options. I was charged over $1,000 for the initial visit and prescribed six different eye medications with instructions to administer them 6-12 times per day, which I found overwhelming. When I returned just one week later, I was told my dog's eye had healed well and surgery was no longer necessary. That experience significantly reduced my confidence in the recommendation because surgery had been presented as a possibility before we had even given conservative treatment a chance to work. I also paid for an eye culture that Dr. Cooper recommended. When I later called for the results, I was told I had to schedule and pay for another appointment just to receive them. After making the drive and paying another consultation fee, I was simply told the culture was inconclusive. I was disappointed that this couldn't have been communicated over the phone. Another concern was that my dog was taken into the treatment area without me present, even after I explained that I was uncomfortable with that. I understand some specialty hospitals do this, but I would have appreciated having the option to stay with her or a better explanation of what was happening. Finally, patients are instructed to arrive 15 minutes early, yet I still waited well past my scheduled appointment time before we were seen. Fortunately, my dog recovered without surgery. Based on my experience, I would encourage every dog owner to ask detailed questions, make sure you understand exactly why a procedure is being recommended, and always seek a second opinion before agreeing to invasive surgery. After my experience, I personally would choose another veterinary hospital for future specialty care. read more

We are grateful to kind & knowledgable Dr. Hung who has helped our sweet cat Violet through weight loss and digestive issues. We needed a specialist to see her through treatment, and as she's sitting comfortably on my lap right now, i can't help but feel gratitude to Dr. Hung and the staff at this location for all they have done to improve her health and quality of life. read more

We arrived here when our dog was having an emergency. The staff and vet were attentive, fast and caring. We are thankful for their expertise and how they handled our elderly chihuahuas emergency. read more

SAVING MY CHLOE CHF EPISODE. 04-02-25 - One night in the early hours I rushed my dog to this emergency hospital over all the others because it's one I'm familiar with, less busy (busy but less busy than the others) and I've always had a good experience here. This time he was truly an urgent matter. My dog has had murmur for years and has been well managed - takes Vetmedin 2x a day every 12hrs and have an annual echocardiograms at her normal vet office. She had this scary cough that woke me up at 02:30am but her energy was normal, little bit of panting, gums are pink. She was drinking and taking treats from me. But I noticed a faint crackling in her breathing which was not normal and I sped her to emergency. My dog has anxiety so if she is separated from me or we enter a vet or groomer facility she goes into panic mode. This likely triggered her breathing and heart rate. She was immediately put in the Oxygen chamber, was asked if they can sedate her (keep her calm so they can do the testing and X-rays). She was then Oxygen Dependent and was diagnosed with CHF (congestive heart failure). We took it 24hrs at a time as she fought for her life. After 12hrs of being in the oxygen chamber she was able to breathe on her own. She was able to be discharged later that evening but since I paid an arm and leg, i felt more at ease if she was there overnight. Picked her up at 7am the next day and she was a zombie form sedation and meds. Discharged with now adding Furosemide (diuretic) to her daily medications every 12hrs for the rest of her life. Also prescribed anxiety meds (tranquilizers) before any vet, groomer, or exciting events due to CHF. Was told after a week to schedule an appointment with her vet which then attempted to lower the dosage of furosemide because the initial dosage is making the kidney values elevated. RELAPSE. 04/9/25 - 24hrs of reducing the dosage my dog again had the scary coughing but gum color good and resting heart rate normal. But the coughs a starting at 3am again. Rushed to emergency, same drill, put her on oxygen chamber, sedate, X-rays, inject more furosemide, etc. This time no CHF episode and not Oxygen dependent but there was fluid built up. Was told to go back to the initial dosage of furosemide. I've been told by emergency vet and regular vet that the coughs are expected with CHF and the coughs could be a factor or some fluid build up, her heart is big pushing on her bronchial tubes and trachea, etc. Or how she's positioned when she sleeps and when she gets up can trigger it (suggest to try and elevate her head when sleeping). And the most important thing to monitor is her resting breathing rate. Also was told this emergency doesn't have a cardiologist team onsite and the Hotel Circle location does - so I have options. Talked with emergency vet about what to do because CHF has no cure and it only gets worse. And her condition and where it's at. ANOTHER SCARE 04/14/25 (5-days later), 2:30am scary coughs were back but gums pink and resting breathing rate normal. I gave it some time but it wasn't calming down and was going to Emergency for guidance. We arrived at 3am and nobody was there the doors were locked. But this is a 24/7 Hospital. I knocked, door belled, called, walked around the hospital. I called the bigger hospital VCA Hotel Circle and they tried to make contact too with no answer. I left and went to VCA Hotel Circle. I hope someone can explain this. That was VERY strange. read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California

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This review is for our visit with Dr. David Geiger, the neurologist, not for the group in general. We brought the dog who had some issues, and the doctor was completely dismissive of the symptoms that we described. The only thing he wanted us to do was 5K MRI. We took our dog to a local vet who actually listened carefully to what we were describing, and after at home drug trial our dog was diagnosed with rare autoimmune disease myasthenia gravis. He is doing great on the MG medication. Dr. Geiger was incompetent and dismissive of the potential diagnosis of MG, even though we asked him whether it could be MG that our dog had. He told us absolutely not. read more

While on vacation, my dog Callie suddenly began limping and was clearly in incredible pain. Even though we were far from home, I didn't hesitate--I drove 8 hours back because I knew the only place I fully trusted for her care was VCA. Callie has been a neurology patient at VCA since 2022, and I can't speak highly enough about the incredible team there. Dr. Geiger, Dr. Biegan, and all the amazing neuro techs have provided her with consistent, compassionate, and expert care. Over the years, we've also been supported by Dr. Jackson, Dr. Jones, Dr. Michael, and numerous ER doctors--each one going above and beyond to make sure Callie is comfortable and cared for. Knowing she is in the hands of such dedicated professionals gives me peace of mind every single time. Thank you to the entire VCA team for your commitment, kindness, and exceptional care. read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California

The staff is always warm and friendly and I appreciate the care given to my dog here.

Took our golden retriever maximus in because I noticed his breathing was off and was having stomach contractions. Dr. Cheng was very thorough great Dr. Explained everything and gave me several options which I truly appreciate. This VCA is great! Have gone to them for 10 plus years. The front desk staff are very king, greeting and I absolutely am impressed with there fast track intake. Marco who has been absolutely amazing and so friendly has been great! This morning i went in to pick up maximus and had the pleasure of meeting Dr Wegner, I have to say he was very compassionate, very straight forward and the kind of Dr. Everyone should experience. He gives you options, let's you know exactly what the situation is, he doesn't sugar coat anything and that to me is something I personally like to see in a great vet! Thank you Dr Wegner and all of the staff there you never disappoint. Regards, Linda Cronkhite read more

I can't say enough good things about everyone at VCA. I was referred here by my dog Stormie's primary veterinarian for issues she's been having with seizures, and she was seen by Dr Geiger and their Neurology team. I'm always a little skeptical and anxious when it comes to the care of my baby, but I could tell from the moment I walked in that she was in great hands. Everyone at the front desk is so welcoming and kind, and I really felt at ease bringing Stormie here. I'm grateful for their kindness and attentiveness because it's stressful as it is bringing a pup in for any kind of specialty visit. Not only was Dr Geiger (Neurologist) incredibly patient and informative, he and his team made sure I was in full understanding of everything and answered every question I had. Nothing felt rushed or like they were trying to just send us on our way - they really took the time to provide the best care to my pup and to myself. When Stormie had her MRI, the Neurology team texted me throughout to keep me updated on how she was doing and it eased my worry immensely. You'd think I birthed my pup myself with how much I love her and how much of a part of me she is, and knowing the level of care everyone here at VCA provides is priceless. Very grateful to have been referred here and have the experience I've had so far with everyone here. read more

We had an outstanding experience with VCA Animal Specialty Group on October 23 - 25, 2025 with Dr. Fernandez, Javier and Sherrie. Our Malti mix, Gracie was in severe pain after having 4 bladder stones removed the day before. The pain got ahead of her and we thought we were going to lose her. As soon as we arrived, they jumped into action and started taking care of her immediately! We were advised twice a day of her progress and she was improving. When we picked her up, she was a completely different dog that we brought in. It was so amazing that in just a couple of days, she went from not moving, shaking and panting to herself again. She even practically ran in the room to see is when we were bringing her home. So, if you ever need a pet hospital, I would highly recommend this facility. They are knowledgeable, compassionate, experienced and great people from the receptionist area, to the techs to the vets. We couldn't be happier with the care that Gracie received. If we ever need this kind of service again, we will not hestiate to bring our pet to VCA Kearney Mesa. Thank you Dr. Fernandez, Javier, Sherrie and the rest of the staff that cared for Gracie, but we didn't meet. We are so grateful to have our Gracie back and say thank you for the bottom of our hearts. m~ read more

It's been 5 years since I took my pitbull here for chemotherapy for lymphoma. She developed a horrible infection due to her weakened immune system. When I took her for the next treatment and pointed out the infection I was told "the infection isn't our problem." Long story short, four days after her last treatment she died. The day she died VCA called and asked why I missed her chemo treatment. When I informed the woman on the phone of my pets death that morning, I was told "oh, okay" then click and she hung up. Take what you will from this but I feel as though this particular pet hospital is more concerned with profits than pet health. But, this is to be expected from a vet hospital owned by a corporation (Mars Inc.).I would not let this veterinary oncologist give my dog so much as a rabies shot. Use at your own risk. Photo is Lucy on her last day. read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California

I can't say enough words about the professionalism and compassion that VCA on Kearny Mesa Road showed to my very sick 3 1/2 year old dog. She was diagnosed with Lymphoma right before Christmas 2024 and my Vet clinic closed for the holidays and I could not find an oncologist. Luckily an answering service for my Vet helped me get to VCA and was able to treat my dog. She only survived less than two months, and she was euthanized at VCA and the staff were there for me the entire time. The paperwork for my pet insurance was easily handled since I was provided with every invoice and medical records from VCA. I highly recommend the front desk staff, the vet techs, the vets and oncologist. Please send a prayer to the rainbow bridge for my sweet Minkah. read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - In memory of my sweet Minkah - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California

Dr. Samantha is a beautiful soul and that shows in her delivery. As most pet owners do, I brought my dog who was in a delicate state. I knew deep down what was going to happen before even walking in. My pet was 15 and it was her time. Dr Samantha explained every detail and all the options. The good and bad. Although I didn't want to say goodbye I knew it was coming. My family was able to say goodbye, and given much empathy, and care. I appreciated it all, and I hope Osa did as well. She lived a full life. Thank you. read more

I had the scare of my life with my 2 trouble makers, one being the major culprit. Bruno and Olivia found some brand new tampons to chew on while we were gone. It turned out I had some in my suitcase from a trip a year ago and they decided it'd be fun to grab a couple! Turns out I forgot to close the bedroom door / closet . BIG MISTAKE. We find wrappers from the tampons and I knew that there had to be two lying in both Olivia or Bruno's stomachs. I felt so guilty thinking I had taken every measure for these little bandits to not eat whatever they see!! We rush to animal hospital not knowing or having much hope that it had been a short enough period of time for them to come up with the fun products. Bruno vomits one and Olivia not much. We go home with a plan thinking good god my babies could be in serious trouble and this could be thousands of dollars we'll have to find... We go home .. Bruno starts dry heaving on my bed.. so I put him down on the ground and out pops out tampon number two!! The vet and staff were there every step of the way and god am I so freaking happy we took them here because the medicine to make them vomit WORKED. Thank you so much VCA!!!!! If we hadn't been guided into taking them right away and taking those necessary steps, things could've been so so much worse. TDLR: Dr. Mandy Yu and her staff saved my dogs lives by taking necessary steps and letting us know all of our options each ways. Bruno is a naughty boy tampon hunter and VCA was his hero. read more

The office was great! Treated me and my dog with respect. They didn't try to sell me anything or push to have unnecessary treatment. I've called the office multiple times and they have been nothing but great. read more

Lost my precious baby at this VCA, heart broken beyond words. It's been over a year. I'm still hurting but feel the need to write here--- to be able to help other pet parents because we love our babies so much...Our family had such horrible experiences, three times with the VCA Animal Specialty Group ER VET - LAURA KOSMO Modesty aside, spent over a hundred thousand for my dog for over a year. She was all worth it. She was hospitalized 7 times. Aside from that she had to go for check-ups on a regular basis too. INTERNAL MED DEPT was good. DR. HUNG (& my baby's former IM vet DR. CAHN were both great. The IM NURSES & STAFF were amazing. Sadly, that ER vet was unprofessional, insensitive, inconsiderate, arrogant. Despite the fact, our baby is in the ER suffering, she seemed to enjoy talking down on us, humiliating us verbally & even in WRITING, several times on 3 separate incidents. YES, IN WRITING on the MEDICAL REPORTS --- ANYONE can read in the email and on print. Saddest part was that my baby passed away under her care. Our family had to take her to the ER that early 5AM. VERY UNFORTUNATE, she was the ER vet. Not that we expected them to make a miracle, prolong her life. But instead of my family spending our baby's final moments with her, it took almost 2 hours before we get to see her only for 8 minutes (& almost didn't see her alive to say goodbye. When they knew she was dying (like they said). Also, the hurtful comments about me on medical records she wrote down not pertaining to my dog's diagnosis & treatment but to the pet owner's character. It was NOT busy at the time. My baby was the ONLY critical patient as they claimed. But WHY they did not inform us right away. She let us in the ER room when my baby was almost out of breathe. They even said, they cannot take her from the table bec she can go anytime! The very same vet lied ---to the last minute my baby passed. It was on recording but she had the nerve to lie -- in writing! What pains us even more is the medical report she wrote down again that's unnecessary & full of lies. We have a video of my baby during her final moments, the doctor & ER staff were fully aware. Showed the hospital manager, the reports the vet made (even the video when my baby passed) they acknowledged the vet was unprofessional. They even said, the "humiliating personal comments" of the vet on the medical reports were unacceptable -- but they did NOT address it. DID THEY????? read more

When our regular vet ha exhausted the resources at her office, we took our cat here for an ultra sound. The news was bad and we decided to put him down, rather pursue chemo or other short term options. I was very impressed by the approach the vet who worked with us used. She gave us the unvarnished results and did NOT pressure us to go forward with expensive and invasive procedures. I believe she knew there was no "good" outcome available, only ones that would delay the inevitable. I think she was concerned for the animal's comfort and let us make the hard decision to end his life without guilt, They gave us an opportunity to say goodbye to our boy, in a private and comfortable setting. He was delivered to us wrapped in a blanket and purring. This is not the experience I've had at the VCA Emergency Hospital in Mission Valley, which is why I was reluctant to take our furbaby to any VCA facility, but this was our place we could get the ultrasound done same day. This VCA facility is only a few minutes farther away, and if something happens to our other pet on a weekend or after hours, this will be my first choice. read more

My Riley crossed the rainbow bridge on Sunday 2/1 from complications of coyote attac; the staff was very professional and they empathized respect & dignity read more

Fact: The DVM at VCA Kearny Mesa broke my dogs tibia when performing a TTA surgery. VCA charged me for this surgery. Fact: The surgeon minimized the damage for months until other DVM's recommended the hardware be removed as she wasn't healing due to the broken leg and hardware. Fact: The DVM who broke her tibia represented that he removed all the hardware (with exception of cage), and that large screw pressing on fracture was included in that removal. Fact: My dog suffered for the next years, my concerns were met with recommendations for increased rimadyl and physical therapy. Being advised by VCA and their surgeon that we had done all we could, I invested in 6 years of PT, Librella, Arthrimid, Rimadyl and blood tests all to support her stifle Fact: in Oct. 30, 2024, during an Arthrimid sedation, a radiograph showed that the large screw had NEVER been removed. The surgeon at the arthrimid facility stated that no amount of PT in the world could have relieved my dog with a loose screw pressing on her bone, and a failed TTA. Fact: I took my dog to an orthopedic surgeon who finally removed all hardware, cage, screw, etc. Another 7k. Fact: I sent a good faith request for costs as a result of the failed surgery, broken leg, fraudulent misrepresentation, and dramatic loss of quality of life for my dog, who has been able to run, go to dog beach, and essentially be a dog. . VCA's insurance company sent me a letter stating denial of responsibility. Do they take responsibility for their treatment? Do they demonstrate arrogance, hubris and denial of your dogs ongoing issues? Do they give lip service of being concerned for your dog while not attending to ongoing suffering? I would wish better for anyone. Choose wisely when you are selecting a clinic for your dogs treatment, please. read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - Thescrew and "ear" of the hardware which halted Bailee's rrecovery and was fraudulently represented as being removed by surgeon at VCA. - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California

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Spent 6.5 hours here on New Year's Day with my cat who wasn't eating and had a change in normal behavior. Was told blood test would take 30 min, waited 2.5 hrs to hear results from the doctor. There were not many people there and a couple parties who arrived after us were serviced before us and within a couple hours or less - we were the only ones there for nearly such an extended time. Would not come back - only did because they were the only place open. read more

We took our cat here in the evening and sadly had to have her euthanized. The vet and all staff were so kind and talked through our options very clearly and patiently. Their kindness really made a difference. read more

We are a regular customer at VCA and typically use the emergency department at VCA in mission valley when emergency services are warranted. however, on a most recent occasion, we had to bring Kolu, our little Japanese Chin to the ER as his back seemed to be bothering him. In this event, we called around to see how busy the ER department was, and as usual in mission valley, they were backed up so our vet suggested VCA Specialty and Emergency in Kearney Mesa. Much to our surprise, ther was no wait and Kolu was seen within 20-30 minutes. It was a welcome surprise to be seen so quickly, and upon evaluation, Dr Nichols helped rule out some of the more severe possibilities, and he explained his exam very thoroughly and the conclusions. Simply put, I would come here again over and above the larger Mission Valley facility given how quickly we were seen during this last visit. Thank you Dr Nichols and all of the staff that assisted during our visit! read more

Great staff - very professional and compassionate. The doctors are knowledgeable and personable and made us feel that our kitty was in good hands. read more

I have had dogs my whole life, and with that comes visits to the ER. This VCA location has by far superseded my expectations in many ways compared to any other specialty hospital that I have been to. I came in on Monday with my Frenchie who was having severe back issues. Although, i had been through this before, Dr. Geiger spent 45 minutes consulting with me on her options and detailed description of what each included. He helped me make an executive decision. She ended up needed surgery and I cant tell you how much better they made this experience for me. In a stressful situation, they have been in communication with every step of the way. I get two update calls/day, along with texts and pics of her. Not only did they overly communicate on what to expect, but the entire staff is very knowledgable and compassionate. I seriously can't thank the staff enough! read more

Very scary to have your pet get sick in the middle of the night on a weekend. But I'm so glad we decided to bring our dog to this location this past Saturday night/ Sunday morning at 1:30am. And, if put in a similar situation, I recommend taking your furry friend to this location. They got us in as quickly as possible and took the time to explain to us the best course of action during a stressful event. I do caution first time Pet ER visitors that it might take a while.... From my experience it was clear that the longevity of the visit was due to another animal that was in very dire health. Our family still felt well taken care and understood that they were juggling multiple emergencies and showed kindness to all the owners present. read more

Great care for my pet! I felt like communication was great, I appreciated the up front pricing.

Got me in right away when something was wrong with my dog's eye. They did all the tests, found a small corneal ulcer, and gave me meds to treat it. It healed up great! Best of all they were super kind to me and great with my reactive pup who is terrified of vets. read more

I called asking what the current wait time was for a dog with an eye injury. I really just needed someone to help flush his eye and see if there was any damage done. They told me it was going to take an hour so I brought my dog there immediately (15min drive). After sitting in the waiting room for 2 hours and watching other dogs that came after us getting taken care of, my dog was finally taken to the back. We waited with no updates for 2 more hours until it was past my dog's heart medication time. I asked for an update and told them about my dog's medication. They told me the doctor saw my dog but didn't have the time to come talk to us yet. So we waited another hour until we've had enough. We asked for an update and they said they don't know when it will be my dog's turn. We asked to get our dog back and asked what was done for him when the doctor saw him. Apparently the doctor didn't run any diagnostics on the dog when they "saw" him so my dog's been at this place for 5 hours without anyone helping him. I understand this is an emergency vet and there are more critical cases they may need to examine. But why lie about the wait time and leave my dog unnecessarily suffering? If they told me that it would take more than 5hrs for them to see my dog, I would have NEVER brought my dog there. At the 2hr mark, instead of taking my dog to the back and collecting the $500 deposit, if they said my dog won't be seen for another 3+ hrs, I would've taken him elsewhere. However, they lie about the wait time and don't provide you any real update so you are stuck there. I just brought my dog home and will be taking him to my primary vet when they open in the morning. I'm sure he'll actually get seen faster there than if I had been still waiting at this vet. I hope next time, they try to be less greedy and pass on patients that they don't have the capacity to handle. read more

My dog was first seen at the VCA ER a while back, and was diagnosed with lymphoma. We were set up with an oncologist and we go to this location sometimes for her appointments, and we are just as happy here as the Hotel Circle location. Dr Benz and the whole oncology team is fantastic. The vet techs remember her and she's always so happy to see everyone, even when the vet can be a scary place. They are thoughtful and thorough, and we're so happy for their support. Just like the ER, I will say it's a bit pricey, as it's "specialty" services, but it's so important that we get the best treatment for Deuce! read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California

Cody has been receiving the best care at VCA for the past 7 months for his asthma. My experience here so far has been very positive. Cody is so lucky to have such a compassionate team of professionals caring for him. Unlike other doctors, I've visited where I feel rushed and my questions don't feel like they're properly addressed, Dr. Cahn really takes the time to hear, address, and explain all of my concerns whether it's during clinic visits or phone call follow ups. Most importantly, since his asthma diagnosis and treatment recommended by Dr. Cahn, Cody's respiratory issues have been under control and he has not experienced another asthma attack. Scheduling visits has also been easy and prompt. Cody and I would like to thank Dr. Cahn and all the wonderful staff here for keeping him happy and healthy! read more

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Our cat, Chip, was referred to VCA for an MRI after exhibiting signs of an underlying neurological disorder. Dr. Biegen was his assigned neurologist, and she immediately had a game plan to get to the bottom of what the issue could be. Eventually, an MRI revealed the presence of a brain tumor. Dr. Biegen gave us all our options and the risks associated with each. She did not sugarcoat anything, which was scary, but we also appreciated the blunt honesty. Because we have insurance, we decided to go with surgery, which was high risk but also high reward. The week and a half leading up to surgery had to be the most stressful and anxiety-inducing that we've had in a very long time. We were terrified that we would lose him on the operating table. However, Dr. Biegen and the rest of the staff were prepared for every scenario. They seemed to have a plan A, B, and C in place. Not only did she block off the whole day for his surgery, but she had the other neurology doctor, Dr. Geiger, and a trauma doctor (name unknown) there to assist as well. The whole surgery team and staff were ready to provide our little kitty with world class care, and we knew he was in the best hands possible. The surgery lasted six and a half hours. When Dr. Biegen called, we could immediately hear the lightness in her voice and cried our eyes out. Our baby boy made it! Our Christmas wish was granted! Chip spent the next few days recovery at the facility. We visited every day and could see and feel how loving and caring the staff was. Chip had so many wonderful staff members attending to him, and he was never alone. Special shoutouts to Andrew and Jessica for loving and nursing our baby back to health. In fact, we want to give a big thank you to all the staff at VCA. We appreciate your professionalism, compassion, and kindness. You went above and beyond to make sure Chip received the best treatment possible, and we can't thank you enough for everything you did for him and for us. Sincerely, Tanisha & Latisha Denham read more

VCA Animal Specialty Group - Visiting Chip after surgery at VCA Animal Hospital - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - San Diego, California