I have been coming to this VCA Clinic for almost 10 years now. I have four pets that are patients here and I am always satisfied knowing that they are in great hands. I adopted my most recent pet kitten from Pennsylvania and it was a nightmare. He was so sick from the previous vet that he was on the verge of death. I immediately brought him to VCA University Clinic and he was seen by the veterinarians in no time. They were very kind, gentle, complimented my kitty, and helped save his life! They even made multiple follow up courtesy calls to ask how he was doing... Most other clinics don't do that. They are always willing to answer the many questions that you may have, are always very patient, and won't sugarcoat information like many other vet offices. I would totally recommend this clinic to anyone who is searching for a great vet clinic! I attached a photo of my now healthy and thriving kitty thanks to VCA. read more

VCA University Veterinary Clinic - Veterinarians Near Me - Fairfax, Virginia

Very disappointing experience. I brought my cat in because she has been losing weight, and instead of empathy or professionalism, I was met with a dismissive and condescending attitude from Dr. Elizabeth Sochurek. The appointment started late, communication was poor, and the handling of my cat during the exam unnecessarily stressed her out. What bothered me most was feeling talked down to when I tried to express concern about my cat's health. I left feeling uncomfortable and no longer confident in the clinic's care, and I cancelled both of my memberships afterward. I would not recommend this clinic to pet owners looking for compassionate and respectful veterinary care. read more

My dog has a history of seizures. The Vet prescribed phenobarbital and that helped greatly. He started having seizures again recently and I asked they refill his prescription but they said No. They said they hadn't seen him in over a year so their medical person refused. Since they declined to help him, he's had two more seizures. He's never had more than one every 4-6 months. This makes three in one day. They refused help and gave me the name of a mobile Vet who couldn't come out until tomorrow. If VCA had refilled Ray's prescription, even just 4-6 pills, he might not be suffering. He may have to be put down as each seizure does brain damage. I am livid with VCA at University Mall in Fairfax, VA. I want them to know I may have to have Ray put down and that he might not have suffered as much or had fewer seizures if they had just given him the medicine he needs. He just needed his pills. VCA University Mall cares more about liability than they do life. Their butts before your mutts. read more

Just wanted to update that the puppy, now a healthy one almost two year old, is thriving. I still get angry when I remember how that vet told me to return my puppy. I didn't include this in my initial review but after that horrible visit the vets office called me back and told me how they will give him one of his vaccination shots for free if I bring him in. I was really confused at why they were telling me about this free shot out of the blue so I kept asking questions. They basically were going to re-do one of the shots. ???? Very weird and sketchy... of course I didn't take him back and my original vet also had no clue why this place would offer and tell me to do this. From what I remember there were more than one vets at this location so maybe the other vets are great, but that one interaction with that horrible vet has really ruined this place for me. And I still get nightmares when I remember that vets face and the horrible words that came out of her mouth. read more

The prices are high relative to other Veterinary Clinics. However, Dr. Van Sickle is excellent.

What happened to this place? I used to be willing to go out of my way to go here. My last two visits have been horrible - not just for me, but for my cat. Terrible communication about life threatening diagnoses, having to track down doctors to get lab results, and generally terrible bedside man or have ensured that I've yanked my cat and we will never ever go back. read more

I used to LOVE this place, after 15+ years, but today, I called because my Mini Schnauzer came up limping, and not just a little bit. When I called to bring her in just to look real quick the answer was "We are booked with appointments and the doctor has surgeries all tomorrow, and not sure what you can do. Maybe call the other places and she if they can see her, or take her to an emergency clinic." 100% BS and time to look for another vet that cares. I am so speechless and pissed! Dr. Watson would have NEVER done this Sep 8-update. I added one more star to the review because after I wrote this, and not because I wrote this, I got a phone call that there was a canceled appointment and they were able to see my dog. While the Dr.was very thorough, I still cannot believe that I had to go through the rigmarole to get her to see a Vet. read more

I went to VCA University with my childhood dog years ago when he was near the end of his life and I was so overwhelmingly impressed by the care, compassion and quality of this vet. I came back with the dog I just adopted a month ago. VCA University has always operated with the highest quality staff, equipment and standards and seems to only have improved since I last went. Dr Watson is extremely kind, patient (I had a lot of questions) and knowledgeable. In terms of their equipment, I was especially impressed by the tool they use to look in dogs' ears/nose/eyes - it has a camera connected to a TV so we could see what the doctor sees! The space is open, clean and inviting. I love their informational materials and they have a convenient store space to purchase prescription brands. Their front desk staff is super helpful, available and friendly to both myself and my dog. They even took a picture of us and put it on their official Instagram page! Both my dog and I left completely satisfied and can't wait to go back! I'm also planning to sign up for their monthly Care Club plan. I highly recommend this vet!! read more

VCA University Veterinary Clinic - Veterinarians Near Me - Fairfax, Virginia

See all

Came with our new puppy because the rescue organization offered a free initial exam and we were wowed. Fantastic front desk. Welcoming and knowledgeable. Furnished us with puppy supplies to get us well started. Medical professionals exceptionally well-trained, on point and caring. We were in and out like clockwork with no sense of rush. We've been to other vets for decades, all good, but this clinic is organized with a dose of zen. We highly recommend. read more

I have had nothing but positive experiences with this vet clinic. The staff are friendly and compassionate. The waiting room is clean and comfortable. They are up front about all charges. The doctors provide excellent care. We have been using them for seven years, and I would recommend them to anyone. read more

We recently rescued a dog and used the included VCA voucher to get him checked out. He seemed to have "kennel cough" with a runny nose, coughing and sneezing. He had already gotten my other dog sick, so I pushed our appointment up sooner. Let me state this now... when I lived in California, I frequented the West LA VCA quite often. So I had a good idea how things go with them. I have also visited their Duke Street location here in Virginia. Having said that, this VCA location has a different business model apparently. From the moment we got there, they were trying to hard sell us everything. What a cute puppy... give us money. We have a monthly plan to give us money. We have a yearly plan... give us money. I got VERY tired of the repetitive sales pitches. I have never been asked to give money so many times by any business. For Kennel Cough, they wanted over $500 to take xrays of the dog. Huh? No. We felt like getting money from us was more important than the dog's well-being. Another thing that irritated us was when we were checking out, the vet tech (after unsuccessfully trying to get money from us) told us we had to leave because the dog was sick. That's odd, because when the potential to make money was there, there was no urgency to get the dog outside. Not sure if business is slow, but c'mon. Stop pushing. As far as the care we received from Dr. Watson, she was kind and personable. The vet tech (in my opinion) treated us like a used car salesperson might. Nice woman, but clearly had a financial agenda. UPDATE: To whomever commented on this review: I have had dogs for decades. That would infer that I have been to multiple vets over the years. I know there are options... but we never asked. Yes, we received a voucher - which is the reason we came to VCA. We simply wanted our recent rescue looked at and medicated. The heavy sales pitch was NOT my "impression" - it was blatant and ridiculous. Both my girlfriend and I feel this way. So please don't post these sugar-coated responses on said review. It might work with a pet parent who is new to pets. I understand that you're trying to mitigate the efficacy of my review, but HARD SELLING us backfired on you. Perhaps you need to examine your business tactics. read more

If you care at all about your pet, don't bring them here. Most people's dream job is a veterinarian. ...so how is it possible for a clinic to hire one that does not know basic breed questions. I felt like I was taking to the relative that had "a" dog 20 years ago and tried to give advice as an "expert". There are enough good vets around...just find another place....your pet will thank you. read more

We were recommended to Dr. Watson and so thrilled to find out his practice is following COVID precautions and yet very welcoming and kind. Dr. Watson came out to meet us with masks and social distancing and gave us an update on our new puppy. My father is a retired Veterinarian and I was looking for a Vet like him who would always see our puppy with every visit. Thank you fir being that kind of Vet Clinic! read more

AVOID THIS VET!! NEVER EVER allow your vets office to clip your pets nails unless it's in your presence. We took our 3 babies in today for their vaccinations and got their nails trimmed while we were there. It was our first time to a new vet in Virginia and after the vet did their checkups, a technician took them to the back for meds and trims. I just now noticed Vinny's nails. Five of them were cut so short they are BLOODY! I know he had to have cried out for each of these painful trims. I am f****** livid right now. I don't even care that I paid $25 each for this so called service. I care that they have some careless, incompetent moron hurting people's loved ones and then acted like all was normal when they brought me the kitties. I will never again let someone give them shots or trim their nails without me in the room!! If you find yourself in Fairfax Virginia DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, take your fur babies to VCA University Veterinary Clinic!! read more

Terrible experience, will never go back. I have never written a review but in this case feel like it is necessary. I brought my dog in for a hematoma, the vet said to monitor it and if it got worse to bring her back. The next day it was 10 times worse. I brought her in for a procedure. I had two follow up visits scheduled at this point. I got a call the day of her 1st follow up appointment saying the doctor rearranged her schedule and I needed to reschedule my appointment for the following week, I agreed to do so and said I was on my way for her current appointment that was schedule for that day, they said they did not have her down for an appointment (I have the confirmation email) after I left work in DC at 12 to take her they told me I couldn't be seen until 6pm and the doctor who treated her had again rearranged her schedule and wasn't in. Then when I arrived to the vet at 6 (after I had to carry my 65lb dog to the car due to thunderstorms to even get her there) they tried to take her back without me in the room (she has major anxiety) when I was told I would actually see a doctor and have an exam room. THEN they tried to charge me a $50 exam fee for requesting to see a doctor when I was SUPPOSED to see the doctor who originally did her procedure at 2pm!!! Then in so many words told me I was lying and made me SHOW THEM THE EMAIL CONFIRMATION for her appointment that THEY canceled. after spending 1000$ at this vet, leaving work/taking time off to bring her back to have the appointments canceled and changed, TO NOT see the SAME doctor on dates I was told I would, I would expect better. I work in the medical field and this is NOT acceptable. I will not be bringing her back for her follow up, I would rather pay another 1000$ to someone else then to ever step foot in that office again. The worst customer service I have ever experienced. It is clear they only care about money. 50$ is all it took for them to lose a client for a scheduling mistake on their *** That I allude to? It is mind blowing to me that this office has repeatedly told me I am lying because of a scheduling error on YOUR part. After thoroughly checking my email I found TWO appointments your office scheduled for the day "I didn't have an appointment". I posted them, I guess email confirmations lie? It's very sad and it truly shows you do not value your clients or their animals. read more

I've been coming to this clinic for three years and have nothing but good things to say. From the friendly front of house staff to the knowledgeable techs and doctors. They always know my dogs name as soon come in, and a special shout out to Brooke who does a great job everytime I come. They are very helpful and can answer the a full range of questions. 5/5 would recommend to friends and family read more

I don't think I've ever loved a vet clinic more than this one. Both Dr. Coleman and Dr. Watson are amazing and so caring. They treated my little Tiny Bubbles so well when it was her time to go. We used their recommended pet cremation services as well and got a beautiful little memorial urn and little clay paw print. I would like them to handle my own cremation when I die. The entire staff, even the front desk, are so professional and friendly and everyone always remembers me and the names of my pets. Even their vet clinics are so knowledgeable and always give me great advice and answer all my questions. I'm never going to another vet as long as I'm here. read more

We have been customers for over 13 years for our dogs and I would like commend and thank the wonderful staff that is so supportive, both for our pets and to us owners. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! read more

Don't believe the hype from others that this hospital overcharges and misdiagnoses. Dr Jackson - God rest his sole - was a fantastic veterinarian and a good friend. VCA has been treating our cat Tigger, since we adopted him back in 2006. We discovered VCA's amazing services "by chance" one day when we noticed a Laser De-clawing banner outside of their office one evening, which we thought was a good idea to have done for Tigger before bringing him into our home with our other de-clawed cats. At the first visit, we were impressed with the excellent services we received. Even though Dr. Jackson is no longer with us, the director of Clinic that replaced him is so good that she knew what is going on with our other cat, based on the symptoms we described to her when we last visited - very impressive. Yes. VCA is not cheap, but most veterinary services are not. Just face it, you get what you pay for and we don't mind paying for top quality services. BTW - This is the only vet hospital we will take our pets to and we travel to this hospital all the way from Woodbridge. read more

I was so worried and nervous when my dachshund, Herbert was diagnosed with diabetes, but with Dr. Van Sickle's guidance AND Jessica's VERY, VERY helpful demonstration on how to give insulin...I am now so confident on giving him the injection that his quality of life is better. What more could you ask for?! We feel the love there at each visit. Thank you. Thank you. Sincerely, Herbert's Family read more

I recently adopted a dog that was heartworm positive. We have had nothing but exceptional care from VCA University Hospital. Drs. Van Sickle and Watson have been wonderful with my dog and incredibly informative and kind to me. I was very concerned and worried about my pet but Dr. Van Sickle took the time to send me detailed information and estimates for her care. My dog is blossoming and improving every day. I feel really lucky to be working with this practice. The receptionists, techs, and vets, have been caring, compassionate and professional. I couldn't recommend them enough! read more

We relocated to Fairfax from California six years ago with our two felines in tow ~ Snowflake (white long-hair) and Cassidy (orange tabby). Of course we wouldn't have dreamt of leaving them behind! We took the cats for check-ups and boarding (when needed) to a VCA clinic on the Camino Real (Santa Clara) and were always satisfied. So when we made the move we wanted to go with a VCA here in Fairfax too. We haven't been disappointed! The service has always been wonderful; without a doubt we know that those who work here really love dogs and cats! When we started going back in '09, Dr. Jackson ran the clinic. Sadly, he passed away suddenly in April '12. In spite of that things continued to run smoothly in a seamless transition. We miss Dr. Jackson but Dr. Swieter (one of several new vets) is quite nice and genuinely helpful; when our poor Cassidy was suffering through his last year at home and having periodic convulsions, Dr. Swieter patiently talked me through on the phone and I was able to halt the attack. The staff is always helpful and friendly; my favorite person is warm-hearted Elizabeth, an all-around office pro! Alas ~ Snowy and Cass have since gone on to Cat Heaven but we adopted Calla (white Persian) two years ago. She recently boarded there for 1-1/2 weeks and, like the anxious "Cat Mama" I am, I called the clinic every other day to make sure she was ok. The staff was so supportive and friendly ~ with their busy office they found time to cuddle and play with her and give her that extra bit of attention! Calla's in good hands and (hopefully soon) when we adopt Feline #2, VCA will have the 'honor' of being "Cat Doc" for him/her too! Thank You, VCA Veterinary! read more

I recently brought my dog back with me from Mexico. We had visited a local veterinarian while abroad, but once back in the States, needed to get him set up and revaccinated. I called the VCA University Vet Clinic and immediately was able to get an appointment for the next day. The service and all of the facilities were excellent, and the staff was absolutely wonderful in helping to manage all of the puppy excitement from my newbie. I've received both follow-up emails and calls and plan to return in the coming weeks for boosters! Highly recommend! read more

We have been going to VCA University Veterinary Clinic for 10 years, ever since we brought our first puppy home. We now have 5 pets, 2 dogs and 3 cats, and we are thrilled with the friendly, and professional service we receive from VCA. The front office staff is courteous and friendly. Everyone knows us and knows our pets. The Vets are knowledgeable, friendly, and will spend as much time as necessary to answer our questions. It's very obvious that they care about their patients. Dr. Gardner and Dr. Sweiter are amazing. They really know what they are doing and how to treat our pets. The Vet Techs and Assistants are also very professional, knowledgeable, and they are also sweet! What more could we ask for? To be honest, I would never consider going anywhere else but VCA! read more

Absolutely wonderful! I started bringing my cat here when I first got her. They were so sweet and still are that it's totally worth the monthly payment - which in itself is a pretty good deal. They follow up and check in everyone once in a while to see how she's doing and the people there get so excited to see Amara. They are always there for tips/advice and what not especially since this is my first pet. I wish my doctors treated me as well as VCA U treats Amara. read more

Just an update to my 2015 review. This place has only gotten better! They have been there NOT just for my pets, but as somewhat of a support system for me as I have battled some life events. They treat me like more than just a customer and care about not just my pets but me, and most importantly my baby girl whom they adore. But of course, since it is a vet office, what they do with my pets is what really matters. Dr. Watson is top notch, excellent bedside manner and he makes sure that I understand the necessary treatments for the conditions my cat has. And I cannot spit out enough amazing words to describe the front office staff, especially Elizabeth, Virginia and Denise. They are nothing short of angels and I actually look forward to my visits just so I can see them. Love this place, you owe it to your furry critters to go! read more

University Vet Clinic was recommended to me by another veterinarian when I had moved to the DC area and my dog required complex surgery. That was almost three full decades ago. When your dogs live several years beyond their breed life expectancy, enjoying physical comfort and persistent vitality, especially through chronic medical conditions, it says a lot. My dog(s) are family, and Dave Jackson has been like my pediatrician, providing support throiugh multiple crises. I miss him a lot. Back to VCA University with my newest dog, I appreciate how reassured I am at the depth and quality of the staff Dave left following behind.him. read more

I've been taking my dog to Dr. Jackson for years - with no complaints. Simply stated, I think I just didn't know what else was out there. After a little research and some calls to other local vets, I found out that he's price-gouging me After spending thousands of dollars on care for her, based on recommendations from Dr. Jackson, I only just found out that he never reviewed her file and completely missed her disease! I typically wouldn't leave such a horrible review on yelp, but I wanted to warn others to take their pets to another vet. read more

When we took our pets to Dr. Jackson, we loved him and the place. The people are friendly and Dr. Jackson is a complete character. At the time, we thought they were expensive but didn't really know the difference, and it seemed like our pets were getting quality care. But then we moved and found out that Dr. Jackson had WAY over-prescribed both of our pets and his prices were outrageous. Our indoor-only cat was on medications she didn't need. She had a bladder infection that we kept buying medication to treat, spending a total of $1300 on check-ups and medications. It turns out that she didn't have an infection at all, but that Dr. Jackson had never done a bacterial culture to find out -- he just kept prescribing her pills. All she needed was a change of diet. We only found this out after we had a new vet in a new location and that vet looked over the past records for both of our pets. Dr. Jackson is very nice, but his garrulous personality hides the fact that he overcharges and over-prescribes to make more money. We realized long after we had moved that he took advantage of how much we loved our pets by getting us to agree to all these tests and procedures our pets never needed. Go somewhere else! read more

I have to agree with other reviews here on over pricing. I was looking at upwards of a grand just for diagnostics when he couldn't even give me an educated guess on exam. With all of his years experience, I would think he would have at least an educated guess to know what diagnostics to order. I just left with that feeling of, I don't know, I just didn't have full trust. A sixth sense maybe, but not to go back. And while they were showing me the estimate, I mentioned how I'm in a bad financial position right now, and he says, "We all are." I'm thinking, some of us are doing better than others since vets make 6 figures a year and you're signing everything with a fraking Mont Blanc pen. So, bite me. read more

I never feel the need to review things, but VCA is so amazing that I want others to know. My cat Jenny got out of the house and when she came back, she had a deep abscess that opened up the following night. I rushed her to an 24/7 Animal Hospital and when they returned a $1500 price, I cried on my way home, only being able to afford meds for pain. The next day I received a call from VCA. The animal hospital had faxed the paperwork to them and VCA wanted to know my course of action. I was amazed that they took the initiative to call me to begin with, then when I explained my cost limitations, they told me to bring her in anyways. Face to face, Dr. Jackson let me know that he would never let her die and that he wouldn't make me pay over $450 no matter if they went in and found more problems. That we would figure out a payment plan if need be. He did exactly that. I set up for 4 payments and when they brought her out and the cost would have been 400 more, he reinforced his promise that he said I would pay the quote and nothing more. Jenny is back to herself (hair still growing back though, got a little baboon baby for a little longer) and she is absolutely healthy. Loving her as much as I do, I am SO grateful that they called and quoted me something that they understood would be more manageable. Other than that, the staff is personable and have a true love for pets. The atmosphere is relaxed and they have the greatest coffee machine! read more

Inefficient, expensive and disorganized/rude workers! If you have money to burn and don't mind an attitude from staff, go for it. Our initial appointment was really good but then it went bad. We brought in our records from the shelter and they kept the originals instead of making a copy and giving them back to us. Then they sent us a post card telling us she was due for her 6 month Bordetella shot...when I called the woman who picked up was very short and rude (Jinny), she said I needed all of these other shots (with a sneer of contempt, as if I was a negligent owner). Lily had already gotten these at the shelter. I told her this and she abruptly told me that "That was the problem, you need to bring those records in" with a snort of derision and I calmly informed her that I had and they had them in the records. She blamed it on the computer and got my record. The price she quoted me for what Lily needed was almost 1,000 ... she's a healthy dog. I'm getting it for 1/2 the amount at PetSmart with less attitude and more organization and efficiency. p.s. I think they are all trained to say how much they love your dog...because everyone says that and one woman said that to me but it was about a different dog with the same name. read more

Not a very good experience with this vet. He is very expensive. A simple teeth cleaning (during the cheap month) turned into $700 at a blink of an eye. That was about $500 more than I anticipated. The workers are so slow, checking in and out takes forever. The vet refused to give me a heart worm prescription so I could get the meds at a cheaper place. I always felt like I was paying for all of these tests that were unnecessary. read more

The doctor called to remind me Lucy need to go in for another check up and shots. My how the time does fly!

This is absolutely the best veterinary facility in the United States. The front desk staff treat you like family and truly care about you and your pet. When you walk in you are always greeted with a smile and a friendly welcome. Dr. Watson is an extremely talented Doctor. He not only is an exceptional medical doctor but his "bed side" (or should I say "table side!") manner is outstanding. He treats me like I have been his friend for years and is always so sweet and kind to my dog, who is my family. I can not say enough great things about this clinic, the Doctors, the back office staff and the front office staff. Love them all. read more

Exceptional veterinary care and exceptional support staff. Professional and thoughtful care of my dog over the past year, as well as thorough and respectful communication with me about every aspect of care and treatment. read more

I am so grateful to have found Dr. Gardner and University Vet Clinic. Being new to the area, I searched Yelp for good reviews for a great cat doctor but no one really stood out. Lots of good doggie docs, nothing stellar for kitties. I put the word out for recommendations via a neighborhood email group and Dr. Gardner's name came up several times with glowing reviews, both for her knowledge and professionalism as well as her kindness and courtesy. I couldn't agree more! She and every single staff member are pleasant, capable, caring, kind, and trustworthy. From my first phone call on I never felt rushed or made to feel a bother, even though I had several ridiculous questions. At my first visit there with two cats, my 20 pounder was so nervous during the car ride to the clinic that he made a mess all over himself and his carrier. Embarrassed by the smell and the mess, I was apologetic as I could be for Louie, and everyone was kind and understanding and simply said, "Don't worry, we'll get him cleaned up for you," and Louie and his carrier came out clean and smelling like a daisy. No, UVC probably isn't the cheapest veterinary office in town, but my pets are family and deserve to be treated warmly and with love and dignity. I have absolute confidence in Dr. Gardner and everyone working there and that kind of peace of mind is worth every penny. read more

Their entire staff is amazing, I was a little worried because I hadn't taken my cat to the vet since I got her, she is six months old but they made sure to take great care of her and explain every detail thoroughly, my kitty did great. If you are not sure where to take your pet or had a bad experience somewhere else be sure to bring them here, they will take good care of all your needs! read more

These people are the best. From each veterinarian to all staff, they are like family but with professional knowledge and procedure on their side. Been going here over 30 years, and they truly care more than any veterinary I have ever known. They know what to do from the little to the big problems. I'd NEVER go anywhere else unless I had to by location. read more

I cannot recommend Dr Watson and the staff here highly enough. They were kind but very honest and straightforward about our poor cat's situation. They were very clear and upfront about pricing and gave us time to make decisions. They did not pressure us to spend more than we would. They were incredibly thoughtful and understanding. It was also so clear that they truly cared about our kitty and genuinely wanted to help her and us. We will continue to visit them for check ups and illnesses. They were genuinely genuinely kind. read more