Quite simply the best veterinary clinic EVER!!! Here's why. Around 2:30 AM, I found a tick on my dog's neck and I was too afraid to remove it myself, so I decided to put Leo - my dog, in his cage for peace of mind. Unfortunately, Burnham Park Animal Hospital and South Loop Animal Hospital do not accept walk-ins, but the receptionist recommended and provided the contact information for VEG - Veterinary Emergency Group. VEG is located in the South Loop on Clinton St. next to the Chipotle and their exterior street signage was easily visible making it simple to locate. Parking was just as easy parking in their lot. Walking into the clinic, you'll notice that it's very clean and welcoming - looks newly built. The clinic layout seems very well-planned keeping the patient top of mind. The waiting room was large with floor-to-ceiling storefront windows allowing a lot of natural sunlight. They also have a TV, coffee, and other condiments while you're waiting. Mandy, the receptionist greeted me upon entering with her bubbly personality and made me feel welcome by quickly building rapport and empathy towards my situation during the check-in process. The entire staff was friendly and awesome! It seems like they have a very fun and friendly work environment. When I walked to the back with my dogs, we were introduced to other members of the team - Dr. Roundy, Dr. Cohen, and Lexi - the Veterinary Nurse. Lexi took my dog - Leo, and used a special tool called a "tick-nado" (not sure if she coined that term herself), or "Tick Tornado" but it came right out! Luckily, the tick didn't burrow into Leo's neck, but they put the tick in a test tube filled with IPA to show me. After extracting the tick, Lexi was kind enough to check the rest of Leo's body for more ticks knowing how afraid I was of ticks. I know ticks aren't a big deal, but seeing how much love Leo and I received from the Veterinary Emergency Group - South Loop shows me the type of care they'd provide during a more life-threatening situation. I can't thank them enough for being so kind, compassionate, and empathetic towards Leo and me. I highly recommend them for any type of urgent veterinary care. read more

VEG ER for Pets - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Friend brought in her cat that was sick. And instead of going over all their options and possibilities of recovery they gladly took their money and her cat ended up passing away. read more

I cannot begin to tell you how thankful we are for the care our dog recently received at this location. The doctor and the staff there were really all first rate and provided good care and compassion. I cannot recommend them enough. read more

I highly recommend this veterinary emergency clinic. Everyone at the clinic was so kind and provided excellent customer service. I brought my poor sickly puggy in and he was treated right away. Dr. Wharrey explained the procedure that my dog needed thoroughly and made me feel at ease. The clinic had ample parking; had nice facilities; and offered a seating area for the parents that had snacks, drinks and cute videos of animals on the TV. Very happy with my experience! Thank you VEG! read more

Dr. Cassandra Hall and the whole staff were amazing! Dr. Hall used every resource to get to the bottom of my pups issue. I walked in worried and scared and i walked out with a really good recovery plan. read more

Amazing! Excellent speed, great care, and very price transparent. Plus prices were incredibly reasonable compared to other experiences. 10/10 would recommend! read more

Called this place which is a 24 pet care place they were very helpful in telling us what to do about our dog who was sick.

Awesome place!!! Thank you for caring for my fur baby. She had a tick and I was frantic. Something so simple yet was a huge deal to me. Thanks again read more

I did not know what to expect, when I brought in my cat Spunky on 8/23/24. The office was clean and staff at the desk was very kind. My cat was having problems with breathing. They allowed me and my son sit by him while they provided oxygen. I found out that my cat had a lot of fluid around his lungs and congestive heart problems. The hospital remove the fluid, which was a lot and treated him with such care. It's a week later 8/30/24, I am sad to say Spunky passed away this morning. In human age he would be around 80 years of age. I am so grateful to Dr. O'Neil and the entire staff at VEG. Please continue to do the great and marvelous work that you do for our pets which is family and pet owner. I would give more stars if I could because you gave us a an answer to what was wrong and a little more time with Spunky. The cost was high with no insurance, but to me it was worthy the cost. Please pet owners get some pet insurance! Take care and blessings, Ms. Tracey Scott - Forever Grateful read more

We have unfortunately had to visit this clinic 3 times. ALL 3 times they have really shown so much care and compassion. The staff are amazing and we are so thankful for them. Our most recent visit we had to put our precious Buddy to sleep and they showed so much compassion. Thank you for what you do and the care you provide. We are forever thankful. read more

VEG ER for Pets - Our precious baby Buddy - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Very efficient and professional. I took my fur baby and they spoke to him with such love for him. read more

We have unfortunately had to visit VEG 4 times and this last time was even harder than the rest since our 4 year old german shepherd passed away unexpectedly. We cannot describe how helpful, supportive and kind everyone here is. we were so distraught they helped us throughout the whole process and gave us all the time we needed to say goodbye to our best friend. Thank you for what you guys do. You guys are amazing but I really hope to not see yall any time soon read more

So disappointed in the service--or lack thereof. Our puppy was sick. Afraid that she had an obstruction, I was convinced that waiting even a little bit wasn't a good idea, so we raced to the emergency room. When we arrived, we were immediately taking back to triage. The triage nurse was so sweet and kind (totally 5 stars). But then we waited and waited and waited. Two hours later we were no closer to seeing a doc even after our pup got sick on their floor. Meanwhile, there were staff seemingly standing around and several seemed to be watching a training video while we waited. Now, I get it. If they didn't deem our puppy's issue an emergency, it would have been nice to be told instead of left wondering and waiting with no information. Ultimately, we walked out and went straight to our primary vet who immediately jumped into action upon our arrival. Also, no one seemed concerned that we left without seeing a vet... Well, lesson learned. I would not recommend. read more

One of the best experiences at an emergency vet I have ever had! When our teacup Yorkie snuck half a grape, we all freaked out! But the ladies who answered the phone (we had to call twice because our cellphone kept dropping the call!) were calm and reassuring. When we arrived, they got us in immediately and took care of our puppy just as fast. They were amazing, and we're so glad we found them! read more

VEG ER for Pets - Blu the teacup yorkie resting after treatment as we sit in the lobby while he rests. - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I brought my 6 month old puppy in after a concerning vomiting incident at daycare. The staff were so kind and caring, and the vet talked through everything with me, including cost, before we started. Staff kept coming by to love on my puppy and tell her how perfect she was and i could tell it made her much more comfortable. They also gave me a phone charger to borrow when my battery got low and had coffee and snacks available. Really friendly and caring place for people in a scary situation. Of course, emergency medicine is always expensive, but i didn't feel like they tried to upsell me or do anything that wasn't necessary. Would absolutely bring my pup back here! read more

Went to the Emergency room at 1:30am because my 8weeks old puppy was suddenly sick. Had barely any money, planning on making a credit card to pay for her medical assistance. Dr. Grossman was amazing to me and my pup, very empathic and walked us through every possible solution that best fit my family. Went home with zero cost because he was so kind and discharged us freely! They care about your animals more than the payment for sure! 100/10 and such welcoming staff! read more

ABSOLUTELY the best staff and nurses that could be there! I went in Thursday morning 4am June 1 after having a horrible night experience with the Lincoln park location and were able to get things done for my dog. Honestly very honest and straightforward with how it works to wait and all but begin with my dog procedure quick! I appreciate it all and that staff was like home! Very friendly and hardworking as a team! Bless you all! read more

VEG ER for Pets - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I couldn't have asked for a better place to bring a sick animal. I was immediately greeted at the door and Cashel,my 11 year old Border Collie, and I were brought to the triage area where the complaint was recorded while his vital signs were checked. We were escorted to the WR (spotless) and I was offered coffee. After a very short wait,Dr. Waldron examined Cashel,spoke to me about her plan of care and got that in motion. He was medicated ,meds given and a pat on the head and we were in our way. His anti nausea med kicked in on the way home as he came in the house and drank and took and kept down the prescribed meds. He hadn't eaten in 2 days. I'm sorry that I've forgotten the names of the techs that helped Cashel but they treated him like he was their own dog. If you're ever in a panic about your animal,this ER certainly will help you read more

We came across this clinic on Yelp when our Golden Retriever needed treatment after eating plastic. I had no expectations going into it and wound up absolutely blown away by the efficiency, quality of staff, customer service, and medical treatment at this location. Our Golden required two visits within a 12 hour period and- although we were there early in the morning and late in the evening- every member of the staff was upbeat and all seemed genuinely excited to help our girl feel better. Not to mention, we were seen quickly each time despite having a number of clients on site. While we waited for X-ray results, I got the chance to observe the staff interact with one another when not necessarily client facing. It became clear that the exceptional level of care that both animals and owners receive here is genuine, not at all performative, and due to a wonderfully cultivated work culture within this clinic. Multiple staff members, even those not directly involved in our case, made a point to stop to cuddle our dog and check in on us and educate us to make decisions on the best route of care while graciously acknowledging budgetary concerns. They let us peek in through a window as our very anxious girl got X-rays done on her stomach and she seemed as content as possible in the arms of the techs holding her still. Though sick, my dog (who normally gets full body anxiety shakes when entering a vet or groomer environment) loved her visits and seemed to think she was a celebrity at Disney World. Additionally, the clinic provides quality coffee, snacks, and water on hand for owners in the waiting room, and they are efficiently tech-forward at checkout. They also had an emergency case arrive onsite with a distraught owner and were mindful to close the waiting room door to shield us from the trauma and provide privacy to the patient and owner. Since our visits, I've followed up to ask questions and even the doctor on the phone was so kind, charismatic, and helpful in answering all my questions. This is the highest bar of veterinary care. Ive never experienced anything like VEG in my 30 years as a pet owner. I'm in absolute awe of this location and feel beyond fortunate to have them so close to our home! Thank you!! read more

VEG ER for Pets - A highly satisfied customer! - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Not cheap but certainly less than some emergency clinics. More importantly, they are kind, competent and very responsive.

we were in Oct 1 when we realized our cat was getting worse and it wasnt simply an upset stomach and she was bleeding and agitated. She was deemed stable when we came in and we waited for a slowdown (so many injured and ill dogs came in) and then when she was seen we were very relieved that it was not tumors but something more manageable and less life threatening. She is 100% better and very grateful for this service. read more

Took my dog here today to get check. She had something caught in her throat. I believe she cleared it but I just wanted her to be checked to ensure she is okay. Checked in at 5:33. Assistants and front desk employees were. I asked about the wait. The girls said there was one person ahead of me. 2 veterinarian were in call. A shift change should be happening at 7. There are at least 12-15 techs and assistant back here and all I see is 1 vet logging on a computer the entire 1.50 I have been waiting. They then said that the one doctor was done for the day and the night doctor was coming in. The 3 doctor was in training. IF I COULD RATE THIS CLINIC LOWER I WOULD. They get you by checking you and keeping you for hours. This is the worse hospital ever. A total of 20 worker with a 1.30 minute wait. read more

Positives - Nice waiting area Negatives - lack of service with so many people in uniforms 1st time I had a visit there was one pet in front of me and it took 4 hours and there were 2 doctors available. Along with a gang of staff. 2nd time unfortunately, there was a 7 hour wait and I was told to come in around 6-7am. I called in advanced to confirm the wait time again and the new lady on the phone couldn't give me any new details on wait time. As soon as I walk in and she does a temp check and weigh my pet she hits me with the "current doctor isn't seeing anymore patients and you'll hopefully be seen in 3 hours when the new doctor comes!" She could have said that over the phone. Mind you, these visits were about 30 days a part from each other for the exact same issue and I can't get to my vets normal "doctor" until next week. VEG refused to prescribe the same meds for the same issue. I would have paid the cost of the ER fee just to avoid sitting here in this cold building all morning and night. VEG sucks and in the future I'll have to drive to burbs or anywhere else. It seemed positive to have a 24 hour vet hospital in the Southloop but they're very unorganized and inconsiderate of time. For the prices I shouldn't have to sit here all day. It's giving free healthcare vibes. Like, it's a difference between Roseland Hospital and UChicago Hospital. VEG Looks pretty like UChicago but you'll wait and receive minimum services like Roseland. read more

My pet was cared for sincerely and our concerns were respected. Thanks to the entire staff for aiding us with our Bearded Dragon.

They are wonderful in every way. I brought my semi feral cat in who has FIV and had URI. All the staff are compassionate to the max and they explain everything to you. I couldnt recommend them more to care for your urgent pet needs. read more

Took my cat here for a not super urgent thing. Just couldn't secure an appointment very soon at the local vet and thought it was better to get it taken care of sooner rather than later. They were very friendly when you walk in the door, a nurse person did a simple temperature check and logged why we came. And then the wait began... I have never been to an emergency vet before, so maybe this is a usual thing. But NO ONE TOLD us when they sat us down in the waiting room it was gonna be a 3-4 HOUR wait with NO ETA. I'm 4 and half month pregnant and I would of been nice to let me know it was gonna be that long, because if I knew, I would of left immediately. After an hour of waiting (while we were waiting, all the personnel's were literally chatting, playing on their phone/computer), I had no idea what's going on, so I went to ask one of the people. I asked her if we could just go home and come back, because 4 hours is a VERY long time. She said we have to start in line all over again, and when I asked for an estimated time, she said there isn't any with the most ANNOYING attitude. As if my time isn't worth anything. We ended up leaving because there's no way I can sit there for 3-4 hours, maybe if it was a life and death situation, but it would be nice to LET ME KNOW what I'm walking into, because not everyone going to be expecting a 3-4 Hour wait. read more

Yesterday I visited the VEG regarding my dog issues with digestive tract. Was seen by Dr. Karen Pinochi.This place is just for generating revenue without solving the issue. Dr. Karen will not listen when I explain that my dog might have bacteria infection need antibiotics. She insisted on lots of blood work that was not necessary because they came back normal. Refused to prescribe antibiotics however wanted the x-ray to be done for what to get more money Paid &915,00 without solving the infection, had to take my dog today at regular vet which prescribed antibiotics. Never recommend this place is just for prescribing unnecessary test to charge you. Very frustrated paying such large amount of money and my dog was not treated for the issue that was brought. Dr. Karen is travel doctor that has no experience and can't even find her on google search . What fraud place , I live down the street will avoid this place in any cost . Plus they don't offer stool test because they don't want to solve the problem just to ordering tons blood test which are costly to make revenue. Spend 3 hours there for nothing. Sadly for animal hospital to be rip off , pet parents are going through so much stress to heal the pet not to spend money without solving the problems. Never recommend this place, save your money and stress take your pet to another hospital. read more

I loved this place. I took my 3M old cat here because she hadn't eaten for 3 days. The staff was amazing. It was late at night when I had taken her. For it being that late the staff was very nice and kind. They took really good care of my baby. They explained to use why was wrong. They lowered the price- for the visit. read more

VEG ER for Pets - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This place deserves all the stars!! I came in on a Saturday afternoon because my cat had a bleeding paw. Jorey, the front desk receptionist, was so sweet and helpful to myself and everyone else that came in. There were a few pets that came in needing immediate assistance and it was incredible to see all the staff come together to help these poor puppies. Dr. Monroe and Nurses Colleen and Jace took care of my cat Molly. Molly was VERY feisty, scratched the sweet doctor and was not an easy pet to work with but they made me feel so comfortable during our visit. It's an emergency department, so expect to wait a bit. They're all working hard to care for everyone's furry friends. It's so nice to know I have a place so close to home that I can run to if my cat is in a medical emergency. read more

VEG ER for Pets - The bravest nurses, Jace and Colleen. So thankful for them!! - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We had to take our dog to the emergency hospital because she swallowed a squeaker toy. I am so grateful that we ended up at the veterinary emergency group in the South Loop. The staff was excellent. They were waiting for us when we arrived and had everything set up. The veterinarians and the tech support exceeded any expectations I would've ever had. My dog received excellent care and is doing well thanks to them. Dr. Prestia, Stephanie, and the rest of the staff thank you for saving my dogs life! read more

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So far I haven't had to physically bring my kitten here. HOWEVER, I've called a few times with concerns for my baby. (Eating something they weren't suppose to, contact with wildlife, etc.) They're always so kind and sweet. The receptionist always either talks to the doctor and reports back OR puts the doctor on the phone. Based on this fact alone, I know that if my cat was ever in trouble they'd be there to help. If you think your animal may be experiencing an emergency and want to know what you can do about it call/bring your pet to them. They will help you. Note: As someone who works in human emergency medicine. Wait times vary based on condition. I imagine if you go there will be long periods of waiting. Based on my interactions these people care and will help you. Patience and communication are important. read more

Friday night/Saturday morning in the middle of the night I noticed my guinea pig was off and acted immediately. Finding an exotic pet hospital at 11pm on Friday night felt impossible. After being passed along, I was recommended to call VEG. Once I got on the phone I spoke to a vet who was thorough and willing to see my little punkin. Upon my arrival staff were so kind and sensitive to everyone. Guinea pigs are sensitive little creatures, and treating them is always a gamble. Doctors stabilized her and sent me home with a care plan and advised me to follow up with an exotic vet in the morning. We did do that and got a clearer diagnosis and a medication plan. Without VEG, Punkin would have likely worsened and not pulled through if I made her wait until 9am to see the exotic vet. It was so clearly a stressful night with many cats and dogs around in various crisiss. I appreciate them taking the gamble with me and my little lady. The video of her is from today (following Monday) with her energy back. This morning the vet cleared her out of the woods! Punkin is spunkin again read more

Excellent place for emergency pet care - I would highly recommend! Went with my cat and was seen right away. The vet techs were very kind and helpful and the vet took his time to explain everything. My cat was very comfortable throughout. They even went above and beyond by giving me extra prescription food to last until my order came in several days after being seen. read more

Dr. Brett Grossman and tech Caroline were amazing. I had to say goodbye to my best friend of 14 years last night. He's been sick for sometime and we couldn't pinpoint the issue. I had to make the hard decision of letting him go and the service I experienced along with my cat Chase was above and beyond what I could have expected. Caroline helped comfort Chase as if she was his mom. I will ever be so grateful to Dr. Grossman and Caroline for helping Chase pass over as peacefully as possible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. God bless you guys. read more

Think twice before going here. A young couple along with their infant brought their guinnea pig to VEG last nigh because a tumor opened up and they had it euthanized at a whopping $500.00!!! Losing a beloved pet is hard enough and you slap them with an outrageous bill. Absurd!!! Shame on you! read more

The staff was excellent and really helped at the most difficult time. The facility was very clean and comfortable. It was easy to get in and registered. read more

This places compassion for animals and their family is incomparable! Thank you all for everything you do for all you do. read more

VEG ER for Pets - Chloe getting the love and help she needs. - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We thought our dog broke her leg; she wouldn't walk. They're open 24/7 and a person (no automated system) answered. Great service and didn't take long. It was arthritis:). I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE read more

I would recommend VEG to anyone and everyone with a pet. We found them on Google and had to make an emergency trip when our dog, Jameson, fell ill a few weeks back. Nikki greeted us with a smile and immediately escorted us to an exam room. Dr. Grossman was our saving grace. He was calm, informative, and CARING. Heaven helped make our Jameo comfortable with IV, nausea meds, and lots of pets/love. Without a doubt, everyone in this group cares about you and the health of your animal. The facilities are clean, bright, and somewhere you wont mind hanging out for a bit (which you won't have to, because they're so speedy!) read more

The medvet on California near Belmont is absolutely marvelous. We had to say goodbye to our little dog yesterday and the vet and personnel were just so lovely to us. They understand that it's heartbreaking to lose a pet. Plus, they give you plenty of time before and after to be with your pet. Nobody hurries you along. Thank you so much MedVet. Anne Godden-Segard read more