Though our night ended in heartbreak, as we had to say goodbye to our beloved 14-year-old dog, we couldn't have been treated more compassionately, nor felt more seen and heard as we were last night by the team at the Brentwood, Mo., VEG team. We honestly were just giving VEG a try as it was the closest emergency vet to us, but we had no idea how philosophically different this experience was going to be from the others in town. The doors to the ER are literally wide open--you see everything that's going on. Dr. Hannah Ford and her team were just amazing with us--we didn't have to wait a second, were prioritized the whole time and were never a bother to anyone despite our many requests and were never in anyone's way. What was incredible is that, though dogs and cats were in distress around us, the environment was so calm. Animals were with their owners, so everyone's stress levels were lowered. The staff was triaging several situations, but they all remained calm. It was the best possible situation for a very hard night. Thank you to everyone who took care of us. read more

It doesn't get better than VEG!!! Nobody wants to find themself at the ER with a pet they love but this is the place you want to be!! Amazing doctors, staff, front desk - you name it. Everyone is a 10/10 at VEG. Other businesses should take note, VEG has everything dialed in (from check-in to their payment process/estimates to hiring truly compassion, skilled staff). Our sweet dog has taken us to VEG TWICE - the first time it was a real emergency, we could have lost him. We called on the way there and staff were waiting outside for us when we arrived (which was so, so kind). Dr Shapiro and team were quick, thorough and saved our boy's life. The care he and WE received while he was there was above and beyond wonderful. They have an amazing open concept - allowing (and welcoming) you to stay with your animal every step of the way should you choose to - I wanted to stay near my dog so I was happy to sit on the ground and the staff kept offering me chairs and pillows and taking care of ME which was extremely kind. True, true compassion from Dr Shapiro and everyone we encountered. I also really appreciated Dr Shapiro's way of explaining everything that was happening in a way that we could understand. Flash forward and our same dog lands us back at VEG for another reason. We were SO blessed to have Dr Shapiro again and she went above and beyond for us in every way even staying hours after her shift to perform surgery on our dog. We couldn't be more grateful for Dr Shapiro and the staff at VEG. Top-notch in EVERY, SINGLE way!!! read more

Waited 5 and a half hours here for something that could have taken much less time. There doesn't seem to be much priority here. A lot of people were working here, at least 10 and we were 3rd in line while being the only people in the lobby for most of that wait and everyone else we saw came in after us. Staff friendliness was hit or miss and overall the communication was very bad. Never were we given any sort of ETA and every interaction with a veterinarian was short and vague. I guess even pets in this county can't escape poor Healthcare. In the lobby there was a fridge that said it had snacks and to "help yourself" only the fridge was empty. Towards the end we asked a staff member who had apparently just arrived what the status was and the only response given was, "I have no idea". Not even, "Let me check on that for you". Only went here because they took walk-ins and coming from Oceanside it was sadly our only option. If I had the choice I would not return here. read more

Blew into VEG w an emergency--dog w twisted stomach. They, without a doubt, saved our dog. Surgery followed after checking/testing to be sure it was prudent/dog was viable candidate...post op a whole section of the floor area was cordoned off, dog was treated like the queen she is (heehee)...and we were able to stay with her as much as we wanted. SO GRACIOUS and accommodating--those women are PHENOMENAL!!!! Was it costly? Sure. But thats what life-saving emergency surgery and attentive after care costs---gladly handed my credit card over on a prayer it would save our beloved pup. Surgeon and everyone else who painstakingly tended to our dog (and put up w us!) are the GOATS. read more

I was so pleasantly surprised by our first visit to the Encinitas clinic. They got us in immediately and the doctor and tech were both super professional and efficient. I'm so glad we have a new emergency vet for our little Jack Russell! read more

I took my dog here a few years ago when she had acute intestinal distress. (I won't share details.). They treated her and recommended a new food that worked wonderfully for years. At the end of her life when she was in pain, they took us immediately and gave her a peaceful end to her suffering. I have had to put several pets down over the years, but this was head and shoulders above the other experiences I have had. They helped us as well as my dog. I have never had a bad experience here. If your pet needs help of any kind, this is the place to go. read more

Excellent service and care! We have been to many vets in the area and we were very impressed with our experience here from the first phone call through discharge. Our dog was treated for several wounds due to a dog attack. Their service, care and communication was amazing. Ivanna was a true standout. She was extremely helpful, smart, confident and supportive along with the care received from Dr. Carter. We trusted our pet in their care the entire time and felt that we were well informed and included in the treatment of our dog. We highly recommend this business. read more

We have been twice in the past three days and they could not be more kind, warm, and supportive. They walked us through all steps and were very patient and loving with our dog. Highly recommend if looking for emergency care. read more

I don't recommend using this facility unless it's your absolute last option for emergency care. Very nice and friendly staff but I had to call several times after being hung up on before speaking to anyone despite being told to call for a follow up. After finally getting in touch with someone I was given a different doctor who recommended more tests that our doctor initially recommended against. The costs are considerably higher than anything in the area and will tack on additional fees that inflate the cost further . It's truly sad that to see vets price gouge people in distress over their pets. I'd recommend going anywhere else first, it seems very profit driven given that they move to the most expensive option. I was blindsided when I was given two completely different courses of action by two different doctors. I offered to wait for the doctor who examined our pet but was given a different doctor despite requesting the original doctor. We were escalated from food supplementation ,as the examining doctor recommended, to long term hospitalization and blood tests, costing thousands. This is after spending money on inconclusive testing and not even speaking with the examining doctor. read more

Two days ago vet said my dogs eye was viable and developed a treatment plan that entailed a serum and antibiotic drops. We had an infected corner due to a scratch on the eye. Within 2 days the eye swelled and pushed and drained so profusely we returned to our regular vet for a recheck they said the eye was lost. Infection has receded too deeply into the eye. We wanted to do a glaucoma pressure test but the vet was not able to get tool to read a pressure. This may have told us whether the eye could or could not be saved. Whether it's the tool or the vet I don't know but there was no test done to help decide if the eye was under a critical pressure. 2 days later, I am waiting in an empty waiting room for hours 2 so far for a vet who who is too busy to look at this dogs eye. I have to decide to put her down or post 4-7 k to remove the eye. Can you spend a moment to look out in the waiting room? read more

I took my cat here in the middle of the night because she was struggling to breathe, and I was really scared I was losing her. They took such good care of her immediately. They did an ultrasound to make sure her lungs and heart were ok and not filled with fluid. I had a "nurse"and two doctors involved, and they reassured me she was ok to last the night and could wait for further treatment from her regular vet the next day. I thank them all for their quick action, compassion, and diagnostic techniques. This is definitely a place I would take her back to if I need. read more

Hands down THE BEST animal hospital I have ever been to! My dog needed urgent surgery to remove very large bladder stones over the weekend. The emergency vet we were at before finding VEG sent us home with a scary diagnosis and pain medication with instructions to see if her regular vet could perform the surgery in 1-2 days...but it was Saturday and our regular vet didn't open for 1-2 days. I called about 30 after hours vets within a 2 hour radius from me and no one could perform the surgery in the 1-2 day window since she was stable, even though the emergency vet that diagnosed her said it would become an emergency in 1-2 days. Then I did the best thing I could have done and called VEG in Encinitas at 4 in the morning as one last ditch effort to find someone to do the surgery for my Lucy girl. I could not believe it when they told me Dr. Shapiro would be able to do it!!! (I believe it was Dr. Cruz who helped me over the phone during my middle of the night panic- thank you Dr. Cruz for working out the details for us to come in!) They had me get the records from the previous emergency vet sent over to them and said to call back at 10am to see what time I should head over. I called at 10am and they knew exactly who I was and said that Dr. Shapiro had reviewed Lucy's records and to head over. I live a ways away and when I arrived Holly was so friendly and accommodating, the open concept in the back was so cool- nothing I'd ever seen before, and they let me stay with Lucy the entire time!!!! I got to snuggle her in her kennel so she wasn't scared, and I even got VIP treatment in a private room to stay with her as she recovered from surgery. Every animal hospital needs to follow suit and treat our pets like family the way VEG does! Dr. Shapiro did a wonderful job removing Lucy's bladder stones and she was a delight to be around! Every staff member I came in contact with was an absolute delight! I will never go to another emergency vet again if my dogs can take the drive from Temecula. Please open one in Temecula/Riverside!!! We need you up here desperately, VEG!! Thank you for taking such great care of my Lucy, I am forever grateful! read more

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This facility is extremely caring with a highly professional staff. Dr Lauren Greenfield and her well trained technicians took outstanding care of our 16 year old Shitzu. read more

I have been here twice both times in the middle of the night/early morning. The care, thoughtfulness and compassion the entire staff gave every time has been such a comforting feeling when your little one is unwell. They provide well rounded care with flexibility and compassion for both your pet and the owner as if they were in your shoes. I commute 35-45 minutes out of the way to come here for any emergency needs. Highly recommend and a huge thanks to everyone that makes my crazy husky Choppa feel loved and safe! read more

We have a very happy healthy cat now thanks to the incredible crew at VEG! Last week our cat threw up badly and went from fine to sneezing, couldn't breathe right within hours. We rushed him into VEG and they saw him instantly. Unfortunately he spiked a fever to 106 and had to be admitted for 24 hours:( Dr Salazar was amazing, she was right with us the entire time. She cared from the bottom of her heart and worked tirelessly to help figure out what was wrong with our kitty. He was so sick, but she was the one who helped nursed him back to health. If it wasn't for her and the team, not sure he'd be with us here today! THANK YOU so much Dr Salazar, we're forever grateful for your help, expertise & love with Kylo. The entire team was so caring and gentle and lovely. Even though it's an experience I hope to never have again, I'm thankful for the crew that helped our cat. Thank you all for being so attentive :) read more

Veterinary Emergency Group - Emergency Pet Hospital Near Me - Encinitas, California

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I was referred to Veterinary Medical Group (VEG) by my local vet because my dog had a burst cyst (my local vet was unable to see my dog right away). I called VEG in Cambridge, Mass. They were able to see me right away. When we arrived, I was greeted by an assistant who checked us in right away (no waiting). The vet techs and veterinarian checked out my dog right away (within 5 to 7 minutes of our arrival). The vet examined my dog, cleaned the wound, and was able to drain the cyst. The vet explained the procedure. She explained the follow-up care. The Cambridge location was very accessible. Plenty of on-site parking. The facility was clean and welcoming. All of the staff were very friendly to my dog and me. The check-out process was quick and efficient. This location is open 24 hours per day/7 days per week. I am grateful to the vets and staff at VEG for their efforts today. I highly recommend VEG if your animal needs immediate medical attention. read more

VEG is absolutely amazing. I came in because my dog had an abscess and was in a lot of pain. Every single person here clearly loves animals. Multiple staff members came up and gave my pup some love while we were waiting, and I felt so comfortable. I saw some other people come in with their pets who were in much worse condition than mine, and they were treated wonderfully by staff. The staff members were empathetic, kind, and just amazing. I can't recommend them enough. read more

It was a surprise when our youngest dog, a golden retriever who was just 12, suddenly seemed very lethargic with labored breathing. My vet was out of town so I had to find an emergency vet quickly. Luckily, I found Veterinary Emergency Group and when I called they told me to come right over and emailed me the paperwork to check in online so there was nothing to do upon arrival but be with my dog. When I pulled up, a tech was leaving (probably for lunch) but she saw that I had my dog in the back and she quickly ran and got a gurney and another tech to help because he is almost 100 lbs. We rushed in and I was again surprised to see one big open room with all the exam tables, techs and doctors all working together. Instead of taking my dog away and leaving me in the waiting room (which most emergency places do), we were allowed to stay right there beside him as they told us step by step what they were doing and why. While examining him, they even asked permission if they could do certain procedures and shave his belly for the ultrasound. Dr. Salazar quickly diagnosed his issue which was most likely a cancer tumor that had grown large enough to cause internal bleeding. As I sat there quite stunned at how quickly this all seemed to happen, Dr. Salazar spoke to my vet on the phone to explain her findings. Sadly, both vets agreed that there was no hope and the right thing to do was to put our beautiful dog to sleep. They put us in a private room, lit candles, gave him a blanket and told me that I could take as much time as needed to say goodbye. One of the techs, Nick, came in to sit for a bit to tell me that he knew my dog well (and my two others) because he had worked at my previous vet for several years. The entire staff at VEG could not have been more caring and although it was shocking and so sad to have to put him to sleep right that day, it also was comforting that the diagnosis was definitive and there was no question that it was the right thing to do. Although it was horrible driving home without him and I am still grieving; I am grateful that he did not have to endure a long drawn-out sickness. He was running and playing almost to the day he passed. Thank you Dr. Salazar and the staff at VEG for everything you did for us that sad day. read more

This place deserves 1,000 stars. The customer service here is PHENOMENAL! They literally ran to the door to help me and my dog in an emergency situation. EVERY single individual there was kind and helpful. The doctors explained everything and were super patient. I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend this place if you ever need to see a vet for your dog in an emergency situation. SO grateful for everyone there!!! read more

We had to take our lab there this morning when he developed a large mass on his abdomen. They saw him as soon as we got there! Holly checked us in and made us feel very comfortable. Alex came out to triage him and brought him (and us) back for a very short wait to see Dr.Hsieh. She saw him and gave us a very clear rundown of what he needed. We ended up leaving him as his care was going to take a while. They texted me with updates throughout the day and texted me as soon as he was ready to come home. When we picked him up, Dr. Hsieh explained to us all that had been done and what was needed in the next couple of days. Alex made sure that we had all of the supplies needed to care for Crowley and gave us tips on how to keep him comfortable. Although we will be following up with our vet, they let us know that they were available for any questions or concerns we had. We were completely happy with the care that Crowley received there. We were treated with kindness and compassion. So, although I do not want to have another emergency, I am happy to know that they are there if needed! read more

These people are amazing. They were comforting, knowledgeable, and understanding from the moment we called. They got us in quickly and set our minds at ease when we were unsure of the severity of the situation. Fortunately, our pup is ok! They could have run unnecessary test and charged me for all sorts of things but didn't. Dr. Hsieh was so genuinely helpful. I couldn't recommend this place enough if you are in need of help. read more

Wanted to extend my appreciation of the services here from Dr. Cruz and her staff for my Fur Baby Multipoo very early in the am today...and a follow up later. Certainly always scary place to be with your baby but the stuff was prompt kind and very knowledgeable and took care of my baby most importantly. Thank you the jobs you all do are very difficult and much appreciated. read more

What an incredible experience!!! We brought our dog in today for a terrible ear infection and everyone from the front desk staff to the techs to the vet were wonderful! Since an ear infection isn't life threatening it was a wait, but I understood that in going to an emergency vet that critical cases would take priority. Tori, the vet tech was one of the nicest people I've ever encountered! Her love for animals just oozes from her and she is an absolute gem! Everyone went above and beyond for me and my dog who is incredibly sensitive about his ears and difficult to treat. Other vets might've turned us away and said he needed to be sedated to treat him but the team here took him on with such kindness and professionalism. Huge thank you!!! read more

After reading all the reviews and my daughter-in-law saying she had great service there I wasn't worried about going there. I couldn't get into my regular vet and my dog got tumbled at the dog park and hurt her front paw. I called them and filled out the info online at 130pm. I got to the office before 2 pm. I walked out at 430pm without being seen. I'm a nurse and have a real good handle on triage so I don't understand what happened. There just weren't that many patients there. I hope they get better because everyone was really nice that I had contact with but I felt that 2 1/2 hours was ridiculous. I did not see one person come in with a legitimate emergency except one lady that was having her dog euthanized. She got a room immediately and should have but otherwise I have no clue. After corresponding with Dr. Kent I have a better understanding of what was going on at this clinic. Thanks again Dr. Kent read more

I cannot thank the staff enough for the courtesy and professionalism they had. I was extremely happy with the service me and my cat received. I came here very stressed out with an emergency, although the wait was a bit extensive I understood as they were very busy that night and they made all of us waiting feel very comfortable by communicating that they knew we were waiting patiently and thanked us for our patience as they called in another doctor. I cannot explain the comfort my cat felt from the moment we walked in, given he wasn't feeling well he was calm with the vet techs and doctor. They took my cats temp and he was running a fever and was quickly attended to, to help lower his temperature. I cannot remember the vet tech that helped me first but he was awesome and very communicative with everything. Dr. Salazar was extremely friendly also and made me feel like she would take care of my baby, and she did. I would recommend this location to anyone and everyone. I cannot thank the staff enough for the urgency in taking care of my cat. God bless you all and thank you for being patient kind people with my pet, and all others that were in there the evening I was there. My fluffy guy is healing well and I'm beyond grateful! Thank you so much read more

Incredible experience with Dr Lydia Cain and staff. We had called at least 10 other places before stumbling across VEG and I'm so thankful we did. We got there with NO wait time - nurse came to triage outside due to potential parvo (thank goodness it was negative) and had results within 10 minutes. At that point we went inside and was seen immediately by the Dr.. Very clean facility, snacks, drinks, etc complimentary. Everyone was so sweet and seemed happy to be at work! I hope you never find yourself here but if you do I hope you get the 5/5 star service we received. Prices were expected for an emergency vet. read more

Gosh...had one of the hardest times of my life at this place. Never ever would have been or am still ready to say goodbye to a beloved orange boy but the team here really helped guide me with initial tests to see if we could help to improve quality of life. When we sadly couldn't...they made the rest of it as easy as they could by having a heart. While my heart is still heavy, I can rest easier knowing I gave my kitty 15 wonderful years and the team here did everything they could for him and I both. read more

If I could give them a 10 star rating I would. When it came time to let my sweet long time baby girl go, they handled it with the highest love, care, and sensitivity that I could have hoped for. Thank you for being there for me. read more

These are earth angels, everyone one of them. The staff shows up everyday, bringing their best, and it is no small feat. From the first phone call, the communication was outstanding. Anyone who has loved a pet and cared for them while they are ill, understands the helplessness that comes when our animals can't tell you what they are feeling. The moment we walked in the door, we were looked out for with full attention. We felt relief. We were in the best of hands. They brought beds and blankets out for each pet. And they all huddled at the pets level, with great sensitivity while they worked. Their system is well thought out, and the entire staff worked well as a unit. It gave us a lot of comfort and a sense of trust. Their bedside manner was deeply supportive, and progressive. They let us ask all our questions and answered in full detail. Thank you to the entire staff. You amazed us. Thank you for taking care of our "Boss". He's healing up nicely. read more

The staff here is amazing, they took excellent care of our dog Coco this weekend. I can't say enough good things about our experience. Thanks for everything guys, myself and the Hawk girls really appreciate it. :) Also, the coffee machine is amazing, I recommend the vanilla latte. read more

I rarely write reviews but have to for this. Our pug Jake was admitted to VEG a week ago after not recovering from a major surgery he had elsewhere. Long story short, he ended up needing emergency surgery to try to fix the problem. He ultimately didn't make it (at no fault of VEG) but we are so grateful for the above and beyond care he received from the team. We cannot thank Dr. Hsieh, Dr. Kim, Dr. Silva, Dr. Kent, Ivanna (AMAZING), Ranelle, Holly, and Karen (and so many more - my apologies if I inadvertently left anyone off who cared for Jake) enough for the love they showed Jake and our family during his stay. We are forever grateful. read more

The staff there is amazing. I like the fact that you don't have to wait in the waiting room to see what's going on with your animal they take you right and back and let you watch everything and be involved. Unfortunately I was watching someone else's dog, and it was very very sick, so I took the dog there, my only complaint was is the owner wanted to drive back from out of town and it would take a few days . we contemplated keeping the dog at the hospital for two days before putting down so the owner could say goodbye. The cost was $6500 a night. I realize nothing should be free in life and yes, there are costs but that seems like an extreme price to have a dog stay the night in the hospital I'm a nurse and that's about how much it cost for a person to stay in the hospital overnight. People are vulnerable when their animals are ill who has $13,000 in their pocket to have a dog stay in a hospital 2 nights she decided to put the dog down. And I held her beautiful little dog, and said goodbye for her. If I had $100,000 to keep my dog alive I would do it if I had the money , but most of us do not have that kind of money. Even the vet bill was almost $5000 for a couple hours. I just think vet care should be more reasonable. I Do not know if I would go there again due to cost , but I do have to say the care was excellent. The physician was awesome and the staff was very kind and empathetic. read more

The customer service and care at this veterinarian ER is absolutely incredible. Once again my wife and I took our cat in because he wasn't feeling well. He's normally really fussy about getting his blood drawn and their team handle him like pros. Every time we go here we leave feeling content knowing our pet is in the best hands possible. We will continue to go here for any emergencies. My only complaint is that they don't offer primary care only emergency, because we can't find the sort of professionalism and attention to detail they provide anywhere else! Truly grateful for the staff at VEG and thank you for always being there for us in a time if need. read more

I rushed my mini poodle here after he ate raisins which are toxic to dogs. The vet and staff were great. Pepé is doing fine now thanks to their quick work. They induced vomiting and kept Pepé there for two nights to flush his system with IV fluids. They kept on top of his bloodwork to ensure his kidney values were stable. Pepé stayed in a good sized kennel crate with a comfy bed. I visited him twice a day and each time I came, I was greeted warmly by the staff with updates. They gave me a jar of baby food to feed Pepé. And later the nurse gave Pepé meat from rotisserie chicken leg because he didn't want to eat. They let you walk right in and you can be with your pet in a private room for a visit. I was able to walk Pepé outside each time I came. I saw some owners sleeping on the floor with their large pets who had undergone a major procedure. The staff seems to understand how much we love our fur babies. The vet called me as soon as the third blood test assured them that Pepé was fine. The services aren't cheap but the cost seemed in line with emergency care and hospitalization. read more

Had an emergency today with my pet bird, Kiko, he had been bleeding non-stop so I took him in and the staff was amazing. From the receptionist to the doctors they we're all loving and caring. They did a run down on what they would be doing to my bird and did it efficiently. I couldn't ask for any better of a staff, they offered care credit for me, and had different ways to get things done. Gentle and sweet are the two best words I can describe the staff and how they handled my pet, thank you so much once again! read more

Had to take my little kitty Munky here today after showing some signs of possible UTI. I noticed this place since I shop at Vons a lot. Super nice and friendly staff and vet techs. Doctor Kim was super sweet and Munky took to her right away. Instead of suggesting expensive tests she explained it was not likely a UTI because it's rare in female cats and more fatal in males. She thought it might be stress (I was very stressed last week and Munky, being my "familiar" definitely felt it) which can cause cystitis (swelling). She recommended a urinary tract relaxer for any pain and gabapentin for any anxiety (Munky is a little sensitive; sure to be helpful in my forthcoming remodel). Paying was easy - click on a text, you see the estimate and you can pay. Overall, great experience and I'm thankful for suggesting a reasonable approach first! And. Again to the staff today. So sorry about the pee... read more

Just wow. I never thought I would need to do this and thankfully have only had to come in once. The team was amazing helping me in general. Few huge things I called first they answered so fast and actually seemed considered. Secondly when I walked in there was about 2 or 3 other people also walking in with different dogs and they handled it so well they rushed us to the back and got all the weights and kept them all separate and calm and just amazing. Thirdly the staff all of them even the ones not helping me with my dog made sure to compliment my dog or even get me a Celsius when I said I was jealous of one and just went so above and beyond. The vet was amazing and just overall the whole staff the night of the 20th deserves credit for there amazing work and hard effort. They all were so nice and caring to all of the animals even holding the leash for mine while I ran to the bathroom. Just overall went so above and beyond and I wanted to leave a review because of the staff. They even went around asking the humans if we wanted any snacks and just overall so caring and kind. Thank you to each and everyone there the night of the 20th who helped with my mini Aussie. read more

I've taken both of my cats here for separate middle of the night ER scares. Both times the staff have been absolutely phenomenal. They are so kind, gentle, and communicative, which helps make the scary times so much easier. Easiest vet visits I've ever had and one of my cats tends to be spicy. Thank you guys so much. read more

this vet is the worst thing ever. i waited 2+ hours to get my VERY SICK cat checked up on. he is so sick and still so sick. please do better. don't keep us waiting for so long. never take your animal here ever. i'm really sad about this experience. please don't leave tips. i'm hungry and angry about this and they DO NOT PROVIDE FOOD. a disgrace. they are the stinkiest vet i have ever visited. absolutely genuinely very upset and mad. they are all just SITTING THERE while i am waiting. i am hoping they read this and speed up their customer service. this is the most upsetting thing i've experienced in my whole life. but actually this wait time is horrendous. read more

orsa was such an amazing help, they were great with my kittys burnt paw. workers were having good gossip and one of them came in to play with him. I also got a nice hot latte and snacks for free. read more