VCA Animal Care Center of Chicago

354 reviews

1248 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607

vcahospitals.com

+13122436655

About

VCA Animal Care Center of Chicago is a Veterinarian located at 1248 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607. It has received 354 reviews with an average rating of 3.9 stars.

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Hours

Monday7AM-4PM
Tuesday10AM-2PM
Wednesday6:30AM-8PM
Thursday6:30AM-8PM
Friday6:30AM-8PM
Saturday6:30AM-8PM
Sunday6:30AM-8PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of VCA Animal Care Center of Chicago: 1248 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607

  • VCA Animal Care Center of Chicago has 3.9 stars from 354 reviews

  • Veterinarian

  • "I really wanted to like VCA"

    "Wow! I'm sitting next to a very content cat right now, all rolled up into a ball"

    "My dog had an appointment about a week ago and my household member was sent the correct time in the morning while I got an email to come hours later at 5:30 PM"

    "I have brought our dog here for over 5 years"

    "This was my pet's primary care provider since he was a puppy"

Reviews

  • Brittany King

I really wanted to like VCA. It came highly recommended from PAWS Chicago, where my partner and I adopted our dog and this location in particular had good reviews and high praise when we first chose it almost a year ago. Unfortunately, the needs of my pup aren’t a good fit with what VCA is able to offer. The TLDR version of this review: if you’ve got a social pup that is easily food motivated, eager to please, and loves meeting new people (even at the vet) then I think you’ll have a good experience here and should give them a try. If you have a more anxious pup, that may require vet care more than 1-2 times a year, I caution you from choosing this location. My partner and I are first time dog owners. In our first visit we worked with Dr. Tran who was super patient and answered every single question we had. She likely went way over her allotted time with us, but we never felt rushed. It was at that visit we realized how difficult our pup might be for vets. Although we’d taken him to the vet every week for ~6 weeks when fostering him just fine, this experience was different for him and it never got better. I recognize this is not entirely VCA’s fault. Dr. Tran quickly recommended anxiety meds, which is where things went south. His prescription made him vomit, a lot, but every time we’d call VCA to get him looked at, we were assured it wasn’t the meds making him sick, while also being told they had no availability to see our vomiting pup. This led to several EXPENSIVE ER visits. The limited availability of appointments has been beyond frustrating. It was also hurtful to be told consistently that we were wrong about our dogs bad reaction being due to the meds they prescribed. Instead of calming him, it made him sick consistently for weeks before we listened to our gut, stopped using them and asked for something different. My final frustration is with the unwillingness of staff to meet us halfway. Anxiety meds were suggested, we found ones that worked and sedated him heavily before visits (which we hated), we got a trainer, talked to a behavior specialist, muzzle and e-collar trained him so he’d be more receptive to it at the vet. While all of those things served my dog well in other aspects of his life, he is still just so afraid of the vet. Almost a year later we’ve been half a dozen times, and paid for each visit although he’s never been able to get more than his heartbeat checked. It just has not been a good experience for anyone, including the vets/techs we’ve worked with who at this point definitely know our dog a difficult one. Fed up at our visit last week, I asked what else could be done, how they could work with us. Ultimately that led to the vet (who was kind, but kept it real, I forget her name) suggesting we try home visits with another office or work with yet another behaviorial specialist. So, that’s what we’ll be doing. I’m upset that VCA seemed to write us/our dog off pretty quickly after that first difficult visit and I’ve seen staff react similarly to other anxious pups. Like I said, if you’ve got a low maintenance pup, I think this place will work out just fine for you, but if you need a bit more patience, more readily available appointments, and want a more fear free experience, look elsewhere.

  • Kristi Emmons

Wow! I'm sitting next to a very content cat right now, all rolled up into a ball. I think he was happier today than your average day, and had some excitement. This is a cat that went to the vet today. A little backstory, my little guy, whom is a kitten, has only been to VetCo (PetCo's mobile veterinarian service) and PAWS, for vaccines and neutering. VetCo has been such a horrible experience, that little my cat is traumatized by this point, from seeing a vet. They couldn't even complete his pre-surgical examination at PAWS, by the time I took him there just 12 days ago, because he was so freaked out (and he isn't really a little scaredy cat, nor is he fractious at home). So finally, I got him into VCA for his first real vet appointment. I didn't expect for them to be able to examine him, but at least I knew I could get all my health questions for him answered, and hopefully they wouldn't tell me to never to bring him back again. I forgot to ask if they had cat empathetic or Fear-Free certified veterinarians there, when making an appointment, so I asked when I arrived. The front desk staff didn't know what I was talking about, but started listing amongst themselves some of their vets that were already really good with cats, and one of them just happened to be who my baby got to see today. The front desk staff were super attentive to my furball's needs and friendly throughout the visit. They got me out of the stress of the front waiting area with the other animals, and into a exam room right away. They let me take him out of his carrier, but we hardly had to wait at all, despite being early for the appointment. I brought toys and treats, and put him on the metal exam table, so I could start helping him make a positive association with those tables. When the veterinarian came in, he was so cool! I got to asking my questions first, and by the time I was done, FluffBall wasn't even afraid of the vet anymore- just a little timid. And BAM! We got a whole physical examination done! No hissing, not a thing! The veterinarian even checked his mouth, and my little guy was cooler with it than he is with me doing that! MIND YOU, this was a previously "fractious" cat, that was at the point before this that he could barely be touched by a vet or their technician. A miracle! Not only that, but my little guy got a welcome bag! It had toys and all sorts of goodies in it, and he was so excited to get it! VCA is running first time appointments at a promotional price right now, which I think is great, because I really think it helps the animal community out there. Not only that, but their booster shots run less cost than horrible VetCo! Also, they have excellent hours of operation, and they were able to advise me on which times were least packed, to make it less stressful for the cat. Parking isn't bad- it's free street parking. Another cool thing, is they're pretty sanitary here, and I think the notes on the entry door said that they have a separate entrance for sick pets. Thanks VCA for performing a 180, miracle, on my little guy. I'm glad to make this my new home veterinarian.

  • Nicole Blair

My dog had an appointment about a week ago and my household member was sent the correct time in the morning while I got an email to come hours later at 5:30 PM. Not only did they make that mistake, but when my mother brought our dog, she felt she did not get a thorough exam as well and felt that the newly graduated technicians need to work on their skills more. My mother requested a demonstration on how to cut my dog’s nails, and the vet tech was doing it in front of her, but still cut my dog’s vein by going too deep. Later, they tried insisting my dog was too anxious when they were the ones struggling to find a vein and draw blood. If they can’t do it, they should’ve found someone else capable in the facility, because my dog had to be pricked many times for a simple blood test since the vet tech felt there wasn’t enough drawn. All this paw and leg handling pushed my dog’s boundaries too far since she also had to get a shot and I’ve lost trust with handling her paws. My dog, as a Shiba Inu, was calm as long as she could be with very minimal squirming, but already too much had happened. Once my dog climbed on my Mom’s shoulder for the second blood drawing, she got a huge hematoma since the needle probably moved. I understand vet techs need to learn somewhere, but to be charged full price without an apology for even just screwing up something as simple as cutting nails is just poor business practice. Get your act right. I have lots of screenshots for anyone interested just not all on the same phone. If VCA wants to work this out, please email a worthy solution.

  • Matthew Esler

I have brought our dog here for over 5 years. You can see from recent reviews that this place has taken an overnight change for the worse. Their appointment policy change has lead to significantly longer waits. (60 minutes one time, and they shrugged their shoulders and said it just happens). Calling always leads to a 15 minute hold time. They've also changed their vaccination policy, now it has to be with a dr. appointment so that they can charge you an additional $30. The most egregious act by them though is the last straw for me. A visit 3 weeks ago lead to a healthy checkup and an expensive bill but we lived with it because of the convenience. We went in yesterday because our dog had a cough. The diagnosis we got (without weighing her) was that she was 10 lbs overweight this time. We were also told something had changed in 3 weeks with her teeth. So much so that we should schedule a cleaning as soon as possible. 4 years ago a teeth cleaning was $350 (I have the bill), they quoted us at $800 minimum this time around. Its sad that a place that used to be a loving place for pets has turned into a cash grab in this neighborhood. I see a lot of responses that say they are perplexed or confused. To help with any confusion, people feel cheated when you concentrate on raising your bottom line without any increase in the care given to their pets. Consider us a lost patient.

  • Rhoby Tio

This was my pet's primary care provider since he was a puppy. The first four years were great but the last year was disappointing to say the least. I echo other people's comments that this is largely due to the acquisition of this branch. This place is only great if your pet is young and healthy and you make appointments at least two weeks in advance. They are not compassionate about ill pets that require immediate care. Walk-ins are not readily available for urgent situations and you have to plea to get in the schedule (even if it's a follow up visit). If you're lucky, they'll squeeze you in the afternoon or the next day with no definite wait times to discourage you. In most cases, they will defer you to MedVet, which is not always warranted. We also used to have one of their Wellness packages (prior to acquisition) because it offered unlimited visits, dental cleaning, discounts for some services and prescriptions, etc. We decided not to renew it for two reasons: (1) slightly more for less benefits and (2) unlimited visits that you can't really use when you need it most. I never expected them to take on high-risk pet illnesses like accidents or lethal scenarios but for minor illnesses, I hoped that they would at least see my pet, make an initial assessment and triage. Anyway, we have decided to move to another vet but wish them all the best.

  • Liu Chunlin

ALERT! ALERT! ALERT! This place is a scam. I have been coming here for more than 5 years now.They would not tell you the charges ahead. I brought my dog there for his exam told me to come back in a week for a follow up. The exam cost $730 that’s fine because the doctor told me about the charges. What I did not know was coming back for a follow up they charge me another $77 when I check out today…. They did not tell me ahead of the charges and the most disappointing thing is when I told them why they didn’t tell me the charge before the follow up, the manager starts to tell me “ you got to pay to go and see a doctor” seriously who wouldn’t know that but at least doctor would tell you the price before doing anything. They should tell their customer of all the charge before doing anything.I have taken my other dogs to banfield and they do not charge for follow up. I do not care about the price for the exam and the follow up. You guys should at least tell me the charges beforehand and not letting me expect the bill to be different when i check out… one more thing the hospital manager is a Joke she can’t solve anything she just keep repeating over and over again seriously DO NOT COME HERE.

  • Paige P.

GROOMING SERVICE I had high hopes of taking my puppy to her first grooming appointment at the vet we go to, since they always take great care of her when needed. I was very particular and direct on the type of cut I wanted, which was just a "puppy trim" as we wanted to leave her coat on the shaggy side. I also referenced wanting her to look more like the retriever in her than poodle multiple times because I know most groomers like to cut doodles more like a poodle (which we didn't want). I even sent pictures before the appointment and brought some with me, to avoid any miscommunication. I brush my puppy every day to avoid mats, so she doesn't have to be shaved because we love her longer coat. I was very upset when I picked her up, to find the opposite of what I asked for. Her hair was basically shaved, they went scissor crazy and gave her a poodle face/head that I did not want. It almost looks like a terrible bowl cut toddlers got in the 90s. It was an overall disappointment. If you are expecting the type of cut you ask for, I wouldn't use the grooming services here. First pic is for desired "trim" length reference.

  • Jamieson Brady

I used to take my dog here but I wound up switching to a different vet. For one, I got a different doctor every time I went in which I didn't like. Most of the doctors are young. The place is large and fast paced. Waiting area is nice with free coffee. When my dog got hit by a car I got quoted a really high price for just an x-ray/diagnosis, and when I questioned the vet why it was so expensive, she dropped the price significantly on the spot. This kind of left a bad taste for me- why was I originally quoted 300% the national average for an x-ray and then why was it so easy to drop the price? It didn't seem honest. The front desk is really helpful and nice. Everybody is polite. But whenever with the doctor it always seemed they were in a hurry since there were tons of people waiting. The prices are definitely in the top range but I guess that comes with the area. Overall this place has pretty good reviews so if it is convenient for you to come here, maybe give it a shot, but it was not a good fit for me. My new vet (Wicker Park Veterinary Clinic) is smaller, slower pace, and definitely more affordable.

  • Ambrosia

We've been a customer for over 6 years, since our pup was 12 weeks old and 19oz. We LOVED the walk in appointments, we loved the staff, the front desk, and the doctors. We never had an issue, it was a breeze. Since VCA took over we've been nothing but disappointed with the changes. Extremely long wait times on the phone, not even being greeted on the phone before you're placed on hold with blasting music, coldness of staff, doctors and rudeness of front desk as well. Multiple times I've called for assistance, availability of a doctor for my dog and been told to make an appointment WEEKS (3 to 4) down the line. What good is that going to do for her when she's ill now ? My insurance is through your establishment. Going somewhere else for the care that I pay animal care center for is counter productive and a waste unless your establishment would like to shell out the costs of HAVING to go some where else in the heat of the moment. Essentially I see this as my own vet is refusing to care for its patients in the moment of their need. What happened??

  • laura erbach

Masters of switch and bait. I should have stopped bringing my dog here years ago. I would give them zero stars if I could. I only come here for the grooming since they misdiagnosed my dog with cancer a few years ago. Found out the vet my dog normally saw here left because of the working conditions. Now everytime i bring my dog here for a groom, the price goes up without notice. This has been going on for over the past year. Make the appointment and i am quoted one price, get there and it's much more. Today my dog needed a rabies vaccination before the grooming, was told one price over the phone, drop my dog off and I am informed she has to have an examination. Talk to a manager who could care less that it would be another 85 plus for the exam i was not informed about. My only option was to come pick my dog up, no apology for being misinformed and misquoted. They were not interested in doing anything to make up for the horrible customer service i received either. Avoid the headache and go somewhere else, you and your dog deserve better.

  • Isabella Del Frari

I am never taking my dog there again This place used to be great I have used their services on a regular bases for at least 3 years. However the quality has dropped down in the last couple of years, I have been double billed twice and the latest, I dropped off my dog for a 2 day boarding and her usual yearly-checkup, which turned out to be a really bad experience: Not only my dog have had tests ran on her without my consent, but she was also sedated. When I finally came to pick her up, she was coiled up at the end of a cage completely terrified like if she has been abused, was really sad to see. She did not eat and had diarrhea for a week after that as well. The aftermath is that the Animal Care Center still charged me a pretty penny for the services and never submitted the insurance claim for my pet as agreed with the administration upon pickup, because they lost the paperwork I dropped off. They gave me a really hard time even giving me the dog's medical record after that, because they could not figure out.

  • Migna Romero

We have been taking our pet there for 3 years when walk -in were accepted. I never had an issue although every time we went a different doctor saw her which I also didn't like. VCA took over and now it by appointment only and I have tried to make appointment in 2 occasions when my dog had inflamed eye and when she wasn't eating and looked sick. Both times they wanted to give me appointments 2 weeks away when my dog needed to be seen right away. Then wanted to cancel my wellness pkg and some asst said I need to pay a cancellation fee. When asked to speak to someone they said she was busy and they would relay the message for a call-back. THEY NEVER CALLED! I have a teacup yorkie and they should be seen right away due to the tiny bodies. Still nothing. They even stated that if I came in without an appointment I would have to wait for all the customers that did have one go first. We're cancelling and going somewhere else.

  • Alex Alex

I adopted my dog two and a half years ago. He had been sick once before this recent time. The first time they told me at VCA he was fine. The next morning I had to rush him to the emergency vet where they told me he had pneumonia. Since then I've been leery about him getting sick and me taking him here. He gets all his shots and gets board here. He recently got sick again, I was unaware they changed from walk-in ER to appointments only. We were advised it would be a 2-4 hr wait. They took a (bloody) stool sample, we left due to the wait. They called and said the sample was negative, he was fine. I took him to another doggy clinic down the street, not only did they see him right away, prescribed him the necessary meds, they also followed up with a call to see how he was doing for the next two days. I like the people at VCA would continue to go to them for basic needs but I do not recommend them for ER care.

  • Andrea Schoen

I am extremely disappointed in the quality of care. The desk staff can be extremely short and standoffish. The vet care is average with little enthusiasm to help. My dog has had giardia since bringing her home. VCA belittled my concerns and seems unwilling to work together to create a realistic plan. Their solution for a young puppy was to put her a prescription dog food with no other treats. Was very condescending when I said that would be difficult and asked for a more realistic plan of action. I am now taking her elsewhere and receiving quality care where I am listened to and educated on how we can best care for my dog. I regret buying the care club membership and will be cancelling asap once this 1 year cycle is over. I am cutting my losses and will not be coming back to this clinic even though I still have to pay for the care club package until May.

  • Clinton Shapley

I certainly noticed a dramatic change in the service provided within the past couple months and from reading the recent reviews it sounds like we are all experiencing the same issues as of late. I do receive odd reminders about vaccines that we recently received or just simply wrong dates. Never see the same doctor, which I've typically accepted but now that my pet is getting older it would certainly be nice to have a doctor come in and have some knowledge of my pets history. Appears there may have been a lot of staff turnover because I didn't recognize any of the employees our last visit which likely was the reason we left the location without receiving the services our appointment was intended for. I used to love the convenience and service here...I do hope they get things turned around but I'll be taking my pet elsewhere for now.

  • William Hart

When we first starting taking our dog here, people were friendly and vet actually took the time to speak with us. The last couple of months, service and quality have definitely gone down. Tonight was the final straw. Our pup broke one of his nails and was bleeding pretty bad. Called and they said they could see him but it would be an emergency visit fee. Fine...no problem. Got there and was knocking on the window with my dog in my arms. Two women that worked there, just looked and me and didn't even come. Finally one came to the door and told me that they were closed. Told them what the issues was and told me the closest place I could go to was Countryside and they couldn't help me. Then proceeded to close the door. Horrible service...Will be looking for a vet that actually cares about quality and customer service.

  • Nemanja Pintar

I took my cat in for a rabies booster, and the cat just had its exam two months prior. When I came in I told them that he was only due for a shot. The vet saw him and examine him for only about 30 seconds looking at his ears teeth and poking him i. The stomach. Then she gave him the shot. I ended up getting charged for an examination and a shot for the cost of 85 dollars. I told the lady that checked me out that i was only in for a shot and she tried to excuse how he needs an exam before a shot. They also recommended a tooth cleaning for my cat and send me an estimate via email saying it will cost anywhere from $600 to $1,000. The cleaning up my last vet in the South Loop only cost $400. This places is a major rip off and they practice shady business, i wouldn't recommend it at all.

  • Christopher Mclean

Came in for a visit and the total visit was extremely quick, which confused me if it was suppose to be a "full" exam. The staff was friendly but I wasn't sure the doctors or staff truly cared about my pet's problem. The doctors recommended a medication for my dog but then staff said since all her test results were negative she does not have to take it. When I called back furious about why I paid so much for medicine she did not have to take they said just give it to her if you want, it won't hurt her. After a day or two a manager calls back and says she is sorry for the interaction with the front desk staff But now I am stuck with expensive medication. VCA should not be dropping the ball like this.

  • Xavier S

Good to see others have had a good experience, but I found them to be incredibly salesy and not especially caring of my dog or me. I took my recently rescued dog in for a checkup and rather than take the time to talk to me and carefully inspect my dog, they immediately tried to sell me every service and product. They don't tell you how much things cost unless you stop them and ask, and I'm confident that the services and medicines they were trying to sell me were mostly unnecessary. I want caring veterinarians and staff that are genuinely concerned about the welfare of animals and their customers. Not sales people. There are way better options out here.

  • Daniela Rodriguez

I have been taking my cat to this veterinary clinic for almost four years now. The staff members are amazing and take the treatment of my cat very seriously. I am very grateful for the care they provide. Today, my cat had an appointment, and I called the office to inform them that I did not have a carrier to transport my cat. The staff member (whose name I unfortunately forgot) promptly offered me a disposable carrier. I went to the office to pick it up and my cat was able to safely make it to his appointment. Once again, I am grateful for the exceptional service provided by this veterinary clinic.

  • Sherri H

They have been my vet for over three years. I loved this place before new ownership. The ability to walk in for appointments was so convenient. Now it’s by appointment only. Our dog ate 6 Hershey candy bars so called to see what we should do. I was told he needs to go to see a vet ASAP but I would have to take him somewhere else because they were booked. What?!?! They are our vet for three years since we got our dog and they can’t see him. I guess it’s time to move on to another vet who values their customers. I also find it very interesting you cannot leave a review anymore on their Facebook page.

  • LawnChair T.D. Van Twisk

I had great experiences at this clinic a few years back, each and every member of the staff was top notch. I'm now returning several years later, and was a little concerned because I see them getting dragged in the reviews lately due to the new ownership. Personally I have not had any scheduling trouble, in fact I had worse luck at some smaller but still well respected clinics nearby, one clinic wasn't taking new patients at all. The staff has continued to impress me with their attentiveness and great attitudes, I've worked with many different people who've all treated me and my cat very well.

  • Tenisha

This was a fast and efficient process. I arrived 10min prior to my appointment they took Coco right in and asked me to wait in the foyer. The doc called me on the phone while he looked over Coco and explained everything, (her wt, current health, needed vaccines, and price). I agreed to the recommended treatments and I paid with my credit card over the phone with the receptionist. This appointment didn't take 30min. I personally feel that this process is better. I really like the doctor and how transparent he is and not wanting to waste your money with unnecessary treatments ☺️.

  • Ashley Noelle

Every doctor I have met has been so kind, experienced, and (most importantly) so sincere in their concern/care for my pup. They are always able to see us, and we have never had to wait (not saying you don't have to - but I love the walk in capabilities). After our pup's spay, they even let us come in for a check-up for free since our pup decided to be a little too active and got a little bump. They let me send in pics and spoke with me over the phone, then saw us for free in person (nothing was wrong, but pup needed to be crated to calm her down!). Love this place!!!

  • christina stelyn

I also used to like this place a lot but, they changed. They used to offer a wellness package which we were on for many years until a few months ago when I got a call saying it had been canceled two weeks prior to the call. I told the lady it would have been nice to know prior so I could get my pup up to date on vaccines if needed, which are covered under the package, she assured me that my pup was up to date. Come to find out she was due for shots and it would have been covered under the plan I was paying for.. Trying to talk to anyone there is useless.

  • Kristin K

We started taking our dogs here when we first moved to Chicago two years ago and we take them for all of our routine care. Dr. Eva did routine blood work before our older dog, Carraway's, teeth cleaning and when she noticed some abnormalities, she didn't hesitate to refer us to a specialist at another veterinary practice, where they found out he had hypothyroidism. Without her paying such close attention to him, it would have been missed- even though we moved pretty far north, we still bring our dogs back to this clinic for the excellent care.

  • H Kwon

Technician explained wrong information about vaccine. She said it lasts three years, but other staff entered the room and corrected that it lasts one year. Two techinicians seem nervous and unprofessional like new grad technician. Brought my cat without explanation about what they are going to do. They failed to find vein at once, even failed to inject a vaccine even though my cat is stable and not moving back and forth. Disappeared without any explanation at the end of the treatment. I was so disappointed about this non-professionalism.

  • Andi LP

I had to put my best friend of nearly seven years down a few weeks ago. Her name was 13 (Teenie.) The vet (i believe her name is Eva K, maybe?) went absolutely above and beyond to do all she could to save her. It was one of the hardest days of my life, but i am so glad we were at VCA. I have a new little buddy now. His name is Gator, and he bites a LOT. He is an all black kitten with all the energy in the world. We will be going to VCA for all of his care. I have attached a photo of 13. Wasn’t she beautiful?! Thank you again, VCA.

  • Joe Strike

We have taken our dog here for specific treatments and general check-ups, as well as boarding. Absolutely no negatives about this place that I have seen. They have really nice facilities, will get you in quickly, and charge VERY fair prices. Their boarding also was very good, and includes a free bath at the end if your pet is boarded for more than 2 nights. Vets as well as the staff really know their stuff, which helps keep things running smoothly and efficiently. Check out their website for a coupon toward your first visit.

  • Alaina Longstreet

Animal Care Center of Chicago is awesome! I no longer live in Chicago but always took my dog to their Center for all of her needs. I never needed an appointment and I never waited more than a few minutes each time. Their facility is so clean and their staff is amazing, all so friendly and helpful. When I was out of town I had them take care of my puppy and I knew she was in good hands, they offer a large space for when she is alone and provide a puppy play time. I would recommend this place to any of my Chicago friends.

  • Ralph H

This was my first visit to the VCA Animal Care Center on Washington Blvd. This was a great experience. Our Vet gave us plenty of time to ask questions. He even covered topics that we were not thinking of, but needed to consider. Nicholas Niemiec was our vet for the day. He was super friendly and informative. His advice was clear and honest. The front desk staff was very friendly also. This will be our permanent vet based off of this visit. The office is very clean. So glad that we have this office in our neighborhood.

  • Jon Erickson

Since the corporate takeover of this vet clinic, the service has declined drastically. The office is loud, disorganized and strangely dirty. They eliminated the wellness package and are clearly trained to up-sell and order a litany of unnecessary tests. Sad. Went there yesterday for help with a sick dog. Office manager was quick to ask for my credit card, but ever even asked about symptoms or solutions. Absolutely amazing. Not a single question or helpful tip. Find another vet. Corporate takeover strikes again.

  • Sophie Morrison

When we drop our dog off for boarding we expect his basic needs to be met. Called at 1pm the day after he got there to find out they hadn't fed him since 4pm the day before. Also, we were told our dog got multiple walks per day, come to find out that their "walks" are a 12 foot walk to an indoor puddle area. Dogs do not get a second of sunlight or outdoor time while there. We have had good experiences with medical care here, but do not use their boarding. Straight up animal abuse. We're disgusted.

  • Jimmy Dyer

Dr. Matt Moodie has been absolutely wonderful to work with. He has seen my pup through everything from dental exams to hard to diagnose illnesses. His thoroughness and consistent follow-ups makes me feel like he cares just as much about my dog as I do - which is important when you consider your pet to be one of your children :) He never rushes through an appointment and ensures that all of my questions / concerns have been addressed. I couldn't be more grateful for the partnership!

  • Jeff G

Since the Vet changed owners there have been a few changes. The main negative change is that you need to book appointments well in advance. You really can't walk in and it can be difficult to get urgent care. With that said, the time and care they give you and your pet is outstanding. The Vets and Techs are excellent at clearly explaining your pet's health and all of your options. They answer questions and make sure you have a thorough understanding. I strongly recommend this Vet.

  • Linda Edmondson

I’m contacting the better business bureau about my experience here. On top of having to wait over 30 minutes every time I visit, they had the audacity to try to charge me for three exams in less than 2 months because it’s “policy” every time your dog gets a vaccine. This turns a flu shot into a $140 experience. And when I asked the vet why my healthy, 3 year old mix needed a third exam since August, she said “to make it fair to the other customers.” Nope. Never coming back.

  • Shauna Johnstone

Animal Care Center is great. The staff is helpful and accessible and I always feel they have my pet's needs in mind. I love that they are open Sundays and until later in the evening because my dog definitely does not plan her sicknesses during normal business hours. The pricing for their medications (flea and tick prevention and heart worm prevention especially are really competitive.) My dog loves day camp as well and comes home tired and happy after being there.

  • Teodor Morava

I feel like their hustling for money, I'd avoid this place Update. Waited forever to hear back, guess what, asking for more money These guys are a joke. Maybe at one point this was a good location, but they gonna hustle you, don’t be surprised that every call is asking for another test that’s going to cost more money Avoid avoid avoid Update 2. I checked with another place down the street, what vca charged me @ 300, this other place charged at 120. Scam artists

  • Matthew Denny

The care for our dog seems secondary to the money they can bill you. Every procedure they recommended was 'necessary' and with each test we had done, we learned very little but were told more tests were necessary. The results from each test were also painted in the worst light which felt like scare mongering. Every bit of feedback I had to rebuttal by asking if the numbers were unusual for a dog of his age, which they aren't. They completely lost my trust.

  • Matt Cleaver

I had good experiences here in the past both for treatment and boarding for my cat. However the last few interactions over the past two years have left something to be desired. I think my cat was over prescribed treatment for cavities requiring unnecessary and costly teeth extractions. Then I received poor consultations over the phone regarding a cat illness and updating vaccines. I am now going to Village West Vet on Western Ave and like it a lot better

  • Jordan Fuller

This has been the only vet office I have taken my new puppy to. I was a little nervous about not being able to go into appointments with her now that there are covid policies in place. The staff and doctors are always super pleasant to talk to on the phone and are very detailed in walking you through everything since you can’t be at the appointment in person. They are easy to contact and schedule appointments with. I would absolutely recommend this vet!

  • Cookiepookie Lee

I have been coming here for 10 years now since my dog was a puppy. Despite the fact they changed to appointment only, they’re super slow and never stick to their appointment time. Absolutely no respect for their customer’s time. This has happened way too many times already. I am still ok with them not adhering to appointment time but k feel sad for my pup who shivers the whole time in anxiety. Too bad a good vet clinic cannot control their tardiness.

  • Alicia Arrick

I'm a big fan of Animal Care Center. When I first came to then, I had a senior collie and cat with several health issues. Dr. Krol and team took such good care of them and were so attentive when it their times came and we could do no more. I've since adopted two cats from Animal Care Center and have received the same great care. I've recommended them to many of my friends who are also now loyal patients/clients.

  • Jonathan Bruha

The groomer at this location is nothing short of fantastic. She seemed genuinely excited and interested in taking great care of our pet and we were thrilled with the way the cut turned out. Only lost star is for the animal hospital. The staff seems so miserable to be there that I wonder how they're being treated by their superiors. Still, they do a great job with my animals.

  • Kelsey Farkvam-Adams

Animal Care Center of Chicago has always been a great place to take our dog since the time we adopted him. They are always very helpful and the prices are very reasonable too. It is also very convenient as you don't need to schedule an appointment. If something comes up, you can take your pet in asap and be seen. I definitely recommend them.

  • ryan woods

Phenomenal staff and treatment! Highly recommended- everyone who works there loves every animal; you can just tell! Wouldn't ever consider going to a new vet. Animal Care Center of Chicago was able to diagnose our dog, Remmington, when numerous different veterinaries couldn't when he had a major medical issue.

  • Anna Yonkelowitz

Dr. Niemiec was wonderful. He took his time discussing all the available treatment options and pricing for my dog’s condition, even taking into consideration our current situation at home (with a newborn) and providing recommendations to save us extra money. I would highly recommend!!

  • Meredith Freyre

VCA has been wonderful to our two dogs. 2 cancerous tumors, 1 intestinal blockage, lots of teeth cleanings, vaccines, multiple 2-3 week boarding stays ....we went here for everything. They saved our dog's life as she was not expected to survive - we will be forever grateful.

  • Aly Wade

The Care Center was well maintained and took in my cat last minute. However, the service is slow and they did multiple tests we had to pay for, but at time of drop off only one was mentioned and approved by us. Also, we had to visit the vet

  • Twania Brewster

During COVID, my cat was seen and evaluated with my safety and the safety of their staff in mind. The vet called while I waited outside in my car and my cat was on the examination table in front of the vet to talk through his prognosis and

  • Yara Batarny

My dogs have been going here for the past 3 years or so. Lets just say they are the best with everything. Everytime I call them with issues that my dogs have, they always help out. I hate going to other vets because the vca staff are like

  • David W. Miller

My experience here was pretty good but not amazing. The wait was a bit long about 20 minutes past my scheduled time. Not bad. The doctor was a bit rushed but also liked her. She seemed to have a pretty straightforward attitude, but didn't

  • Juliyana Fridline

I’ve been here many times in the last several months and have been very happy with the service. My dog Bailey has always been treated very well and the staff has always answered all of my questions — no matter how ridiculous my questions

  • Debbie Jang

Top notch standard of care. I love the team and staff here. They take the time to explain things until you're comfortable no matter how long it takes. My French bulldog had several surgical procedures done here, and the team was amazing

  • Caitlin King

I am absolutely infatuated with this vet center. We moved to the city in July of 2013 and since then have tried and failed three previous vets before finally moving to Animal Care Center. Every single staff member I have interacted with

  • Mihir Bhayani

I am so disappointed in the service this facility has provided since they shifted to corporate care model. My dog is very anxious and requires a lot of work on my part to get him evaluated. In order to make appointments he needs some

  • David Orr

This place seems to be having problems with new ownership. Twice now I have received a string of emails about a shot that was due for my dog. I call promptly to make an appointment for the shot. When I arrive for the appointment I am

  • Antonia Asimis

Great service! Place is very clean and the staff kind and caring. Pricey, but I guess your paying for the area. Doctor's are young although very knowledgeable. Good hours. Highly Recommend.

  • M E

Dr Tang gave me complete and detailed instruction about my cat’s condition. She also helped me schedule and prepare for the appointment with cardiologist under a really tight schedule.

  • Lindsay Demmon

Big thank you to Liz and Dr. Padilla-Velez for making a very sad day okay for us. Thank you for your kindness and compassion, we won’t forget how nice our experience was!

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