Reviews of Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital (Hospital)

Teoni Swan

Both Alex and Dan are caring and compassionate vets. Alex helped treat my 19 year old cat splizzy at the end of his life. She explained everything in detail when the time came to lay splizzy to rest. Dan saw my cat jagermeister and had to give me the unfortunate news that he had a mass in his stomach. He was honest about the outcomes of possible treatment. No pressure at all to remove the mass. As I loved jagermeister so much if he had recommended and told me it would be worth it to remove it and treat the cancer i would have done it. But he was honest that at age 14 the chances of recovery would be low and only give Jager a short time of life. Where unfortunately I think some vets may take advantage of the situation. I would highly recommend both vets and won't hesitate to take my other cats here. The receptionist Chelsey is also very friendly which makes a huge difference when dealing with stressful situations.

Derek Bodner

Dog likes the vet..

Deb Canuck

I don't think you can make our experience better. Everyone is diligently following CoVid Safety, in my opinion, more than is minimally required. I feel safe and all of my health questions are answered. I am very happy I chose you to be our veterinarians.

Robyn Y

Dr. Alex is the best vet we’ve ever had or heard of. She has consistently gone over and above the call of duty to provide the best care for our cats, calling us on the weekend when test results come in and even consulting with internal medicine specialists when necessary. We are eternally thankful for her help and know that as our cats age, they are in the absolute best hands with Dr. Alex. We also give huge kudos to the staff in the clinic, who are always extremely friendly and helpful. It is always a pleasure. We recommend Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital to everyone we know!

Sara Dobbyn

My animals were treated poorly and the vet told me nothing that I couldn’t tell myself. Will never go here again, very skimpy on details and unprofessional.

Michelle

Able to get me in quickly, explained everything to me and gave me the opportunity for questions. I didn’t feel like they just wanted to get us through and out, nor did I feel that they did any unnecessary diagnostics, just to tack it on to the bill. They also called the next day to check in. They came recommended by a friend and I would recommend them as well. Great vet that actually cares about the animals, not just getting your money. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Will be staying with this vet.

Garry Shaw

A very caring and amazing staff.

Y. George Yousif

Excellent staff, friendly and professional.

Nikki Anderson

They are friendly and great with our pets, they have always been great and have fair pricing.

Scott Challis

No surprises, good parking, friendly vets.

Cheryl Ashby

Received terrible news but it was done with love and compassion. They followed up to see how we were making out as well.

Jeff Hoard

Very friendly with the pooch

Cher Rowe

Huge RAVE to Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital for their absolute compassion and support with the recent diagnosis of my 10 year old cat Oliver. Throughout the 10 years of bringing Oliver to see them, they have been nothing but kind, honest, transparent, and compassionate. With his recent kidney disease diagnosis, Dr. Alex and Dr.James were great at explaining the diagnosis in a way we could understand, along with treatment options and expected outcomes, and were never pushy on us to make any specific decisions. They offered endless support on the best care that worked for us and for our cat, which helped us navigate a sudden change in lifestyle. Along with the rest of the nurses and front end staff - everyone we dealt with along this journey has been friendly and supportive, while always making us feel that they had our and our cat's best interest at heart. After Oliver's recent passing, we were surprised and overwhelmed with appreciation to receive a lovely signed card from the entire staff with a personalized note with condolences for our little Oliver. It made us feel so special and thought of at a sad time for us, and is the reason we will choose to use them with any of our future pets, and encourage our friends and family to do so as well. Thank you again Dr.Alex and Dr.James, as well as your entire team, for making us feel like our little guy will be remembered and cherished.

Brian Kates (Big B)

Dr Alex & James are wonderful people. The front staff are very friendly and happy to talk and answer any questions. Absolutely a delight to deal with. I would highly recommend to any pet owners in need of Veterinary Services in the Nanaimo North area. Good job to you and your team!!

chris jensen

We love this place. And Dr. Dan is outstanding! Staff is a relief and comfort..... Especially after previous vet experiences!!! We feel VERY fortunate to have found you <3 YOU CANNOT FIND BETTER! so happy ????

Stevie L

Have taken my dog here for 6 years now. The ownership has changed but the service & care is STILL top notch. Highly recommend.

Kay Stewart

I called here yesterday for a VA school assignment to ask some questions about a spay, and I was blown out of the water! The receptionist was so speedy, friendly, and knowledgeable, she gave me so many answers and then provided me with so much information - she told me stuff I didn't even know I should know about! Great lady, and great information! Thank you for taking time out of your day yesterday to help out a student and to give her loads of useful information! :)

Jennifer Mounsey

We love Dr.Alex! She takes such great care of our little pup Meeka

Moriah Colby

We have been bringing our pets for 5 years. We used to see Dr. Hayward exclusively and then had to branch out when he got too busy, but all of the other vets we've seen have been excellent. Dr. Kirkham is our new favorite!

Kathy Reilly

The veterinarians at Nanaimo Vet Hospital are very caring and gentle with the pets and I have found that the wait list for appointments is reasonable. I also like that they are in the healing business, not the pet food business as so many others seem to be.

Wanda Przyczyna

Very friendly compassionate atmosphere. Professional care. Dr. Alex is awesome! Glad I've found them after moving into Nanaimo.

Laurel Henderson

You have the best Staff and Doctors in Nanaimo. My Puppies Loki and Lady love you . Thank you just for being you and going the extra mile right now. Stay Safe Please. Laurel ,Alex and Art

Beverley Saindon

????☺️ Wonderful caring staff! During this Pandemic they have gone above and beyond, not only with COVID Protocols, but with their kind wonderful service. My Harmony has suffered a huge intracranial brain mass since Oct 2019 at only 1.5 yrs of age. Though we've dealt with a Neurologist on the mainland for the mass itself, Nanaimo Vet has taken extra precautions with helping Harmony & I thru this trying, still dangerous time. The Vet's extra advice, cautions with diet, water, socializing & allowing him to get his nails trimmed there for infectious reasons, as well as her calmness, has made a huge impact on us!❣️ Thank you Nanaimo Vet. ????☺️????

Kayla Dorfer

Dr. Hayward is the only vet I trust with my rats. He is so gentle and knowledgeable and you can tell he loves what he does.

Lesley Gallagher

Couldn't be bothered to try and get 2 dogs in for their vaccines so they could be boarded, due to a house fire. Thanks so much.

Janine Eva

Really great staff! Dr. Dan was so friendly and informative. The staff answered all our questions and were able to seen our pup right away. Great experience! Already recommended to a fellow pet owner.

Haley Young

They are absolutely incredible, we have never had a bad expierience. They are always very friendly and happy to help. My dog doesn't even mind going to the vet

Kalakbar

Great service. Very safe covid-19 protocols. Friendly staff.

Randy White

Such friendly people who truly care about one's pets. We've been taking all our pets here since 2001????

Haley R.

Very thorough and the vets help educate you about your pet and it’s behaviour. Dr Alex and Dr Harrison were amazing.

Gwen O'Leary

Was great. Got in quickly even though we'd never been - bill was reasonable - the vet was informative and kind. Counter staff were very nice.

Les Taylor

From the Dr's to the staff every thing was excellence.Thank you.

Belle Pierce

Super nice people they made the whole appointment streamlined and easy to get the kitty checked out

Maria Frost

Our 10 year old labradoodle recently received dental cleaning under full anesthetic. We felt assured that Hannah was cared for by highly professional staff. No unnecessary procedures were ordered. Recovery was uneventful and Hannah now has sparkling white teeth and healthy gums.

Nina Zurita

They treated my lucy well and even stopped because she was in too much pain, and rescheduled her for sedation. Very accommodating.

Chris Buechler

We've always had a positive experience for us and our dog. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and great with our Greyhound!

Carol Bennett

They have become an extension of our family, through caring for my pet. It's like having many aunts and uncle who support, nurture, and provide the ultimate care for my dog. They always greet us with a friendly smile, and encourage dialogue flow which provides an enhanced learning environment for us. It's the extra things that take our experience beyond just medical care for our dog. These folks always lead with empathy, for both the animal, and owners too, a rare experience in this world! Bravo, highly recommended.

Rosalie Tandy

Dr. Alex and her staff are kind, friendly, knowledgable & organized. Thank you Dr. Alex for everything you have done for Rusty and for being so compassionate towards him with his anxiety. Rusty has had his teeth cleaned here, which went very well and also started a new diet which has significantly helped with his tummy issues. Thank you for taking such great care of my boy!

Heather Makus

I was happy with the appointment. The doctor explained everything and offered all options.

Dawson Jury

The staff at Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital are unmatchably kind, knowledgable and personable! I am so overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for their elevated level of care and attention to our Border Collie puppy, Kelly. From the very first phone call I knew that this was going to be our Veterinary clinic of choice moving forward. Initially, I spoke to a lovely woman who was genuinely excited to speak with me and answer any questions that I had- she made me feel like I was of the utmost importance, and that she had all of the time in the world to discuss questions and concerns in regard to Kelly's spay. Dr. Dan is so, so great! From our virtual consultation to the surgery itself, he surpassed all of my expectations. He's a passionate and dedicated vet who we feel so fortunate to have found. Loyalty earned, big time. Thank you to the entire Nanaimo Veterinary Team!

Marilyn Crouse

Staff and Vets are always friendly, courteous, and caring! We’ve always judged Sophie’s care by her response, and she gets very excited to visit Everyone at Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital. They are very reasonably priced for the excellent care given our little Sophie!

Jessica Stokes

Dr. Alex is an excellent vet and always treats my four animals like family. She’s so positive and focused and has consistently provided them with top-notch care several years. The ladies at the front desk are also incredibly helpful, responsive, and kind. Even though the practice is really busy, they are always pleasant to speak with and genuinely interested in the health of my pups and kitties. Ordering food and medication is easy and the vet tech’s sort out any issues quickly - I often don’t even have to ask. The entire staff are wonderful people. I’m very grateful for this vet practice.

Danielle Dodsworth

Always being my animals here they are so kind compassionate and amazing with any animal they treat. Thank you love you all.

Bre

Everyone has always been so very kind and helpful! I feel that my pets receive the best possible care, and have no suggestions for improvements.

nancy makuk

We were happy with our experience with your hospital. Thank you! The staff, right from the front desk to Dr. Alex herself were great. Dr. Alex gave Annie a thorough exam and took the time to explain everything to me. Even Annie liked her! Thanks again. You have happy new clients. ????????

Petunia PuddleDuck

Very rabbit savvy! Friendly and helpful staff.

Laura Buechler

I trust all the staff at NVH to take the best possible care of our dog. They are so kind and caring.

Nicole Currie

They are thoughtful and take the time to make your pet feel comfortable. Our dog has high anxiety about going and they are always amazing with her.

Tammie O'Rourke

Love the new owners very caring and knowledgeable.

Erin Oman

I have been with this vet hospital for 9years. We had our Sophie there till the end and they made it so peaceful to let her get her wings. Now we have our little Wren that is great and they listen to her talk back attitude. All the staff are very caring and even the one that have left miss them.

Judy K

The Best Care by Far! I have taken my animals to other area veterinary clinics over the last decade, but none compare to the consistently high standard of care and concern that I have experienced at the Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital. The Dr's and the Veterinary Assistants have spent time researching alternative foods and medicines for my animals.. providing me with multiple choices when possible. They also understand that cost is a consideration and that most people don't have unlimited funds. If that isn't enough, they actually care about the animals and their quality of life. It is Very common to receive phone calls from the Drs, checking on my pets and the progress of any treatment and inquiring about their comfort. They do understand that many people regard their pets as family members and are respectful of that. I highly recommend this group of Caring Professionals.

Inkyfingers Papercrafts

NVH has very kind, gentle, and patient staff and they are so helpful in taking good care of our greyhound.

Alison Nahanee

Dissappointed my dog had surgery and I asked for his ears to be tested they were not . They tattooed in a ear that was not cleaned that I asked to be tested sent home no pain meds . My dog had complications from his neuter I called them they never called me I told them off my concerns. Still no call back. . Ended up at the emergency clinic all night with my dog in distress from a serious ear infection and his neuter. When I called them to let them know I went to the emergency vet . The response was alittle pain for the dog. When the vet finally one week later Called me back dr Hayward blamed me and my breed of dog for the issues . Dr Hayward said giving pain meds was a price gouge from other vets . My dog was in extreme pain had to be muzzled and held down at the emergency vet to swab his ear which I had asked to be done two days previously at his neuter. My dog is on the mend now thanks to the emergency vet for prescriptions of pain meds and prednisone and ear antibiotics. I do not recommend nanaimo vet at all .don't go to dr Hayward he needs to retire hes very rude. . And my name was on the data base till yesterday I had them transfer to island vet to Ken Langalier who likes rottweiler s. And germansheppard s .and doesn't believe that all rottweiler s and sheppard s are bred wrong and they are bad dogs .

Mike petrie

Excellent staff who were caring, thorough and willing to speak with us about any questions or concerns we had. While engaging us in the process of our fur-baby's check up. The Dr had taken the time providing us with an in depth understanding of all options available for her treatment, informing us of the pros and cons of each potential option as well as considering our thoughts and feelings pertaining to each option. while also providing her professional opinion and recommendations. the Dr. performed the most thorough check up we have ever had from any vet. going beyond just looking our dog over in general she took her time to check our GrrrLz teets one by one ensuring the milks colouring and consistency were normal. explaining each thing she examined why and the potential options and personal recommendations. we HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS VETERINARY CLINIC to anyone looking for a vet that is more than just the minimal level of care found in 99% of veterinary clinics on Vancouver Island. Despite this office being an hour and 35 minutes from where we live it is WORTH the extra travel time!

Andrew McNeill

They've looked after my dog Ed since I got him

Heather Clark

We have been going to this vet clinic for so many years and have always had the best service. The front desk staff are so incredibly friendly and helpful and of course caring and the doctors are amazing. We feel so good knowing our pet is getting the best possible treatment at this Vet. Highly recommend to any pet owners.

Shayla

If you have rats or any type of small animal Dr.Hayward is the best person to go to extremly reasonable price( for medication and the exam.. cost me less then just the exam fee at other vets) and really knows about the rats and went above what other vets do to help me with mine, i have tried many vets for my boys and they all need to look online to tell me information that i already know and charge unreasonable prices deffinalty recomed this vet!

Stephen Kass

We have been so pleased with the care that our girls have been getting since we have switched over to Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital. It is great to feel like our veterinary is as concerned of our animals' health as we are and not just a financial transaction.

Sher Roemer

The best vet experience I've had in years. Vet and staff are wonderful to deal with - I highly recommend Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital!

Peggy Hommy

Molly was taken care of. Got her shots check up and worm meds rabies. Staff did great. Very organized and kind.

Gary HOLCOMB

We've been clients of this veterinary hospital for over 25 years. In that time, the staff have always been so knowlegeable, kind, and gentle to our pets with each visit. We worried at first when Dr. Hayward retired if it still would be the same, but have since seen that the new doctors are just great. My husband and I highly recommend them to anyone looking to find good care for their beloved pets. - Elizabeth

S Lyle-Mason

The physicians at Nanaimo Vet hospital are intelligent. They instill me with confidence in their abilities to diagnose and treat my dogs. I have been to many vets and they are my favourite vet practice in Nanaimo. My poodles have seen them for ear infections, pregnancy, ultra sounds, vaccinations, and minor surgery. Reception staff are kind and friendly too.

Katrina Heyes

I honestly dont think my experience could be improved, every time I bring my cat in she is treated with care and everything I need to know is communicated clearly.

Lorraine Alexander

We had to have our dog put to sleep. Dr Alex was excellent. I highly recommend this Veterinary Hospital

Sarah Wright

Great Vet! Everyone is very helpful. Both Dr. Alex Kirkham and James Kirkham are amazing. Very knowledgeable and kind. I would recommend them highly.

Anita H

They were able to get us in on short notice for our chronically ill cat for a shot that makes the difference between her being severely sick or quickly rebounding. We are so grateful and happy that we chose them as our vet. Thanks again!

Matt Rathburn

Do not use dr hayward! All the other vets are great but this guy is a joke the way he treats and talks to patients.

Kayla Long

So happy to have Dr. Alex as our vet! She is very knowledgeable, caring, and takes great care of our pups. All of the staff at Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital are very kind and caring as well. I highly recommend this veterinary hospital to anyone looking!!

Amanda Pankoski

Dr. Brett Hayward has been my veterinarian for nearly 14 years. I trust him entirely with my senior dog. He is very good with animals and cares a great deal about their well being. Him and his staff are very deserving of 5 stars!

Wayne Litke

Docs here are amazing

Geoff “Island Life 2015”

The Doctors and staff are unbelievably excellent, open and transparent. Thank you for your services.

Sid Wolfe

Easy to talk to and deal with. Find them very thorough and competent.

Jean donnelly

I have been with this clinic since moving to Nanaimo in 2011. Very professional and easy to talk to. Very human and animal friendly. Very caring from the front desk to every veterinarian I have been in contact with.

Catherine Burnett

Good care of both our Golden Retrievers.

Sabrina Hornfeldt

Amazing vet hospital. Great veterinarians and staff. Super caring. ☺

Nefara Z

I suffer from anxiety, but I felt comfortable and had a very pleasant time here with my kitten, Ferya. The Vet was thorough and easy to talk too. Highly recommend this place!

Juanita Rogers

Thanks Dr. Daniel! We brought Jasper in to get ears checked under strict COVID limitations; our German Shepherd X is a 100 lb 'chicken' who rarely leaves our side but, with a soft approach, he toddled off without me and was perfectly happy upon return to the truck. Another great male experience in his life - we could not be more appreciative!

Geri sumner

The vets always follow up on the pet’s condition after a procedure.

Kristina Schram

Great friendly staff!

Jess Bajar

They were kind and efficient. Also not money pushers.

Keiks Canada

Great staff!!! They care about you and your pet! I love them:)

Dennis Stumpf

Just keep up the good work

L LS

We were so greatful we found this vet clinic when our cat quickly became very ill. The vet Alex, and receptionists Lane and Mercedes were so kind and compassionate. The level of care Alex showed and to us and our cat was amazing. She took the time to thoroughly explain our cats test recommendations and results, even showing us a video of the ultrasound and the photos from her blood work. On top of that they explained each procedure they were suggesting with zero pressure to financially commit to all of it. In the end we took their recommendations and they saved our kitty at a significantly lower cost than we were quoted at other vet clinics. Such an amazing caring vet clinic we would recommend to anyone!

Mick Kirk

Great vet. The staff is great, Dr Alex is thorough and explains everything. So nice to have found a vet we are all comfortable with

Shanel King

This is, without a doubt, the best Veterinary clinic in Nanaimo. My husband and I brought my elderly (16 years old) cat in after taking over her care and an extremely negative experience at another clinic left me very nervous about bringing her in. Everyone in the clinic is obviously very experienced with dealing with anxious pets and anxious pet owners! Dr. Alex was incredible - detailed, compassionate and thorough, being clear about what she thought was going on with our kitty, while offering a flexible approach to treatment and care. Let's be honest - animals can be expensive. It's nerve-wracking enough to know that something is wrong with our fuzzy friends, let alone the surprise of discovering the expense of treating them sometimes. We have been fortunate enough to be able to follow through with all Dr. Alex's recommendations, but I'd like to highlight that there is not a single instance where we have felt shamed or pressured into doing anything. Dr. Alex shares her best recommendations and has always offered to be flexible, in order to ensure our cat's quality of life is the best it can be, regardless of circumstance. I will always appreciate that about her manner. Everyone in this clinic prioritizes the care of all that visit and offers unbeatable environment of compassion, knowledge and expertise.

Patrick Rhode

Extremely supportive. Spent extra time to discuss concerns and likely outcome of treatment. Called me at home a few days later to follow up re: condition of my dog. Very, very good service.

Tina McCullough

Professional, friendly, helpful and always shows outstanding concern and care for my dog

Diane Brinton

Dr. Hayward and staff get three paws up ♥ from our three doggies. Always friendly and professional. Dr. Hayward tries to find good remedies rather than throwing expensive tests or medicines at a problem.

Emily Houston

Hayward is not professional at all and speaks very poorly to patients. He told my daughter to be quiet when I was already dealing with it. That is not his place. We will not ever be coming back to someone who treats my child like she does not matter. Btw, the child is 2. She was excited to show off her puppy. He as well acted as if we had no prior knowledge to caring for dogs and ignored when I mentioned how I work at a doggy day care and have pet sat for 5+ years.

Bernard Sernier

Helped my grandsons snake when it choked on an egg

Jake from BC

Great place.

Beth Andrews

Always take the time to explain everything well. Good genuine care.

melissa mcdonald

The level of care and attention our animals received at the Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital is absolutely exceptional. The veterinarians, technicians and receptionist are all very professional and caring. I highly recommend this clinic.

Tara Henderson

Very caring Vet clinic. Excellant communication and attention to details. Obvious they love animals!

Ann Marie Clark

This is an amazing place to bring my four legged kids ????. The team is amazing and Dr. Alex is phenomenal!! I completely recommend these guys!

Rob Halsall

The staff here are extremely knowledgeable and it's clear they care very much about the humans and pets that visit them. Keep up the great work folks!

John Staton

I am so happy to have found this Veterinary Hospital. Being new to Nanaimo we were not sure where to take our dog Cooper but had heard very good things about Nanaimo Vet so we decided to bring him here for his check up. The Vet was very thorough and good with my dog. You can tell they really care about the pets. The staff was also very helpful and pleasant. Then later Cooper got sick and they got him in and found out what was going on right away. Now he is doing great. Thank you Nanaimo Vet.

Jason Parasini

I've never felt compelled to write any Google review until my visit to Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Jill Harrison and wonderful staff treated my cat on very short notice when other local clinics were refusing new patients. Dr. Harrison understood my cat was in distress on account of neck wound preventing him from eating. She offered to see him between patients when all other clinics directed me to emergency as my only option. Many thanks to Dr. Jill Harrison and knowledgeable staff at Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital. This is the clinic you can trust to care for your beloved pets.

Linda Townend

Very happy with the care given to my pets. Exceptional service and all of the staff are wonderful

Gary H

Always have head a positive experience. Been going to this hospital for many years. Best recommendation is my dog. Here actually likes going there and shows absolutely no reluctance to going inside.

Patricia McCann

Excellent first experience with Dr. Alex. Impressed with her knowledge and common sense approach with our older "rescue" girl.

Aldo Molina

Super friendly

Phil Lavoie

Brought our dog in with an injury and as usual the vets and staff were great

Ann Whalen

I had my dog's teeth cleaned yesterday and I have to let you all know how impressed I am with this hospital and its staff! My little dog means the world to me (as I'm sure yours does to you too!) and I was apprehensive to have the procedure performed. The Doctor telephoned me when my little one was finished and let me know how he was doing. The call directly from the Doc was great but the book of information was the a big surprise and loaded with information and pictures that gave me so much confidence that I made the right decision to go forward with the cleaning. In the booklet were before and after pictures of my boy...just showing how he looked overall. Then there were before and after pictures of both sides of his mouth showing the teeth before and after. Wow! And, then a chart of all his teeth and their condition. I am so impressed! Thank you Dr. Kirkham and Lori (Veterinary Technician)!

Helen Gregory

Dr. James Kirkham treated us with such kindness and compassion when we had to say goodbye to our lovely dog, Milo. He took the time to talk on the phone at length after we got results back that our dog had cancer and helped us through the difficult time. I would highly recommend Nanaimo Veterinary Hospital.

Shelly Michelly

Have always received professional and friendly service for both myself and my pets. I highly recommend NVH :-)

kyle roberts

Great staff

Roger B

Finally a vet that Junior doesn’t mind going to. Gentle and kind. Thank you, 5 stars.

Edna Chadwick

Dr Alex and Dr James are both excellent vets and have treated a few of my animals and Dr Alex has performed 3 surgeries on them. They listen to concerns and educate rather than lecture. I like that they are a small business and not corporate. I would highly recommend both. The vet techs and front end staff are also very friendly and competent.

Blake Ellis

I have had consistently positive experiences at Nanimo Veterinary Clinic. The staff there are great and both Vets I have worked with have been fantastic.