Reviews of VCA Canada Island Animal Hospital (Hospital)

Nicola Owen

Great place they took care of my daughters gecko

LadyLunah

Staff are knowledgeable and friendly... however they need more vets as in July the first appointment to be had was the middle of September.

Pamela Wilkinson

Nice place and pleasant polite people..

Richard George

Friendly staff, got my friends puppy back to normal by days end

Chris winters

Very impressed. They have great opening hours, which accommodates everyone's schedule. The veterinarians are specialized, super caring and know a ton of cool stuff to help you out. Next time I get sick I'm gonna don a kitty onesie and book myself an appointment here.

Dave McCammon

I've always been happy with the service here... Especially the extented hours and drop off service.

Dustin Burns

Excellent service

Neil Owen

Cat seems to like them and that's good enough for me

Sara Dobbyn

Took my birds here, a very happy experience (not for them though????). Staff was all very nice and very thorough. Knew what they were doing.

Wendy Wind

3mths. ago I paid $10.00 to have my cat's claws trimmed, now on Tuesday I paid $28.00 for the same service. They claimed it was a special ...for the last 3yrs.! Not being told before hand, didn't give me time to shop around. I can only get around on my wheelchair

Becky Lee

Dr Webb was fantastic with our snake. Super informative and showed us exactly how to administer his antibiotics giving us the confidence to do which we were previously afraid of. We traveled from Port Alberni and are super grateful to have such a caring reptile vet within a reasonable distance.

Chal Chen

Friendly, professional, and dedicated staff. Highly recommend them to your fury family members ????

Benjamin Kason

Dr. Large continues to provide us with amazing support and care for our little puppy. Genuine interest being shown through text messages, follow up and expert care. Highly recommended

Chelsea McBride

This is the best vet experience I've ever had. Just moved here and my dog ripped her toenail in half, so I took her in, and it was busy, but I was just on my lunch break (I'm a full time student so it's hard to make any appointments) so they got her in right away. They looked at her nail and gave me instructions of how to take care of it, and they bandaged it up really good, then sent us on our way, NO CHARGE!!! I was really impressed. Everyone was super helpful, and my dog who is usually nervous around strangers even liked them! I will definitely go back to them any time I have a concern about my dog. Highly recommend this vet.

Erin Sowerby Greene

Excellent clinic with friendly and professional staff

Freyr

I was overcharged for a simple x-ray and due to misinformation I was locked into a $1200 loan I was told for the whole procedure when they handed me the bill. That was day 1'w bill. Day 2 came and they gave me a $50 discount on the previous bill. Are you actually kidding me? I had to give up my dog to the spca and was in debt for months. Everyone I tell says any other vet clinic can do better. TL;DR: DO NOT BRING YOUR ANIMALS HERE. FAMILY SHOULD BE TREATED WITH RESPECT!

Jay Labrosse

We just moved here and couldn't find a vet to see our puggle Betty Boo but VCA had time to see her in a pinch . BB was old and we were afraid it was her time and it was .. They were kind and gentle putting our beloved friend to rest . I really felt like they cared . if and when I decide to have another dog I will bring my business to them . Thank you VCA .

Mandy M

I have used Island Vet for every pet I have had while in Nanaimo. I have always found the staff to be patient, kind, and helpful, well beyond what is to be expected. I will not use another veterinary clinic. They are simply the best.

Jay M

We have been bringing out dogs here for awhile and always receive good service ????

Kip Hartwell

Very friendly and compassionate.

sabrinna dupuis

Kindest staff in town!

D K

Have gone here for pet care for 20+ years. Not always the least expensive but the care my pets have received has always been top notch.

Amanda Wall

Fast and polite.Great service but pricey

Bobby F Parihar

Very very sweet staff they all love our dog and kids!

Kendra I.

Awesome place to go, got our cat looked at and didn't sneak other work done that we didnt ask

Jenny Powell

They've looked after my birds and Cat for years and they're awesome

Chickie Babe

Kind & gentle to my miniature chihuahua

myles w

Always been treated well. Staff are very nice and accommodating. My cats have been a few times and don't seem too traumatized from the experience! Only lost a star because i've had some long waits and a couple miscommunications but they weren't world ending. :)

Linda MacLean

They are so good with our dogs. They explain everything, and always super friendly.

Xeeks a deeks

My pet and I were disrespected. Long wait time, high price for unseen results. Proceeded with things without consent or consulting. Vet won't return calls, did not even come back to speak to me after - a tech returned my pet. If you are dissatisfied or feel there is malpractice involved, be aware you are capable of contacting the CVBC (College of Veterinarians of British Columbia) to file a complaint for investigation!

Gabriele Hookey

I had an appointment with my dog yesterday. The visit was not even 4 minute long and it was really nothing done. Short look in the mouth and a short look in one ear. I paid for this bad service an astonishing $ 78.80 plus tax. That is an hourly wage of $1182. Wow I wish I would make this wage. But then I would feel bad taking so much money from people who make a normal, honest living. But I guess we do everything for our animals and I think they know it.

Alan Christensen

Excellent care for our cat Ming.

M Green

Ignoring the fact that they do over-charge for nearly everything and every visit has a $75 charge for just seeing someone, they are pretty horrible. They over-vaccinate, they're disrespectful to owners once they have something to charge them for, and they misdiagnosed 2 pets I came in with on two separate occasions. Once was a lizard with ear mites (I told them what it was and they didn't listen. wouldn't say they were ear mites until the second visit), and the second they actually prescribed my cat flea guard to help with a worms problem (They also said it was the wrong type of worm at first, despite me telling them otherwise). They proceeded to charge me for the worm medication when I came back in, so I got to pay for both. They give little regard to your pet's health and are less accurate then searching symptoms on google, apparently.

Ward Fertuck

They are excellent!!! Highly recommended to any whom need such services!!!

Lou

Waiting rooms are less stressful! ????

Jeremy Loewen

Friendly caring service. Doctors genuinely cared about my Gracie (my border collie).

Melissa Vasey

We've been coming here for a few years now and have seen a lot of the doctors. They have taken good care of our kitties. There have been a couple scheduled appointments where we had to wait around for well over an hour, and the follow-up communication could be improved (especially when a vet is involved), but most of the visits are pleasant. We keep coming back.

Karen Sanders

I would never go back here! Over the course of a few years, two of my pets were misdiagnosed and after considerable expense, they died shortly after. Both times, it was the same vet, a woman.

Susan Alexander

Always friendly and helpful and attentive to your pets needs.

Tiffany McLaughlin

Our dog loves going to the vet! The treats and attention get him excited. The staff are really good with him and us and I was pleased with the lengthy consultation we had on Friday. Our boy is almost 16 and needs meds to manage his arthritis and we're happy with the solutions presented to us.

Clara Jankowiak

We were visiting the island and found a fawn on the side of the road that was hit by a car. Being unfamiliar with the area we gave VCA a call and the staff were very professional and accommodating. We brought the fawn in and are very impressed with the calm demeanour of the staff and friendly service they provided. Thank you!

Sam Wilson

Our 13 GSD with mobility issues had a stroke like episode and so we called the vet around 7pm. They said for us to call first thing in the morning as they leave spots open each day. We called in the morning, booked an appointment through SHANE for 10am. We received a call back from SHANE saying they had a scheduling conflict and to come in at 12:30 for a drop off. We clearly stated dropping our old guy off was not an option. They still said ok see you at 12:30 and the doctor will see him before surgery. We get there and then they put us in an exam room. We wait 30 minutes before I went into the lobby to find out whats up. The front desk girls said oh the doctor didnt start work until 1pm and just now was arriving. Annoying but whatever. 20 more minutes go by and finally a tech came in to take our dog into the back where a vet would see him when they had time. We asked for the vet to come out instead as there was no way to do an accurate assessment without a history. Any person could identify he had mobility issues. The tech came back after asking the vet and she said she didnt have time for him. I asked to speak with SHANE and apparently she was no longer in the building so another worker with no insight in the situation came out and just kept talking and making it seem as though it was my error in coming in. Overall the experience was terrible and compounded by our terribly ill dog who was stressed to the max for the entire hour we were waiting. You could literally see the fear in his eyes that these were his last moments. There solution was wait around (possibly hours) for a different doctor who may have time or to go to an emerg vet.

Clare Hunter

VCA is the only vet in Nanaimo that routinely sees rodents and other exotic pets and so I had no choice but to take my rat there when she developed an abscess on her back end near her tail. They were good with getting her in the same day and seeing her but all they did was give me antibiotics. They didn’t attempt to drain the abscess and so obviously it didn’t get better. I called again and asked them to drain it and they said they don’t normally do that with rats and the abscess should go down with antibiotics and i should just keep giving her the medicine. Well the abscess burst because they didn’t drain it and then they wanted to charge me $350 to get it stitched up but it wasn’t a guarantee it would even work. Plus she likely wouldn’t survive the anesthetic since rats don’t react well to being put out and she’s about 2 years old. Long story short if they weren’t so damn lazy and drained it in the first place i wouldn’t be getting her put to sleep. I have already spent $200 on the examination combined with the antibiotics. All they want is money and they do not care about my pet’s wellbeing.

Dawn Turner

Very helpful and professional. You can tell the vets really love the animals and care about their owners. Front staff is great, too.

Michael O'Mahoney

Where we take our pets.

James Browne

Helped a friend take her injured dog in, great staff super helpful. Jill the Vet explained everything quite well ran tests and had us out with medications in no time and a follow up plan if things don't show signs of improvement. Super work.

Shana Watson

Waited a fair while but the vet we saw was knowledgeable and compassionate, didn't make our visit feel rushed. Would definitely go back and will recommend to friends!

Fern Way of Life “or” Vancouver Island

Wow! Did this vet office ever go down the drain. We have been taking our many pets to VCA for over 15 years. In the last couple of months we haven't even been able to make an appointment. They say they are under staffed. We went else where. Recently we had an urgent medical concern with our elderly poodle who has been seen by this vet since birth. They said the first available appointment was a month away. Seriously, even for a long time customer with a sick dog you can't squeeze him in? We booked the appointment and also took our dog to another vet for temporary relief. We knew this issue wasn't going to be an easy solution so we wanted to go back to the vet office our dog was familiar with. After waiting a month for our booked appointment VCA called and cancelled our dogs appointment. How uncaring and unprofessional can you be????

Cindy Griffin

We got squeezed in on the weekend with a very sick dog. The vet and staff were extremely calm and caring, and even very kind when delivering sad news.

cathy bird

Open on Sunday for emergency, even though we use another vet. They followed up the o over the next few days to make sure all was well

Lisa G

Paid $760.00 for just one single xray of my ferrets chest plus 150.00 dollars for a "specialist" to read the xray for the vet to basically tell me shes not sure why my ferrets have a cough. She have him something for a lung infection and let me go (medication was $60.00) well my ferret has heart failure and has 8 monthes to live but the couldnt figure that out . when i tokd them he had heart failure they wanted me to pay another 770 dolkars for another xray... When i had already oaid for one . well because i gave them a bad review on facebook stating my ferrets mis diagnosis they will no lonher see my dying ferret . what a joke of a vet if i could give zero stars i would

Peggy Hillyer

Good

jody gallaher

We had to say good bye to our border collie due to cancer and the ladies here were superb. They were so respectful and calm/quiet. I would definitely recommend these guys to anybody.

Jylevi Keith

Thank you for looking after fella so good hes super healthy and every second day I give him finely minced fresh frozen fillet

LK Lewis

So caring ❤

Alana W

Fantastic service, got us in just before closing as our poodle is very sick, Dr.Wintermute was wonderful and so caring for our sick puppy.

Nadiya P

Ive been going to island vet for 6 years now. Im still happy with how wonderful the vet team is.

Meagan Ashley

Terrible vet office! ! I brought my dog in and he came out worse than he went in. The vet is clearly all about money and they don't care about the animals. I've heard alot of horror stories about them and I just lived through one with my dog. Will never go back!

Kailyn Macdonald

Although I have now relocated to Vancouver, I would not hesitate to call Island Animal Hospital when on the island with my cat. They were wonderful to both me and my cat, and quickly helped assess and diagnose his urinary issues. They are honest and compassionate, and especially helpful as it was my first time adopting an animal. They continuously followed up and were always an e-mail or phone call away for any questions or concerns. I'm thankful for the team at Island Hospital for treating my cat like he was their own and wasting no time ensuring he was back to his hungry, messy, playful self. I'm thankful for the resources they provided me to best care for Mickey!

KoRy Mckie

Expensive, but the staff is frickin amazing, and they make my kitty feel safe

Lucas Thiel

Always a great experience they really try to do the best they can

Jessica Bruno

Been going to VCA for a few years now and the service they provide is exemplary. My dog actually loves going there, the staff are wonderful and knowledgeable (and suckers for bully breeds ????) and they give outstanding medical attention to my pets. Highly recommended.

Katie Moss

Fairly quick appointments, helpful staff.

joe figel

Front desk staff has a bad attitude. Avoid this business, plenty of other vets around.

Talon Thompson

Not all that impressed. Moved to town Ap 1 and have been here twice as I have two dogs. I was surprised that my dogs were not seeing the same doctor. When I inquired I was told that unless you request it, and okay with waiting longer for an appointment, then you get who you get. All very impersonal. Neither time did the vet even bother to come out and say hello so I can at least put a face to the person I am trusting my pets with. Small things as well, I specifically spelled my new pups name out and when I got home I noticed it was wrong on the paperwork. I brought her in a crate and was handed her back without the crate. This is because there are several employees behind the counter and you may not get the same one. Had it been the same person shed known. Its the impersonal, MacDonalds of the vet world that I am feeling here. We have another appoint Thursday because older dog needed a refill and because the vet was not the same, he needs to come in again. Will see what happens Thursday and decide whether to pull them out and seek a better solution for our family. Strange as our incredible vet in Victoria recommended this place. Update for June 24 2021: My husband took our other dog for his appointment today as I just couldn't go back there. When he checked our dog in, he gave them HIS phone number to call when ready. I was surprised at home to receive the call that our dog was ready. I called my husband who was sitting in the car waiting for them to call, he laughed and said, "I gave them my number and told them to call it" Again not a huge deal but really seems there is too much going on there with little to no communication amongst staff or to pet owners. BUT what was a huge deal was that the vet WASNT even there even though I was told she/he would be and that is why we made this appointment. So a technician looked at our dog, we assume took a sample of his ear yeast but then couldn't do a damn thing as the vet wasn't there to see the sample. The tech said maybe the vet is in tomorrow - he didn't even know. Unbelievable that no one has any idea what anyone else is doing. Found another Vet recommended by a dear friend. So outta this place. Stay away.

Lorri Mariposa

Not fantastic with dogs that have socializing issues. The doctors are pretty good once your in there but it takes time.

Paige Labrecuqe

Always so kind and caring to my cat

Anne Benoit

Where your pet is first

Mikayla Hogg

Ever so grateful for their quick response with my dogs, I just moved to the area and needed to take both my dogs to a vet. Called many clinics and no one was able to schedule me in. Kind Dr. Harrison pushed back her lunch break to see my dogs and was ever so great with them. One of my dogs is nervous with strangers, but he did well with them which shows me how much care they put into making pets comfortable. "Thank you" really does not express my gratitude for this wonderful team of people at this clinic

Mark McInnes

Friendly and polite. Easy to recommend to anyone looking for a good clinic.

mark nieuwejaar

Over all having a bunny is classified as an exotic animal, so having two bunnies is expensive, The costs are minimal considering our pets are our kids in our family, things like head tilt & a nasty eye bacteria in the male was as shocking as the female having to have her reproductive organs removed to keep the cancer from killing her. So we know the doctors didn't get through their schooling for free so were happy to up the necessary money to see our pets are happy healthy & wholesome though sometimes we don't know how were going to come up with the money...our bunnies love the spa...

Bobby & Sally Parihar

Thank you all so much for your care and love for my dog! She's a happy camper and Dr. Large is the best!!

Francine Baker

Thank you to the staff for squeezing Summer in for her hurt paw.

Denise Angrignon

amazing vet clinic!!! so worth the hour drive for my pets to get such amazing treatment.

Taylor Suther

Incredibly kind and caring staff. Always accommodating and making sure animals come first.

Eagle Junior

Maybe the most expensive one around, but they seem quite professional and were able to save our cat who needed critical care.

Jonny Trangen

Horrible staff members . That have no respect for people .

Christopher Stymiest

The staff is very friendly and helpful, they took excellent care of our ill cat.

Miles Kehoe

Great vets, good bedside manner so to speak, and reasonably priced for great care! Have had 4 dogs and 3 cats through them, all long lived and happy healthy animals!

Mark Kuzminski

Always excellent care of my fur baby Charley!

Leon Davis

Great knowledgable and caring doctors and staff.

Adam Holt

Amazing staff! My dog can be a handful sometimes especially new places, but he was so laid back in this atmosphere and was so calm for the vet and staff. I would highly recommend this facility for you K9 companions needs.

Priscilla Johnson

Absolutely no compassion when told that cat needed to be euthanized from long-spread cancer. While my cat was on the table waiting for the injection, one staff member had the gall to bring me the debit machine to process payment over top of my cat before proceeding. Are you kidding me??? I will never return to this clinic.

Jays A Drummer

Very happy with Island Vets! My dog Bella broke her dew claw and even though they were booked all day they still took her in.

Matthew lysakowski

Waited to long to see vet and then charged seventy dollars for 17 pain pills for our dogs joint pain. This did not include the visit charge. Plus the vet tells us she needs a tooth extraction. We saw another vet a month later she could find no problems with her teeth. Just got the impression they were looking for anything to get an extra charge out of us. Wont ever return.

James MacKenzie

Staff were very kind and helpful, I would definitely bring my pets back to them. Seemed like they really cared about helping our pet cat to the beat of their abilities.

Chris DieBold

Turn me away because I'm on disability and was short on just exam fee, then called SPCA on me for neglect! I've been nursing my service dog as best I can, she has pain medication, 24/7 care and attention but what she needs is being withheld! Pitiful!!!!

Nicole B

Professional staff. My cat had mouth surgery and was given excellent care. I am happy we chose this animal clinic.

Sher Roemer

Helpful, responsive, caring, professional, friendly, reachable....what more can I say. Kona and I thank you for the outstanding care. And I love the app, which in the middle of the night was able to help an unsure puppy mom. Highly recommend this great group of animal health care providers. Thank you!

Cactus Flower

I brought my 9 month old Boston Terrier in last week. He needed to have three staples put into his rear hind leg as he cut it while we were at the beach playing ball. The staff were so friendly and accommodating. They got Rudy in in less than an hour. I had taken him to another vet in town and they told me it would be up to 4 hour wait before anybody could even look at him. I would recommend Vancouver Island veterinarian to everyone. Definitely five star service!

Kevin Campbell

We took our Dog in and found the veterinarian very helpful. Our dog had a cut on his tail and other issues from being abused in a high kill shelter in California which he was rescued from. We paid well over 300 dollars which was fine as we got some needed medicines as well. We were told by the Vet to come by tomorrow not making an appointment and she would check our dogs tail and rebandage at no charge. We thought this was very nice and we're thinking of bringing all our animals. My Wife took our dog in they checked and bandaged the tail. She went home and we were called saying my wife had left without paying. So I told her what we were told. But they insisted we were wrong even though three of us heard what she told us. Looks like the customer is always wrong here. We will be paying the 50 dollar rebandage fee tomorrow and the search is on for a reputable vet. Anyone know an honest one in Nanaimo?

Jessica Barak

The vets and techs we have encountered with our cat have been very pleasant and competent. The reason for the 3 stars is the wait time to pay. Both times we've been in with our cat, and a couple other times getting food, I have waited over 15 minutes to pay. I understand that the animals come first but perhaps they need more help at the desk.

Sonya Halan

Excellent care for your pets. Took my tiny chihauhua/yorkie puppy in with dehydration and they immediately started treatment. No payment was necessary before treatment, unlike the Central Island Immergency Hospital.

Robert Collins

The vets here are very knowledgeable and friendly.

Peggy Grant

Always have great care for my animals here.

Jessica Short

Ken is fantastic, the only vet in town who will see reptiles and he is excellent.

Donnie Bouchard

I had to bring my girl of Twenty one years in put down decmember and they took excellent care of her. She had to have surgery on her eye when she was almost 19 when she had galucoma and her eye was swelling so bad it times was 3x the normal pressure in her eye afterwards when it was done she has such a great couple years of life left after that and it gave me almost 2 yrs with the most loving and loyal girl that was more than a cat to but a daughter and just want to say thank you. For taking care of my little girl

Wanda-lee Tindall

Beautiful

Kathy Tucker

Thank you for taking such good care of my Sammy. It was great that you called a week after his surgery to make sure he was doing well. Thank you Dr. Large for the follow up call when I had questions after his 2 week post surgical appointment.

Devin Watson

Had my cat microchipped here. On the phone they told me they would deal with registering the chip with the proper organizations. When I picked up my cat, they handed me a stack of paperwork, that I didn't notice until I got home included a form for registering the chip. I filled this out, and returned to the hospital as the form stated I needed to provide them with a copy of the registration. The secretary seemed confused by this, and told me I could just do that online and did not need to provide them with a copy. My issue here is that microchipping a pet must be a pretty common, standard procedure, yet my time was wasted because staff apparently don't know the standard procedure for this service, or didn't bother to communicate that with me. This does not inspire confidence for the quality of care if my pet required anything more serious. I doubt I will return to this hospital in the future.

Maria McLeod

The staff is really friendly and helpful, and the vets are knowledgeable and kind. I have been there with both my cats and guinea pigs, and they have always received great care.

CDenisebb

First Time this week awesome folks great service msuper treatment we will make this our go to VET Thank You

H News

ONE STAR IS TOO MANY...Horrible brought my cat in to get spayed and instead they told me I have to deal with her dental which will be 1,500+ and didn't spay her ..now she pregnant again ..WASTE OF TIME ...I WILL NEVER GO THERE AGAIN .. TELLING EVERYONE WHAT HORRIBLE SERVICE.

Kabrienne Eremondi

The staff is thorough and so friendly. I highly recommend them for your furry friends!

Sarah-Ann LePage

This is a great place to bring your animal for all of its needs. The staff here are friendly and knowledgeable. They treat your pets as family and they are very responsive to the animals needs. I recommend this place highly.

matt mcmillan

Friendly caring staff. Quality service and follow up.

Jason Van Wyck

It's been a horrible experience taking my rescue dog to this place, rude and judgmental front staff and the female vet barely looked at my dog and they overcharge on everything. I had to remove a bandaged splint they put on and they use tape directly to the dogs hair and skin my poor dog was yelping taking this off, that's why they don't let u see what's going on when they take your pet. This place is a definite -10 stars if that was an option. Not only will I find somewhere else to go I will be telling every pet owner I encounter about this business of profits and disrespect. (Sorry i meant to say animal hospital but the truth came out first.) I make min wage and they don't care they want money and made my dog experience pain when it wasn't necessary, maybe 8 years of school isnt enough for some vets, and where do they get the cashiers from?....Donald Trump

Elena Steele

Love the people , excellent service , always a great greeting and very kind

maggie mountain

Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. I had my cat spayed here through the SPCA S.N.I.P. program, they even trimmed her nails!

robin richer

Great staff

Coral Taylor

Wonderful and caring staff! Very compassionate and knowledgeable.

Simply Syleena

We brought our 18 month old female cat in to have her Polydactyl toes looked at - I had a feeling one of them was grown around and into her foot underneath - The vet came in and looked at the toe - said he would suggest surgery to have that one removed which is what I wanted an estimate for. He clipped the one bad one and said it would buy us a few months which I could then save for the surgery. He spent a total of 3-4 minutes with us, said he'd be right back with an estimate and then left. My cat and I waited for 20 minutes in the room before going out to the main reception to see what was going on. The lady went into the back for about 8 minutes, comes out and says "Im sorry, I'm not sure what happened, he's really busy today, can we email the estimate to you?" So I said yes. The lady then rang up the bill and I paid. I commented on how expensive it was for the doc to look at my cat's paw for 3-4 minutes and clip her claw. The lady then said..... "Well maybe you should go to school for 8 years and then you can be bringing in that type of money" with a smirk on her face. I was in shock, who says that to a client that is paying them money and giving them business? What type of person would basically insult a client by insinuating that they are under educated and aren't financially well off because they comment on the price of a check up? Anyway, I was and still am appalled with the service I received that day. To top everything off, I never did receive the emailed estimate, I called 2 weeks later and it was never even entered into my cat's file, so she then again promised an emailed estimate. a week later still nothing. I then wrote a review online somewhere about what happened and the next day I received the emailed estimate. Coincidence? Not sure. I do know that I will be moving my business with both of my Cat's to another Vet who actually cares and respects their patients. They left me feeling unsure, embarrassed and insulted.

emiliano jr terrado

Seriously displeased by their service! I came in to get the secondary booster shots for my kitty and they informed me that I was too late in coming in. NOBODY clarified to me the first time around that I had to be coming in again in EXACTLY 4 weeks or the previous treatment would be void. NOBODY asked to set up an appointment with me before I left that day to make sure this wouldn't have become an issue. And NOBODY gave me a call, or sent me any emails (when it's there on file) to make sure this date would be met. And when booking this second appointment on the phone (they pulled up his file to check something) NOBODY mentioned to me then that this would be a completely pointless after-work mission. The vet didn't even have the nerve to settle or explain this issue with me herself, which is my biggest problem! You'd think that might be because she was too busy.... But I was THE ONLY person there. So the lady behind the front desk offered me "a couple" of options. Which was essentially one option of re-doing and re-paying for the entire set of boosters all over again. No kidding. $$$$$$$ ????????

Kimber Bradbury

We have just started taking our puppies here and we love it, we have Doctor Jill, who is just lovely, even before our first appointment I had some concerns with some puppy digestive issues and they told us to come in to get something. Worked great, they are just the best for our Mork and Mindy.

Alicia E

They were very friendly staff both on the phone and in person and very informative about our animal as it is our first time owning a guinea pig. The location was easy to find and had a lot of parking options. The facility itself was wheel chair accessable very clean and organized and there was more than enough room to social distance. I will be going back and would recommend to others as well.

Jay Hart

I called in a panic because my sons pet rat was wheezing and squeaking with every breath. They took her in immediately and treated her with antibiotics. Everyone was very good, from the first phone call to arranging for pick-up. Thanks for the care. Not every vet will see rodents, I'm glad these folks do!!

Dawn Diamond

They took my dog in and looked after her when no one else would.

Mike D

Clean and very organized. Recommended.

T Boots

My senior cat got sick right when I moved to Nanaimo and I followed the good reviews to this clinic where we saw Dr Jill who was amazing! My cat received the best care that we have ever had anywhere in his whole 15 years. I am beyond impressed and will continue to go here for all my vet care needs. I have 3 pets and was a bit nervous going in because many times in the past I have felt like vets are trying to bankrupt me and take advantage of the fact that I clearly love my pets, but I felt they really cared about my cat's well being here and I will be taking all of my pets here from now on.

Carley Colclough

The staff here are dedicated and compassionate! They also do a lot to help homeless animals.

River Bain

These guys are amazing people! My cat was in a very bad place :( and had big problems and i was so scared. They helped me out and did SUCH an amazing job making her feel better! Now, she's healthy, playful, and doing great! Thanks VCA Island Animal Hospital you guys are AWESOME!

Megan B

So far I've had nothing but really good experience from this place - I take both my cats there and I've called multiple times with questions (new cat parent) and they've been helpful and taken time to answer my questions and alleviate my fears

Chris Flynn

Thank you to all of you for your kindness and wonderful care and support of our little Foster! He's so much healthier and happier since having his teeth removed. June, Chris and Foster Flynn

shadowette1950

Always excellent

Tracey Fietz

Friendly caring staff

LEE NUTTING

Clean and professional

Sandy Loucks

Sugar loves his Veterinarian.

Jennifer Doll

I am a lab breeder and have been seeing Ken here for years. Since he is no longer there this vet service has been terrible. I booked a litter of puppies to be vaccinated 2 months in advance and they called to move my appointment then called me again to cancel it 2 weeks before the appointment! Will never go to this vet service again.

L J

Honestly I am super impressed. Not only did they get my dog in super last minute for an emergency type of issue, Dr. Jamie also went above and beyond and we had a lengthy conversation about my dogs medical history and they she offered to do an xray as well. I asked if she could be our vet going forward and she said she'd love to work with us with our doggy of many health issues. A+ Thanks Dr. Jamie!

Jonathon Dagg-Coljee

They gave us a huge deal on ower cats 6 month old cats teeth surgery.

Janet Barelli

Do not bring your Pet here for they are rude they spitefully tell you things that are not true and take advantage of you and keep adding things to your bill. they will not honor or respect you as a client or try to match the cost with other vets , so before you come here do research

Kristine Doucette

Had a emergency with my fur baby. No other vet's could get him in . VCA made the time and took fantastic care of him. Thank you so much for all you do staff and Vet's at VCA. ????????

Rise OrFall

Worst vet experience I've had. Paid 1 full year worth of flea pills only got 6 months and they told us to come back to get it after 6 months. 6 Months passed and they lost the records. Never coming back.

hobes 97

Great vet to go to everyone is really nice. They took care of my bird and even waived a fee which was nice.

Annemarie Cummings

I have been bringing my pets here for over a decade, and they show such compassion for both my dogs and cats and for myself.

S J

Like many posts before me….this clinic used to be a 10. Not any more. The ONLY reason I still go is because Dr Wintemute, and Dr. Large are still there.. Dr. Langelier not there enough…The Office staff are either too busy, too ignorant, or not even there. I’ve waited for close to 10 minutes behind the counter…waiting for anyone to appear…the usual 3 on the front vanishedto the back I’ve had rude staff talk down to me. Randy L. used to be the office manager and since he is no longer there…it has been down hill with the staffing and protocols. I know Covid has something to do with why quality has decreased…but these issues started before Covid ever did. I’m sticking it out until after Covid to see if staying with my vet is worth dealing with the clinic. Fingers crossed we see a huge improvement in front line service.

chinny LI

My little ferret was suffered her intestinal problem with blooding stools. I was scared, but the DR. here is kind and professional. After 1hour treatment, my ferret was getting better...I believe she will pull through and recovery soon. Not cheap but worth.

C Anctil

Receptionist is extremely rude and unhelpful. I guess that's what happens when you become part of a big American company.

Jesse G

Money, money, money every review below this is about money..... Well I can say....I trusted this vet with my best friends life...and he is living today because of their kindness and professional care. I love the people at this vet clinic as they saved what I cared about most in this world. Would I recommend this clinic? MOST DEFINITELY. Worth every penny. How much would you claim your pets life is worth?....and if you could put a price...please ask yourself...should you even have a pet? If you truly care about your pet. This is a very good clinic.

Cassidy Stock

Last weekend I had to put down my best friend.... The staff at VCA were so supportive through this very trying time. Forever grateful

Graham Deller

the front counter staff are fantastic. they know o

PETER EN

A satisfying experience and I'll bring my 2 boys here for their health care from now on.

Nikita Swansburg

I brought my puppy in for a vaccination and I was charged an $80 exam fee on top of all of the other fees. I have no problem paying an exam fee but the vet did not lay a hand or stethoscope on him. If she had, she would have noticed he had fleas requiring treatment. In the future, if you are going to charge an exam fee, please examine my puppy. The vaccine given was orally.

Hannah Muzsik

Amazingly compassionate. As opposed to the other nanaimo pet hospital, they let me in the building, waited till I was ready to let them take my pet because it was so hard as an owner to watch your little guy stressed. The vet actually talked to me face to face and answered all my questions and took her time with me to explain his conditions, and even called days later to check on my pet. 10/10 take your pet here for the best care possible. <3

Kirily Park

They took very good care of our peacock.

Gillian Mckay

Horrible experience. My dog has extreme anxiety and separation anxiety, he had to be drugged for his shots last year and he still was hard to control with the muzzle. He has no problems at all if I am with him. I begged them to allow me to accompany my dog this July for his appointment. They absolutely will not budge and would prefer my dog is severely distressed. I called another vet and they were happy to accommodate me with him. I will never go back here. Also the front end staff is incredibly rude.

De Dorion

Took Dot in yesterday to get spayed. Very nice staff, explained everything. They even told me how she interacted with the staff. Apparently, she was ok with them doing their exams and she was friendly. They have 5 vets and 2 locums and staff.

Ian Staton

Dr Ken makes my wife and I very happy on the 3 times he has attended our parrot Duke. The quality of our parrots life has changed dramatically. He is happy content and able to climb around his stand again. Duke is very lucky to have a Dr. like Ken. Nell & Ian Staton Port Alberni

Raeleigh Broad

I had an injured dog and got stuck in Mill Bay during the recent Malahat closure. I made my way here after a horrible experience at another vet trying to get her treated closer to Mill Bay. They were super lovely, saw me right away and gave my dog excellent care. I was very grateful after a hectic day for the warmth and professionalism they showed. Highly recommended!

Nick McMaster

Ive taken my boa and my tortoise here and I was impressed both times Both vets I saw were very knowledgeable and knew what they were doing with my exotic pets. Most vets dont even accept my pets so I am very grateful.

Marijana Komar

Very calm and peaceful lots of wild life

E M

It's a vet, friendly staff, high prices.

Carol Ryan

I have mixed feelings about this place and the many pets I have taken to be treated there. One thing is outstanding, and that is when you're in an emergency with your pet, while your regular clinic is booked solid and sends you to the emergency clinic which I think is $100 walk-in charge beyond the treatment charge, Island Veterinary Clinic is central (fast to get to) and they will see you then and there. We feel that they are a little more expensive than some other 'out of the way' clinics. My last experience was this week. Unfortunately, our 4 legged companion had to be put down at age 12.5, we were privilege to have Chewy the Schnoodle only 5.5 years. The illness came suddenly, and we are totally in shock, disbelief and grieving deeply. The lady vet was gentle with us and considerate of our budget limitations as well as quality of life that ongoing treatment would be for our important family member, which helped us in making that difficult decision.

Warren Campbell

Best veterinary clinic I've ever had the pleasure of taking my animal to knowledgeable caring and convenient hours

sabrina biserovic

Price of my dogs thyroid pills went up .60 cents a pill, now 1.60 not do happy ????

karie boyes

Thank you to the doctor and staff who were very kind and considerate to me and my 17 year old cat, Wiccan, when he suddenly took ill and had to be eased out of this life. He was a character and I loved him dearly. I'm grateful to everyone at the Vancouver Island Animal Hospital who helped us at this difficult time. I will recommend this clinic to everyone I know. Thank you again.

Michelle Browett

Service was good, price was rather expensive.

Katrina trace

I will never use VCA, I've asked for flea medicine twice now. I'm informed that is against the law for them to let me buy medicine for my dog without a examination. So now I buy flea medicine from a pet store. They care nothing about the animals only the money.

Ribbit Up

After spending thousands of dollars here for vet care in the last year for my dog they refused to give me a $15 discount on a re-exam fee. They never called to follow up post surgery but I should be grateful for a text 3 days later after I had to take my dog to the emergency clinic post surgery which cost $700. They only care about the bottom dollar and not the care of your beloved pet.

Angel Essery

Waste of time and $850 to tell me they don't know what killed my dog. My others won't be back

peter brooks

We have found the staff to be friendly and efficient. And, just as important, our Yorkie also seems to like the staff. Our last visit was for her annual shots and possible tooth cleaning. The latter is usually an expensive procedure and we were very pleased when our vet was able to do the necessary scaling without the need for an anaesthetic. Our bill was considerably less than we had anticipated. Over the last 25 years, we have used a number of pet clinics in Nanaimo and would have no hesitation in recommending the IVH.

Gillian Grenfell

Nice people. They are trying hard to take care of my cat. Appreciate their efforts

Karen Claughton

Very friendly and helpful staff

Angela Young

Amazing staffing and caring veterinary

Sydney Wiebe

Over all, I am very happy with the experience my cat had

Teesha Middleton

Great compassion when caring for my pets.

Heather Walker

I've used this clinic with my cat for many years. He's an older cat now (19) and is on a special diet that he needs because it prevents kidney stones forming. The staff and doctor are very good and helpful. He gets a yearly check up and the doctor phones about any problems and an overall discussion on his health is.

Angie Dawn

I don't recommend this clinic. I paid over $200 to deal with a fungal ear infection in my dog. (Previously same issue successfully dealt with for under $20) Their treatment didn't work. They are expensive and don't honor their work or value customer satisfaction. I've never had a problem with a vet in the past. Highly disappointing. We have switched to another vet clinic.

lloyd rae

Great docs for my bird goober they treat her very gentle

Robert Wolanski

I would like to share my feelings about Dr. Ken Langelier who is one of the most distinguished veterinarians in Canada. He was awarded the Order of British Columbia for his dedication and work related to numerous endeavours including removing lead shot from hunting (which was poisoning our wildlife), saving stranded whales, electronically tracking the endangered marmot, Bald eagle recovery programs and mountain lion recovery just to make a few. Personally Dr. Langelier has looked after my dogs and cats for 20 years. When my Wiemerainer was sick Dr. Langelier had to give me the bad news he could not be saved. He then came to my home to put "Wolfgang" to sleep while I held him for the last time. Dr. Langelier was gentle, understanding and kind while he did this and had to be exposed to my tears and emotions (dog lovers will understand). Who does this? A man with the dedication and love for animals that is unprecendented. I am grateful to have had Dr. Langelier look after our pets and know that our community has been blessed and fortunate to have benefited from his knowledge, skill and dedication. If I could give him more than 5 stars I would. Dr. Robert Wolanski

Amanda Marshall

I am very thankful to Dr. Large and ( technician? ) Catherine for their caring and thorough care for my beloved guinea pig Lena. I called in on a Sunday morning at 9am after I noticed blood in her urine the night before, and was able to see the doctor at 10:30 that same morning. After an honest assessment of Lena's health condition I decided to go ahead with bladder stone surgery. I was very worried and cautious about Lena's werlfare , but she did receive expert and compassionate care in a very timely fashion. My concerns were addressed in a thorough manner and no question felt "silly". Yes, it was expensive, but I did not feel at all pressured to choose surgery and to me, it was money well spent.

Victor Braun

Awesome staff

Roland Barlocher

Very caring vet clinic

Rose Vu

Not my normal vet. Had an emergency and they were able to fit me in. They looked at my dog and prescribed treatment fairly quickly. The team was very friendly.

Deb Heath

My kitty cat was treated with the best of care and great customer service. Thankyou

Kyle Graham

The front counter staff and the Vet were amazing. Very caring and tactful during a sad time for my family and I. They were professional and sensitive. Thank you for helping me and my Benny boy.

Maria Decaigny - Kaur

Our new puppy couldn’t breath, had blood coming from his mouth. We drove there, and they noticed my panic and quickly grabbed our baby and took him in to the back and got him oxygen. Unfortunately they where closing soon and they didn’t have all the equipment needed for his situation. They got me all set and ready to go to the emergency vet. They reassured my I did the right thing bringing him there (closest vet open near our house). They where so kind and compassionate. Unfortunately our baby was not having any process at the emergency vet and we ended up letting him pass without further suffering. It still a shock and our children are devastated. I was so surprised to see flowers delivered to our house today sending their condolences. It honestly means so much and I’m so grateful. That was the most thoughtful gesture, thank you sincerely from our family. Thank you for trying your best to help Rex.

J Wolfmoon

I phoned 5 vet clinics trying to get my dog in. This is the only one who took us. People there were very nice and there was not a long wait to see a vet.

Christina Whiles

Vet and staff were so good to our little puppy Milly

James Lewin

Friendly staff that seemed to genuinely care for my cat. My experience seemed personalized to our cat and his needs which I appreciated.

Sharon Densmore

My little dog was very sick and Dr Drake looked after everything now she is back happy and healthy

Matei Mateias

I called today to get a quote from my regular vet (Island Vet) to have my female dog spayed and they were very nice about it! They quoted $425 and the price only included the medicine for pain. I took the time to call another vet office in town (Petroglyph) and the quote from them was 260+tax ($165 difference and also the second quote included nail trimming, tattoo and pain medication). Very disappointing and definitely not the first time this happens. Last time I had to tell them I received a lower quote and then they adjusted theirs but ended up being more than what was quoted and the doctor could not care less (now we had to pay $500 extra as another intervention was necessary) and we were never told that would be the case. Great people there but watch your money as they will charge more than what other vet hospitals will. Very disappointing

Lisa Gilker

Great place to get pet food, very friendly staff

Katherine

everyone there is so kind, and go out of there way to make you and your pet feel welcomed, and comfortable, I have taken my pets here a couple times, ( cat and dog) but tonight ( feb 19/2018) i took my dog Sophia and they were so amazing and made sure she was comfy, and took great care of her while they examined her and found her illness, they made great recommendations, and really talked about solutions, to help improve Sophia’s health get better, and the front end girls were so great, I highly recommend this vets office, I always feel so so good after talking with them, I wouldn’t go anywhere else.

Biri Corbett

I took my North American hoyae hippo named Jaxx there. They did amazing job and quickly. I wanna thank staff at VCA for everything today

Mo Jo

Very kind staff. Helped us through a difficult time when we lost our two boy kitties over a period of a year.

Pam

I take all three of my dog's there , I get great service. I have a dog that is very sick. The staff are always available to help, give advice and support ....I would highly recommend taking your pets there.

Troy Gibson

Great staff and service

Amanda Bodin

Visited island vet for the first time this evening. The vet that we saw was fantastic, kind, respectful and compassionate. We weren't forced into doing unnecessary tests and felt very at ease when we left. This will be our regular clinic from now on.

Brad Temple

Staff was very nice and helpful. I did not meet any of the veterinarians, but the technicians removed some stitches from my cat and took care of a woodpecker that had hit my window, and did not charge for either service. I will definitely bring my cat back to the IVH in the future.

TooMuchFishes

I've taken two animals in to this veterinary clinic, and have been disappointed both times. I've also witnessed them charge a friend nearly $300 by a very rude and insensitive woman to have her small bird cremated. Every time I've been in here they insult me, overcharge me and in the end do nothing to try and actually check the wellbeing of my animals. Dr. Langelier is very rude, he'd left us sitting in the examination room stating that he would return to continue and when he did eventually (20+minutes later) he said, and quote "why are you still here?" He then kicked us out and made us pay for quite literally nothing. When we arrived to pay she said that he was "very busy," which I've heard from several others is an excuse he commonly uses. I'm my opinion a Veterinarian, should never be leaving the examination room during a visit without a valid excuse, either pertaining to the appointment or in general. They should also never be too "busy" to see an animal during an appointment. Alas, I will be looking for a new vet clinic.

Silver Centaur

They misdiagnosed my sister’s dog. He lost his eye because of it. It cost her thousands of dollars, they showed no remorse. Horrible practice.