Reviews of VCA Canada Pretoria Animal Hospital (Veterinarian)

Mike McKay

We have 3 cats and went here for years. After finally visiting a new vet we realized just how bad the service is here and the money we lost to misdiagnoses. The big one: dental work. We would often bring in the cats for one issue and it would never get addressed. On the other hand they are big advocates of dental work and surgery. After visiting a legitimate vet we have had all our misdiagnoses resolved and healthy cats. Not only that but the money we spent on dental work was shown to be unnecessary. I did some reading and found that vets will use dental work as a cash grab. Pretoria Hospital seems to fall right into that category. We are angry and incredibly disappointed in the lack of professionalism here.

Forrest Hartman

My family has been bringing our cats here since I was a child. Because of this familiarity and history I never questioned the level of care my pets were receiving. I deeply regret the blind faith I had in them as the Pretoria pet hospital is directly responsible for the death of my senior cat Sirius. I had brought him in because he had some fur thinning on his back so that his skin was visible; they had no idea what it could be. But did talk alarmingly of more invasive testing which sounded unnecessary. Settled on an ointment for hair mites. Then despite him being an extremely old cat, who lived predominantly indoors and was obviously suffering from some illness, they started pushing to have him vaccinated. Thinking I was doing the responsible thing I agreed. Within two weeks he was dead. He immediately became lethargic, lost his appetite and eventually stopped eating entirely and wasted away into a skeleton before my eyes. We brought him to this hospital to be euthanized. They did a great job finishing what they had started two weeks prior. Since then I have spoken to other veterinarians who say that as a rule they NEVER vaccinate while an animal is ill as their bodies are already weakened and they almost NEVER vaccinate senior animals over the age of 10 as there are too many risks. I deeply regret falling for their obvious cash grab. Sadly my regrets won’t bring my beloved companion back. If you are thinking of bringing your pet here question everything, do your research, get second opinions.

Howard Goldenberg

The best experience you will ever have if that's possible for an animal hospital! All the staff are very friendly and helpful and always go that extra step to make you and your loved one feel welcomed. Dr. Tracy Young ROCKS as a Vet and all around good person as well as the other vets. I would highly recommend Pretoria Pet Hospital for all you animal needs and care. Update on this review: very disappointed with Pretoria when our golden re injured his leg our normal vet was not on but we were taken back that afterwards she knew our dog was in and she never once called us to check up on him and would not even see us when were were there for follow up appointment. We stopped going to Pretoria and found a better vet closer to us but also found out as well that our once friendly vet did not tell our new vet all the truths about what medication to give our dog as well as length of time for medication...Shame on you for this.

Nashira G

Everyone is so friendly and professional here! We recently took our puppy in for his vaccinations. They clearly explained each vaccine, if it’s necessary, and when he should get it. We were also given tons of useful information and recommendations for local puppy classes, dog walkers, etc.

Lisa Glutting (lisel_pisel)

We‘ve been bringing our newest addition, Murphy here for all of his puppy needs. They actually caught 2 problems for our guy (itchy dirty ears and a UTI) that we may not have noticed otherwise. He’s always treated well, the staff are really friendly & he gets lots of treats. They explain the medications to us, care for after shots and discuss different options with us, as well as leaving my partner and I to discuss our thoughts in private (so you don’t have to say yes right away to treatments/shots/etc.). We’ve seen several vets and techs and have had no concerns with any of them, and they even remember our little guy when we come in. They’re very patient and kind and I’m happy we found them to ease the transition of becoming puppy parents and caring for Murphy!

Claudia Petrilli

Best Vet Hospital ever. Not only the Doctors and staff are very professional and friendly, but they do really care about your beloved companions. They are also very understanding and really bend over backwards to help you. Can't recommend it enough. I've been taking my cat there since he was a kitten (he's 12 now). And my second cat too (she's two).

Mx. Lucchetti

Super friendly and competent staff, they don't blindside you with fees and aren't pushy about them either. Dr. Peckham is wonderful and has been amazing helping my kitty with her many issues.

Monique Moreau

Great, friendly and consistent experience here. I really like their "team" approach to vet care, with the vet assistant and the vet both spending time with my dog. I know that my dog is getting great care. I've seen quite a few vets at Pretoria and they are all great. I am especially grateful when they are able to take my dog in on an emergency or last-minute basis. I am also very thankful for their follow up phone calls after tests - even if there is nothing wrong they call and just tell you that which is so reassuring!

Molly Desson

I've been bringing my pup here from the day after I got him to now which is about a year later. They've treated him for worms, intestinal issues due to his ridiculous tendency to taste garbage, ear yeast and he was even neutered here. I have always been happy with the service and they are always upfront about what procedures will cost. They even have the fact that he is food motivated written in his chart so when he went in for a check on his ears they had a bowl of distraction food already ready. When he was neutered, I got updates throughout the day. When he had diarrhea, the vet had to ...retrieve... a fecal sample which was charged the same as if I had collected a normal bowel movement. They haven't pushed anything on us that we didn't think was necessary and I have never doubted that my precious doggo was in good and caring hands.

Cheryl

We have been customers since they opened. Everyone on staff is very caring & compassionate. Our dogs have all liked going for a visit. The current one actually drags us through the door. Highly recommended. The above was written in 2016 and I gave them 5 stars. Since then they have been bought out by VCA like so many of the other clinics in town and I am no longer so impressed. They are a large corporate organization and it shows. We have moved on...

Cory Guy

refused to sell me hypoallergenic cat food because i am not a patient there. there is NO MEDICATION in hypoallergenic food yet would not sell to me unless they examined my cat and prescribed it to me. ITS FOOD!! its food that i have been buying for 3 years at various vet locations without any resistance or trouble. they are so greedy. they just want to squeeze more money out of their customers. go to **merivale cat hospital** instead, their priority is the animals, not your money. EDIT: Responding to VCA's reply, i would ask; since my cat can't speak and since there is no longer any visual evidence of his skin allergy due to his hypoallergenic diet , how will you determine if hypoallergenic food is suitable for my cat? the answer is - from the information that i verbally give you, except you want me to pay you $$$ for that scenario when its absolutely pointless, go F yourself VCA!

Jackie

I've been taking my guys to Pretoria Pet Hospital since 2002. I really can't say enough good things about this place. Everyone there, the doctors, the techs and front desk staff are terrific. Dr. Young is amazing and has given excellent care to my guys for the past 17 years. She's caring and compassionate and tells it like it is. I've always felt well informed about any decisions I had to make for my guys and I was never pressured into choosing any unnecessary treatments. I'm thankful that I have Dr. Young, Emma, Josee, Morna, Liz and all the other wonderful people at Pretoria looking out for my guys.

Darren Webster

Happy to have a Dr. that has continuously loved my pet from day one. Not hugely impressed with the business machinery of VCA. Overly commercial and less personal.

Jonathan Morrissey

It honestly pains me to write this but after 3 years with these folks enough is enough. I understand vets are expensive in Canada but wow these folks charge you for even breathing the air inside the clinic. We brought our cat in to get spayed and on separate 4 occasions it was cancelled due to something they thought might be an issue. This is fine and I appreciate the attention to being safe but I have some issues with this: - Each time we came back it was more money. Our spay ballooned from $500 to almost $1500. We were also trying to fix our cats issue of peeing outside the box and so they kept stalling. - Secondly each time we went back in we had to explain the entire situation from scratch. Every single time. We always met a different technician or vet and many times we could have just done things over the phone. This caused us to get completely different bits of advice from different vets. Some said to make sure the cat wears a cone at all times, some said only if it’s an actual issue. Zero consistency. - they provided us with a cone that was way too big for our cat as it was the only one they had. So she couldn’t eat or drink. - we were told to email photos of our cats wound to ensure they could track it. They told us to come in and that they needed to redo the stitches. When I got there I asked about the photos, no one had even reviewed them. So disappointing. We ended putting our hands in our pockets again. I was warned 3 years ago by work colleagues to avoid this clinic and I should have listened. They have a poor reputation in the city. It’s fine if you have the money which most of these reviewers do but if you’re not wealthy and don’t live in an affluent neighbourhood in Ottawa, head elsewhere. Edited to 3 stars as 1 star in retrospect was harsh. They do care for the animals.

Anne Marie Montpetit

Professional and very friendly staff. I have only lived in Ottawa a few months and my puppy has been visiting the Pretoria Animal Hospital for his routine vaccinations. He had a small cut one of his toes I was worried was infective that I didn't notice, as he has been acting normal and running around as his usual self. I called and left a voicemail on a Friday night and received a call on Saturday morning with an appointment time that day. As a precaution I decided to have an x-ray done and luckily there is no infection or break, likely just from trauma playing because he is a little hellion, and told to watch it. I am very impressed with how friendly the staff is and how knowledgable they were, and the entire experience was very positive for my puppy, completely fear free, with lots of treats. I payed about $240 for the appointment with x-ray and am happy with that, but I will not I am a member of their care plan for puppies so his exam fee was covered. Very happy with getting such a quick response when I was worried there could be infection or a break. I will continue to come here with my puppy Mayhem and love the support:)

jane mactavish

I have been coming to Pretoria Pet Hospital for about 12 years. Our experience has always been positive. Everyone is so friendly. The place is full of happiness and good humour. Even on the sad occasion of the loss of a pet, one is treated with respect and kindness. I can describe Pretoria in two words: The Best

Kellan Hannah

Incredible team. Caring. Transparent and straightforward. Quick appointments. Clean environment.

Terri McPhail

We have three dogs who regularly enjoy their visits with the staff at Pretoria. They have always been treated like royalty and know exactly where the Liver Treats are kept! The staff and service are the reasons we keep going back since they make it their business to know each of our pets like their own and give them their best at all times. The new renovations are fantastic as well! I highly recommend the Pretoria Pet Hospital to everyone with a pet.

REILLY

Excellent care and friendly staff. Would highly recommend. I have been taking our cats here for 15 years - first our beautiful princess Phoebe who passed with their gentle care and now our dude Jasper. They saved our Jasper's life with emergency surgery recently. Dr. Young is fantastic.

MJ

My husband and I have been taking his dog here for almost a year now. They are so caring for their animals, and they're understanding if you dont have loads of money to spend (as nice as that would be). They even allow you to bring in your pets just to visit and get a treat so that you can help teach your pets that the vet doesnt have to be a scary experience. They've always been so patient with all of our questions as well. Love this place.

Abbi Slater

have taken my current dog and previous dog to Dr. Young (and many other doctors at the vet) and would definitely recommend them to others. I have never had anything short of good service there and feel like they actually care about my pet. The staff recognizes my dog whenever he comes in!

Cecilia Leong

Never had a bad experience here and I've been going for 3 years with 4 different pets. They've had various issues and I've seen various vets. None that I didn't feel comfortable leaving my pet in their hands. The receptionists are also exceptional! They make me happy going in and leaving.

Dani Monika

My cat was not acting like herself and i was able to get an appointment for the next day! I also pushed up her annual health exam so I wouldn't have to go back in a month, so helpful as my Callie needs to sedated for vet visits. I love that the we're all on the same page about my cats health and I'm not pushed to put her on prescription food as I have experienced in the past. This visit went much better than last year's, which was without sedation, Callie was much less stressed and that means so much to me.

Adelipants

I went here recently to bring my newly adopted cat in for a consultation and rabies shot. I saw Dr. Fortier and she was awesome, as was all the staff! I made my appointment online, which was super easy! I didn’t wait long and it seemed like all the staff really care about the animals they see! Would for sure recommend to others ! Also a super convenient location!

Brittany Provost

The staff is very knowledgeable, flexible and friendly. There have been a few instances where they have worked around my schedule in order to assist with my cat's particular requirements - it's always appreciated. Unfortunately, it is pricey...but it's worth it in the end due to their professionalism. The animal hospital is also very well-kept.

Kate Drwecka

They charge an absurd amount of money for their services, and I'm the fool who let it happen. My cat had dental work, and even though I was on their expensive monthly plan which is supposed to cover part of it (everything but medication and the extractions themselves), they wanted $2500 for about 10 extractions ALONE (so if I didn't have the montly plan it would be about $3600-3800). ABSURD! I had a previous cat who had all their teeth removed at a SPECIALIST, and that was $2900 and I paid for everything out of pocket in that case. I've also in the past had issues of them putting on charges that are supposed to be covered by the care plan, or deciding to do extra work without consulting me, and had to dispute the bill at least 2-3 times now (so make sure you get a detailed invoice BEFORE paying and look it over really carefully). I will be switching vets as soon as possible. Pretoria should be ashamed at the robbery they are committing. Nearly every other clinic quotes significantly lower than them.

Ryan Causton

The staff are incredible. My dog gets great care and enjoys her visits. The staff go above and beyond expectations to make sure your pet is happy and healthy!

Emma Day

An amazing place to work. I have been at other clinics and had other jobs but my heart lies at Pretoria Animal Hospital. The clinic dynamic is surreal, my co-workers are not my co-workers, they are my family. My is my friend. Our clients are fantastic, they care about the clinic as much as we care about their pets - which is a lot! I have been head hunted by other clinics and been offered other jobs, but I do not intend on leaving any time soon. Its a fantastic place to work, and bring my pets. The level of genuine care and expertise for our patients and our clients in our four walls is paramount and unbeatable. We work from our hearts.

Jade

We love Dr. Peckham ! She has taken amazing care of our two kittens who both came to us quite ill with giardia and coccidia. The kittens are thriving now and thanks to Care Club we have saved a lot in unplanned expenses. Liz is also the kindest receptionist in the world and always a delight to chat with ! Thanks for saving our babies !!

Tiffany Lee

Absolutely love VCA Pretoria. I came to VCA after much disappointment with service quality and aggressive product promotion at three other clinics around the city. We had a kitten who was too hyper after her spaying that was done at a different vet's and her incision split open. Called in to VCA, they managed to see her within an hour (CRAZY for a vet that isn't primarily in emergency care) and gave us necessary instructions and recommendations to deal with the situation. They never try to push products or procedures on you, never proceed with anything unless they get your confirmation after they tell you the cost. Super transparent, warm, and friendly environment for my two kitties. Would recommend to anyone in a heart beat!

Alexia B

Having recently moved to Ottawa from Toronto, I was a bit nervous about finding a new vet for my dog. But I was very pleased with our visit to Pretoria Pet Hospital. Bright & clean premises, friendly staff, and a relaxed vet who made my girl feel right at home. Looking forward to our next checkup! :)

jamie murphy

All the staff are supportive and well informed. The veterinarians are wonderful. Everyone takes their time to explain what is needed, and you are given reasonable options. There is no "hard sell" or pushing for expensive treatments. Rather, the approach is: "let's start with the least intrusive/expensive first." I have always had cats and dogs, and Pretoria is my only choice for my pets, even my partner who is a retired veterinarian takes his pets to Pretoria Animal Clinic.

William Humphries

Pretoria Pet Hospital was recommended to us by the adoption agency, and our first visit didn't let us down. Roxy and Angelo were well looked after, handled expertly and given fantastic advice on how to look after themselves. I don't know why I'm talking about my cats like they care, but hey, I'm a cat man now, and I love all my children equally. Highly recommended, and looking forward to building a long-term relationship with the knowledgeable and truly caring folk at Pretoria Pet Hospital.

Amanda Potts

We love the staff and the care at Pretoria Pet Hospital. We've been with them since we moved to Ottawa 8 years ago, and they've provided wonderful care for both of our cats. I can cite several instances where the staff has gone above and beyond what was necessary. First, one of our cats became ill at a relatively young age. The vet suggested one procedure - clearly detailing the pros and cons and suggesting we take our time to consider it. When the problem recurred, the vet again helped us weigh our options, and this time we did not proceed. After our cat died, the hospital sent us a card and the vet sent one, too. The personal touch was incredibly thoughtful. In another instance, our second cat had a freak accident and was bleeding heavily. It was closing time as I called, frantic. Not only did they stay open, waiting for me to arrive with the cat, but they had the room prepared and a space for me to sit. The vet, two techs and a receptionist stayed until the bleeding stopped. I felt lucky to have such a thoughtful, caring vet for my pet. We love Pretoria Pet Hospital and plan to remain clients there for as long as we have pets in Ottawa.

Maureen Boyd

Thanks to Dr. Peckham and, at the end, Dr. Amy Brown who helped us say goodbye with compassion, dignity and love to our 15 year old poodle. Dr. Brown send us a sympathy note afterwards and there was a donation in Jack's name to the Humane Society. A class act that comforted us.

Agnes G

I have tried several vets in the city and since I’m very picky most of them didn’t meet my expectations. I’m very happy to have found Pretoria. First and very important is that the staff at reception are ALWAYS friendly and very helpful. The waiting room is clean and never smelly. My favourite vets are Dr. Young and Dr. Peckham - they never “catastrophise” or jump to the worst possible conclusion (a trait I’ve found common in vets which makes me super anxious). They both usually have me laughing for much of the visit despite stressful health conditions. And they’re both willing to answer my endless questions and explain things in detail. I’ve even had staff chat with me on the phone about coping with a new pet illness and her tips and tricks she’ll learned over the years, really calming me down. Something she didn’t need to do and I wasn’t paying for. They’re just good people. Of course, like any vet … it’s expensive, prescription drugs are priced at shocking rates, and the prescription food is sold earnestly, but to me that’s the industry and not an issue specific to any location. It’s also just part of the privilege of owning a pet. This is the place in the city I feel most comfortable bringing my furry family.

Amy Connor

I'd give more then 5 stars if I was able too! I have 3 dogs, 1 with several medical problems, and the team of Veterinarians at Pretoria Pet Hospital follow up, check with specialists on our behalf, fit us in if there is an emergency and truly show they care about our dogs. We recently had to bring one of our dogs in for a big dental surgery and were anxious about leaving her there. 2 amazing technicians, Josee and Connie, did everything possible to reassure me and help our dog feel more comfortable. After leaving her there I actually left feeling very comfortable that our dog was in great hands and that she'd be treated as if she was their dog. After our dog's surgery Josee spent a lot of time with me going over her xrays and answering my questions. I never felt rushed and I left feeling like our dog was really cared for. It's clear she loves her job and the animals in her care! Dr Young did an amazing job on a very long dental surgery with our dog and also spent a lot of time on the phone with me answering questions. After having 7 teeth extracted, our dog was basically back to normal the next morning! If you are looking for a clinic that will thoroughly care for your pets and a staff that truly enjoy what they do for a living, you need to go to Pretoria Pet Hospital!

Jessica Duckett

If I could give zero stars I would. My experience with the Pretoria Pet Hospital was regrettable. While I was initially greeted with friendly reception, my experience changed when I saw the vet. She was dismissive, disrespectful, and clearly more interested in pushing her products than helping my dog. When I first brought my dog for a routine visit, my happy and healthy dog suddenly had a long list of emotional and physical issues which could all be solved by buying their food. Our second visit was no better. The vet could not properly diagnose the problem, athough it could obviously be solved by buying their food. I was prescribed medication to treat my dog's symptoms and to make her feel better, but nothing to actually treat the problem. I was left with a hefty bill and no solution for my dog's minor ear infection. When the reception called to check up on my dog, I tried to bring up my concerns with the service I received and their response was again very dismissive, I was told "good luck" and they hung up. To say that I'm dissatisfied with the service at this pet hospital is an understatement. I trusted this hospital with the care of my animal and it has been broken, I feel like I've been scammed and lied to. I would not recommend.

Kyra Hoyte

Amazing hospital! Couldnt say anything bad about my experience, not only did they heal my very sick kitten but, they love seeing him and make his experience at the vet amazing. We love our little animals and we want them to be safe and loved, this hospital truly cares about the animals and i couldnt recommend them more! Tubbin thanks you guys a million times! I attached a before and after of Tubbin!

Lois

Similar to a previous reviewer, we really liked this clinic 5-6 years ago, but have been much less impressed of late. Our senior dog was diagnosed as diabetic a year ago. They gave us a lesson on insulin injections and a pamphlet and sent us on our way. Nobody took the time to emphasize how challenging/upsetting it would be to get her regulated - that's a conversation that should have happened from the onset. Later on, instead of calling to chat about how things were going, they consistently threatened to withhold her insulin prescription unless we brought her in for a full work-up...even though she was stable and feeling well. (would have been too stressful for our old, blind dog to stay 11 hours in their clinic) Never saw/spoke to the same receptionist/technician or vet twice in a row. They could really improve how they communicate with clients.

rega jihad

All they care about is your money! Will charge you for anything possible. Had been going here for 2 years and made the switch to Glebe Pet Hospital. Should have went there from the beginning. My pet had a noticeable ear infection and they didn’t give me an appointment. It was for 2 months out..... my dog needed medication ASAP. They suggested that I bring him in and hope that they can fit him in. Have heard from other people they will do this so they can make money off your pet just staying there and not treat me and force you to bring him back again. They acted as though they cared about the well being of my pet but I knew they just wanted money. Glebe Pet Hospital took me the next day and they are way cheaper, family run and genuinely care about me and my pet! Would not recommend this place at all! Save your money!

Ted Gzebb

I am flabbergasted that with the number of vets on staff at Pretoria, that when I called to ask about seeing a vet about an injury to my cat, that I wasinjitally told that they didn't have any appointments for that day and when asked when they could see him, I was told that they were booking appointments for November and that if it got worse to go to one of the emergency vets in the city. I understand the constraints of Covid but based on my experiences over the past decades with vets in Toronto, that there would have been an effort to fit me in for a short examination for an injured animal. While the injury was not yet infected as far as I could tell, I am not a vet. I was terribly disappointed as all the reviews and descriptions on the website leave the i impression that they truly care about animals. With the 7 or 8 vets on staff I cannot believe that there would not have been a slot available in the next day or so.

Phil N

Had a very good first impression as a first-time cat owner. Staff was lovely and knowledgeable and prices seem to be fair from the little research I have done. Booking of an appointment was within 2 days. They also provide good service by following up by e-mail and an online registration system. They also provided me with a massive bag of free dental food promo for cats as our little one has a bit of issues having been stray previously. 5 starts!

Marley Pickles White

I can’t say enough good things about this clinic! The staff are so friendly and helpful and are always happy to answer any questions we have. They are attentive and caring towards our pup. Their Covid protocols feel very safe.

Mary-Ann Harrison

Emma was fabulous. I am very impressed by the service and kindness and competence we experienced today at our visit. Highly recommend! We returned again today for another visit. They are so compassionate and wonderful. I really cannot say enough good about this clinic. Thank-you for taking such amazing care of Lady!

Marjory Bonyun

Good place for run-of-the-mill complaints but often don't answer the phone or respond to messages even when urgent. My dog was ill and I finally drove over after several hours (and messages) later and told that Piper needed to be seen but they were too busy. The local emergency pet hospital was full, I called Pretoria back - no answer. It was a different local vet who put me in contact with an emergency vet service where Piper was diagnosed and treated. Icing-on-the cake - Pretoria called the next day concerned about Piper...

Vanessa Zhang

I went to there for my kitten's first exam and vaccines. But the doctor didn't take him any body temperature check before his FIRST vaccines, Also, the doctor gave us the prescription medications. which is the brand MILBEMAX tablets for small cats, and told me to give my kitten 1 tablet on Feb18 and second tablet on March 3rd. when i back home and check out the medicine description online, the kitten only can take 1 TABLET for his weight by monthly. i don't know why the doctor told me the kitten should taken 2 tablets in one month. Especially, my kitten weight only 1.3kg. Even the kitten weight is 2kg, for use the medicines 1 tablets is enough by take every month.

Bee Peters

This clinic is amazing! A little over a year ago my cat had lost a lot of weight and had developed a limp. At the time I was so terrified of the worst case and I had recently moved to Ottawa so I did not have a new vet. I chose Pretoria because of all of the other glowing reviews and they did not let me down! They managed to get my cat in super fast and diagnosed him almost on the spot (with some testing done afterwards to confirm). They were very understanding of my financial constraints when I questioned the costs of treatment and did not seem judgmental at all which I very much appreciated. Despite many trying experiences trying to get urine samples from my cat (which he did not behave well with at all!) they were still exceptionally patient and kind. Today my cat is back to full health and I am so grateful to the wonderful staff at Pretoria - they are amazing!

Susan Burrows

Tracey Young has been my cats' veterinarian for many years. When I lost my first cat to cancer at the age of 13, Dr. Young and her staff were very compassionate. I love how they treat all of the animals like our fur-babies. The staff are always courteous and prompt. The new waiting room area adds to the general impression of cleanliness and caring.

Cheryl Reynett

I’ve been a client at Pretoria since it opened in 1999. All my furry companions have been well cared for ever since. Along with us for most of this journey has been Dr. Tracey Young. In short, Tracey is just amazing. One of my dogs is a loving but “special” fur ball and he has been a frequent flyer at Pretoria. We have never had a problem getting in to see Dr Young. In rare cases when she hasn’t been available, the other doctors at Pretoria are great. I especially like the open communications among the doctors. Dr Young always makes a point to follow up either in person, through a vet tech or via message. She doesn’t prescribe unnecessary medical interventions of any kind, whether it be medications or tests, and she’s very practical in her approach. I could go on forever, but things sum up like this. Pretoria - excellent hospital. Tracey Young - exceptional veterinarian. Pretoria Staff - best there is. Take your pets here. It will be the best thing you will ever do for them.

Jason Groulx

I used to bring my dog here. The staff are nice but whenever my dog was really sick and needed to see a veterinarian in short order they never had same day availability, and often could only see him 2-3 days later. Moreover the last time I brought my dog for his annual check up/vaccinations they gave him a whole bunch at the same time, they assured me it wouldn't be a problem but sure enough he fell severely ill the next day and had to end up taking him to another veterinarian where he was hospitalized with I.V. overnight. They are more concerned with selling you their vaccinations and shots than the actual well being of your pet.

Thomas McKay

I have been bringing my dog to Pretoria since I moved to Ottawa 3 years ago. What brings me back every time is the staff, they are very friendly and really seem to enjoy working with my dog. It also helps that the clinic is three blocks from my house. I feel guilt because its my own laziness that has lead to me bringing my dog here for so long. Its nice being able to go somewhere so close where the staff will make things easy and enjoyable, but the quality of care and costs are problematic. Pretoria has been a place that I take my dog to get prescriptions to treat symptoms, but I never get a diagnosis. Either symptoms clear up and shes fine, or they don't and I have to go to an emergency clinic where I will get a diagnosis and a working treatment plan. I get the feeling they are understaffed, as contacting vets is difficult and I have a different vet nearly every time I visit. Another one may be my mistake, but you absolutely must call cost into question at this clinic. Perhaps this is standard across all franchised vet clinics (this is the first I have been to), but you will be billed extremely high prices for medication unless you take the initiative to ask. A recent example was when I paid $170 for antibiotics that would have cost me $20 at shoppers drug mart. I asked the second time around and had it filled at shoppers, and I'll continue to do so moving forward, but its disheartening knowing that they don't have my best interests in mind.

Seji Park

Super friendly staff. The vet and the assistant were very nice and explained everything i needed to know. Also they follow up to make sure your pet is getting better. Highly recommended!

Lyson Rivest

Always a good service there. The gets and techs are warm and take the time to make nervous pets comfortable before any exam or procedure. Definitely recommend.

Kj S

I have been a client of Pretoria Animal Hospital for well over decade. That relationship ended after yet another awful, expensive experience. This review does not solely reflect the most recent disappointment that put my dogs’ health at risk, it speaks to what is now two or more years of poor healthcare support. The prices are way high and the turnover of veterinary staff is constant and they hire juniors, not seasoned pros. In the annual checkup, which I’ve had with different doctors each time, they have never told me anything I didn’t already know. The staff is nice, but I sense no expertise. Let me tell you why. Latest visit was for a UTI in a female dog. They took a urine sample and tested it on site. There was bacteria present, but they wanted a more comprehensive test done by an outside lab. They did not want to prescribe medication until those tests came back. Meanwhile, my dog is suffering and having trouble urinating. This cost $400. Zero treatment at that price is outrageous, and the icing on my cake of rage is knowing that we’re I to go back they’d clip me again for as much. So I found another Veterinarian in a small practice out of town. Urine test, through exam where serious questions about causes of her UTI exposed the cause and meds to fix the immediate problem were given. Excellent, serious medical care all for $128. This is care that fixed the problem and cause. So don’t go to Pretoria. If your animal is truly ill they will examine, bill you an outrageous amount and then they will send you to Alta Vista Animal Hospital (AVH is great by the way!). Again, if it is a non routine issue go directly to AVH, not Pretoria.

chad o

Dr. Tracey Young and the staff at Pretoria Pet hospital are bardown the best team you could have looking after your precious pets. Dr. Young is patient, kind, understanding and clearly has your pet's best interests at heart. She knows her stuff and not only does she treat her patients with respect and kindness but her staff as well. We have never had a better vet. Her staff are outstanding, attentive and knowledgable and provide amazing care. VCA is lucky to have Dr. Young and her team at Pretoria - you won't find a better vet / clinic in the area.

Maia Wenger

My partner and I have been bringing our two kittens here for mostly routine stuff since July. The staff have been AMAZING. They are so kind, so helpful, and really go above and beyond for our cats — seriously, I can't recommend these folks enough. Further, they've always been very transparent about costs, necessary procedures and vaccines, etc. Both of our kittens get excited to go to the vet, and the staff here treat them like angels.

Sarah Newell

I just visited this hospital to purchase $50 worth of cat food. You can’t grab your own bag so they grab it for you. Savanah gave me dog food and I noticed when I got home that the kernels were too big for my cat. So I call expecting them to take some responsibility and she says “we start taking returns August 10” what an unprofessional response. This is why I’m a walk-in and not a client and I won’t even be a walk-in anymore.

Mathilde Vandenbosch

Our experience was just amazing! The staff is really lovely and cares about you and your pet. Everything is done to ensure your pet isn't anxious during the visit and the staff is super helpful. We left with a happy cat, tons of great advice and some goodies. I would definitely recommend that clinic!

nat swain

Pretoria Animal Hospital is amazing and I cannot recommend them enough. The entire team is caring, compassionate, and extremely knowledgeable. We are very thankful for the wonderful staff and the amazing care they provide for our dog.