Northampton Veterinary Clinic ico

Northampton Veterinary Clinic

Pet HospitalMassachusettsHampshire CountyNorthamptonFlorenceNonotuck Street

190 Nonotuck St Suite 105, Northampton, MA 01062, USA

4.0

I originally left Northampton Vet a five-star review, but after recently reading through my dog’s medical records, I’ve had to revise it to a one-star—because what I found was completely unacceptable. I brought my Belgian Malinois here a few years ago under the impression that a specific doctor was a specialist. However, I was shocked to discover that my dog’s records contain multiple inaccurate and misleading statements that completely misrepresented both his behavior and my own actions as his owner. One note stated that my dog was "showing aggression" toward me and my mother, which is categorically false. While he did have anxiety and once escaped his crate, he never once displayed aggression toward either of us. I had repeatedly asked for help managing his anxiety while my husband was stationed away in the service, even requesting Prozac based on his professional experience as a MILITARY K9 handler, speaking with vets on his base. Instead of being met with support, I was dismissed and even told I should consider rehoming my dog. Another fabricated note claimed he exhibited "alert barking with a muzzle on when eye contact made." My dog always wore a fully wrapped leather muzzle during visits, and he has never barked at someone simply for making eye contact. These mischaracterizations paint a concerning picture of how this practice handles certain breeds. The final straw was an appointment where I was left as asked while my muzzled and leashed dog was taken outside. From behind the fence, I watched with my father as four vet techs surrounded him as if he were a possible threat—despite him sitting like normal, waiting for his shot. The excessive handling and unnecessary fear-mongering turned vet visits into a traumatic experience for him. Since leaving Northampton Vet, my Malinois has had a completely different experience at a new office—one where he no longer even requires a muzzle. The new staff listened, provided appropriate care, and made him feel safe. The stark contrast in treatment between this office and my current one is undeniable. Additionally, my dog's MDR1 genetic test results were sent directly to this office multiple times, yet they repeatedly claimed they had no records. I still have the email chain proving otherwise. The level of disorganization and negligence in record-keeping is alarming. The breed prejudice, the inaccurate documentation, and the dismissive attitude toward owners trying to advocate for their dogs are deeply concerning. If Northampton Vet had taken the time to listen rather than label, my dog could have received the proper care from the start. For an update—if this office even cares—I still have my two dogs, have since rescued a third, and my husband is home. My Malinois is now off fluoxetine and doing perfectly fine. Thank you for making me feel like I was the problem when, in reality, it was your practice. I once rated this office five stars, but after uncovering the truth in my dog’s records, I am changing it to one star. I would strongly caution anyone considering bringing their pet here—especially if you own a working breed. I thought discrimination didn't exist in Northampton, clearly I was wrong.

Darien Nardi
  • Overview
  • (413) 584-6309
  • northamptonvetclinic.com

Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Sunday Closed

Welcome to Northampton Veterinary Clinic

Northampton Veterinary Clinic, located at 190 Nonotuck St Suite 105, Northampton, MA 01062, USA, operates as a "Pet Hospital" dedicated to providing veterinary care for dogs and cats in Northampton and the Pioneer Valley. Accessible by phone at (413) 584-6309 or mobile at +1 413-584-6309, this clinic has been serving the community for over 22 years, aiming to uphold "the highest principles and standards of modern medicine, surgery and dentistry."

The environment at Northampton Veterinary Clinic, having moved to a newly remodeled facility on February 14th, 2017, is designed with the comfort and needs of patients and clients in mind. The new space features seven exam rooms, aimed at improving patient flow and reducing wait times. A "cozy cat corner in our waiting room" demonstrates an effort to create a less stressful environment for feline patients, acknowledging their unique needs. Patient recovery areas are located in the induction area, ensuring close monitoring. The facility also boasts "ample parking," which is a practical convenience for clients. While no longer in a "New England-style house," the clinic strives to maintain a welcoming atmosphere where clients "will still feel at home." The professional setting is equipped for a variety of medical procedures, and the clinic emphasizes a focus on providing "the highest quality of veterinary medicine" through "state-of-the-art diagnostic technology." The physical layout and modern amenities aim to support efficient and comprehensive veterinary care.

Northampton Veterinary Clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, establishing itself as a multi-faceted "Pet Hospital." Their services include general wellness and preventative care, such as annual wellness exams to detect problems early, vaccinations tailored to protect against harmful diseases, nutritional counseling to support pet health, parasite control for fleas, ticks, and heartworms, and microchipping for identification and safety. They provide extensive diagnostic services, including radiography (X-rays) for identifying illnesses or injuries, diagnostic ultrasounds for evaluating heart conditions and internal organs, and laboratory services for identifying various health issues. Surgical services are a core offering, encompassing routine spays and neuters, as well as a variety of soft tissue surgeries. Dental care is also a significant part of their practice, with services including annual dental exams, cleanings, and treatments to prevent and address periodontal diseases. Additionally, the clinic offers holistic and therapy services such as laser therapy, a surgery-free, drug-free, noninvasive treatment for pain reduction, inflammation, and accelerated healing. For end-of-life care, they provide humane euthanasia, cremation, and burial services, aiming to offer support during difficult times. The clinic also has an online pharmacy, allowing clients to conveniently shop for medication and food.

Several features contribute to the identity of Northampton Veterinary Clinic. They are a "full-service veterinary clinic" dedicated to "providing the highest level of veterinary medicine and friendly, compassionate service." The clinic prides itself on being "strong advocates of communication" and aims to "partner with you to solve your pet's health care issues while providing the best care available." They actively welcome new clients. A notable feature is their offering of "Same Day Care Available!" and "next-day appointments for all of your pet's needs, based on availability," which is a significant convenience for pet owners facing urgent, though not necessarily life-threatening, situations. The clinic has also been recognized, being "Voted 'Best of the Valley' 2024," indicating local recognition for their services. They maintain an in-house pharmacy and offer an online store for convenient access to pet medications and food. However, it is important to address a highly critical customer review that describes significant concerns. This review alleges "inaccurate and misleading statements" in medical records, "mischaracterized" pet behavior, and a "dismissive attitude toward owners." Specifically, it mentions alleged breed prejudice and "excessive handling and unnecessary fear-mongering" leading to a "traumatic experience" for a dog with anxiety. The reviewer also cited "disorganization and negligence in record-keeping" regarding genetic test results. While another review praises the staff for being "absolutely exceptional" and caring for a cat post-surgery, the negative review highlights a critical aspect of client and patient experience that prospective clients should be aware of. This suggests that while some clients have positive experiences, others have encountered significant issues regarding communication, accuracy of records, and handling of specific pet behaviors.

For promotional information, Northampton Veterinary Clinic highlights its commitment to welcoming new clients and its ability to provide same-day and next-day appointments, which are attractive features for convenience and timely care. Their "Voted 'Best of the Valley' 2024" award is a key promotional asset, signaling local community recognition for their services. The availability of an online pharmacy for medication and food is also a modern convenience promoted by the clinic. They actively invite potential clients to contact them to learn more about how they can care for pets. The positive testimonial from a client whose cat recovered nicely post-surgery, praising "everyone from the front desk, to our vet tech, Sarah, to Dr. Smith" as "absolutely exceptional," serves as an organic endorsement of their team's capabilities and compassionate approach. However, it is crucial for potential clients to be aware of the detailed negative review. While not a direct promotion by the clinic, it is readily available public information that influences perception. This review, which recounts alleged issues such as misrepresentation of pet behavior, dismissal of owner concerns, perceived breed prejudice, and poor record-keeping, could significantly impact a prospective client's decision, particularly those with working breeds or pets with anxiety. Therefore, while the clinic promotes its general wellness, surgical, dental, and diagnostic services as comprehensive solutions for pet health, potential clients are likely to weigh these against the critical feedback available online. The clinic's communication about its services and mission aims to attract clients who seek high-quality veterinary medicine and compassionate service in the Northampton area.

Northampton Veterinary Clinic Photos

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Northampton Veterinary Clinic Location

190 Nonotuck St Suite 105, Northampton, MA 01062, USA

Reviews

I originally left Northampton Vet a five-star review, but after recently reading through my dog’s medical records, I’ve had to revise it to a one-star—because what I found was completely unacceptable. I brought my Belgian Malinois here a few years ago under the impression that a specific doctor was a specialist. However, I was shocked to discover that my dog’s records contain multiple inaccurate and misleading statements that completely misrepresented both his behavior and my own actions as his owner. One note stated that my dog was "showing aggression" toward me and my mother, which is categorically false. While he did have anxiety and once escaped his crate, he never once displayed aggression toward either of us. I had repeatedly asked for help managing his anxiety while my husband was stationed away in the service, even requesting Prozac based on his professional experience as a MILITARY K9 handler, speaking with vets on his base. Instead of being met with support, I was dismissed and even told I should consider rehoming my dog. Another fabricated note claimed he exhibited "alert barking with a muzzle on when eye contact made." My dog always wore a fully wrapped leather muzzle during visits, and he has never barked at someone simply for making eye contact. These mischaracterizations paint a concerning picture of how this practice handles certain breeds. The final straw was an appointment where I was left as asked while my muzzled and leashed dog was taken outside. From behind the fence, I watched with my father as four vet techs surrounded him as if he were a possible threat—despite him sitting like normal, waiting for his shot. The excessive handling and unnecessary fear-mongering turned vet visits into a traumatic experience for him. Since leaving Northampton Vet, my Malinois has had a completely different experience at a new office—one where he no longer even requires a muzzle. The new staff listened, provided appropriate care, and made him feel safe. The stark contrast in treatment between this office and my current one is undeniable. Additionally, my dog's MDR1 genetic test results were sent directly to this office multiple times, yet they repeatedly claimed they had no records. I still have the email chain proving otherwise. The level of disorganization and negligence in record-keeping is alarming. The breed prejudice, the inaccurate documentation, and the dismissive attitude toward owners trying to advocate for their dogs are deeply concerning. If Northampton Vet had taken the time to listen rather than label, my dog could have received the proper care from the start. For an update—if this office even cares—I still have my two dogs, have since rescued a third, and my husband is home. My Malinois is now off fluoxetine and doing perfectly fine. Thank you for making me feel like I was the problem when, in reality, it was your practice. I once rated this office five stars, but after uncovering the truth in my dog’s records, I am changing it to one star. I would strongly caution anyone considering bringing their pet here—especially if you own a working breed. I thought discrimination didn't exist in Northampton, clearly I was wrong.

Mar 26, 2025 · Darien Nardi

Thank you all so much for taking such great care of our cat, Felix, and for keeping me calm and informed as well. Everyone from the front desk, to our vet tech, Sarah, to Dr. Smith was absolutely exceptional. We are both recovering nicely at home.

Jan 09, 2025 · Tara Smyth

Overall great vet, but the standout is Dr. Kate Delisle. We have an extremely anxious dog and Dr. Kate has repeatedly gone above and beyond to accommodate her so that we could get her in for appointments, including conducting outdoor exams! She is a wonderful and communicative veterinarian, and we are so happy we found her! They are also accommodating to our other dog who is reactive, letting him come in an alternate entrance so he doesn't encounter other dogs. Highly recommend.

Nov 04, 2024 · Miranda Hunt

When my husband called to let me know he had found 2 abandoned 5-week old kittens outside of his office in Springfield, my first thought was to call NVC. The staff and vets at NVC were so thorough, kind, and gave us everything we needed to take care of Rosie and Xena. Xena had some facial trauma, and they jumped into action right away, showing us how to syringe feed her and make sure she was getting water and food. I'm happy to say that with their help, Rosie and Xena are now 9 months old, healthy and thriving! Thank you so much for helping us take care of our babies, I couldn't imagine life without them now!

Apr 05, 2023 · Eileen Smith

I cannot say enough about this clinic! I highly recommend them! literally Everyone who works there is so compassionate and empathetic!! I have been here a few times and I have always had a great experience ! I will be using them for all of my future pet needs and I encourage you to as well! I have read some of the reviews and I can assure you they’re not out to get your money. Your pet is your child, and they come with the cost. I am by far financially well off, but I will do whatever it takes to keep my pet comfortable. I have always been told what they were going to do when they took her to a separate room. I don’t believe they’re out here trying to be car salesman. The prices are very fair here! I’ve never felt they were being pushy or cared less about the money it is always about what is in the best interest of my baby girl!

Sep 25, 2024 · alicia owen

Pet Hospital