Summit Veterinary Referral Center ico

Summit Veterinary Referral Center

Pet HospitalWashingtonPierce CountyTacomaSouth TacomaSouth 80th Street

2505 S 80th St, Tacoma, WA 98409, USA

4.0

It’s been a whirlwind last month and 1/2. Zelda lost the ability to use back legs. Ruptured disc. Sure I can complain about the amount of money we spent but Dr Swartz explained everything, followed up when he said he would, kept us posted, and did an amazing job with the back surgery. She’s already walking with confidence and we are amazed at the results. The Neurology dept was great, very patient and explained everything to us (Katie?). But we could tell they all took great care of Zelda and commented how sweet she was. Went into this with so much uncertainty and sadness, now have hope and happiness. We don’t have kids so our two dogs are special to us. Here’s to universal pet healthcare in the future…ha.

Matt Kenney
  • Overview
  • (253) 983-1114
  • www.summitvets.com

Summit Veterinary Referral Center Introduce

Welcome to the introduction of Summit Veterinary Referral Center, a dedicated pet hospital located at 2505 S 80th St, Tacoma, WA 98409, USA. As a prominent establishment within the "Pet Hospital" category, Summit Veterinary Referral Center provides a comprehensive suite of veterinary services and aims to be a trusted partner in the health and well-being of your beloved animals. Serving the local community and beyond, this center is equipped to handle a wide array of medical needs for your pets, from routine check-ups to complex specialty treatments.

Environment and Facilities:

While specific details about the physical environment are not explicitly provided in the given information, referral centers like Summit Veterinary Referral Center typically prioritize creating a clean, comfortable, and state-of-the-art facility for both pets and their owners. You can generally expect a professional and welcoming atmosphere designed to minimize stress for animals undergoing treatment. Such centers often feature advanced diagnostic and surgical equipment, specialized examination rooms, and comfortable recovery areas to ensure the highest standards of care. The focus is on providing a safe and efficient environment where veterinary professionals can deliver optimal medical attention.

Services Offered:

Based on the available information, Summit Veterinary Referral Center offers a range of specialized veterinary services. One notable area of expertise is Neurology, as highlighted in a customer review detailing successful back surgery for a dog with a ruptured disc. This suggests the presence of experienced neurologists capable of diagnosing and treating complex neurological conditions affecting pets. The review also mentions the surgical procedure itself, indicating a well-equipped Surgery Department capable of handling intricate cases.

Given the nature of a referral center, it is highly probable that Summit Veterinary Referral Center also provides other specialty services. These often include:

  • Internal Medicine: Addressing diseases affecting the internal organs of pets.
  • Cardiology: Focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions.
  • Oncology: Providing care for pets with cancer.
  • Diagnostic Imaging: Utilizing advanced technologies like X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans for accurate diagnoses.
  • Emergency and Critical Care: Handling urgent and life-threatening medical situations.
  • Rehabilitation: Offering therapies to aid in recovery from surgery or injury.

While not explicitly mentioned, a comprehensive pet hospital like Summit Veterinary Referral Center may also offer general wellness services, preventative care, and laboratory services to support the overall health management of pets.

Features and Approach to Care:

The positive review regarding the Neurology department and the back surgery underscores several key features of Summit Veterinary Referral Center's approach to care. Firstly, clear communication and patient explanation seem to be a priority. The reviewer specifically mentions Dr. Swartz explaining everything thoroughly and keeping them informed throughout the process. This open communication helps pet owners understand their animal's condition and the treatment plan, reducing uncertainty and anxiety.

Secondly, the review highlights a commitment to follow-up and attentiveness. Dr. Swartz's proactive follow-up demonstrates a dedication to the well-being of the patient beyond the immediate procedure. Furthermore, the positive interaction with the Neurology department, including a staff member named Katie, suggests a team that is patient and caring, taking the time to explain things and showing genuine affection for the animals under their care.

The successful outcome of Zelda's back surgery, with the dog regaining the ability to walk confidently, speaks to the expertise and skill of the veterinary professionals at Summit Veterinary Referral Center. The reviewer's amazement at the results indicates a high level of competence in handling complex medical cases.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the negative review also provided. This review expresses profound grief and raises serious concerns about the postoperative care and the decision to discharge a pet who subsequently passed away. The reviewer emphasizes the emotional value of their pet and questions the thoroughness of the pre-discharge assessment. This feedback, while representing a single customer's experience, is important to consider for a balanced understanding. It underscores the critical importance of diligent postoperative monitoring, clear communication regarding discharge instructions and potential complications, and empathetic support for pet owners during difficult times.

Promotional Information:

Based solely on the provided information, there is no explicit promotional content available. However, considering the positive review, potential promotional points could include highlighting the expertise of their specialized departments, particularly Neurology and Surgery. Emphasizing their commitment to clear communication, patient follow-up, and compassionate care, as mentioned in the positive feedback, could also be beneficial. Testimonials like the positive one, showcasing successful outcomes, can serve as powerful endorsements. For local users in Singapore, it would be important to note that Summit Veterinary Referral Center is located in Tacoma, Washington, USA, and may be a resource for those seeking specialized veterinary care options abroad or for informational purposes.

For local users in Singapore considering veterinary care options, Summit Veterinary Referral Center, while geographically distant, represents a model of specialized pet hospitals. If you are seeking similar high-level, specialized care for your pets within Singapore, it would be advisable to research local pet hospitals that offer services in areas such as neurology, advanced surgery, cardiology, oncology, and emergency care. Look for clinics with board-certified specialists, positive reviews emphasizing communication and compassionate care, and state-of-the-art facilities.

When choosing a pet hospital, whether locally or internationally, it is essential to consider factors such as the qualifications and experience of the veterinary staff, the range of services offered, the facilities and equipment available, the communication practices of the clinic, and the overall reputation and customer feedback. While the positive review for Summit Veterinary Referral Center highlights their strengths in certain areas, the negative review serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough postoperative care and clear communication in all veterinary settings.

In conclusion, Summit Veterinary Referral Center in Tacoma, WA, as evidenced by online reviews, offers specialized veterinary care, particularly in neurology and surgery, with a focus on clear communication and patient follow-up. While one customer experienced a positive outcome, another raised serious concerns about postoperative care. For local users in Singapore, understanding the services and approach of centers like Summit Veterinary Referral Center can inform their expectations and decision-making when seeking veterinary care for their own beloved pets within their local area.

Summit Veterinary Referral Center Photos

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Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12
Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12
Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12
Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12
Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12
Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12
Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12
Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12
Summit Veterinary Referral Center 12

Summit Veterinary Referral Center Location

Summit Veterinary Referral Center

2505 S 80th St, Tacoma, WA 98409, USA

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Reviews

It’s been a whirlwind last month and 1/2. Zelda lost the ability to use back legs. Ruptured disc. Sure I can complain about the amount of money we spent but Dr Swartz explained everything, followed up when he said he would, kept us posted, and did an amazing job with the back surgery. She’s already walking with confidence and we are amazed at the results. The Neurology dept was great, very patient and explained everything to us (Katie?). But we could tell they all took great care of Zelda and commented how sweet she was. Went into this with so much uncertainty and sadness, now have hope and happiness. We don’t have kids so our two dogs are special to us. Here’s to universal pet healthcare in the future…ha.

Apr 11, 2025 · Matt Kenney

I can’t believe this place took our little ivy life we need justice for her on the 29 of Apr 2025 @ 0700 Ivy had surgery for Splenectomy/Abdominal Lymph node/Mass excision. $11,322 May, 1, 2025 she passed away at home. Why would they send her home knowing that she wasn’t ready to go home yet money isn’t the problem but my ivy is more precious and valuable to me I would appreciate it if they would check her carefully before sending her home she should not die on me after 48 hour surgery my IVY🐶😭

May 04, 2025 · Dj Dao

It’s taken me a few months to come back and leave a review.. but I can’t thank the oncology team at Summit enough for their kindness and support when I brought my dog Oso to them in December 2024 following his lymphoma diagnosis. They were understanding of my concerns about finances interfering with his care, and offered me options. While he only survived two days following his first dose of oral chemo due to an infection developing, I remain eternally grateful that Dr. Callanan and Maggie gave us one last fighting chance.

Mar 13, 2025 · Abbey Anne

From start to the finish of my dog’s life, they provided the worst care, the poorest communication, and the highest cost I have ever experienced. My background of working with a university teaching vet hospital gave me what excellent care and what a baseline health care look like. Summit did not meet the baseline. After a botched gall bladder surgery, extensive suffering by my dog, they shrugged, and sent me home, in anticipation that I would euthanize my dog in the next few days. I figured they wouldn’t do that adequately, either, and enlisted at home euthanizing vet. The Summit tech doing the final check out when I decided it was time to leave Summit’s “care” sold me $500 of drugs that wouldn’t be needed for a dog getting set for euthanization, and the tech angrily argued with me, she didn’t include steroids, even though my pup had been on them and it was likely the only drug that was on my dog’s medication list that would be helpful to relieve her inflammation and suffering. Finally they relented and gave me the prednisone, after I called in, after i left. Don’t take your dog here, if you care about your dog, and your bank account.

Mar 15, 2025 · Deborah Rice

Stay far away from this place. I had to bring my Labrador in due to a fever and some swelling on the side of her face. My regular veterinary office had two emergencies already, so they couldn’t see her until the next day. They charged me almost $4000 and told me she needed a surgery that would START at $10,000. They told me she needed her whole ear canal removed and other things. I came and picked my dog up the next day (they told me they had to keep her overnight,) and AFTER I paid the extra charges they made me wait 2 hours to get her. Makes sense since she looked 100% worse!! I couldn’t believe it! The doctor told me to have a “Quality of Life” appointment with her regular veterinarian. I was devastated. I couldn’t believe that over night I was maybe going to be saying goodbye to my best friend of 12 years. My vet got us in, and within 10 minutes discovered she had an abscess behind her ear that was causing 100% of her problems. We had it drained, cultured, cleaned up and within about 2 hours she looked almost completely normal. This place was going to take advantage of the fact that I would do anything for my animals and pay any price. They charged me an astronomical fee in 2022 for another dog who needed an emergency surgery, and I didn’t balk at the price. I just paid it. You would think a place that you should be able to trust with your beloved pets wouldn’t be a scam and a rip off. Literally go anywhere else but here. If zero stars was an option, that’s what they would get. Look at the pictures I attached. They speak for themselves!! They go in order. The first two are the day we woke up and right before I drove to the Scam clinic. The third is how she looked when I picked her up from them. The fourth and final are how she looked IMMEDIATELY after she had proper care!

Oct 28, 2024 · Sarah Hager

Pet Hospital