VCA Shaker Animal Hospital ico

VCA Shaker Animal Hospital

Pet HospitalNew YorkAlbany CountyLathamNewtonvilleMaxwell Road

223 Maxwell Rd, Latham, NY 12110, USA

3.0

Would not recommend this "facility" to my worst enemy. Unprofessionalism is their biggest short-coming proven by their inability to provide/keep records of treatment plans. In one case, they neglected to inform us that a "check-up" would be a cryogenic procedure and proceeded to convince us they "could do it with peanut butter" instead of the medications they had prescribed. After almost a dozen visits with this one dog, none of their medical issues (growth or allergies) are any closer to being solved. In another case, they presented a treatment plan for a spay that totaled ~$980. After three visits, they have charged us $1130, still can't tell me how much my dog weighs, and have "no record" of the original treatment plan. The biggest red flag should have been the last visit when a new vet, who we have never seen and had no knowledge we'd be seeing because their scheduling system doesn't allow you to schedule with a specific vet. They didn't introduce themself or look me in the eye before administering 3 booster shots and never even mentioning the spay, which was the entire reason for our visits. Wish we hadn't wasted our time or money, save yours.

Gabi Ramsundar
  • Overview
  • (518) 458-9669
  • vcahospitals.com

Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

VCA Shaker Animal Hospital Introduce

Welcome to the introduction of VCA Shaker Animal Hospital, a facility categorized under "Pet Hospital" on our platform. Located at 223 Maxwell Rd, Latham, NY 12110, USA, VCA Shaker Animal Hospital provides a range of veterinary services and potentially related goods for pet owners in the local area. You can reach them at (518) 458-9669 or via mobile at +1 518-458-9669.

As a pet hospital, VCA Shaker Animal Hospital aims to be a place where pet owners can seek professional medical care for their animal companions. Pet hospitals generally offer a wider scope of services compared to regular veterinary clinics, often including advanced diagnostic equipment and the ability to handle more complex medical and surgical cases. These facilities typically employ licensed veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and support staff to provide comprehensive care.

Based on information available online, including reviews from real customers, it's important to present a balanced and objective overview of VCA Shaker Animal Hospital. Some customers have expressed negative experiences regarding the professionalism and administrative aspects of the facility. These concerns include alleged issues with record-keeping of treatment plans, unexpected procedures without clear communication (such as a cryogenic procedure mentioned in one review), and a lack of resolution for ongoing pet health issues despite multiple visits. One review also highlighted discrepancies between the initial treatment plan cost for a spay and the final charges, along with concerns about the inability to obtain the pet's weight and the absence of records for the original plan.

Furthermore, a customer reported a lack of communication regarding appointments with specific veterinarians and instances where a new, unintroduced vet administered booster shots without addressing the primary reason for the visit. Another recurring theme in the reviews is dissatisfaction with the reception and pharmacy service, with complaints about receptionists prioritizing phone calls over assisting in-person clients. Additionally, some customers have found the costs of services at VCA Shaker Animal Hospital to be higher compared to other veterinary practices in the area. One specific example mentioned an ultrasound that cost twice as much as a similar procedure at a referred hospital.

Timeliness of responses has also been cited as an area for improvement. Finally, one customer noted a difference in approach regarding prescription medications, suggesting that VCA Shaker Animal Hospital makes it difficult to obtain prescriptions from external pharmacies, unlike other vets who might offer cost-saving alternatives.

However, it's also important to acknowledge that some reviewers have offered positive feedback, specifically mentioning that "The Vets themselves are good." This suggests that while there might be concerns about the administrative and customer service aspects, the veterinary medical professionals at VCA Shaker Animal Hospital are perceived positively by some clients for their medical expertise.

Considering these varied perspectives, potential local users of VCA Shaker Animal Hospital should weigh the reported strengths in veterinary care against the mentioned weaknesses in administrative processes, communication, and cost. It is advisable for pet owners to proactively communicate their needs and expectations, clarify all aspects of treatment plans and associated costs upfront, and ensure they receive clear and comprehensive information regarding their pet's care.

When choosing a pet hospital, factors such as the environment of the facility, the range of services offered, the expertise of the veterinary staff, and the overall customer experience are crucial. While specific details about the environment of VCA Shaker Animal Hospital are not explicitly provided in the given information, a typical pet hospital aims to provide a clean and comfortable setting for both pets and their owners. This includes examination rooms, treatment areas, and potentially surgical suites and hospitalization wards, depending on the scope of their services.

The services offered at a pet hospital like VCA Shaker Animal Hospital generally encompass preventative care (vaccinations, parasite control, wellness exams), diagnostics (laboratory tests, imaging such as X-rays and ultrasounds), medical treatments for various illnesses, surgical procedures (routine surgeries like spays and neuters, as well as more complex operations), dental care, and potentially emergency services. The mention of an ultrasound being performed suggests that VCA Shaker Animal Hospital offers diagnostic imaging capabilities. The reference to a spay procedure indicates that surgical services are also part of their offerings.

Features of a well-regarded pet hospital often include experienced and compassionate veterinary professionals, access to modern medical equipment, a commitment to clear communication with pet owners, and a focus on the well-being of the animals under their care. While some reviews raise concerns about communication and administrative efficiency at VCA Shaker Animal Hospital, the positive feedback regarding the veterinarians suggests that the core medical expertise might be a key feature.

Regarding promotional information, none was explicitly provided in the given text. Typically, pet hospitals might offer introductory discounts for new clients, seasonal promotions for specific services (like dental cleaning month), or wellness packages that bundle preventative care services at a reduced cost. To obtain information about any current promotions at VCA Shaker Animal Hospital, it would be best to contact them directly via phone or visit their website if available.

In conclusion, VCA Shaker Animal Hospital, as a "Pet Hospital," aims to serve the local community by providing veterinary care for pets. While some customers have reported positive experiences with the veterinary staff, there are also significant concerns raised in online reviews regarding administrative professionalism, communication, cost transparency, and customer service. Potential users should consider these points and conduct their own due diligence, such as contacting the hospital directly to discuss their pet's specific needs and to understand their policies and procedures, before making a decision about their pet's care.

VCA Shaker Animal Hospital Photos

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VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12
VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12
VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12
VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12
VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12
VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12
VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12
VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12
VCA Shaker Animal Hospital 12

VCA Shaker Animal Hospital Location

VCA Shaker Animal Hospital

223 Maxwell Rd, Latham, NY 12110, USA

Get directions

Reviews

Would not recommend this "facility" to my worst enemy. Unprofessionalism is their biggest short-coming proven by their inability to provide/keep records of treatment plans. In one case, they neglected to inform us that a "check-up" would be a cryogenic procedure and proceeded to convince us they "could do it with peanut butter" instead of the medications they had prescribed. After almost a dozen visits with this one dog, none of their medical issues (growth or allergies) are any closer to being solved. In another case, they presented a treatment plan for a spay that totaled ~$980. After three visits, they have charged us $1130, still can't tell me how much my dog weighs, and have "no record" of the original treatment plan. The biggest red flag should have been the last visit when a new vet, who we have never seen and had no knowledge we'd be seeing because their scheduling system doesn't allow you to schedule with a specific vet. They didn't introduce themself or look me in the eye before administering 3 booster shots and never even mentioning the spay, which was the entire reason for our visits. Wish we hadn't wasted our time or money, save yours.

May 06, 2025 · Gabi Ramsundar

The Vets themselves are good. Service from reception and pharmacy is usually aggravating I have had receptionist make me wait at the counter while they make appointment reminder calls instead of helping the people standing right in front of them. Everything cost more than other vets. We had an ultrasound done at VCA, then referred to a hospital who ran a different ultrasound. The other hospital was half the cost of VCA. They often do not respond in a timely manner. Other vets / hospitals help you find deals on prescriptions from other places and will admit that they aren't the cheapest. VCA will make it an onerous task to get pharmacy prescriptions from any place other than them.

May 07, 2025 · Mark Boucher

I brought my cat in due to a persistent itching problem and was charged $400 for the appointment, medication, and ear cleaning. They diagnosed it as a yeast infection in the ears and prescribed treatment — but it didn’t help at all. My cat is still suffering from the same issue. When I contacted them again, they asked me to book another appointment — with additional charges. I’m really disappointed. Not only was the treatment ineffective, but it also feels like they’re more focused on repeat visits than actually resolving the problem. I wouldn’t recommend this clinic based on my experience.

May 06, 2025 · zohi R

Went to this vet twice with medical issues with my dog. First I saw Dr. George who misdiagnosed my dog with collapsed treachea then when I went back a month later my dog was diagnosed with congenital heart failure by Dr Cherry, eight days later I had to put my dog down. I would not ever recommend any these vets. These vets have no compassion or love for animals. The most money hungry people I have ever met. The only vet that showed any love or compassion was Dr Jones.

Feb 16, 2025 · Alexandria Kernozek

Today was the first visit for my St. Bernard puppy-Peaches. All in all it was a great visit- most of the staff were helpful and personable and Jess, Danielle & Dr. Patrick were wonderful with Peaches! I did feel very well informed and was Offered a care plan which Jess went over the particulars of, but Apparently things got changed before I got to the checkout window unbeknownst to me. Jess was kind and came up front to assist and explain the changes made at the suggestion of Dr Patrick. I did have to call the office after I got home, as I forgot to present a coupon- I spoke with Kirsten who was exceptionally helpful and friendly. I am hopeful they will honor the coupon to help with the cost of my initial visit.

Sep 05, 2023 · Kathy Wells

Pet Hospital