VCA Canada Alta Vista Animal Hospital image

VCA Canada Alta Vista Animal Hospital

Pet supply store Veterinarian Animal hospital Veterinary pharmacy

One of the Most Reviewed Pet supply stores in (Old) Ottawa


Address

2616 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1T 1M9, Canada

Website

vcacanada.com

Contact

+1 613-731-6851

Rating on Google Maps

4.30 (2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours
  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: time (30) care (29) staff (29) Alta (17) hospital (17) Vista (16) emergency (13) amazing (11) recommend (9) visit (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 C D. 2 years ago on Google
    I’ve taken my fluffy kitty buddy to Alta Vista Animal hospital twice for emergencies. They’re very good with their diagnosis! They’ve caught many things that even my own vet (who is great too) didn’t even catch. They’re very caring and sensitive to the animal and the owner. Thank you for your terrific care!
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Seeing the world In a different w. 2 years ago on Google
    The Alta Vista animal hospital has been at this location for decades providing excellent care for pets. The veterinarians and staff are friendly and seem to love their jobs and the animals they care for. What I find special is that they also treat pet owners with empathy and respect. Often providing better care than what you will find from your family physician. I highly recommend you come to the Alta Vista animal hospital for you pets needs. If you like my reviews, photos or videos please press the paw button up
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 claire h. 7 months ago on Google
    Having an ill pet is an incredibly difficult situation to be in. We are now living in a time where pet medical care is understaffed and expensive and it’s disheartening to see people blaming a place as caring and helpful as VCA for something out of their control. It can be hard to remember that veterinarians and their staff are merely human and should be treated kindly, but despite the anger I saw directed at them during my visit, they remained calm, generous, and focused on giving the animals their best care. Despite being at capacity they had me being my puppy in. After acknowledging she was very sick they ensured me she was not in danger of immediately dying and allowed me to hold her and comfort her while I waited for her to be seen. It’s excruciating to wait for a vet while panicking your animal might die, but no part of me doubted that there were more crucial cases ahead of me. When my worry became too much they would patiently explain again why I had to wait and reassured me any changes in my puppy’s condition would be dealt with. My dog was very ill and required a three day stay and some extensive testing…incredibly expensive but this should surprise no one. Emergency care is expensive but not once did I feel anyone at VCA was gleeful when quoting me prices. Medicine is expensive and there is just no getting around that. Once my puppy was admitted the vet treating her called me daily with updates and took as much time as I needed to fully understand the complications and what they were recommending. They allowed me extra visiting time and a quiet space to rest with my dog for as many hours as they could give me before taking her back for treatments. I am one of the lucky ones that got to bring my pet home and I truly believe it’s because the staff is genuine and works relentlessly to offer extra care and attention. All this despite an outrageously packed schedule that demands every bit of their expertise and ability. VCA had to look hard to figure out why my puppy was so ill and they never gave up until they found the root of the problem. I am forever grateful for their time and caring and expertise. They may only be human but they will go above and beyond to save your pet. My puppy is proof of that and I feel incredibly lucky I found them. Thank you VCA for getting her healthy and giving me more time with her. You saved her life and my heart cannot be more grateful.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 myra v. 1 year ago on Google
    All of the staff was wonderful. We went for an emergency consultation for my cat. We had to wait a long time before being seen but it was totally understandable they were having a lot of patients in the emergency. Unfortunately the outcome of the consultation was not good and we had to say goodbye to our baby. They were there through the hole process and were very patient. I never felt rushed or anything. My baby left this world peacefully and surrounded with love. They took the time to explain and answer all of my questions. You can see They care about our precious friends. Thank you to everyone who played a role in my baby's last days. she was seen by Dr. Veronica and peacefully left with Dr. Vanessa 2 wonderful person.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Lynn-Ann S. 2 years ago on Google
    The team was excellent, but we weren't expecting the $500+ bill to euthanize our cat. They're walk-in fee is immediately $240. I will mention we had to take him in a couple weeks earlier due to heart failure, and the bill seemed appropriate. But, prepare yourself for the fees when using the emergency service. Otherwise, our experience with the hospital over two visits was excellent and we were able to have an extra couple of weeks with our pet.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ty B. 1 year ago on Google
    Ozzie, our dachshund was sick for over 24 hours unable to keep solids of even water down. We were very grateful for the thoroughness of Dr. Dobbins and staff. X-rays taken showed no blockage which was reassuring. The animal hospitals were very busy, the hospital was able to proritize the severity of each patient. Ozzie is doing much better and will no doubt be fully recovered and should be able to return to a normal diet in a few days.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 kale 1 year ago on Google
    I used to use this vet as my main to go for my cat however they recently have made changes over the last few years and the quality of service has increasingly declined. It's evident the vets only care about money and have no empathy for their patients, animals nor people. They recently implemented an appointment deposit if you are a no show. Expect to be paying $150 (the whole appointment fee) if you have something unexpected happen that causes you to be unable to make the appointment. I had to rush my son the the hospital ER and they would still not wave the fee because I couldn't make the appointment with an emergency situation. In a previous time I was on my way and late due to traffic but still would show up within the time allotted for the appointment and they told me to not bother coming and would be keeping the deposit. They will not make any exceptions to taking your money. I have also been scammed out of thousands of dollars by their neurologist while she aware I was desperate with low income. I was taken advantage of because I was seeking help for the well being of my cat. I thought he was having seizures which she neither confirmed nor denied, and put him through every expensive test she could find. When I finally got a second opinion they were shocked because my cat didn't even display symptoms of seizures at all, he was just twitching in his sleep which a neurologist would have been able to discern 100%. I can't believe how psychopathic someone can be it makes me sick. I will never recommend supporting this clinic to anyone and will be instead telling people to stay as far away as possible.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Geneviève L. 1 year ago on Google
    I give 2 stars because they have free wifi, coffee and water. Went with my dog for a injury after a dog attack. Waited 2 hours (That I don’t care I understand its an emergency), they pass a dog that swallowed a button before us (really!!). Saw a technician, she barely touched my dog and sent us home because it was too busy. She never saw all the bites holes on my dog back. She said the vet will call me back. Never did. I went to another clinic, they shaved him and we discovered lots of holes, bruises and a swolllen shoulder. My dog was in pain and still his. The only little less negative point other the the free wifi is that at least they did not charge me anything (of course I never saw a vet!!)
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian G. 7 months ago on Google
    Very helpful. I had to say good-bye to my old fella. They let me spend as much time as I wanted with him. I spent 4 hrs laying with him before saying good-bye. They were amazing. DR. Rambo was great. You're amazing. I thank you. Brian Girard
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Steve F. 2 years ago on Google
    Been going here for years. Just a great pet hospital with great staff. Even better since they stopped charging extra for the emergency care side as many visits are after hrs or weekends. Always comforting knowing there is a place you can go 24/7 for our pets care. They're covid protocol process works flawlessly and just a fantastic caring place.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Susan J. 7 months ago on Google
    Sam my Old English Sheepdog who is my Service Dog and working Sheepdog broke his leg Friday night on our way to Ottawa for the weekend. We got to the hospital about 10 pm from the time we pulled up and I walked in and said I think my dog broke his leg and the staff went into action. They were amazing getting 100 lb Sam out of the car and on to a stretcher. They got him into the back and got pain meds and made sure he was comfortable right away. Even though it was a crazy busy night they ensured that Sam wouldn't suffer while waiting. Poor guy had to be x-rayed, and cast out on during all this the staff ensured he was comfortable the whole time. They communicate with you the whole time on the status and the Vet Tech and Vet ensure that you understand what's going on. Would recommend Alta Vista to anyone.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sylvie S. 1 year ago on Google
    From the time we arrived on Saturday, August 20, the staff was amazing. They took our cat in immediately and came out to explain to us what the problem was. The front staff was amazing. Unfortunately the prognosis was not good for our cat, Monkey. Dr Andrew explained in details about heart failure and made sure that we were with Monkey for his last moments. We are forever grateful for giving us the time we needed as this was our first time loosing a fur baby. Thank you to the front staff, the technician (sorry I can't remember the names) and Dr Andrew. We are forever grateful Sylvie and Chris
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lara D. 2 years ago on Google
    Dr. Tyre and the staff at the Alta Vista Animal Hospital are fantastic - they are extremely knowledgeable and compassionate. Dr. Tyre always takes her time with every appointment to ensure that all of my questions are answered and that I know all of the treatment options for my dog, which allows me to make the best decisions for her health. There’s never any sales pressure, which I really appreciate. Also, my dog (like most!) gets a bit stressed every time she has a vet appointment, and the technicians go above and beyond to make sure she’s comfortable. I would highly recommend taking your pet to AVAH!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Melissa T. 2 years ago on Google
    Very happy with the service I receive for my dog. We were very worried but we were reassured when we spoke to the vet. I would recommend this place to anyone who needs immediate care for their pet. It’s a 10/10 for me. Will definitely be back with my dog.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kaitlyn P. 5 months ago on Google
    We had a fantastic experience here. The staff were very friendly and helpful. They always kept us up to date and told us the cost of things upfront. When our dog had to stay overnight they even sent us a picture of him and an update! We would come here again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marley Heather A. 5 months ago on Google
    There’s never a good reason to visit the emergency department of VCA. But the folks here are amazing and make a very difficult time more bearable. Everyone radiates love for animals and I felt comfortable knowing my cat was in good hands. Having the ability to call and check in was great, I never was made to feel like I was being annoying by asking for updates. The updates calls from staff were also nice to have. I never once was left wondering what condition my cat was in or how he was doing. As our cat was in hospital for a few days we were invited to have a visit. Being able to visit part way through his stay made being away a lot easier. During our visit we were able to see just how special the bond is between the staff and their patients. The younger gentleman (who’s name I think starts with a G or a J I’m sorry!) who helped us get settled in with our visit was very sweet to our boy , and you can tell they grew a relationship for when he came to check in on our visit our cat was very excited to see him and did figure 8s through his legs. As expected for an emergency vet , the cost was higher than what you could expect at a regular vet. That being said, nothing felt unreasonable and it didn’t feel like they pushed for anything unnecessary. Thank you VCA, we hope we never have to see you again but we’re thankful you are there if we do.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stasia C. 5 months ago on Google
    Excellent care!! Everyone was so professional and considerate. We had a serious case of pneumonia and they took our dog in quickly and allowed us to call through the night. Estimates were given and every test they would have us authorize. They always consider the best course of action.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Logan L. 5 months ago on Google
    We just got home from taking our dog to Alta Vista due to a reaction he got from vaccines that were administered earlier on in the day. Every single staff member was fantastic. There’s no shortage of kindness, compassion, and humour in the staff here. They made the experience 100 times easier. Very happy with the customer service!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael S. 10 months ago on Google
    Thank you so much to the incredible staff at Alta vista animal hospital. We couldn’t have asked for better care for our dog Archie. From the customer service (Godfrey), to the vets Dr Parsons and Dr Davenport, ICU techs and patient managers the compassion showed by the whole team made a world of difference. A wholehearted thanks from us to the whole team ❤️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Allie M. 1 year ago on Google
    Had to take my 13 year old pup into emerg, and the clinic tried very hard to help with her seizures. But her inoperable tumour (liver cancer) left little choices. They didn’t pressure us, gave us many options and made sure Roxy wasn’t suffering. When it was clear palliative care wasn’t working (her seizures were still getting worse) - they explained it well and allowed us all the time we needed. Wonderful veterinary care. She passed on, because there was no treatment left to do, but we got to spend a lot of quality time with her - they truly care. Thank you
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mike G. 9 months ago on Google
    The staff was excellent from the point my family and I entered till our departure. We had our first experience when we had to euthanize our family dog. They were very accommodating and comforting. Very happy they were the vet that helped us through the tough time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 gale l. 11 months ago on Google
    When no one else would take my new mom and pup Alta Vista was there for us! Other places said 24hour care, but no one was there! We were told by Alta Vista bring her right in….they were professional and compassionate and made us feel safe. Did it cost more then other places, how would I know NO ONE would see us!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sylvie B. 9 months ago on Google
    Excellent health care. My Yorkie couldn't breath. They were at full capacity but took him immediately. Very Caring personnel. They sent me home to sleep a few hours, while my dog was stable & didn't charge me for the extra stay. Prices very reasonable as compared to other Ottawa vet clinics.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lydia P. 1 year ago on Google
    We went in with two eyes and the possibility of losing one. Came home with both eyes and high spirits. Can’t thank the Doctors, techs and all the staff from Alta Vista Animal Hospital enough. Be kind to these people, they’re doing their best ♥️ thank you from Ellie the boxer and her hoomans!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christina M. 1 year ago on Google
    Best animal hospital in Ottawa hands down. They found my dog had a rare heart condition - literally saved my dog from cardiac arrest and updated me often while I was hysterical. Other hospital, I kid you not, said he had stomach issues and to come back if he's vomiting or has diarrhea. Glad I didn't listen and brought him to Alta Vista Emergency. Also they have direct billing with Trupanion, I highly recommend too. Saved THOUSANDS!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 L C. 1 year ago on Google
    I have relied on Alta Vista Animal Hospital to help my pets with the most difficult situations for several decades and they have never let me down. Recently one of my cats suffered an intestinal blockage due to having swallowed a piece of foam and thanks to AV hospital, he made it… is alive and kicking once again! Very professional staff.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gabby Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Every time we have tried going to another vet we always end up back at Alta Vista. They give their full attention to our pets whenever we bring them and make sure to take their time with assessments. Always highest quality care, and they give you all the options to make the best decision based on costs and results. Can’t recommend them enough. Truly the best!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tracy W. 2 years ago on Google
    Came here for an emergency, all the staff and vets were amazing. Friendly, kind, patient. My dog received wonderful care. I got multiple updates every day and the vets took their time to make sure I understood everything. My dog is now happily at home and I cannot thank them enough!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amanda L. 2 years ago on Google
    I've unfortunately had several visits over the years with my 3 dogs but each and every time I was left satisfied. Yes, it can take a long time, it's an emergency clinic with complicated cases and perhaps some more urgent than yours, but the wait was worth it everytime and in the instances where my dog needed medical attention first, he got it. The veterinarians, the veterinarians techs and the patient care staff were all very informative and understanding. I hope you don't ever have to use their services but in the event that you do, you're in good hands. I can't thank their team enough!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Peter K. 1 year ago on Google
    we were at the hospital in Ottawa because nothing was open where we live. The hospital is open 24/7 which is great. Staff was nice and very understanding. Vets also explained everything to us and now our dog is in great shape. Thanks Alta Vista...

  • 5/5 Laurie J. 2 years ago on Google
    The staff and doctors were amazing during my pet's recent emergency. Everyone was compassionate and gave us as much time as we needed to understand the situation. We are grateful that the Alta Vista animal hospital was available for us when we needed them. Saying thank you doesn’t begin to cover our gratitude. Thank you 🙏

  • 5/5 Joce-Lynne P. 2 years ago on Google
    Extraordinary service from Dr. Lowe and the whole team at the Hospital for my current little Westie. I also had just as excellent a service for my previous Westie. When time came for her to be put down because of various health conditions, the Hospital took care of business with respect, dignity and sincere caring. The whole staff has my complete confidence. Thank your for bien there. Joce-Lynne with Bobine in the picture.

  • 5/5 Alex H. 9 months ago on Google
    They were very good as I had to put my cat down that day. They also took me in right away as she was not eating or drinking. I definitely recommend that hospital for sure. Great caring staff.

  • 5/5 Victoria A. 1 year ago on Google
    Dr. Tinsley and his team are excellent, as are all of the reception staff I had the opportunity to meet. I had no worries with either my dog's consultation or her surgery. Estimate was accurate and the price was fair. Highly recommend!

  • 5/5 Cindy R. 2 years ago on Google
    They took excellent care of my kitty, Kevin. This was my 1st experience with Alta Vista Animal Hospital. I wouldn't hesitate to go back if I ever needed to!

  • 5/5 Shana van R. 8 months ago on Google
    Yes, they are overpriced, but they were the only vet in Ottawa that was able to see my dog immediately. The staff are amazing, the vets are knowledgeable and Brooklyn got cared for by so many amazing employees. Her surgery went very well and she is healing perfectly. The vet even reached out afterwards to make sure she was ok. I have zero hesitation in going back here, if needed. They saved my girl ❤️

  • 5/5 Pampered P. 2 years ago on Google
    We took our puppy to Alta Vista on an emergency basis. He was is a bad way....the girl we spoke with on the phone was courteous, kind and caring. The Tech who came out to get our puppy was equally courteous, and kind and was really caring...and the vet who took care of him - again - amazing! We had a really good experience, even though we were stressed and worried. They did a fantastic job taking care of our Bear and then after the over night visit they send us home with his meds, and very comprehensive and easy to understand instruction list AND they followed up with us a few days later and a week later....I am hoping to never have to use the emergency service again, BUT they will be the first place we go if we ever do need it again - thanks for taking care of our puppy, and us!

  • 4/5 Andrew B. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing vets here! Care is top notch. Front line staff is very rigid at times and prescription fills take a long time when assigned at a regular visit.


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