1st Ave Animal Hospital image

1st Ave Animal Hospital

Veterinarian Animal hospital

👍👍 Our cat was really really sick (vomited 10 times throughout the night) so we took him to an emergency clinic. Turns out he ate a string-like material (added in the picture) and it got obstructed in his intestines. Surgery was the only way but the cost was way too expensive so we looked and called... People often mention staff, care, clinic, surgery, brought, recommend, front, called, hospital, kind,


Address

2800 E 1st Ave #211B, Vancouver, BC V5M 4N9, Canada

Website

www.1staveanimalhospital.com

Contact

+1 604-254-5480

Rating on Google Maps

4.10 (255 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 8 AM to 8 PM
  • Tuesday: 8 AM to 8 PM
  • Wednesday: 8 AM to 8 PM
  • Thursday: 8 AM to 8 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM to 8 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM to 4 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: staff (25) care (20) clinic (13) surgery (13) brought (12) recommend (10) front (10) called (9) hospital (9) kind (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jimmy K. 2 years ago on Google • 12 reviews
    Our cat was really really sick (vomited 10 times throughout the night) so we took him to an emergency clinic. Turns out he ate a string-like material (added in the picture) and it got obstructed in his intestines. Surgery was the only way but the cost was way too expensive so we looked and called every other hospital and this was the only helpful best price place we could find. The doctors are the nicest doctors i've ever met they were ever so understanding of our situation. All the staff members were very helpful and kind. They performed the surgery perfectly and saved our cat's life!! Our cat is now well and healthy! Thanks again everyone 10/10 recommend!!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Susanna F. 3 years ago on Google
    Took my kitten here for her initial visit. Kind front staff but vet was 20 minutes late coming in for the appointment with no acknowledgement. The exam was very fast. I didn't feel confident with the quality of the service and wasn't told what was done when asked. I tried to give them the benefit of the doubt and brought her in for follow up appointment. I could hear the vet berating one of his front staff about her technique in the exam room. He said that he would fire her if she didn't change her attitude and technique. Very unprofessional as it was clearly audible from the waiting room. I asked to speak to the vet about my kitten but was told no, so I had to ask the front staff my questions and they went to the back to ask them and report back to me. The communication seemed really poor between staff and the vibe was weird. The fees were unclear and I was given a $300 bill at the end that I was really not expecting. Like I said, kind front staff but a really unpleasant visit that left me questioning the quality. Would not go again and have found a different awesome vet in the meantime.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Karen T. 11 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    Don’t waste your money at other vets, after 2 sets of X-rays, 7 consecutive blood tests (one per week), and different brands of antibiotics every week for 2 months straight at another animal hospital, they could not come up with a diagnosis for my dog that was sick. All they did was change antibiotic brands and increased doses saying it would not hurt my dog or have any major effects!! 1st Ave Animal Hospital staff and Dr. V Dhunna were able to come up with a personalized treatment with results from only one X-ray and one blood test. After 3 days, he was showing signs of major improvement compared to the past 2 months of being sick. In one week, my dog was 90% recovered and is now happily back to normal. We would like to give a big thank you to Dr. V Dhunna and staff for being so accommodating and reasonable with pricing in this tough economy.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Antonio P. 1 year ago on Google
    Took my dog in for a common surgery. Same problem returned shortly after. Went to another Vet, repeated all of the testing, imaging and surgery. I was told that their sutures possibly passed the mucosa membrane, causing the problem to return. Also, they simply did not call me when test results arrived, it was self-serve. 1.5 weeks after the second surgery, my dog is back to normal. The new Vet was also less expensive, had great customer service and called right away with test results. The ordeal resulted in significant expense, time-loss and anguish.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yannis F. 4 months ago on Google • 28 reviews
    Dr. Dhunna and team have been looking after both our cats since 2010. One of them had to be put down recently and through the last stages of life (the last 6 months) I feel like we got the best care and advice possible. It is not an easy thing to have to go through, when you know your cat is on it's way out but we got good advice, and a lot of attention for our little guy. When the time came it was obvious what we had to do and Dr. Dhunna was extremely respectful and patient with us and our furry boy. I would highly recommend this clinic not just for the last 6 months, but also based on our experience for the last 13 years. Thank you team !!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 K.E. G. 6 months ago on Google • 16 reviews
    We brought our dog here for a simple ear infection and left with a $434 bill. That's in large part because the vet insisted on sedating the dog in order to examine him... to the point that he was collapsed on the floor for more than an hour before we could get him into the car. He left there panting and huffing and completely out of it for the rest of the day. The vet charged $120 for the sedation alone (!) and the staff kept asking if we wanted to do vaccinations as well. We had made it clear the answer was 'no'. This is the second time that they've sedated our husky for a very simple ear exam and we had told them on this visit not to sedate him like that again. They did so anyway, and claimed it was a smaller dose, but the effect was still too much. (He also wore a muzzle throughout the visit, btw). Why sedate a dog for an ear exam?
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Jenny Y. 6 months ago on Google • 8 reviews
    They did not have the vaccines needed for my parent’s cat in stock and required two separate visits. The vet assured they would not charge twice for the exam visit, but at the second visit they pressured my ESL parents to pay again. When I requested a refund on their behalf, they told me a refund would be processed, but it wasn’t actually done. They will rip you off and expresses minimal care toward you and your animal.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Heather C. 1 year ago on Google
    Budget option... Reception was nice, but rushed, many people talking to me who didn't tell me who they were or what purpose they served; environment was stressful, space was limited. My dog was already pretty low energy from being sick and became really anxious when they tried to take her away (hasn't happened before). The vet ordered his assistants to do work on her until he gave her injections, rather than introducing himself to her. The team was professional enough and work well together, but I felt like they wanted me in and out as fast as possible. Gave me very minimal explanations of what the medications were for, only after I asked what was going on, and there was a feeling like I had to do everything they suggested. I also felt like they didn't really understand all the history/timeline I was giving them, as the things they repeated back were not what I had explained and had to be corrected. So I guess just be mindful that you get what you pay for? The vet has an extensive background, probably knows when things are really bad and is equipped to treat stuff. My dog has mildly concerning symptoms, but I took her elsewhere for further diagnosis.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Tandi P. 3 years ago on Google
    Though the front counter woman is amazing, the vet himself and especially the veterinary assistants were excessively rude, condescending, and over all unpleasant. They repeatedly attempted to give as little information as possible and when I enquired further, it was met with rapidly building frustration from them. For simply asking into their suggested treatment. When I was finally able to point out the assistant had made a mistake in her recommended course of action, no apology was given, just the simple concession that perhaps she’d made a mistake... that mistake, had I not had basic understanding of biology would’ve been rather expensive... the vet himself, when I’d pointed out excessive tests they were wanting to run, immediately was harsh toned and asked if I’m a practicing veterinarian. Completely unacceptable. I informed him though I am not a vet, I do have basic understanding of biology and I can see he’s attempting to run tests that do not fit with the symptoms of the dog. He conceded and simply went with what was needed. But a word of caution, do be careful with this vet and his assistants. They also speak another language with one another right in front of you. Which doesn’t help to qualm any suspicion of them attempting to pull the wool over ones eyes.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 LA O. 8 months ago on Google
    Take Your Fur-Baby Anywhere But Here! 😒 My cherished pup ran past either a fence or a tree, injuring herself on something protruding that tore her side. I brought her to the Vancouver SPCA, but they couldn't accommodate her and referred me to the First Ave Vet Clinic. When I called, I had trouble understanding the person who answered the phone and confirming if I had the right place. After a confusing conversation, I found out it was indeed the vet clinic. I inquired about appointment availability for my dog's stitches, and the person told me to drop her off, which I wasn't comfortable with. I asked about the clinic's opening time and the vet's availability, and he mentioned he was the veterinarian and would be there at 10 am. I promptly brought my dog in at 10 am, but the vet didn't arrive until 11 am and didn't see her until 11:45 am, making it difficult for me to seek help elsewhere. When I brought my dog to the back, he refused to assist in lifting my 80lb Labrador, leaving me and his petite assistant to manage. He examined the wound and incorrectly diagnosed it as a bite, displaying rude and curt behavior, with a terrible bedside manner. Despite my dog's calm demeanor and high pain tolerance, he insisted on anesthesia for the stitching. I reluctantly agreed, even though I believed the wound only required cleaning, and local freezing for stitching. I provided her Thundercoat and emphasized not using a cone due to her past anxiety during spaying. They agreed to my instructions. When I returned at 4 pm to pick her up, I heard her distressed barking and whining. To my dismay, they had placed her in a small kennel with the cone on. Overwhelmed, I demanded her Thundercoat, removed the cone, paid a hefty $800, and took my dog home. Two days later, she developed a urinary tract infection, and the wound/stitching filled with fluid, prompting me to seek another vet for drainage and help. I have decided never to return to this unprofessional, money-manipulating, discompassionate veterinary clinic, and I strongly recommend finding an alternative vet for your beloved fur-baby's care.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 JustJerry 10 months ago on Google
    My cat just finished a surgery here and the doctor and nurse are all very kind and patient, they explained everything and taught us what to do after surgery. A solid 5 star
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 OrlySC 1 year ago on Google
    I was very happy and glad that I met Dr.V.Dhunna he is a very kind and helpful person. After he examines my dog he explains to me very well straight to the point about what exactly needs to be done. If you want a good doctor to take care of your pets or save your dog's life I recommend this clinic. The clinic is like your dog's second home. I promise you won't be regretted. . ILOVEMYDOG CLARK
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Allison Z. 2 years ago on Google
    We’ve been coming here many years. Friendly services and caring. My dog loves the staff, and they do too :) Always clear about what they can do, you can pick and choose. All my dog’s issues over the years have been solved (allergies, cut paw, dew claw infection, pneumonia etc.). They’re also very accommodating with appointment times.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tatiana R. 3 years ago on Google
    Last week my dog Lily went into labour and after having one puppy it seemed she needed emergency C section. We took her to 1st ave clinic in which the vet staff and doctor were very attentive and saved Lily and her puppies lives. I am so thankful for them and their care. The doctor is very kind and his prices are very reasonable. This is not the first time that the doctor has assisted one of my pets. I will always bring my dogs to 1st ave vet clinic. I highly highly recommend taking your pet to this clinic. They will always assist no matter what. Thank you so much again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 madelynn s. 1 year ago on Google
    I took my dog Kitty here to have her spayed. I was very scared. She’s never had an operation. The woman up front texted me after. Reassured me that everything went well and told me she held Kittys paw throughout the procedure. When I went to pick her up I asked Dr.Dhunna if I should have a small pimple removed from Kittys leg. He said unless it grows don’t waste money on it. This is not my experience with most vets who try to gauge you any way they can. A large circle of my friends and family bring our pets there. We do so because Phae works there and she will not work for a vet that doesn’t love animals.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laurel S. 10 months ago on Google
    My 8 year old doxie started having health issues out of nowhere. 1st ave animal hospital helped assist me to get a specialist report on X-rays, and gave my dog the treatment of royalty. He’s doing significantly better and the doctor has called regularly to check on progress. The staff also helped to keep me calm and reassured during some of the most scary moments I’ve experienced. Thank you so much for the five star service!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amanda P. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing service, super fast and personable, they throughly explained everything that was going on with my kitty (pyometra) and went through everything step by step with me to make sure the process for her went smoothly. They helped her right away when all other vets were booked fully for the next 2 months. Just went in today to get her staples removed and it was super fast and easy! They were also super helpful with any questions I had! Hopefully I wont have anymore emergencies with my fur babies in the future but if I do I know exactly where to bring them and that theyll be taken care of.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laird M. 1 year ago on Google
    My cat had an ear hematoma. I took her to our old vet and they attempted two rounds of "surgery" and there was a serious mishap. Upon doing research for alternatives I found the first avenue animal hospital. When I explained my situation, what had happened the doctor was actually sympathetic and caring, dropped fees to help me with the costs of care. I forever will be thankful for the staff and doctor at first ave animal hospital. They performed the surgery, looked after my pet and gave the proper care needed. They won my trust which is very important when it comes to a vet. signed, A happy & satisfied pet dad.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Chris M. 2 years ago on Google
    Unpleasant experience... We felt like a huge inconvenience anytime we contacted them about our cat. Was a rude, non compassionate and money forward environment. To be fair I'm sure they know what they're doing and I've seen a lot of positive reviews, but our experience just made an already stressful situation feel even more stressful. I could relate to alot of other people's reviews and felt my review would hopefully add to the the understanding that there is a issue and hopefully they can work on it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 kareen t. 2 years ago on Google
    My 9 yr cat had 3 fat tumors ,cracked teeth.uti infection they gave her great care , doubled/extended her life im sure !! Good prices, staff really are compassionate and professional.i feel lucky that i called them..

  • 5/5 Bria D. 2 years ago on Google
    I can say that this is honestly the best vet I've ever been too. They are so helpful, HONEST and supportive, not to mention give quality care. Costs are affordable, which is even better. I've been going here for two years now and will continue to go even though I reside on the Island now.

  • 5/5 Jennifer M. 3 years ago on Google
    I went to 1st Ave Animal Hospital after my dog was bit in the eye by another dog. They were able to see her right away and very reasonably priced. When I brought her back, because we were worried about the healing they didn't charge me, and they also said they would take out the stitches for free if needed (they were dissolving, but in case it was bothering her too much after a week). They also didn't make me feel pressured to pursue any specific treatment option.

  • 1/5 Kelsie P. 2 years ago on Google
    I brought a cat in that was throwing-up and lethargic, and informed the staff when I booked that the owner had tested positive for COVID. I asked the front desk staff multiple times if the cat should be isolated from other cats in case it had COVID, and had no response from them. The cat sat in the waiting room in a kennel for 30 minutes with other cats and kittens close by before being moved to the back (cat's spread COVID to other cats just like humans do). The vet did not discuss care for a cat having COVID and informed me that cat's can't get COVID. I followed-up with an email with CDC and Gov. Can. links showing that Cats do in fact get COVD. The vet responded promptly but is taking no responsibility, instead blaming me for my communication. I would never trust my cat in their care.

  • 5/5 J S. 1 year ago on Google
    I’ve brought my bunny here twice. Once to get spayed and once due to gastro stasis. They were very kind and took wonderful care of my bun.

  • 5/5 Timothy K. 2 years ago on Google
    100% recommend. I can see why someone from the BCSPCA recommended this vet to me. I wish I'd asked for the front desk manager's name because the balancing act I saw between talking to patients' parents, answering phones and dealing with what's going on behind the curtain deserves a lot of credit. I've seen enough vets to know which ones care and which ones don't, and this clinic clearly cares.

  • 5/5 Tony Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Thank you to the amazing team at 1st Ave Animal Hospital for saving my cat's life. They truly care about each animal, remember their names, and diligently calls to check up on the pet's status. Long story short... In the span of a few weeks, my cat went from eating less to not eating at all. She looked like she was close to death. After some tests and blood work, it was clear that she had a liver issue that can only be solved with medication and forcing her to eat. When force feeding my cat with a syringe resulted in her simply vomiting up everything, we decided that inserting a feeding tube through her neck and into her stomach was the best solution. After a few more weeks of diligent medication and feeding, my cat regained her strength and appetite. The feeding tube was taken out, the hole in her neck closed, and she was back to being a happy kitty.

  • 5/5 joe c. 2 years ago on Google
    I brought my dog here first time for concern as my vet was booked for a few weeks, They showed professionalism and Dr. Dhunna was very knowledgeable with explaining to me of what he was going to do and front desk staff is amazing I felt comfortable! My dog usually hates going into vet clinic but she was so comfortable and happy here. I will transferring all 2 of my animals to this clinic. I highly recommend 1st Ave animal hospital for all your veterinarian needs.

  • 5/5 Melon 2 years ago on Google
    The vet and vet assistants here are quite knowledgeable and friendly. They’re experienced and know what to do. They also seem to care a lot about animals. They’re not a super busy vet so expect to be able to book an appointment same day or at least within 1-3 days. I brought my two cats here and have been coming here ever since.

  • 5/5 Samantha L. 1 year ago on Google
    The team at 1st Ave Animal Hospital always makes us feel well taken care of. Our beagle is very happy to visit for his regular check ups and they are always able to fit us in when something urgent is on the go. Very happy to be a client here.

  • 5/5 R. G. 2 years ago on Google
    I brought my 14yr old dog in for a surgery (a growth on his snout) and teeth removal. I called a few different places and all had very long wait. This place gave me an appointment the next day and did the surgery on that same day. The doctor and the staff were amazing, and gave us all the post surgery medicines. As for the cost, it was quite reasonable, as I have no insurance. For my experience, this place definitely deserves more stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

  • 5/5 Naoko S. 2 years ago on Google
    My cat fell ill, kept vomiting every time she ate. I took her to an emergency and got radiology done but could not keep her there for further treatment due to my finance. I called 1st Ave as soon as they opened and they scheduled an appointment for my cat right away. Their response was fast, very professional, explanation was logical and compassionate. Thank you!!

  • 3/5 Blackbear F. 1 year ago on Google
    They were ok but the staff member I dealt with wasn't very warm or friendly. In most places this isn't required or important but when it comes to my pets I expect that demeanor as it's usually a pretty traumatic experience. One would hope the people working at the vet's office would help lessen this. Seemed like they didn't and acted annoyed when my kitten had taken off her cone multiple times after being spayed. Seems like they are about the dollars not the care.

  • 5/5 Jacqueline T. 1 year ago on Google
    Our experience here was incredible! Our dog had surgery in her ear and all of our questions were thoroughly answered. The follow up post surgery was top notch and so comforting. Would highly recommend!

  • 5/5 Paige M. 2 years ago on Google
    Took my Dr. Satan to them for his first vet checkup and shots. They made him and me feel really at ease. Really well priced, and very nice staff.

  • 5/5 Roban S. 6 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    My dog was attacked and needed to be stitched up. I usually go to a different place for my veterinary services but I was referred to this place by the SPCA Hospital. I went there and when given my estimate for services from the Dr, I called around to see if I can get a cheaper deal elsewhere. To my surprise everywhere else was almost double the price for getting my dog helped. The dr here at 1st avenue were very friendly and kind. They took great care of my princess Lucky and stitched her up. There were more wounds than we thought and I was not charged more for them having to do more work on her. I’m very happy with their service and will definitely use their services again in the future as their prices were unbeatable. Even the vet recommended dog food is cheaper in price at this animal hospital. I thank the dr and great staff for helping our fur princess and she is healing at home well. She’s already running around and her old self again but has her cone on for another 8 days and she hates it.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andre S. 6 months ago on Google • 1 review
    Our dog was bit by another dog and required stitches. Dr and his team were great! Very caring and communicated to us in detail on what was happening and what needed to be done. Getting in at last minute was easy and there was no wait time. I would recommend 1st ave animal hospital to anyone.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Melanie C. 7 months ago on Google • 1 review
    We go to this vet hospital regularly and the new staff was so good with my dog. She was so affectionate and patient with our nervous dog that she followed her into the treatment room with no problems (she used to dig her heels in and needed to be dragged in). It really shows that the staff cares about their furry patients which puts my mind at ease.

  • 5/5 Bronwyn R. 6 months ago on Google • 1 review
    I LOVE 1st Ave Animal Hospital! I wouldn't trust my dog going to anyone else (and ive had some terrible experiences with other vet hospitals in the city). Dr. Dhunna is just incredible! So kind and patient explaining everything to me in detail as im very anxious. Ive only had successful treatments here as well as having my girl spayed with incredibly fast recovery. Hes very detailed and has never pushed me to do unnecessary tests that i cant afford. Hes very conscious of peoples financial situation and has always been very accommodating to me. Im so relieved to have found this place! The facility is very clean, and the staff are exceptionally helpful, kind, and accommodating. I call constantly asking questions and they're always ready to help! Dr. Dhunna genuinely cares about the animals, and puts their care before everything including money and his personal time, as hes even come in on his off days to treat my dog! I recommend this clinic to everyone! Also the best prices in town and the assistants are extremely knowledgable:) 1000000/10❤️

  • 5/5 Mattias F. 5 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    My 16 year old kitty somehow managed to get himself an ear hematoma and my usual vet quoted me a price that just seemed absurd for the type of procedure needed, so I called around asking for second opinions and 1st Ave Animal Hospital was extremely helpful. I brought him here for the procedure and not only did they do a great job but they were also very thorough and accommodating with his follow up appointments. My little guy is usually a menace but the staff said he was very sweet with them, I will probably be bringing him back here for his regular check ups


Call +1 604-254-5480 Open on Google Maps

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Veterinarians nearby

Last updated:
()