VCA Canada Ottawa Veterinary Hospital image

VCA Canada Ottawa Veterinary Hospital

Pet supply store Veterinarian Animal hospital Veterinary pharmacy

One of the Most Reviewed Veterinarians in Ottawa


Address

2148 Carling Ave Unit 7, Ottawa, ON K2A 1H1, Canada

Website

vcacanada.com

Contact

+1 613-725-1182

Rating on Google Maps

4.30 (1.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 10 am to 10 pm
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 10 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 10 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 10 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 10 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 10 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am to 10 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: care (30) staff (19) time (17) emergency (15) extremely (11) home (11) service (10) caring (9) days (9) team (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Lisa-Dawn Crawley (. 2 years ago on Google
    Rapid decline of our 14yr old kitty on Saturday necessitated euthanasia on Saturday night. Despite being short-staffed due to Covid, etc, we were shown expedience, professionalism and compassion. After calling ahead to ascertain pricing (which was cheaper than our usual vet), we arrived on site, parked and called to let the front desk we were there. Two of us, masked, were allowed to be in the room with kitty. We took care of payment and paperwork beforehand so our exit could be swift. The room had a plastic divider screen between the exam table/ doctor's area and our two seats. Nevertheless, one of us was allowed to stand next to and pet kitty while the doctor administered sedative via a very long catheter from across the room. The doctor showed caring and an interest in our kitty's story and was open to hearing how we wanted things to happen. Even though the whole event lasted less than 30mins and left us heartbroken, it was exactly as we needed/wanted and we are very thankful to both of the staff members we interacted with that night. We asked for ink paw prints to be made and picked them up this afternoon, about two days later. This was our second end of life service with this facility. The first was in 2009.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Nikki-lee B. 2 years ago on Google
    First of all, I took my precious cat Luka here on December 1st due to unusual weight loss and slight muscle weakness in his lower body, he was having difficulty supporting himself with his legs to stand properly. I was spoken to who I am supposing was a vet tech named Dr. Donnelly who I informed I may have financial difficulties after she informed me of the bill of seeing him since they didn't know his physical status, and required to have him for more than one night. After I had informed her of this she just brushed his condition as best to be euthanized. I spoke to her the next day and was again advised he wasn't worth keeping alive, and should put down, I asked to be given some time to consider and call them at a later time. At this point I was able to speak to an extremely kind and empathetic vet, Dr. Schroeter, who informed me my cat was optimistically alert and aware enough to be given the chance of at home care. I was able to prolong his life comfortably, and give myself a chance to spend even a small amount of time with him before his untimely passing. From that time I experienced unprofessional and curt phone experiences with staff just to get refills of medicine, as well as answers to concerns I had. I went back to this clinic on January 9th, alarmed that he was giving me signs he was in too much pain to continue. I was seen by a woman named Emily who was kind, but more interested is showing us aftercare options of urns and cremation vs home burial. Our designed person to give Luka his final fluids never introduced herself, just informed us she would start his process of being euthanized. After uncomfortable moments of watching her inject fluids into him and her informing me it isn't painful, I watched in horror as he went from sitting up to falling over at an alarming speed, eyes still open, but his breath has stopped. I didn't inform them that this was my first experience having an animal put down, but to experience such trauma after coming to this clinic in hopes that I was relieving him of his earthly pain is indescribable. The only reason I even give this clinic a modest 2 star is for Dr. Schroeter, who was extremely caring and optimistic about my cats health and well-being, and for the continued care outside of only his physical condition. I had overheard from some employees at this location of his attentive care to Luka, which was extremely heartwarming as the pet owner to hear. Thank you again Dr. Schroeter, if you do see this review. I'm so extremely thankful of your care of my Luka in his final days.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Canadian R. 2 years ago on Google
    I brought my dog Levi in at 12:30am Monday December 13th due to a few seizures the previous day. Since this is a very new condition for him, I had no meds at home to help him. The initial vet was Dr. Martinho and I can't express how grateful and appreciative I am for not only how she took care of Levi, how thorough she was in explaining what they were doing and why it was best that he stay there until later that night but also how extremely understanding she was in regards to my REALLY bad anxiety. She wasn't dismissive, impatient or annoyed by the fact. (Thank you!!). They texted me before 7am to let me know how he was doing and called me at 11am to go over medications and discharge information. I picked him up around 7pm that night since the clusters/seizures were under control by medication. They gave me in depth detailed material on his new meds, protocols and home care. The vet tech that was taking care of the discharge was the same person I spoke with when I originally called to get him in. (I'm sorry, I don't recall your name but you are fantastically AWESOME and empathetic, thank you so much for all the time you took to answer my questions). I also spoke with Dr. Armstrong before leaving and she was very kind and understanding as well. As someone with an anxiety disorder and obviously being generally worried and stressed out about what was happening with Levi, I couldn't have asked for a better team! Levi was very tired and happy to be home, but I felt comfortable knowing he had been in the best place possible if he had more seizures that day. THANK YOU all so much, every single one of you; the vets, the vet techs, the people at reception, anyone who comforted or monitored Levi, those I spoke with after he was home with further questions.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 McNuggets 4. 7 months ago on Google • 43 reviews
    It's not every day that you have to go to an emergency vet for your cat. A friend of mind recommended that place. For the first time there, I gotta say I was pretty impressed with the service we got. We were even able to get a hot beverage at their customers' station. We were also able to meet the cat that lives at the clinic 😽 They answer all our questions. Reassured us and let us know couple options at different costs. Our cat is doing great now and we are very grateful.

  • 5/5 Nicole D. 2 years ago on Google
    I have nothing but positive things to say about the care our beautiful boy received at the VCA. We had to bring him in when he unexpectedly became seriously ill. They took him in right away, and were very good at communicating with us to let us know what the situation was. Unfortunately we had to make the tough decision to euthanize our dog. The staff were extremely caring and compassionate. We were given all the time we needed to say goodbye, and it happened very quietly and gently which is all we ever wanted. Thank you to the staff at the VCA for helping us through this heartbreaking time.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tammy W. 1 year ago on Google
    I brought my 15 year old Husky/Shepard mix in because I thought he had a stroke. The vet knew exactly what the issue was, prescribed medication and he was better in a couple weeks. Unfortunately, when I took him back the second time because he was having seizures. I said goodbye to my dog at the beginning of June. I am happy that both doctors saw him were honest, offered possible issues, and conferred with each other on the diagnosis. They were also sympathetic and didn’t offer false hope.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Naomi L. 1 year ago on Google
    My dog Rosa was seen in emergency care at OVH a few days ago for abdominal pain and diarrhea, and I have nothing but good things to say. Despite there being an influx of patients due to power outages from the big storm at the other emergency clinics nearby, Rosa was seen within an hour. All staff were empathetic and friendly to deal with and showed great care for Rosie. They kept her there for a few hours for xray and observation while I waited at home, then I received a call from the vet (unfortunately forgot her name) who explained everything in detail and aftercare instructions. The vet was noticeably caring about expenses and was upfront with me about costs and where we could bypass tests that weren’t critical right now. I am very grateful that Rosie got such good care and she is doing better already!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ciel 1 year ago on Google • 22 reviews
    First time going to an emergency vet and I couldn’t be more pleased with their services and expertise. :) I brought my cat in for severe constipation and was seen by a vet immediately! They thoroughly explained the results and provided treatment plans accordingly; consent was always obtained before going forward with something new. I was nervous about having to leave him overnight for a few days but they provided updates twice a day by phone and event sent pictures by text which was incredibly reassuring. Visitations (by appointment) were also allowed. THANK YOU to all the compassionate staff that made this experience the least stressful as possible and bringing my cat back to good health!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sherrie M. 1 year ago on Google
    We brought our dog in after hours and ended up having to let him go. Ian Niu and his team were so kind and caring. We couldn't have asked for better care for our old boy, and ourselves, in a heartbreaking time. Forever grateful. ❤️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gabs55 1 year ago on Google
    What a wonderful team of professionals who are dedicated to ensuring your fur baby is well taken care of in the event of an emergency. My dog was attacked and bitten by another dog. That same afternoon, I went to the hospital and explained what happened. I was there for their 24/7 emergency care as my regular vet was closed. The staff was extremely understanding and helpful. They were very busy and suggested that I take home my dog and they would call when a vet was available. This, of course, happened after the triage staff assessed that she was not in serious condition. They gave her a sedative and cleaned the wounds before sending us home. I got the call at 3am to come in. Staff, incl the Vet, were apologetic for the time. But within 25 minutes all was done: and my dog was in good shape. Antibiotics were prescribed as well as instructions for after care. I very much appreciated how the Vet heard me out. Impressive. So glad Ottawa Vet Hospital is an after hours hospital, and even though the 3am call was tough…it beats waiting for hours. Thanks so much for taking care of Charley!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael L. 1 year ago on Google
    I have to say that dealing with them was truly amazing. Our dog and ourselves were treated with respect during our time of need. The staff were highly compassionate when we had to say our farewells to our beautiful Misty. Thank you so much for everything.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Susan L. 1 year ago on Google
    My French Bulldog was in labour and had delivered one puppy successfully but then the next puppy got stuck on the way out. Ottawa Veterinary Hospital took us in at 2300hrs, didn't lecture me about French Bulldogs and C-Sections and helped deliver 3 more healthy puppies and ensure my dog was healthy and well taken care of. I am extremely appreciative to the doctors and staff who took such great care of my Olive!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Angus W. 2 years ago on Google
    When our black lab lost her strength, I contacted our local emergency vet service, and was directed to a multitude of others who all redirected us, or apologized offering appointments days away. Alta Vista was the place who took our need as urgent, the staff were very thoughtful and the doctor was wonderful when describing our options. Sadly, our 12 year old lab had reached the end of her time here, but I appreciate the opportunity to understand options, and to mindfully begin the process of saying goodbye in a space where our dog's whole life could be considered with dignity, love and accessible care.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin L. 1 year ago on Google
    Nothing but the best people working here. They were absolutely amazing when our little kitty got into pistachios and needed emergency surgery to get a blockage removed. Here's a picture of him recovering in his onesie :)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Laura C. 2 years ago on Google
    They take forever...they put you on hold and pretty much forget about you... .they only care about money and wasting people's time. Worst experience ever. Total rip off . Be warned .
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vickie V. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing. Thanks to the vet and the team for saving are 9 month old baby cat. We are extremely grateful for everything that you guys have done. Working all does crazy hours must be so tiring but you guys never give up ❤️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Susan S. 2 years ago on Google
    Our second visit to this location and again excellent service. They care about our pet and about us. Great to keep in touch. Staff is friendly. Decent price. Not overcharged. This trip was an over night stay and we were kept informed of every step. This is our top go to for emergency pet service. Only regret is not finding them 7 years ago. Thank you for being top notch and keeping your personal touch.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Miranda C. 2 months ago on Google • 22 reviews New
    I've been to this VCA a couple times with other people. I finally used their services for my own dog today. My big goofball developed a big lump on his belly super suddenly. After a few days of trying to treat it at home, it was time to see the dogtor. After explaining every scenario in depth, Dr. Niu and I came up with a plan of action, keeping my budget in mind. We decided to proceed with each step after consulting me. The first step was sedation and Dr. Niu was able to feel the lump a bit better. A couple minutes later, he came out with a big stick that was stuck in my dogs belly!! I am so happy that Dr. Niu trusted both my gut and his gut and investigated the lump without a bunch of costly tests. Some antibiotics and my boy will be good as new! I even got to keep the stick! Thank you everyone for taking such good care of Cobalt 💕

  • 5/5 Stephanie W. 5 months ago on Google • 12 reviews
    We brought our cat here when she was having issues on a Saturday evening. They were prompt to get us in and were extremely friendly. The vet was very nice, great with our kitty and explained the situation and our options very well. I really appreciate how well they handled the situation. The vet was also very helpful and offered for us to call if we needed anything else at all. We were in and out within a couple hours. I highly recommend this clinic.

  • 5/5 Ali A. 4 months ago on Google • 11 reviews
    My best friend / my buddy / my little baby Valentino wasn’t doing well. He wasn’t eating drinking and I was seriously afraid I was going to loose him, but from the moment I called in to when I walked into their clinic, 99% of my worries were washed away. Emilie at the front desk is beyond caring loving and empathetic towards our kitty, she truly loves what she does and helping people I can’t say enough good things about her As for our Dr. Also Emilie (winning name for me after today) was very transparent didn’t over charge us and only recommended the tests that were necessary to get my little Tino better 10 stars / 5 is my review but obviously I’ll have to settle for 5/5 Highly recommended Very professional Won’t sell you a service you don’t need I trust this place 100% I’ll be back to get my other 3 cats checked up on yearly with them Thank you for the bottom on my heart Team Emilie !

  • 5/5 P Tun (. 3 months ago on Google • 10 reviews New
    I will try to find the words to express our gratitude for the kindness and support we received in one of the worst days of our lives. VCA Carling was incredibly kind and compassionate in helping us with our Holly’s crossing the rainbow bridge. I wish I could remember the vets name but she was amazing. To the front counter staff member, thank you for walking us through memorializing her, through our tears.

  • 5/5 Lise F. 7 months ago on Google • 10 reviews
    Thank you to the entire team that was there on Monday August 7th. I was there with my sick pug Peanut and in the end, they had to help her cross the rainbow bridge. The kindness and compassion was so evident and very much appreciated in the very difficult moment. Thank you to all!

  • 5/5 Lisa S. 3 months ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    I cannot recommend this hospital enough! My little chihuahua was so sick. Not only was she able to be seen on Boxing Day on an emergency basis, but they saved her life. Dr Niu was so kind and compassionate. It’s obvious he loves animals. Everything was explained perfectly and I felt so safe in leaving her there overnight. With semi-regular updates before and after her surgery, the staff were all so lovely. From front desk to recitations, they were all friendly and compassionate. I’m happy to have Karma home, happy and healthy. I can’t thank them enough for all they did to save her.

  • 5/5 Tiffany S. 1 month ago on Google • 7 reviews New
    I brought my cat Barney in last week, and everyone at the hospital was great. Everyone was amazing, from the doctor, the front desk staff and the technicians. It is also a nice environment, and it made me feel better about having to leave Barney in their care. Nobody wants to bring their pet into the hospital, but if you have to, this is the place to bring them.

  • 5/5 Dan W. 10 months ago on Google
    So, I imagine no one wants to be in a situation where you need to go here. It's a scary and stressful time. Having said that, they gave my little friend the absolute best possible care! They saved her. Now, it's expensive everywhere you go, that's true too. But they never did any unnecessary work, and all the itemized charges were reasonable. We have a plan going forward for our pet...our friend to stay healthy and enjoy many more years with us. These people are the best, and rest assured your pet is on good hands with them.

  • 5/5 Morgan W. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing experience. Had a scary emergency with my Chihuahua, no where else could take her, I truly thought she wouldn’t be seen. However this hospital prioritizes based off severity, and I could bring her to them asap. Had to leave my Chihuahua in their care for a few days, and they were awesome. Took amazing care of my little girl, while providing update calls/texts and pictures! Thank you staff for making her your priority ❤️

  • 5/5 Jennifer H. 11 months ago on Google
    I took my miniature dachshund into Ottawa Veterinary Hospital following a seizure. He stayed overnight so that staff could observe him and do some bloodwork and X-rays. The staff were kind and welcoming. Communication was excellent from both the doctors and vet techs. I had no worries leaving Ruh in their care and would heartily recommend them to other pet owners.

  • 5/5 Karen t. 8 months ago on Google
    Very happy with the service and care we recently received here. Deep gratitude to Dr Ian and team. From excellent initial care, to a follow-up visit and a phone call check-in just to make sure treatment was working, we were consistently impressed with his professionalism and compassion. Staff at front desk are a wealth of knowledge as are the pro vet techs that helped us. Simply an excellent team. Rumi sends his appreciation!

  • 5/5 Beck B. 1 year ago on Google
    Our precious boy Steven had a sudden neurological issue overnight and the service was absolutely great. They took him right away and got us in a waiting room at 7 am. They kept him until the primary dr showed up and the vet techs were all lovely and the dr was thorough and went through all the options we had as well as explaining the issues as best she could. Thank you so much to the team there, you were wonderful and also very reasonably priced for an emergency vet. ❤️

  • 5/5 Ravi S. 2 years ago on Google
    It was one of the saddest days in my life when this innocent little kitten had to be let go due to congenital heart disease. But this institution made is possible and took every step to manage our deep sorrow.

  • 5/5 Carina B. 2 months ago on Google • 3 reviews New
    my cat muffin got very sick fast today. I called them in a panick because no where else was open on weekends, and they told me to come in right away. Muffin had a blocked bladder and they rushed him to surgery within the hour. Without their speed I wouldn’t have a cat right now. They were extremely nice and caring and quick!! absolutely great service, and they helped me turn a terrible day into a less stressful one. Me and muffin thank you :))

  • 4/5 Brenda T. 2 years ago on Google
    Very impressed with this initial visit - an emergency for my beloved kitty. Response has been immediate and she'll be with them for 48hrs at least. And I'm totally okay with that, even though we've never been there before. So nice to move here from the West Coast and immediately feel so comfortable and confident leaving my Lovey there.

  • 4/5 Jacky V. 2 years ago on Google
    The staff showed so much compassion and love to me and my pet and I will be forever grateful. The system to get in due to covid was a huge hassle but I understand they're doing the best they can.

  • 5/5 Tania B. 2 years ago on Google
    Just wanted to say a huge thank you again to everyone at VCA, what a caring, compassionate and professional team!! It was a really hard moment in my pet's life (rest in peace, my sweet Spicy) and they all went above and beyond for us both. Thank you so much again, Dr Aaron & everyone at VCA, all the very best to you all <3

  • 5/5 Lisa M. 2 years ago on Google
    Much love to VCA Ottawa. I have brought my dog here twice for their emergency service with ongoing seizure activity (she has epilepsy). Their response was thorough, compassionate and reasonable. This week we brought our old guy to their emergency services for ongoing vomiting and rectal bleeding. Dr. Armstrong provided 3 treatment plans including one with euthanasia, which we ended up choosing. Dr. Armstrong and her staff were so compassionate, caring and held space for our old guy and us as Sawyer ran over the rainbow 🌈 Thank-you for making tough, terrible choices a little easier.


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