St. Catharines Animal Hospital

Kind & accommodating. Our 9 year old dog had a gnarly lump on her ear that needed to be surgically removed. This is a new vet for us. We had only had one other consult meet and greet appointment, and sadly another appointment for our other dog who abruptly became unwell and recently passed away. After that diagnosis we actually opted for in-home euthanization with another company that was available sooner than their at-home option. All this to say, we put a lot of trust into a veterinary practice that we have not had too much experience to go off of yet. We of course are still feeling sensitive and anxious after suddenly losing our boy. Due to our girl being super anxious and resistant to being poked and prodded (especially with any needles). We requested that we be able to stay to support her in those first steps for sedation & bloodwork before surgery. Our surgeon was doctor Amanda and she was amazing. She greeted us at the front desk, walked us through our options and let us stay in a room with Lulu until it was time for surgery. She took lulu into her own arms and was so loving toward her. When the lumpectomy was complete, the doctor called me personally to let me know how it went and when lulu would be ready for pick up. This to me was a next level act of kindness for the surgeon to call and made a large impact for us. It eased our stress so much and made us feel so confident. Lulu is resting up and we are super thankful for the great, personable service today.

Would give 0 stars if possible. I used to be happy with this clinic and took my dog here for years, but it looks like things have changed since the last time I was in. I recently booked an appointment for vaccines with my 7 week old kitten. I went in for my appointment on time and was left waiting over 40 minutes in the front waiting area, while my kitten was starting to get anxious in her carrier. While waiting I overheard other pet owners in the room complaining about the service here. Finally, after 40 minutes, a nurse told us that the vet has left the building and asked if we want to reschedule our appointment for another day. Very unprofessional and knowing that my cat was getting anxious, it is so frustrating that they would not inform us sooner. Will not be returning with my cat or dog and do not recommend.

I have been going to this vet for about 4 years now. I saw a new vet at this clinic today, Doctor JP, and he was incredible. My dog really doesn't like going to the vet, but Doctor JP made this the easiest and quickest vaccine appointment I have ever had. He explained everything, was amazing with my very large and scared dog, and the whole thing only took about 10 minutes. Fastest and easiest appointment ever. All the staff at this clinic are great, and will treat your fur baby well. Highly recommend to all!

So compassionate and caring. Unbeatable pricing. Meds on internet more expensive than the vet charges. My dog is lucky to be in such great hands

Wanted to share that my wife and I saddened to say that on March 16 our beautiful Newfie Elvis has passed away at the age of 10.5 years old. He was our best friend and we’ll miss him forever. I would also like to thank all at the St. Catherine’s animal Hospital especially Dr. Boctor who is an amazing person with a kind heart and because of him we were able to have had and enjoyed our dog for additional 4 more years. When our dog was around 6 years old he had a ruptured spleen and was bleeding internally. We knew something was wrong with our dog but didn’t know what. We were scared and brought him to St. Catherine’s animal hospital and it was when they were just about to close. We’ll never forget that even though they we’re ready to close and that Dr. Boctor had also a very special family event that he was to attend to, but instead of attending this special family gathering he stayed behind along with another Doctor and some of his assistances. It was a complicated surgery and my wife and I still remember that he was there until around 1: 00 am. My wife and I stayed in that parking lot scared, praying and hoping for the best! I remember that amazing feeling when Dr. Boctor came to his front door of his clinic with his scrubs on and held up two thumbs smiling. So thanks to Dr. Boctor and St. Catherine’s animal hospital for saving his life! We we’re able to have and enjoy over 4 more years of companionship with our beautiful gentle giant! Once again thank you for saving our dogs life! You are definitely one amazing Doctor and we are forever grateful to you. Rest In Peace Elvis our forever best friend Ron & Tosha Bloxam

Best place to take your fur babies. Great caring staff. 4 years later is still feel the same way

Great staff, wonderful hours and reasonable pricing vs other vets.

They take wonderful care of my two cats and my dog. I was particularly happy with the care my dog received during his recent eye surgery.

After our first visit, I’d give this a five-start rating based on the care, knowledge, communication, and cost of getting our cat examined. Dr Gokhale was very through in outlining a the possible ailments, and what we’d be looking for with the test results. Blood and urine work were the two diagnostic procedures, but she wasn’t pushy to get both done. We went over the blood results and and came up with the treatment plan - a simple diet change.

The bill, though expensive, was palatable, and the cat has had an improvement in the few days so mince the visit.

Awesomeness, awesome, awesome people, awesome service. Dr Boctor is the best.

We always take our animals here
The best

The worst place to take your pet.the doctor has a lousy attitude, I don't understand how a person who supposedly loves animals can be so rude. I really hope people think twice before bringing their pets to this bad place

They are the best care giving animal Facilty that goes above and beyond to provide the best care. My dog Sadie was poisoned their quick response and continued daily care is why she is alive today. I can’t say enough about them. Thank you so much Lyse Moreau

I have been bringing my pets here for a long time now. This crew is very nice and professional. Whenever I call on emergency situations, they take my dog in immediately with no extra emergency fee. Dr Boctor did an emergency surgery to remove the spleen of my dog last year. The emergency clinic gave me an estimate of $5000. But I ended up paying $2800. I really love them and recommend them all the time.

Please never go to this vet! This vet does not care about anything but the money. They act like they have never treated an animals before. The people at the desk are very nice but all 3 “vets” I have seen have been horrendous. I can’t believe this place can stay open with how little knowledge they have on animals and how to care for them. They like to traumatized animals for fun. Also, when feedback is given lies and excuses are made and they will not take any accountability for their incompetence. Also, they have video recordings in all the rooms but no audio and their “whiteness” are other employees. This is very convenient for them as there is no way to keep someone accountable when they lie and only use people who will obviously side with them as they don’t want to lose their jobs. They also falsify vet records and give out confidential information freely. I am so disappointed with the treatment I have received at this vet and will never be going to this vet ever again. If you care about your pet do not bring them here.

As I have been reading other 1 star reviews I am horrified about what this vet clinic has done and I can’t believe I ever went to this clinic. Their replies often are breaches of confidentiality which under The Collage of Veterinarians of Ontario should be reported to Privacy Commissioner of Canada. The clinic also only replies to bad reviews and shows no care for any positive reviews.

*Response to Reply*
Please note that the clinic is not sorry and does not care how horrible they treat people and animals. Their response is just to make themselves look good and it is the same exact answer they copy and paste for everyone that brings light to how horrible this vet clinic is. What’s the point of even replying when no effort or care went into it? All I received was attitude, discrimination and excuses when I spoke with the staff directly so there is no way to give this clinic any short of feedback.

I have had exclusively bad experiences at this vet office. Primarily because of the receptionists, but in particular, Shannon. She is rude, dismissive, unprofessional and as far as I can tell, she doesn't want to be working there. When I have had to refill my dog's incontinence medication, she has consistently refused to tell me when it will be ready. She lied about saying that the office would call when the medication was ready (they have never called me in the span of the year I have been going there. I always have to call them). Today she told me that the office sends texts when orders are ready, and said that they texted me "several times. " I have never gotten a single text from this office, despite them having the correct phone number on file. In the past, Shannon has even lied about putting the order in. Causing me to run out of the medication that my dog needed to control her incontinence.

Shannon's customer service (or complete lack thereof) will be the thing that causes me to change vet clinics. However, I was already considering doing so because this office is generally disorganized in the way it handles its clients. In addition, they refused to fill my dog's medication on one occasion until I agreed to get $400+ of blood work and tests done. Which she didn't need. She had been up to date on her annual check ups, and she'd been on the same medication her whole life with no problems. So, basically, this is the kind of vet that will invent reasons to get more money from you.

This is easily the worst experience I have ever had with a veterinary office. I wouldn't recommend them to anyone. Especially if you have a dog that needs to be on regular medication.

Staff and vet are very caring and excellent with pets. I highly recommend them to anyone that is looking for a loving and caring vet.

I had dr juilee just recently and she was AMAZING. She gave me hope for my young dog who needs heart surgery, she sent my referral same day and we heard back very quickly. She said she didn't want to send me to Guelph as she "wants a veteran, not someone who's learning" to perform heart surgery on my dog. THANK YOU dr. Juilee for giving me hope, taking the time to explain (with a diagram) my dogs heart, and treating my dog with so so so much kindness -jessey and ivy

Dr boctor went above and beyond for our dog. She was treated so well. I highly recommend this vet. Our dog was so well taken care of.

We have been going to St. Catharines Animal Hospital for our pets’ care for over 6 years now. Our cats are generally in good health, but our Great Dane, Vulcan, has an extensive medical history and a genetic joint issue. The staff are great at getting us in for same-day appointments in the case of emergencies. We really love Dr. Sam, Sarah and Shannon. Dr. Sam has an excellent bedside manner with both patients and people. He always takes the time to fully explain his suggestions for Vulcan’s care and he knows that I like to do my own research, too. Dr. Boctor is good too, but sometimes it feels like he is not quite as patient or perhaps doesn’t have as much time as Dr. Sam. Even though I may not always agree with their suggestions for food, care, or treatment, or if I choose a different treatment route than what is suggested, I still feel respected as a pet parent who is trying to make informed decisions for my fur babies’ well-being. Sarah always comes out from the back to say hi to Vulcan and Shannon always enquires after our pets’ health, too. Despite the many times our dog has needed testing, surgery, appointments, multi-day boarding/isolation care, he still loves going to the office to see the staff. This speaks volumes to me about the type of care provided by the staff: clearly they are doing a great job. Vulcan feels very comfortable there. I am confident in the care the staff provide and will continue bringing my pets here.

Update: October 2022. In the past year, we have seen a lot of turnaround in staff, including a new vet. My pets now only recognize a few of the staff. I know there is a veterinary staffing shortage in the industry, and lately the office seems very chaotic and busy. I try to be very understanding of this shortage and I am always polite and friendly knowing that staff are overworked. I am grateful that this clinic takes emergency cases, that is a wonderful thing! It can be frustrating; however, to be there for a routine appointment and be waiting more than an hour to be seen. When one of my cats had an ear issue recently, it felt like we ‘fell beneath the cracks’ and were forgotten about. I had to call multiple times to get information about the plan for her care and medications. I was told they would get back to me in three days and it took two weeks to be provided with information on how to treat the issue. We still love Dr. Sam, but I’m feeling frustrated lately. Several friends who use this clinic have also started noticing the same issues.

These past nine years, our family companion animals have been superbly cared for by Dr Boctor, Dr. Masoud, and the team at SCAH. It was a blend of bad luck and good fortune that brought us to SCAH and we find it to be the outstanding resource of general pet care in our over fifty years' experience as pet-owners.

In fall '13, we moved to St Catharines from Guelph ON (headquarters of this province's veterinary excellence). We had no idea how soon we'd need emergency veterinary help - our 9-year old Jack Russell suddenly fell seriously ill days after our move, and we called the veterinary clinic closest to our new home. This proved to be the best decision ever: St Catharines Animal Hospital saved our beloved pup's life.

Over these nine years, our several cats too have received outstanding care from the experts and support staff: last week (Aug 8 -11), SCAH's in-depth examinations solved the problem affecting our senior lady-cat, and she's recovering beautifully.

We cannot say enough about the knowledge, skills, patience, caring hearts, and clear communication provided by Dr Boctor and his team. From profoundly humane medical professionals to skilled technicians and adept admin staff, all SCAH people keep to a high standard in every way. This busy clinic also maintains a warm atmosphere reflecting the united positive spirit of those working within it for our pets' best health.

DO NOT GO TO THIS CLINIC!
Terrible service, specially if you need to travel with your pet. Very upset on how we were treated by the staff and they are not able to fill out a form properly.

Always so friendly, great care is given to our cat, we have been to several vets and this one is by far the best

Wow! So impressed with this vet. My 12 year old cat had a large absess on his back leg under his tail and was in a lot of pain. It was after 6: 00 near closing and he fit us in right away, even though we had never been there before. Diagnosed him right away, said he needed surgery and would keep him overnight. We thought the surgery would be the next day. About 2 hours later he called me and told me the surgery was done, he was out and awake and doing well! Could not believe how fast he did it even though it was after hours. This is definitely going to be our new vet clinic. I have kittens so we will be back for that. Thanks Dr. Boctor for taking such good care of our cat. My children were crying with joy!

They were so kind and gentle with my cat Mr Widdles who can be tricky sometimes. Very professional and kind service from all employees, made me less anxious and my cat less anxious. Highly recommend.

We recently had to make the heartbreaking decision to let our beloved Truly go.
The entire staff made this process as peaceful as possible and handled a very emotional and difficult time with grace, professionalism and compassion. We are eternally grateful for the level of care they provided and could not recommend them more.

Not too long ago our cat had a lump, which had become increasingly painful. We needed to take him to a vet, but at the time of day most offices were closed or near closing. Our local 24-hour vet clinic also said they didn't have the 'room' to take another cat in. When we called the St. Catharines Animal Hospital they were willing to take our cat in. Not only that, however, but they performed his surgery the night of despite the fact that they were closing within 30 minutes upon our arrival and we were new to the clinic. All of the staff were incredibly friendly, kind, and professional. It's clear upon entering the office and seeing all of the thankyou cards hung up that they care about animals. We're very grateful for what this office has done for us and I highly recommend visiting the St. Catharines Animal Hopsital if you are in search of a new vet.

My husband an his mother have been taking their animals to Dr. Boctor for many years now. We happen to live around the corner from his animal hospital. 15 months ago I adopted my beautiful boy Link when he was shy of 10 months old. 3 weeks ago I had the scare of my life, I had brought my cat to Dr. Sam a day before I was leaving for vacation. He was diagnosed with kidney stones an his blatter was full! Very scary! We were also told he was having other urethra issues which lead to a second surgery& lengthy stay over. All of this was very costly but to save my 2 year old cat I would've done it again. The staff an all the Dr's on Boctor team are nothing short of friendly an caring with a warm smile going in. I can not thank them enough for all they did. Link is healing very nicely & he's getting stronger everyday -returning to his normal playful self. Thank you so much

Terrible service.
Was a customer. Won't ever go back.
Better places throughout St. Catharines.

This place told me they were no longer going to be open on Saturdays, the only day me and my puppy can see a vet.
Now they are stating that it was an emergency, as to why they couldn't fullfil my pre arranged appointment.
I question this places honesty.
Everyone else should as well!

This vet is always great! Most often I can see someone my dog knows, when I can’t they are always wonderful vets who take the time to be patient and kind towards my anxious dog. She has never needed to be sedated or muzzled despite being very vocal and timid. The staff is caring and kind, and vets are always honest when not sure and wanting to get a second opinion before moving forward. I do not see needing to get another opinion as a negative since animals don’t speak human, and it’s best to be safe when prescribing medication or treatment. Dr. Zui was new to the practice, and took her time explaining her reasoning for wanting to ask the other vets prior to the follow up appointment. My dog seems to be feeling better on the first treatment prescribed, and is back to her normal stubborn, and mouthy self
Dr. Zui even called to follow up personally part way through the week to check on my dog.

Honestly, didn't like the vet. He gave my cat the medicine he needed and charged me for the visit etc. That's great and all but your upsell to teeth cleaning for $1100 + tells me you're more worried about the money than the actual health of my animal. Was my first time there and it was also my last.

While I might not have brought my pets to this location due to an initial experience I had with the front desk staff, I will say that Dr. Boctor and Sarah went out of their way to rectify the issue and apologize in person. I truly appreciate and respect the way they handled my issue and in the future I may consider bringing my business back to them. Thanks for everything!
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2022 update
It's been a few years since I have updated my review but I have brought my boys back to Dr. Boctor over the years. He has done an amazing job caring for them in times of need. I recently had to go through losing one of my furbabies and he was extremely kind and patient through the process. I know the staff and Dr. Boctor truly care for the animals that go to see them. I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you for all you do.

Hands down, This is the best vet clinic you will EVER find! My husband and I have been going to St. Catharines Animal Hospital for 8 years (we have had two dogs in that time) and have never been disappointed. 8 years ago the clinic consisted of Dr. Boctor, one vet assistant, and one receptionist - very tiny - and the service was fantastic. It felt as though the clinic was open just for us because there were no wait times and we were never rushed. Now, the clinic has greatly expended in size and in the number of clients and employees BUT the service hasn’t changed - we still walk in and feel welcomed and we are never rushed through our appointments. The compassion and respect from this staff is unparalleled to any other vet clinic we have ever been to! The prices are affordable, the cleanliness is perfection, and you can tell every employee truly loves their job and absolutely admire animals. Both of our dogs LOVE visiting the clinic which says a lot hahaha. A few years ago one of our dogs passed but we are at ease knowing that he was given the absolute best care he could have ever received. In his slow passing the staff put a heater on him when his paws were cold and cuddled him up with blankets and pillows, they called and gave us updates without us even asking, and staff even stayed later to give him love and company. Dr. Sam and Dr. Boctor are a force to be reckoned with! This dynamic duo worked diligently together to put our sick pup through the most ideal plan of action and were incredibly transparent. In the moment of our dog’s passing, Dr. Sam was so kind, caring and patient with us. At the time, Dr. Boctor was out of the province but still called us immediately after the news to send his condolences and give us comfort. We have to shout out to Sarah and Noufa who showed amazing teamwork doing everything they could for our dog, and also providing emotional support. We have to add that all the vet technicians are incredibly professional, and the admin staff do an exceptional job creating a welcoming environment. The staff at this clinic are more than just the people who take care of our animals. They are our rays of sunshine that ensure our fur babies are happy and loved - whether it’s during a check up, during surgery, or in their final moments. This clinic, this staff, and their medical practices have NO FLAWS. There is no hesitation in our recommendations to this clinic. They are simply the best in the universe. ️

They are unwilling to work within your budget. The service is more about the money than the pets. My dog needed emergency surgery because of an open wound from a dog bite and they wanted to charge me full price for the surgery etc. Even though my dog already had the same surgery fail only a week before. IF YOU LOVE YOUR PET DO NOT GO HERE!

We recently moved to St Catharine's and, we were worried whether if we can find a vet who is experienced and friendly. Our neighbor suggested this hospital and the service was so professional and they treated my pet with love and care.   Very satisfied with the service.

I would like to thank St. Catharines Animal hospital for being so kind and efficient with Roxy, our golden shepherd puppy of 10 months. She had been sick and not eating and I took her here for a second opinion as we weren’t exactly sure what the issue was. Even though Roxy was very nervous the staff put her at ease as soon as we came in. Dr. Sam examined her and explained everything to me slowly and took his time to answer my questions. Thank you Dr. Sam! We left there feeling assured that everything would be all right if we followed the instructions. He even followed up on her. I wish we would have found St. Catharines Animal Hospital when we first got our sweet puppy. Thank you again to our new friends and Vet.

They took great care of my dog Sweetie during her tail amputation and she’s now back to her happy and healthy self. They definitely have a huge love for animals and showed her lots of love and compassion and I couldn’t be happier.

They take excellent care of the animals that walk through their door, and have been great about finding ways to minimize risk during COVID-19.

If you are looking for a caring vet with an excellent staff and great service then look no further. Have been taking my dogs here for many years and they are always treated with gentleness and care.

We have been taking our puppa here since we adopted her. We are very satisfied with all of the staff that we have encountered there.

Probably the most honest and efficient vet I have even been. They took good care of my cat during his visit. I definitely recommend this place to other pet owners in St. Catherine’s.

I recently took my Bella to get her needles and even though it was covid I had to reschedule her appointment due to work. The employees were so nice and professional and patient with my Bella. At first she didn’t want to go in and I was allowed to walk to the door with her. I will always continue bringing my Bella here and I also have been recommending them to anyone I get a chance to. Keep up the good work you guys are awesome.

My friend recommended St. Catherine’s Animal Hospital after our dog Chance was feeling sick for a few days. The staff was awesome! We love them already! Wanted to write this review to help get the word out about how great this place is! Thanks again!

My dog got hurt, the night before after he fell down the stairs. I called in as soon as they opened to see if they could get us in as soon as possible. I was in as a new patient within hours. The whole staff was amazing and took care of my dog with love and compassion.

Terrible service; called 3 weeks ahead of time to have my dogs files faxed over to another veterinary office before his next rabies shot. Was told they were going to do it that same day even though it took them the very last second to send it over, after having my current veterinary office call them the day of his rabies shot and insist to have the files sent over. As well as arguing with the extremely rude receptionist Samantha and insisting on having police getting involved; only then did she send over the files I had been requesting for 3 weeks! Would not recommend this animal hospital they are extremely rude and receptionists seem very confused, as well as they withhold your pets information. Save your time money and energy much better animal hospitals near the fourth ave and Martindale area.

Very knowledgeable staff! They were able to clear up some questions we had about introducing
a new cat to our house with 2 dogs.

Super friendly service, vet and techs were excellent and answered all my questions. 100% would recommend St. Catherine’s Animal Hospital to pet owners in the area!

Thank you to Dr. Boctor and all the staff at St. Catharines Animal Hospital. I recently brought my very ill 16 year old cat in for an appointment and it turned out she needed emergency pyometra surgery. Given her age and weakened state we weren’t sure she would make it, but we took a chance on her. It has been a week after surgery and she is an entirely different cat! She is still healing, but we’ve already noticed a positive change in her personality, eating habits and overall happiness. So glad we brought her to this hospital. They were all so wonderful and genuinely caring. They definitely love animals here. Thank you all again!

We brought our new puppy to St. Catherine’s Animal Hospital for his first check up and to get some vaccines. He was very brave! The staff was very gentle with him and gave him treats for being a good boy! Will be coming back for sure!

We have just moved back to St. Catharines and knew to take our dog here!

They were able to take Arlo in as a new client within the week and were very punctual during the actual appointment.

He had various shots and a few things done and price was very reasonable.

I highly recommend:)

I recently took one of my cats in because he was unwell. I was able to get an appointment quite quickly, and the staff were all very courteous, professional, and friendly.
Dr. Boctor seems quite knowledgeable and was very caring and gentle with my cat, and explained everything to me clearly.
I highly recommend St. Catharines Animal Hospital to anyone who needs a vet.

Although I heard from my neighbors not to take my furbabies here, I initially thought they were mistaken and assumed it was the monster ousted from Bunting Ave.
I was NOT happy with this clinic. Overpriced and NEVER, NOT ONCE were able to find the cause. If anyone can recommend a good clinic, I'm in the Glendale area.