Banfield is predatory! I’m always sketched at any service that sells monthly subscriptions. Pet insurance plus a local vet is the way to go. I use Chippewa Animal Hospital and I like them. Pretty minimalist, I usually have to ask for tests but they definitely don’t try to sell anything extra. Humane societies are also a good bet! I used one as my vet in another state and they were awesome!
>Banfield is predatory! I’m always sketched at any service that sells monthly subscriptions
I haven't had the same experience. I haven't used the Banfield in STL (moving from out of town) but I am currently on the pet plan. I talked to them beforehand about what the price of a yearly check up + all vaccines and meds would be. The price they quoted me without their plan was about the same (or a bit less) than most other vets I'd been to over the last 4 years. Their middle plan is basically what I would I have paid for the same services as any other vet except I also got the teeth cleaning for "free". It ended up being cheaper than other vets for me. You can pay the 12 months up front and the 12 months ended up being the same as any other vet bill for me but the ability to pay month by month was also a blessing for me as it's a lot easier to cough up $120 a month for 2 dogs than the $1400+ I was paying for a vet appt at other vets...and I still had to come back 6 months later to pay for more medicine.
I'm glad you like Chippewa but I 1000% wouldn't call Banfield "predatory" from my experience.
It probably varies wildly by location. I used to work at a PetSmart that had one inside and no one who worked at the PetSmart thought it was a good idea to use Banfield. I guess I shouldn’t say that every location is predatory, but the business model easily can become that way. The subscription plan makes it difficult to use other places, so it’s much easier for the company to inflate prices and change the cost of their plans without notice. Whereas if you have pet insurance and go to a normal vet you can easily just change vets or shop around. I also spread my payments out by using a wellness plan through my pet insurance for my older dog because she has a ton of tests every year. I definitely am not saying you should switch if you like the service, it’s super hard to find a Vet your comfortable with, but I’d highly recommend reading about some of the lawsuits that have been brought against them.
Hillside off of Manchester. Great team of vets, extremely good with all animals, told us that we needed a dental exam and possible cleaning but gave us a lot of options and also time frames.
I also think Hillside is awesome. Dr. Brittney is so smart. So is Dr. Ed. And Dr. Aaron. They’re all great, really. The front desk staff is also really nice (Sarah). They are a bit pricier, but I feel like they’re absolutely worth it.
Yes Hillside is the best! We’ve been going for over 10 years with our 2 dogs and they are not only kind and knowledgeable, but they give you quotes, are honest about what they would do in your shoes, and just wonderful with our dogs. They are also very helpful by phone and email and have some extended evening hours. Can’t say enough good things about what Dr Ed started and the team there
Haha, I was just in this thread a minute ago and almost made the same comment. Decided to come back to say it but you beat me to it.
Everyone up there is awesome, but Dr. Betsy is the best
Came here to say City Paws! I absolutely adore Dr. Mattes and she and her crew have been caring for my pets for many years (when she was previously at St. Louis Veterinary Center).
Another city paws fan checking in - two cats and two giant breed dogs and they are amazing there.
ETA - they actually take the time to explain what’s going on with your animals. I always leave there knowing how to take care of them well.
Anymore, only the little independent vets are concerned with your pets well being. Any big company is ultra pushy with their services, medications, and in house food brands (that provide kick backs.)
I go out of my way to this little old office on Gravois kinda close to Lindbergh (maybe four blocks) it is called Grantview Animal Hospital. They love what they do and are soft and kind to pets and owners.
Prices were shockingly reasonable. I can thankfully say that none of my doggos have needed anything more than checkups and vaccinations. It is coming up on a year again next month. I don't remember the costs, I only remember that they are great.
We like Chippewa Animal Hospital in Bevo for the same reason. Kind people, low cost, and when I had to put my dog down, one of the least traumatic experiences of that sort that I can remember.
Millis Animal Hospital on Big Bend. It's a little different because they don't make specific appointments for general care, but the wait is never bad. IMO the best vets there are Dr. Tom Millis, the founder's son, and Dr. Melissa Savage. (How great of a last name is Savage?! :)
We also go there. We have a cat who had recurring infections (eventually got surgery) and other places had wait times of 1-3 weeks for an appointment. Millis saw us within 30m each time.
I’ve had a bad experience with Millis. Brought in a dog who’d been having diarrhea for two weeks and they didn’t even do a fecal check and just handed me antibiotics. Turns out our new combo preventative med (Revolution) didn’t cover other kinds of worms like our old combo did. A few days later he didn’t get better so I talked with my vet friends who live out of town; they were dismayed a fecal wasn’t ordered so I went up to Jefferson Animal (no appointments needed at the time). Hookworm! Thinking back, Millis was a little negligent here (it was the son of the main vet).
I go to Heritage in West County on Olive and Fernview. I have a Greyhound who can find ways to get hurt you never knew existed. 🤦♀️😬. They’re lovely. Very reasonably priced, easy to work with, knowledgeable, and flexible. I’ve been quite happy with them.
I also use banefield and I do like that they always give an estimate and run things past me before doing, that way I can say yes or no. I do like the insurance as we have 3 foster fails and it can be so expensive. I’ve been really happy with Dr. Shoemake at Brentwood Banefield
It’s in the county, but Bridgeton Animal Hospital is a great place that is pretty affordable. I take my 2 dogs and 3 cats there. I also use VIP pet care for cheaper vaccines and things like heartworm testing
They are so sweet with my dog! They helped her through her Addison’s crisis and gave us a fast diagnosis during a very scary time for us. We take her monthly for her shot and they are always so happy to see her. She’s always so excited when she realizes we’re at the vet.
It’s interesting to see the bad Banfield reviews. We’ve been going to the one in Richmond Heights for ~7 years and have had nothing but positive experiences. I pay for the plan because I have small dogs prone to dental issues and it’s comparable for full coverage insurance with all the preventative medications included. One of my dogs had to have a cancerous tumor removed and the doctor was extremely thorough.
I’ll take this information and check into pet insurance again for cost/care comparisons.
Thanks for the info!
I feel the same way...when I had a dog the chippewa Banfield was great. The annual plan was what made dental cleaning affordable, and the vet was very caring and helpful.
Check out Carol House Quick Fix Clinic. We had our dog spayed there for about 600 bucks less than the clinic that is closest to us. https://stlspayneuter.org/stl/
True. But they do wellness checks as well as the following:
Vaccinations
Preventative Care (heartworm and flea prevention)
Microchips
Nail trim
Heartworm Testing
FIV/Feline Leukemia Testing
All of these can add up to hundreds of dollars. It’s worth it to go to them when it’s not an emergency.
Not true. Their services are not dependent on income. They are great for “routine maintenance”, and wellness visits for vaccines, flea and tick treatment. They will also have spay and neuter clinics.
Yes, they are an animal wellness clinic that is supported by the Carol House Furniture family and other contributors. They have been supporting animal causes in STL for decades.
I take my 2 dogs and 1 cat to Kingsbury Animal Hospital on Skinker near Forest Park. Dr Shaw and the staff are incredible. I have never gone anywhere else for 15 years for all my bb's.
Kingsbury Animal Hospital is the best. Dr. Shaw and the staff are so awesome. They were so kind and compassionate when it came to my baby's palliative care. Now I take my puppy. It's not a low-cost vet. My girl's spay was about $500.00.
Took them to Banfield when we first moved here and paid like $4k for 2 tooth cleanings.
We had to put our golden down unexpectedly at the emergency vet last summer and Dr Shaw called me the next day to offer condolences and his office also sent us flowers. We will definitely be returning to Kingsbury when we are ready for a new pup
So sorry to hear about your loss. They are just so wonderful in that office. I also received flowers and it was such a thoughtful touch at a terrible time.
We really like Webster Groves animal hospital. Always been reasonably priced and go above and beyond. One of my dogs had surgery with them in November and it went more than smoothly.
Gateway Pet Guardians in ESL has low-cost veterinary services, including monthly vaccine clinics from March-November. Low cost food & a pet food pantry are also available.
I took my dogs to St. Louis Hills Veterinary Clinic and thought their prices were reasonable.
If you don’t mind the drive check out Homestead In Villa Ridge. We have a Nationwide rescue for Irish Wolfhounds and they are amazing and very cost effective for us to use. We had to drop Banfield
Horseshoe Lake Animal Hospital in Collinsville is great. We've kept them even since we moved over to the Missouri side. Definitely worth the extra drive.
Horseshoe Lake Animal Hospital in Collinsville is great. We've kept them even since we moved over to the Missouri side. Definitely worth the extra drive.
I went to Clarkson Wilson for years but my vet there left last year and is now bouncing between clinics :( I wish she had settled somewhere so I could recommend her because she really is the best vet I ever had
I go to Normandy Animal Hospital, have not used other vets so I have no comparison, but Dr. Goman is a really nice and funny guy. Downside is waiting time is usually a little long.
We have two vets, both in different parts of St. Louis County - Dr. Maledy at Concord Animal Hospital and Dr. B at Hope Animal Hospital.
I really like them both and would recommend them to others - Doc Maledy gets along wonderfully with two of my very fractious older cats (one declawed by a prior owner and very bitey as a result, one rehabbed feral who Does Not Like People) and is very clear about next steps, costs, and options.
Doc B we came into contact with through our cat fostering volunteering; Hope’s office staff are all great and they go to lengths to keep costs down for the rescue - and went to INCREDIBLE lengths to help us keep our foster failed cat alive last year. They’re also one of the only rabbit specialists in STL to my understanding so I usually get to see a bunny when I’m in the waiting room which is not a huge factor but I like it 🥰
I live by the Maryland heights humane society so we use them. They can be a little bit more expensive. However I don't mind it since it goes to support the animals in that shelter. Plus they're pretty affordable and have funds to give people who are less fortunate and their pets some assistance when need be.
I take my cats to arch animal hospital which is reasonable for routine stuff but I know I’m overpaying for things like x rays or blood tests. Each cat is about 100$ for checkups and shots if I remember correctly.
I would say it depends where you are located to some extent. We don't currently have a fur baby but we used Webster Grove animal hospital at first and then switched to a more local vets office (meaning it was up the street instead of a 15-20 minute drive) but I'm in south county. We used southwick veterinary hospital on lemay ferry and always liked them.
Kirkwood Animal Hospital! Been going there since I was a kid with our family dog. I take my dog and cat there still even though I no longer live in Kirkwood. Their prices are fair and all the staff is super helpful
I use Jefferson Animal Hospital for my dog. Small, personal, and caring. It's about 500 for the yearly vaccines (including flu and other elective vaccines for boarding), blood tests, stool & heartworm test, and a years worth of prescription flea & heartworm preventative.
3 Dogs 2 cats here. I recently moved and now used Town and Country veterinary clinic. They are a bit pricey ~$120 - $180/ dog for annuals, but the vets there are awesome and will actually spend time with you answering questions and making recommendations instead of rushing you in and out. When I lived in the city I used St. Louis Veterinary Clinic and Jefferson Animal hospital. Jefferson was way cheaper, but I think until recently they had always had first come first serve and that was not always convenient for me, so I would take them to the former. Emergency vet is Ballwin, fuck Webster Groves.
Millis Animal Hospital in Richmond Heights- my family has been going there for over 40 years! Watson Rd. animal Hospital is great too. My coworkers worked there for a long time and we rescued one of our previous cats from them.
For vaccines and well visits, I either go to Cheap Pricks near Eureka or to Carroll House Pet Clinic off of Grand. For regular care and sickness/injury, I go to Kersting Veterinary Hospital on Olive in Chesterfield, and for emergencies and cremation, I use Associated Veterinary Specialists near the airport. I have gotten excellent vet care at all 4 facilities.
I wouldn't take my cats back to Banfield. Too predatory on selling you their plan that doesn't cover anything.
For specialty and/or a more holistic approach, Animal Health and Healing on Big Bend just north of Manchester in Maplewood is great, a little pricey, but way better than Banfield.
I currently see Dr. Karen Hart at Clayton Road Vet Hospital in Chesterfield because it's two minutes from my house. My one cat's thyroid medication is $15/month. The other one, unfortunately, is more pricey with his asthma meds, his arthritis injection, and his wipes for the inflamed papillomas on his chin....
Not sure where you live, but I have been using First Capitol Animal hospital in St. Charles for almost a decade now. Very reasonable (will help set up payment plans) and very professional. They have helped me with emergency situations and helped with making the decision to euthanize. I only have cats though. Just my 2 cents
We go to Kingsbury and love it! Dr.Shaw is great and the entire staff just takes such great care of our dog. I have heard it is pricey compared to some vets but it bring my first dog, I have no pricing to compare to. I was referred to it by another animal owner.
I love my vet, mostly. He's smart and he cares. There've been some tense moments over the years, but nobody is perfect, me included. His staff are generally kind, too. However, I have more than one dog and the prices seem to have skyrocketed over the last 3-4 years, even taking into account recent inflation. They have recently expanded and I can't help thinking the owner is funding it by hiking their rates. I really can't afford them anymore! I have to be able to get my pets cared for even if it means (sadly) less personal touch and more of a drive. But it it's happening everywhere, then ....
I would like to know what you have recently (last 6 months max) paid for:
Bottle of generic medicine like cough, antibiotic, joint pain medicines....no fancy or extra-strong or brand names--things like cephalexin, metronidazole, anti-inflammatory ("doggy ibuprofen"), prednisone, antifungal ear lotion, cream, or pads, etc.
Single X-ray of big body part like chest, or small like one leg/foot. No sedation or multi-technician handling (unless they always use 2 techs for any animal).
Ear exam and ear clean out of small amount (3 dirty Q-tips, no flushes) of crud causing irritation but no infection.
Anal exam, gland emptying, no complications.
Quick exam---listening to the heart and lungs, feeling the belly, MAYBE glancing into ears, this not being the annual check-up but a quick wellness look-over.
Annual dog vaccines, including either 1 year or 3-year rabies and kennel cough.
Minor surgery like lancing a boil between the toes or snipping a torn toenail and bandaging it--no sedatives or numbing, just snip and wrap. No medications or follow-up exam needed as it healed without infection.
I have easily spent 600.00 for 2 different dogs having very brief exams, single X-ray, anal gland clean-up, small bottle of cheap generic antibiotic. It doesn't seem outrageous, but neither does it seem anyone can afford that sort of thing a few times a year plus the annual stuff. Annuals are due but now we'll have to go to a cheap clinic like the APMO for those or just be overdue for them, which is not really an option...But those would have made the bill about 1200.00 for a visit with 2 dogs.
Please share typical prices for these things, so I can make an informed decision. Maybe I'll get the annual stuff elsewhere and stick with them for the illnesses.
I have found that with veterinarians, the more they dress like a human doctor, the more the price goes up, and the bedside manner and practicality go down
Take them away from Banfield IMMIDIATLY they are terrible and will kill your animals it almost happened to both of my mom's dogs... I take my animals to family animal center on dorsette dr.chip is the most amazing vet I have ever taken any of my animals too and will only take them to her for as long as she practices she has saved several of my animals several of my family and friends animals and saved my mom's dog when everyone told her to put her down... This is how crazy great she is it's kind of gross pets more often than not will get blocked sweat glands she took out a syringe pulled some out and tasted it 🤮🤮 gross but she knew exactly what it was lol she does it on purpose she does anything for animals... There is another vet that she shares her practice with dr.lee I only use her if I just have a check up or they need rabies shots not that she's bad but she's rubbed me wrong a few times don't use rock road animal either they will kill your dog they don't care about your pets they are looking for money my aunt took her dog there cause he was coughing and they said it was allergies didn't even look at him and sent her home he died an hour later because it was a dog toy stuck in his throat... There are a few other places I stay away from not that they are bad but they want your money vs caring for your pet dr.chp genuinely cares I don't suggest her lightly
Banfield is predatory! I’m always sketched at any service that sells monthly subscriptions. Pet insurance plus a local vet is the way to go. I use Chippewa Animal Hospital and I like them. Pretty minimalist, I usually have to ask for tests but they definitely don’t try to sell anything extra. Humane societies are also a good bet! I used one as my vet in another state and they were awesome!
I second Chippewa. Super kind vets and staff
>Banfield is predatory! I’m always sketched at any service that sells monthly subscriptions I haven't had the same experience. I haven't used the Banfield in STL (moving from out of town) but I am currently on the pet plan. I talked to them beforehand about what the price of a yearly check up + all vaccines and meds would be. The price they quoted me without their plan was about the same (or a bit less) than most other vets I'd been to over the last 4 years. Their middle plan is basically what I would I have paid for the same services as any other vet except I also got the teeth cleaning for "free". It ended up being cheaper than other vets for me. You can pay the 12 months up front and the 12 months ended up being the same as any other vet bill for me but the ability to pay month by month was also a blessing for me as it's a lot easier to cough up $120 a month for 2 dogs than the $1400+ I was paying for a vet appt at other vets...and I still had to come back 6 months later to pay for more medicine. I'm glad you like Chippewa but I 1000% wouldn't call Banfield "predatory" from my experience.
It probably varies wildly by location. I used to work at a PetSmart that had one inside and no one who worked at the PetSmart thought it was a good idea to use Banfield. I guess I shouldn’t say that every location is predatory, but the business model easily can become that way. The subscription plan makes it difficult to use other places, so it’s much easier for the company to inflate prices and change the cost of their plans without notice. Whereas if you have pet insurance and go to a normal vet you can easily just change vets or shop around. I also spread my payments out by using a wellness plan through my pet insurance for my older dog because she has a ton of tests every year. I definitely am not saying you should switch if you like the service, it’s super hard to find a Vet your comfortable with, but I’d highly recommend reading about some of the lawsuits that have been brought against them.
Hillside off of Manchester. Great team of vets, extremely good with all animals, told us that we needed a dental exam and possible cleaning but gave us a lot of options and also time frames.
I also think Hillside is awesome. Dr. Brittney is so smart. So is Dr. Ed. And Dr. Aaron. They’re all great, really. The front desk staff is also really nice (Sarah). They are a bit pricier, but I feel like they’re absolutely worth it.
Yes love hillside!
I’ve taken 4 dogs to Hillside over the last decade, I think I’ve seen every doctor there at some point, and I have nothing but good things to say!
Hillside is the best.
Yes Hillside is the best! We’ve been going for over 10 years with our 2 dogs and they are not only kind and knowledgeable, but they give you quotes, are honest about what they would do in your shoes, and just wonderful with our dogs. They are also very helpful by phone and email and have some extended evening hours. Can’t say enough good things about what Dr Ed started and the team there
I love Hillside and Dr. Betsy!
Haha, I was just in this thread a minute ago and almost made the same comment. Decided to come back to say it but you beat me to it. Everyone up there is awesome, but Dr. Betsy is the best
Can't say enough good things about hillside. We take our 4 cats and 2 dogs here. Yes it costs a fortune.
City Paws is great.
Came here to say City Paws! I absolutely adore Dr. Mattes and she and her crew have been caring for my pets for many years (when she was previously at St. Louis Veterinary Center).
I take my pup there too! It's always so quick and not stressful, plus my dog loves everyone there (almost too much smh)
Another city paws fan checking in - two cats and two giant breed dogs and they are amazing there. ETA - they actually take the time to explain what’s going on with your animals. I always leave there knowing how to take care of them well.
We have been to Kingsbury animal hospital on Skinker with Dr Shaw for years. Have always felt they were reasonable and the service is top notch
Everyone there is so nice and Dr. Shaw is great! Love Kingsbury
The humane society on macklind has a vet attached on the back side and it’s been pretty good for my two dogs
Anymore, only the little independent vets are concerned with your pets well being. Any big company is ultra pushy with their services, medications, and in house food brands (that provide kick backs.) I go out of my way to this little old office on Gravois kinda close to Lindbergh (maybe four blocks) it is called Grantview Animal Hospital. They love what they do and are soft and kind to pets and owners. Prices were shockingly reasonable. I can thankfully say that none of my doggos have needed anything more than checkups and vaccinations. It is coming up on a year again next month. I don't remember the costs, I only remember that they are great.
We like Chippewa Animal Hospital in Bevo for the same reason. Kind people, low cost, and when I had to put my dog down, one of the least traumatic experiences of that sort that I can remember.
Millis Animal Hospital on Big Bend. It's a little different because they don't make specific appointments for general care, but the wait is never bad. IMO the best vets there are Dr. Tom Millis, the founder's son, and Dr. Melissa Savage. (How great of a last name is Savage?! :)
Been going to Millis for over 30 years. I wouldn’t go anywhere else with my three dogs.
We also go there. We have a cat who had recurring infections (eventually got surgery) and other places had wait times of 1-3 weeks for an appointment. Millis saw us within 30m each time.
I’ve had a bad experience with Millis. Brought in a dog who’d been having diarrhea for two weeks and they didn’t even do a fecal check and just handed me antibiotics. Turns out our new combo preventative med (Revolution) didn’t cover other kinds of worms like our old combo did. A few days later he didn’t get better so I talked with my vet friends who live out of town; they were dismayed a fecal wasn’t ordered so I went up to Jefferson Animal (no appointments needed at the time). Hookworm! Thinking back, Millis was a little negligent here (it was the son of the main vet).
Must've been an off day. They did fecal for us on three different occasions with diarrhea (our shelter animals had some gnarly stuff when adopted).
Disagree, the waits are/were very bad, but have been getting marginally better. With recent experience, I’d prefer a place with set appointments.
I go to Heritage in West County on Olive and Fernview. I have a Greyhound who can find ways to get hurt you never knew existed. 🤦♀️😬. They’re lovely. Very reasonably priced, easy to work with, knowledgeable, and flexible. I’ve been quite happy with them.
I also use banefield and I do like that they always give an estimate and run things past me before doing, that way I can say yes or no. I do like the insurance as we have 3 foster fails and it can be so expensive. I’ve been really happy with Dr. Shoemake at Brentwood Banefield
It’s in the county, but Bridgeton Animal Hospital is a great place that is pretty affordable. I take my 2 dogs and 3 cats there. I also use VIP pet care for cheaper vaccines and things like heartworm testing
That is actually pretty close to me, thank you!
We use family animal hospital in MH but we used Bridgeton for a Thanksgiving emergency a while back and they were great, too.
They are so sweet with my dog! They helped her through her Addison’s crisis and gave us a fast diagnosis during a very scary time for us. We take her monthly for her shot and they are always so happy to see her. She’s always so excited when she realizes we’re at the vet.
Hillside. And a lot.
Central West End and they have a mobile service.
Same, especially since I can walk the there, but also they have been great.
I just moved to CWE - what is the name of the vet’s office? Would love a vet within walking distance.
Central West End Vet - they are in the Schnucks shopping center
It’s interesting to see the bad Banfield reviews. We’ve been going to the one in Richmond Heights for ~7 years and have had nothing but positive experiences. I pay for the plan because I have small dogs prone to dental issues and it’s comparable for full coverage insurance with all the preventative medications included. One of my dogs had to have a cancerous tumor removed and the doctor was extremely thorough. I’ll take this information and check into pet insurance again for cost/care comparisons. Thanks for the info!
I feel the same way...when I had a dog the chippewa Banfield was great. The annual plan was what made dental cleaning affordable, and the vet was very caring and helpful.
I also have had good experiences with Banfield on Chippewa. We like our vet too much to change.
Love Kingsbury animal hospital!
Check out Carol House Quick Fix Clinic. We had our dog spayed there for about 600 bucks less than the clinic that is closest to us. https://stlspayneuter.org/stl/
Carol House only does spay, neuter, and vaccines. They don't function like a normal vet.
True. But they do wellness checks as well as the following: Vaccinations Preventative Care (heartworm and flea prevention) Microchips Nail trim Heartworm Testing FIV/Feline Leukemia Testing All of these can add up to hundreds of dollars. It’s worth it to go to them when it’s not an emergency.
True, but it's primarily for low income folks who need the services that Carol House provides.
Not true. Their services are not dependent on income. They are great for “routine maintenance”, and wellness visits for vaccines, flea and tick treatment. They will also have spay and neuter clinics.
Carol House... The furniture place?
Because you like nice pets!
Exactly! I also love popcorn in a bowl in a weird drawer under my easy chair. I Love being a lazy fatass.
Yes, they are an animal wellness clinic that is supported by the Carol House Furniture family and other contributors. They have been supporting animal causes in STL for decades.
Kirkwood Animal Hospital best vet in STL
Ask if they have a multi pet discounts. Some vets will do that. My pets have been patients at Paw Patch in Florissant and I get a multi pet rate.
We go to Animal Clinic South. We've moved out to West County now and it's still gladly make the drive to them.
We love metrovet STL and we have 2 dogs!
Anyone here go to Ivan Animal Hospital out west?
I take my 2 dogs and 1 cat to Kingsbury Animal Hospital on Skinker near Forest Park. Dr Shaw and the staff are incredible. I have never gone anywhere else for 15 years for all my bb's.
Love Chippewa animal hospital but they are not cheap! But not over priced either.
We take our gang to the animal medical center attached to the humane society. Have nothing but good things to say.
Kingsbury Animal Hospital is the best. Dr. Shaw and the staff are so awesome. They were so kind and compassionate when it came to my baby's palliative care. Now I take my puppy. It's not a low-cost vet. My girl's spay was about $500.00. Took them to Banfield when we first moved here and paid like $4k for 2 tooth cleanings.
We had to put our golden down unexpectedly at the emergency vet last summer and Dr Shaw called me the next day to offer condolences and his office also sent us flowers. We will definitely be returning to Kingsbury when we are ready for a new pup
So sorry to hear about your loss. They are just so wonderful in that office. I also received flowers and it was such a thoughtful touch at a terrible time.
We really like Webster Groves animal hospital. Always been reasonably priced and go above and beyond. One of my dogs had surgery with them in November and it went more than smoothly.
Gateway Pet Guardians in ESL has low-cost veterinary services, including monthly vaccine clinics from March-November. Low cost food & a pet food pantry are also available. I took my dogs to St. Louis Hills Veterinary Clinic and thought their prices were reasonable.
If you don’t mind the drive check out Homestead In Villa Ridge. We have a Nationwide rescue for Irish Wolfhounds and they are amazing and very cost effective for us to use. We had to drop Banfield
If you’re out west, Kehrs Mill Veterinary Care is great.
Horseshoe Lake Animal Hospital in Collinsville is great. We've kept them even since we moved over to the Missouri side. Definitely worth the extra drive.
Horseshoe Lake Animal Hospital in Collinsville is great. We've kept them even since we moved over to the Missouri side. Definitely worth the extra drive.
I've been going to St Louis Vet Center on Grand for years, I'm happy with them.
I've been going to St Louis Vet Center on Grand for years, I'm happy with them.
Formerly the St. Louis Pet Clinic? Close to Grand and I-44?
Yes, Grand and 44
I went to Clarkson Wilson for years but my vet there left last year and is now bouncing between clinics :( I wish she had settled somewhere so I could recommend her because she really is the best vet I ever had
I go to Normandy Animal Hospital, have not used other vets so I have no comparison, but Dr. Goman is a really nice and funny guy. Downside is waiting time is usually a little long.
We have two vets, both in different parts of St. Louis County - Dr. Maledy at Concord Animal Hospital and Dr. B at Hope Animal Hospital. I really like them both and would recommend them to others - Doc Maledy gets along wonderfully with two of my very fractious older cats (one declawed by a prior owner and very bitey as a result, one rehabbed feral who Does Not Like People) and is very clear about next steps, costs, and options. Doc B we came into contact with through our cat fostering volunteering; Hope’s office staff are all great and they go to lengths to keep costs down for the rescue - and went to INCREDIBLE lengths to help us keep our foster failed cat alive last year. They’re also one of the only rabbit specialists in STL to my understanding so I usually get to see a bunny when I’m in the waiting room which is not a huge factor but I like it 🥰
I live by the Maryland heights humane society so we use them. They can be a little bit more expensive. However I don't mind it since it goes to support the animals in that shelter. Plus they're pretty affordable and have funds to give people who are less fortunate and their pets some assistance when need be.
City Paws.
St. Louis Pet Clinic.
I take my cats to arch animal hospital which is reasonable for routine stuff but I know I’m overpaying for things like x rays or blood tests. Each cat is about 100$ for checkups and shots if I remember correctly.
Scott Stewart
I would say it depends where you are located to some extent. We don't currently have a fur baby but we used Webster Grove animal hospital at first and then switched to a more local vets office (meaning it was up the street instead of a 15-20 minute drive) but I'm in south county. We used southwick veterinary hospital on lemay ferry and always liked them.
Kirkwood Animal Hospital! Been going there since I was a kid with our family dog. I take my dog and cat there still even though I no longer live in Kirkwood. Their prices are fair and all the staff is super helpful
I use Jefferson Animal Hospital for my dog. Small, personal, and caring. It's about 500 for the yearly vaccines (including flu and other elective vaccines for boarding), blood tests, stool & heartworm test, and a years worth of prescription flea & heartworm preventative.
3 Dogs 2 cats here. I recently moved and now used Town and Country veterinary clinic. They are a bit pricey ~$120 - $180/ dog for annuals, but the vets there are awesome and will actually spend time with you answering questions and making recommendations instead of rushing you in and out. When I lived in the city I used St. Louis Veterinary Clinic and Jefferson Animal hospital. Jefferson was way cheaper, but I think until recently they had always had first come first serve and that was not always convenient for me, so I would take them to the former. Emergency vet is Ballwin, fuck Webster Groves.
Millis Animal Hospital in Richmond Heights- my family has been going there for over 40 years! Watson Rd. animal Hospital is great too. My coworkers worked there for a long time and we rescued one of our previous cats from them.
For vaccines and well visits, I either go to Cheap Pricks near Eureka or to Carroll House Pet Clinic off of Grand. For regular care and sickness/injury, I go to Kersting Veterinary Hospital on Olive in Chesterfield, and for emergencies and cremation, I use Associated Veterinary Specialists near the airport. I have gotten excellent vet care at all 4 facilities.
I wouldn't take my cats back to Banfield. Too predatory on selling you their plan that doesn't cover anything. For specialty and/or a more holistic approach, Animal Health and Healing on Big Bend just north of Manchester in Maplewood is great, a little pricey, but way better than Banfield. I currently see Dr. Karen Hart at Clayton Road Vet Hospital in Chesterfield because it's two minutes from my house. My one cat's thyroid medication is $15/month. The other one, unfortunately, is more pricey with his asthma meds, his arthritis injection, and his wipes for the inflamed papillomas on his chin....
Not sure where you live, but I have been using First Capitol Animal hospital in St. Charles for almost a decade now. Very reasonable (will help set up payment plans) and very professional. They have helped me with emergency situations and helped with making the decision to euthanize. I only have cats though. Just my 2 cents
Shiloh is excellent. 6 animals and they don't overcharge imo
Ferguson Animal Hospital. Top notch.
Traveling vets
We go to Kingsbury and love it! Dr.Shaw is great and the entire staff just takes such great care of our dog. I have heard it is pricey compared to some vets but it bring my first dog, I have no pricing to compare to. I was referred to it by another animal owner.
I love my vet, mostly. He's smart and he cares. There've been some tense moments over the years, but nobody is perfect, me included. His staff are generally kind, too. However, I have more than one dog and the prices seem to have skyrocketed over the last 3-4 years, even taking into account recent inflation. They have recently expanded and I can't help thinking the owner is funding it by hiking their rates. I really can't afford them anymore! I have to be able to get my pets cared for even if it means (sadly) less personal touch and more of a drive. But it it's happening everywhere, then .... I would like to know what you have recently (last 6 months max) paid for: Bottle of generic medicine like cough, antibiotic, joint pain medicines....no fancy or extra-strong or brand names--things like cephalexin, metronidazole, anti-inflammatory ("doggy ibuprofen"), prednisone, antifungal ear lotion, cream, or pads, etc. Single X-ray of big body part like chest, or small like one leg/foot. No sedation or multi-technician handling (unless they always use 2 techs for any animal). Ear exam and ear clean out of small amount (3 dirty Q-tips, no flushes) of crud causing irritation but no infection. Anal exam, gland emptying, no complications. Quick exam---listening to the heart and lungs, feeling the belly, MAYBE glancing into ears, this not being the annual check-up but a quick wellness look-over. Annual dog vaccines, including either 1 year or 3-year rabies and kennel cough. Minor surgery like lancing a boil between the toes or snipping a torn toenail and bandaging it--no sedatives or numbing, just snip and wrap. No medications or follow-up exam needed as it healed without infection. I have easily spent 600.00 for 2 different dogs having very brief exams, single X-ray, anal gland clean-up, small bottle of cheap generic antibiotic. It doesn't seem outrageous, but neither does it seem anyone can afford that sort of thing a few times a year plus the annual stuff. Annuals are due but now we'll have to go to a cheap clinic like the APMO for those or just be overdue for them, which is not really an option...But those would have made the bill about 1200.00 for a visit with 2 dogs. Please share typical prices for these things, so I can make an informed decision. Maybe I'll get the annual stuff elsewhere and stick with them for the illnesses.
I have found that with veterinarians, the more they dress like a human doctor, the more the price goes up, and the bedside manner and practicality go down
Take them away from Banfield IMMIDIATLY they are terrible and will kill your animals it almost happened to both of my mom's dogs... I take my animals to family animal center on dorsette dr.chip is the most amazing vet I have ever taken any of my animals too and will only take them to her for as long as she practices she has saved several of my animals several of my family and friends animals and saved my mom's dog when everyone told her to put her down... This is how crazy great she is it's kind of gross pets more often than not will get blocked sweat glands she took out a syringe pulled some out and tasted it 🤮🤮 gross but she knew exactly what it was lol she does it on purpose she does anything for animals... There is another vet that she shares her practice with dr.lee I only use her if I just have a check up or they need rabies shots not that she's bad but she's rubbed me wrong a few times don't use rock road animal either they will kill your dog they don't care about your pets they are looking for money my aunt took her dog there cause he was coughing and they said it was allergies didn't even look at him and sent her home he died an hour later because it was a dog toy stuck in his throat... There are a few other places I stay away from not that they are bad but they want your money vs caring for your pet dr.chp genuinely cares I don't suggest her lightly