About Des Moines Veterinary Hospital
Des Moines Veterinary Hospital is a local veterinarian clinic that provides full medical care for cats, dogs, birds, and exotic pets. The hospital strives to satisfy pets' needs to help them live a long, happy, and healthy life. They offer a wide range of services, including routine exams, surgery, medical boarding, and exotic pet care. The staff is known for delivering high-quality, expert care with compassion. Clients praise the affordable prices, reasonable compared to other veterinarians, and the caring attitude of the veterinarians, vet techs, and office crew. The hospital's staff is described as hard-working, compassionate, and knowledgeable, with a team that is dedicated to providing exceptional care to each pet and customer. Recent reviews highlight the compassionate care provided by Dr. Lee, who performed a miracle by removing a tumor from a betta named Ninja, giving him more time and comfort. Pet owners have expressed gratitude for the genuine concern and reassurance from the staff, especially in difficult situations involving exotic pets. However, some clients have shared concerns about changes in ownership, noting that the hospital was sold in 2021 to Pet Vet Care Centers, a large corporation with over 450 locations nationwide. This transition has led to increased costs, including an additional $7 surcharge per visit for PPE, which has impacted affordability for pet owners. Some clients also felt disappointed by the lack of communication regarding the retirement of long-standing veterinarians and changes in care. Despite these concerns, many still appreciate the helpful and friendly front-end staff and the quality of care received. The practice offers excellent services for pets, but potential clients should be aware of the hospital's corporate ownership and its effects on pricing and continuity of care.
My sister purchased/rehomed a little betta from Offer Up. Some months passed and we noticed a lump developing on Ninja. It grew so big and fast that by the time we realized he was no longer swimming as much. Every time I glanced over at his tank he was laid on his leaf bed. He was barely eating and constantly taking these deep breaths, almost like he was gasping. It was so hard watching him suffer this way. We wanted to give him a fighting chance and searched far and wide for an aquatic vet. I want everyone to know just how amazing Dr. Lee is. From beginning to end! Dr. Lee showed so much compassion and reassurance. She and her staff were able to work a miracle. She removed...read full review
I went to DES MOINES's vet for30 years The vet that I went to there was Dr. Jim he is a excellent veterinarian I called to get appointment for my Congo African grey parrot they told me he was out of town until March. That was a January with no buddy to refer me too. Then I called again and they said that he had retired in December. I felt very hurt at the fact. that I have such respect for him and nobody even told me he was retiring they insist they said they left an email. I have several clients and said they never got an email and they go to him also I don't think that's a way for a new business to start out with their patience by not contacting them with the letter, not a email and letting them know that somebody you love and respected and that you pets trusted and you trusted their animals to was gone. No explanation of anything unfortunately I will not be returning to Des Moines back for any pet care Alalie Monaghan
Dr. Onorati and Dr. Conger who built this business are retired and are no longer practicing here. Dr. Onorati's retirement left many of us scrambling to find alternative care for our exotic pets because we were given no prior notice.
Des Moines Veterinary Hospital was sold in 2021 to Pet Vet Care Centers, a corporation that owns over 450 locations nationwide. These Private Equity Groups are buying up businesses across America giving consumers little choice (monopoly) and resulting in higher prices with many animal owners who are no longer able afford vet care for their pets. This particular office also charges an additional $7 surcharge per visit for PPE (personal...read full review