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Acacia Animal Health Center
Categories: Pets Veterinarians Pets Pet Services Pet Boarding/Pet Sitting Veterinarians, Pet Boarding/Pet Sitting [Edit]
655 W Citracado Pkwy(between Alexander Dr & Miller Ave)
Escondido, CA 92025
Neighborhood: Escondido
(760) 745-8115
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 7 am - 9 pm
Sat-Sun 8 am - 5 pm
26 reviews for Acacia Animal Health Center
26 reviews in English
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Review from Elise D.
Oceanside, CA
4/27/2012
I love these guys. We've never had a bad experience. Both the docs we've seen have been so sweet and gentle, and the Tiny Tikes Day Camp is awesome. I take my two small dogs once a week. My shy Chihuahua actually pulls at the leash to get back to the play area--that has NEVER happened anywhere else.
The only negative is the expense. They are pricey. Our old vet (Midland in Poway--I loved them, but they're too far away now) gave excellent care also and was considerably more affordable.
$26 per dog for a toenail trim is more than just a little insane. Seriously. We'll be grooming at home, thanks.
We'll go to Acacia for medical care and Tiny Tikes, though. I appreciate their compassion and commitment to quality care, and for that, I'm willing to spend a little more. -
Review from Sam S.
Escondido, CA
1/31/2012
Acaia Animal Health Center is the only place anyone should take their pets for top notch care at an affordable price. We all know most animal hospitals and clinics will charge outrageouse prices because they know animal parents will pay anything to get their pets healthy again. Well at Acacia we found nothing but warm welcoming staff who understand your concern and distress. On top of that they treat your pet as though they are humans as well. My boyfriend and I took out Pit Mastiff into an animal urgent care center in Escondido and were forced to wait till morning to take him to Acacia due to the insane rates that we just could not afford. Wehn we arrived first thing in the morning at Acacia, we were met with open arms and comfort. The amazing staff was quick to react and get our dog into surgery to make him better and ease out stress. Not only was the bill half the price of the other animal center, but we were also given medications that had been donated to bring the cost even further down. If you have any questions on where to take your beloved pets, this is 100% the best place for any animal need.
Please also donate any left over medications, food, supplies, etc. It helps Acacia to help animal owners who cannot always afford the best in this economy.
Thank you Acacia for fixing Harley, he is on the happy road to recovery thanks to you guys!!! -
Review from Scot S.
Escondido, CA
5/9/2012
We used them to board two dogs in the past and the overall experience was not very favorable. They are expensive and they were less than responsive in terms of what they promised vs. delivered.
We paid for two suites and they tried to put both dogs in one. They told us we could call about there well-being and when we did so, from Hong Kong, they told us they knew nothing about them.
Recently, we tried to board our cat there because he is diabetic and needs two shots in a 24 hour period. Not difficult to do but they said that it would require a nurse and the fee would be in excess of $70 per day!
I called them as I could not believe what I was told and they were rude and told me that "they were the best and the best costs money." "If I could not afford it I should seek someone else."
This place is clearly trying to pay off the cost of this new building in record time. The prices are insane and they do not provide good care. You can do better elsewhere. -
Review from K F.
San Diego, CA
4/12/2012
I went to Acacia in Escondido with with my female dog to get fixed by Dr. Bausone, who does laser instead of scalpel. I paid an expensive $630 for this special procedure because it is supposed to heal a lot faster and stronger. I've been going to him for the past 4 years, but the last few times I've been getting horrible service from him. He is also extremely disrespectful and condescending. First of all, I should of known from the beginning because my dog has always been petrified of him. He talks to me with his eyes close, and is consistently yawning. When I went to pick her up after her surgery, he didn't even mention anything about her blood work, which he recommended me to do. I had to bring it up as he was leaving the . It turned out that she has a high level of alt at 133. That's a serious health issue and he failed to mention it to me and it would have gone untreated unless I spoke up. He recommended I put her on milk thisle and re test her in a month or two. I followed his orders. I returned two weeks after getting her fixed so she can have her sutures removed. A month passes and her surgery wound opens up and her flesh inside is exposed. I rush her to their urgent care and they put dissolvable glue around her cut.... The urget care vet made it known to the nurse that he wasn't going to charge me, as if he was doing me a favor..... I wasn't even going to pay if they were!!!!! I also had her blood drawn at the same time to get it re tested and paid an additional $47. I never heard from Dr. Bausone, so I called 2 days later and left a message for him to call me. He never returned my call. I called another 3 days later and his nurse said he'll call me back by 9:30pm before they leave the office. Again, never received a call. I called again the next day and asked for my dog's blood work and for them to refund half of my money back since I never heard back from Dr. Bausone regarding my dogs blood work. I was extremely concerned about the serious nature of my dog's health problem and he couldn't even bother to call me back. The receptionist said she'll have to get approval from her office manager. I asked to talk to her office manager and she said she's with a patient and that she'll have her call me back. I asked if I will be hearing back from her today and she said I'm not sure because she's busy. So I said that's fine, I'll go ahead and put in a credit card dispute because I didn't receive the services I paid for. I drove to the practice to pick up my dog's blood work results. Immediately afterwards, I call my credit card company and as the phone's ringing, I finally get a call from Dr. Bausone. I guess he heard that I was going to dispute the charge. My dog's well-being was not important enough for him to call me back, but the money that he was going to loose was. He said he's not going to make up any excuses for not calling me back because to him her results weren't a priority and he was too busy. He went on to say her results dropped a little but they were still high and that he would recommend options. But he told me that he assumed I was "going to go a different route", and that he was not going to help me and that we'll part ways. He was so condescending the entire time he was talking to me. It was like I got him in trouble for not calling me back so he called me to bitch at me. Seriously? I'm not going to continue to pay big bucks for shitty service and to be treated with such disrespect and ignorance. As a vet who should care about animals in general, not to mention clients who pay him well, he has an obligation to help me and for him to say let's part ways is a big slap in the face. He is a horrible veterinarian who doesn't care about animals and I would never recommend anyone going to him or the practice. Do not go here if you care about your pets. Dr. Bausone is condescending, spiteful, and unprofessional. And till this day, I have yet to receive a call from the office manager. NO STARS IF IT WERE POSSIBLE.
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Review from Mandy F.
Vista, CA
1/6/2012
I love this place. They take such good care of my mut, they absolutely love animals and I trust them whole heartily and they take care of all kinds of different animals, it's the best place to go for the exotics to the common old mut. :) Thank you guys for making it easier for me to take good care of my Hardie Boy.
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Review from Brittany S.
Escondido, CA
6/25/2011
I first found this place via its reviews on Yelp when I was in need of a vet for my ailing 15 year old cat. Dr. Adams, who was pregnant at the time, made every effort to comfort me and went out of her way to help when she had to deliver the bad news that my cat had cancer and was on his last few months/weeks to live. She did some tests on her own, free of cost to me, to further discover his problems. After a couple weeks he was doing so bad I had to take him in and regretfully put him down. Dr. Adams went above and beyond anything I could have expected from a vet, and let alone with a client that was new to her. They were comforting, reassuring and treated my beloved pet with the upmost respect in the world! I even received a card in the mail a couple days later with their condolences.
Since that initial trip we now take our two dogs there for everything. They treat them wonderful and although it may be a little more costly than other vets - your pet (like kids to my boyfriend and I!) are no where to skimp on the expenses. Everyone at Acacia treats animals great and you can really tell they care. We'll be sticking with Acacia from now on! -
Review from Christopher H.
Escondido, CA
11/15/2011
Acacia Animal Hospital Staff, A step ahead of the rest! Amazing! Dr. Mendez has been informative, patient, knowledgeable, compassionate understanding and just and incredible Vet.
The entire staff is awesome! We had a very sad situation occur with our female Dogue De Bordeaux (Turner & Hooch), and our now former Vet (WILL NOT BE NAMED; SEE OTHER REVIEW) dropped the ball, Acacia stepped up and helped us through every step.
People I have talked to said that they are a little "pricey", but we think it was worth every cent and more!
If you love your pets like we do, I recommend that you consider this to be your permanent Vet, doesn't matter if you live miles and miles away, it is worth the drive!
Think about it, what Vet Office is opened 7 days a week for all of your needs without pulling the "Emergency" cost add-ons.
We can rest assured that our dogues will be taken care of and cared for on a different level when they are at Acacia.
Very refreshing to find people that care just as much as you do.
AVOCADO ANIMAL HOSPITAL IN FALLBROOK, CALIFORNIA IS A HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE PLACE. -
Review from cortney w.
San Diego, CA
3/26/2012
The staff at Acacia is amazing. Most of their employees, including the ones that work in their Doggie Day Camp, are long-term employees. It's so nice to be able to see the same faces each time I go. I take my Mini Aussie to camp a few days a week and am confident she is well taken care of while I'm at work. Their staff gives her lots of attention and she loves being there!!
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Review from Bette N.
Fallbrook, CA
4/5/2011
I am a breeder of champion Boxer dogs. I have to commend both Drs. Gallerstein and Adams for their expertise and willingness to acknowlege my personal knowledge of the breed I love.
I have never had a bad experience at Acacia and highly recommend it to my fellow breeders and puppy buyers.
Keep it up!!! -
Review from Kristin E.
San Diego, CA
3/25/2011
Outstanding service and compassion.
After 8 and a half years, I finally had to take my rabbit to the vet. He had been healthy as could be, until he stopped eating one day. The next morning I called Acacia and they got me in to see a vet right away. They started doing tests that morning and by early afternoon it was found his kidney's had totally failed. Everyone at Acacia was sincere in their concerns and love for my rabbit. They building was clean, and made me feel like I was at my own doctor's office. When I came to say goodbye to my rabbit for good, they had a separate room ready for my visit. It was a calming place to say our goodbyes. I appreciate everyone at Acacia, and would recommend everyone with pets give them a try - you will be happy you did. -
Review from Judith P.
Poway, CA
2/29/2012
I've been taking all my rabbits (fosters and my own) to Acacia since 2000. Their equipment is state of the art, they have four exotic-trained vets, and the staff is always kind. Acacia is expensive; I can't deny that. But when you want the best of care for your companion animal, you're going to get it there. I like the way staff keep up with continuing education; they attend special conferences and training seminars on a regular basis. I especially love that they have the Integrated Medicine side of their practice. Having access to additional treatments such as acupuncture, VOM, herbal therapies, nutraceuticals, and the laser is really wonderful for our companion animals. Whenever someone has a difficult to treat situation and asks me for a vet referral, I send them to Dr Bausone at Acacia. When Western Medicine isn't working, it's time to try alternative therapies. My rabbits have benefitted greatly from acupuncture, VOM (chiropractic), laser therapy and herbal treatments. I love the Acacia docs and staff - they are the best!
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Review from Jodi m.
Poway, CA
1/24/2011
I have a special needs senior rescue with recurring stomatitis. He has had several teeth pulled and rounds of antibiotics over the past year. The issue always comes back and often worse. I was really frustrated after being told time and again that there isn't any cure, just pull more teeth, dental cleanings, etc, for the rest of his life.
On a weekend when he refused to eat because he couldn't deal the the pain (and he is a very glutenous dog), I became so stressed out that I was about to take him to urgent care to get him out of pain. I saw online that Acacia has regular appointments on Sundays. We got in on Sunday and saw Dr. Mendez who was brilliant from when he walked into the room and got a first whiff of my dog's mouth stench that I have been dealing with since I got the dog several months ago.
We told Dr. Mendez the history (that we are aware of) with the dog and he told us what he thought were viable options. He recognized the yucky slime in my dog's mouth without me mentioning it. No other vets have pointed out that is a slime, they always think of it as drool. Also, he said he would like to culture the bacteria because he often wondered if that particular slime if it was a necrotic strain of bacteria. I was wondering that for days, myself and said I would like the culture. He didn't push anything on us. He told us what we "could" do now and in the future.
Before we left, he came out to speak to us again. He did some quick internet research on a Vets forum while we were there and found a discussion about a case exactly like mine. He printed it out and gave us a copy - it basically had recommendations from a dog dentist to another vet on how to deal with the issue. True, as long as my dog has any teeth, he will have ongoing issues, but what a relief to finally know what and why and what all the choices are both short term and long term. -
Review from MISS O.
Oceanside, CA
2/1/2011
My daughter and I took her young Old English Sheepdog there after two other office could not diagnosis her. She had a false positive parvo test. (The other office's didn't even test her for it)They fixed her up in two days and it was half the price California Vet Specialist had giving us estimate for (and that was for just xrays and other test)
They are the real deal. I highly recommend this office. -
Review from Jeff L.
Palm Springs, CA
11/21/2010
I love this place. Dr Bone and the rest of the doctors and staff are just awesome! They excel in passion, kindness, and professionalism.
They have been taking care of Briana for the last 6 years, and were there every step of the way for Buster's two battles with cancer. They really do treat you and your pets like part of their family.
In addition to veterinary care, we have used and would recommend the grooming and doggie day care services... -
Review from Angela L.
Escondido, CA
7/26/2010
I was looking for a vet that had extended hours and/or weekend hours. Since this place had good reviews on yelp I went there with my Golden Retriever who had an ear infection. I went on a Sunday and from the moment they answered their phone they were great! They treated Tiki's paw after giving me an estimate and letting me pick and choose what to do for him. I didn't feel pressured or coaxed into any unnecessary treatment and Tiki is mending well!
The facility is super high tech, very clean and parking and location is perfect. The staff was super friendly and professional and I think we got our monies worth from our visit. -
Review from Greg A.
Escondido, CA
5/6/2011
Love Love Love this place and I know my dog loves it too! I bring him into the doggie day camp week daily so he can get exercise. He loves going in the morning and I love taking him home tired. I do refer to Acacia as his 2nd home because I know they care for him just as much as I do.
Please do your pet a favor and see them! -
Review from Sara Y.
6/17/2010 1 Check-in Here
You know what is awesome? A lady named Dr. Bone was the vet for my pup. Yes...Dr. Bone. Talk about finding your calling in life.
I took Martin the pup into this office for his complimentary exam (courtesy of the Helen Woodward Animal Center). The facility is really, really nice and right off the I-15 freeway. The staff members greeted him warmly and had treats on hand to keep him happy. The nurse who assisted us was very gentle with him and answered all the random questions I had for her. Dr. Bone was equally as gentle and assured us that even though Martin may look skinny, he is at the perfect weight that will keep him from developing joint problems (which is susceptible to his breed).
The best part is that they have an online portal, so you can upload a photo of your pet and get reminders for the next visit scheduling. It keeps me from having to think and I am always a fan of that.Listed in: Escondido Everything, Pet Care Extraordinaire
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Review from Julie R.
San Diego, CA
3/2/2011
great great great service!!!! I took my little Lexie here as soon as she arrived in the plane and never got anything but fantastic service. To this day I still receive email updates and reminders about her. I also had her enrolled in the puppy training classes and they were just great. It was nice to know there was a local place available to get my dog trained. Plus she was able to get socialized a bit more which was definitely needed before I could take her to the dog park. I 10000000 percent recommend this place
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Review from Miranda B.
Escondido, CA
6/3/2011
We LOVE Dr. Bone! We recently took our two basenjis here after another vet could not figure out a mysterious cough they developed (trust me, if you tried to guess what caused it, you probably were wrong). $1000 later we tried Acacia and Dr. Bone did some (affordable) tests and a few days later we had a diagnosis that fit the bill and a resolution to 6 months of a cough for our poor little guys. Today, they're doing much better and we are so satisfied with the service and treatment we received at Acacia with Dr. Bone.
At our other vet we they were always running late and they'd spend minimal time with the dogs. I felt like I was spitting out at 100 miles an hour what their symptoms were and my hypotheses were. Dr. Bone spent an hour and a half with us getting to know the dogs, how they got along, what my concerns were and their previous treatment. She was amazing and I truly felt that she was concerned about their well-being and wasn't just trying to shove as many patients into an hour as possible. The bill was affordable and there was no pressure to treat the dogs. Highly recommended! -
Review from L S.
Escondido, CA
2/11/2011
When an adorable cat adopted us a few months ago, I came to Yelp to find a good vet nearby. The other reviews of Acacia are spot on - great facility, professional and caring staff, great vets and vet techs. The vet estimated our cat's age at about 6 months when we first took her in, and we purchased their "Kitten Wellness Package", which includes 3 visits and a standard round of tests, treatments and vaccines (roundworms, FIV, tetanus, etc.) at a good price. We also had her spayed at Acacia. She went into heat the day before her spay appointment, but after examining her, the vet said they could go ahead with the surgery (just more carefully due to the extra swelling).
The vet and vet techs have always been very good about answering our questions, asking about her behavior, and letting us know what to expect after the surgery and other treatments. Our cat seems to like them - she seems comfortable in the office and happy to be held by staff members. They have evening and weekend hours, which is very convenient. Their dog day care and boarding facilities also look very nice, and there are usually dogs playing in the outside yard with a staff member when we visit. We will definitely continue to take our pets there. -
Review from Annalisa J.
San Marcos, CA
I have a very high maintenance female Siberian Husky "Princess"...she came with this name, and we decided it fits her personality! She is my baby...and I love that dog more than anything in my life (ok together with my husband...).
My husband and I rescued Princess from an abusive home. It took a year for her true personality to really shine. We have had her for now 5 years and we just want the best for her...any day, anytime!
We use Acacia Animal Health Center for her medical needs, check ups and routine shots and boosters; they have very good and professional staff as well as avant-garde technology and equipment for your pet's health.
We also use their "5 Paws Pet Resort" when we travel. The suites they have for the dogs are very nice spacious and clean, and most important they don't have a kennel feel. They offer doggie day camps where your pet can play and be outside all day with other dogs. The dogs get walked and exercised on a regular basis and the staff takes excellent care of our dog needs while we are gone. Princess comes home tired, but happy.
In the past we use to go somewhere else, and Princess would come home stressed and nervous.
One more thing I like about Acacia is the peace of mind I have when I travel; because one side of the building is the Vet and the other side is the Resort, I know that if something happened she is in great hands. Acacia prices are a little bit higher than average, but if you can afford it, it is worth it every penny!
You can see a picture of Princess in my profile. -
Review from John D.
San Diego, CA
3/21/2011
update: This place should be rated with a zero star.
This place fit me in the last minute for a possible dog emergency. The dog was diagnosed correctly and refereed to a specialist. But there were several issues.
1. They prescribed the wrong medication and include no directions on how to give the medication or the patient name. I believe this is illegal in California.
2. The vet called my cell phone to tell me what was wrong, even though I was at the vet's waiting to hear from the vet. My cell phone was in my car and I had been waiting for 30 min inside the vet.
The vet did not tell me if she needs to go to a specialist right away or not on the message. That WHY I brought her in and the vet known that. The vet went to lunch.
I had to argue with the front desk for them to call that vet to find out. I refused to pay the bill to I found that answer. I told them that I would have to take the dog to another hospital to find out that answer as it was critical to known. it could mine the dog eye sight.
That's why I brought the dog in to known if she need a eye doctor right away. They finial called the vet on her cell phone after about 10 min of me refusing to pay the bill. I actually almost left with the dog to go somewhere else.
3. They did not give the medication when she was in the vet. Most places will give the medication even though it was the wrong medication.
4. They called to confirm a appt, that I never made.
5. When complaining, they could care less. I asked for manger and owners to call back and no phone ever. As we have several dogs and several cats, that's bad business for them.
6. I requested records and still do not have them.
The above issue are scare to me even though are several minor mistakes. These minor mistakes make me wondering if there are large mistakes being made in back. I am very disappointed in this hospital.
I have been to around 20 to 30 vet all over the US. I have meet a few owners of vet places that I have gone to in the US and seen the back. This is a hospital that I would not every go back too. -
Review from Lisa A.
Ann Arbor, MI
2/5/2010
We have been taking our two cockatiels to Acacia for almost 4 years and never fail to be surprised by how fabulous our experience is. We've seen both Dr. Bausone and Dr. Gallerstein and love them both. All of the staff are outstanding.
The clinic is state-of-the-art. We routinely board our birds there. They usually have company and get great care. We never worry about the birds when we're out of town.
The hours are really convenient and they always work hard to get us in ASAP. We will recommend Acacia to anyone looking for a vet! -
Review from La L.
Pioneer, CA
12/20/2009
My mind has been blown by Dr. Harmonie (I believe that is the spelling of his name) he is a holistic vet, and has finally come up with the answer to my dogs issue, that countless vets over 5 years have not been able to answer (one did find the answer to one of the issues but only one) he is extremely caring, knowledgable, and definitely worth the 30 minute drive it takes to get there. They also have wonderful after hours time. He also really cared about not charging me for things we did not need which I obviously really appreciated.
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Review from Joe K.
San Diego, CA
8/22/2010
This is the best vets hands down. The staff is very warm, friendly, and very knowledgable and possionate on what they do. No to mention the facility is top notch. This place isn't just to take your pets in for check ups, shots, etc., but they also do boarding, have a seperate yard for your pet to play in, and much more. Plus, while you're waiting, snacks, coffee and water are provided to make you feel comfortable while you wait. When my reptile was sick, I brought him here instead of my local vet. While Acacia was thirty-one miles round trip, it was well worth the drive.
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Review from Candace M.
Escondido, CA
Updated - 5/7/2011
As followup to previous post, I reported Acacia to AAHA which resulted in a call from Gary Gallerstein, director and owner of Acacia. He was clearly annoyed and began by monopolizing the conversation. Once I was given a chance to speak, he concluded the call by saying they would review their procedure. Got a call from Dr Bone after their meeting, in short to defend their procedure. She said they only administer a sedative if the animal is aggressive. I said I think people should be informed of the available choices, if discussion is not convenient, maybe they could put something in writing. She responded that people wouldn't read it. What a low opinion of us they have! My cat suffered in her last minutes of life, forced down against the table while a second tech jammed and prodded the IV catheter and finally announced she "blew the vein". Dr Bone was called in, no discussion, gave her an injection rendering her unconscious. Our last goodbye stolen. Horrible experience. They may be adequate for routine procedures, but not for euthanasia. You need a real partner in that decision. Go to a facility that offers a humane mild sedative.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/30/2011
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