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Pets Unlimited
Rating Details »
Categories: Veterinarians, Animal Shelters, Pet Boarding/Pet Sitting
Neighborhood: Pacific Heights2343 Fillmore St
(between Clay St & Washington St)
San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 563-6700
- Hours:
Mon-Sun. 12:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
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215 reviews for Pets Unlimited
Me and my married partner, James, adopted a chihuahua mix puppy named "Stoli" in September 2009. We loved this puppy very much and only had her for two days in our home. We both manage a 25 unit apartment which allows animals and since I wanted to puppy so badly, we found Stoli. The saddest part is that she was not trained and with a busy schedule such as yours, we didn't have the time to train this precious puppy and returned her back to Pet's Unlimited. We did all of our paperwork through an employee there named Daniel. Daniel was nice and all, but couldn't quite understand our returning Stoli back to PU after only 2 days with her and our explaining our reasons for doing such. I called PU several times to inquire about Stoli and was told that there had been several others interested in her prior to our adopting her. A few days later I spoke with Danile and he said that she had been adopted into a home with another dog to play with and seemed happy. I wanted more of an update on Stoli and left messages to which were never replied back to....you must understand that my heart was broken in half a week or more after returning her and the fact that PU staff didn't much acknowledge this and put a little more heart into my issue made it more difficult for myself to grieve. James and I both rushed into adopting this animal as we didn't completely think this out and maybe should have gotten an older dog that was trained. I would reccomend PU to all - just a few of the staff seem a bit "snobbish" as far as I am concerned, but I'm sure even these snobs have huge hearts as they wouldn't be working there.I still keep pics of Stoli on my computer that I took of her and I hope she is happy in her new home. There will forever be a place in my heart for this little puppy.
Mark
Guess what, Pet's Unlimited. I am updating my review due to an awful experience at the Adoption facilities.
My original 5 star review was posted about a month ago. It was based on ONLY my experience with the Vet clinic. I'd like to state, for the record, that I still think that the vet clinic deserves 5 stars.. I'll definitely be bringing my dog back to see Dr. MacFarlane.
However A friend and I went in today to have a look at all the adorable dogs and cats at the shelter today. We are clean, polite, well educated and considerate ladies... and were treated like SHIT by the employees of this place. I have never felt so disrespected and looked down upon in my life. And all we did was ask if we could pet one of the dogs! We were bombarded with a barrage of questions, "Are you looking to adopt TODAY? Because it takes a lot of our time to set you up in a room, so unless you're willing to adopt then, No, I can't introduce you to a dog."
One staff member (volunteer?) in-particular (I didn't catch this she-beast's name..) But she was tall, white, with short brown'ish hair. I saw her interact with several other guests and Volunteers and she was just as *rude* to every single one of them. Condescending and patronizing. My jaw dropped several times when I heard her address a couple young (maybe 13 years old) volunteers in the Kitten room... and the way she spoke to a Woman who was in there looking for a cat that was comfortable with her young child.
I wish I knew her name so I could call her out personally.. Because I would say "Listen lady. I am sure your job is very emotionally draining. And I am sure that dealing with the public can be quite tough at times. But listen up:: Just because my friend and I weren't looking to adopt TODAY, doesn't mean that we wouldn't be looking in the future.. and it definitely doesn't mean that we don't have a handful of friends who might possibly be looking. So guess what, asshole? You just lost a possible Forever Home."
Who the hell does this woman think she is? Pet's Unlimited needs to sit their employees down and give them a little lesson on customer service, consideration and TACT... because ultimately it's only the pets who suffer by the shit-employees turning away great homes.
The pets are adorable.. and the facilities really do look GREAT. I would be happy to adopt from here.. But after the encounter I had today? No how. I'll bring my 'business' elsewhere, and suggest that my friends do the same. There are a ton of rescue facilities in this city.. I'll be adopting from one who is willing to treat me like a human being.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/20/2009
Listen. I'm hard on my vets... ruthless, really-- I have very high standards. Just look at my past… Read more »
You'll always find an adorable dog or cat here. You can count on that.
But actually adopting one... good luck.
I've been disappointed one too many times here.
The first dog I was interested in, was adopted by one of the volunteers.
He was supposedly available on a Friday.
The adoption center is closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Then, he was already adopted on Wednesday.
How is that possibly fair?!
I tried again to adopt another dog, a couple months later.
When I went in, one of the workers told me the puppy wasn't ready to be seen yet, but there was already a high interest in it, including from the staff.
She might as well have told me straight up, that I shouldn't have even tried.
She gave me a date on when the puppy would be ready.
So I promptly returned and got all kinds of stories on why he still wasn't ready yet.
Unprofessional.
The workers and volunteers obviously have an advantage... so why even tempt others when we don't have a chance?
My suggestion: there are many other deserving animal shelters in need of help. Go here only if you want to be disappointed.
I looked long and hard on Yelp for a vet, and finally I decided on Pets Unlimited for a few reasons: they have free parking, and they're a 24/7 clinic, which means that if God forbid my dog got attacked by a blind feral cat (true story) in the middle of the night, I'd be able to run over sans his medical record and have them save his life.
Huckleberry, having never been to the vet before in his life (his previous owners had a family friend who happened to be a vet, and he would just do in-home visits), was scared to death because he thought he was at the groomer's (he's also scared whenever we go to the doggy day care because, again, he thinks it's the groomer's, and he HATES the groomer with a passion). The front desk ladies were super nice, and I was able to get the check-in and paperwork process done quickly.
Dr. Laurie Kanevsky was also super nice and very gentle with Huckleberry when she checked his left eye for an infection. He didn't move a bit, even though she pulled at his upper eyelid to show me a puncture wound through the skin (no, it wasn't the feral cat's claw or tooth mark - I have no idea how he got it). She also answered my questions about the type of dog food to feed a picky eater, and about his "I'm happy so I'm going to tinkle" habit.
Side note: he won't pee on you, I promise.
The only downside is that this place is slightly expensive at $68 for a general checkup. The SPCA vet hospital is also a nice, large clinic and they only charge $57 for a visit, so they may have to be my default clinic for general checkups. I'm glad I have my dog's records at Pets Unlimited though, because otherwise I'd never know where to go with a dog emergency.
Life isn't perfect. It's sometimes shitty, and throws you curve balls you just don't want to deal with. Let's be honest now.
So two weeks after my very beloved perfect kitty "Vu" was diagnosed with lymphoma, things weren't great. She has lost her ability to move around, but she still ate like the greedy whore that she was :). It runs in the family. No matter how sick we are, we all still eat. Kind of a bummer, considering that's one of the most opportune times to lose some weight.
After days of crying (yes, I do cry, even though few have seen it) and per the help of my friends, and my own gut instinct, I drove from my SF apartment to Fillmore in the rain that Sunday night, clutching my dying kitty, taking her to find peace, and put her out of her misery.
The staff was ridiculously attentive, respectful and wonderful. They asked only pertinent questions, understanding that Vu was my family and we had lived together for 11 years now. We had gone to college together, lived on the east coast together, went through boyfriends, took care of my mom before she died together. Vu and I had experienced much, and had lived thus far to tell the story, not through words, but pets, and paws, and meows and days of basking in the sun. I was brokenhearted, and still am.
Two sheets of paperwork later, the wonderfully young, compassionate, and informative vet came in and explained everything. He answered any and all questions, and told me he wasn't in a hurry (they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by the way for emergency services) and that I could take all the time in the world with her before I needed to say goodbye.
Soon after the tears flowed, and Vu's little head was wet with my sorrow from tears, the vet came in, and it was over. All good kittys go to heaven, and Vu was no exception.
Even with payment (which is most difficult when so stressed in that situation) they were patient, compassionate, caring. They're really here for the animals, and they really give a shit......
I went home, drenched from the rain which echoed on my windshield. My wiper blades seemed to not even work as I couldn't see perfectly through the thickness of tears. I went home, and cried.....and cried....and was thankful that people were out there in the wonderful world of veterinary medicine that cared. I felt like they wanted to make a difference, and they did....
The other day I received a beautiful card from them, with all the vets signatures on it, saying they were sorry for my loss. A picture of owners with their pets were playing on the front, which is a redo of their mural in the hospital, paying homage to those who have bravely lived side by side with us, their loving owners.
I thank you Pet's Unlimited....in such a hard time, you made it easier.
Five stars, no questions asked....
I was very pleased with the service and protocol at Pets Unlimited.
Also, the parking lot made it more convenient than I imagined for a business right in the middle of the Fillmore Street business district.
Prices are a little higher than other vets I've seen in SF.
Several years ago (2001)I had fostered a puppy for one of the local rescues and it turned out that the poor little guy had the deadly Parvo virus. I was instructed to bring the puppy to Pet's Unlimited to see what they could do for him. I left the little guy there and checked on him through out the process, then I was told that the rescue was going to pick him up and care for him themselves. The puppy was never mine as I mentioned I was fostering him. I was told that the costs were being picked up by the Rescue. Recently I brought my new puppy up there for an examination and they told me that there was an outstanding bill for the previous puppy and I would not be able to receive services until that bill was taken care of. I explained the situation and asked to see what information they had about the situation and I was told they did not have any information due to the case being so old. I spoke with their accounts payable person who promised to look into it and get back to me. Two months have gone bye and I have left over 10 voicemail messages and have not had one return phone call. I am wondering if this is the same professionalism they use in their veterinary care?????
There's only one reason why I still go to this place. I have an older dog and she's already used to the doctor we see and I trust her. She's nice, does follow up and very helpful when i have any questions. That's my only positive.
Complaints:
-This one lady who answers the phone, every question I had for her the answer was no. I said I had an emergency and needed to speak with someone she said I can only leave a message. I asked if she can check for a vet tech appointment that was put in for my dog and she still said no 9and more crazy stories). It's like the only word she knew was "NO". Some of them are helpful but I get this lady 75% of the time (how unlucky)
-Prices for meds are STEEP. Order it elsewhere if it's not an emergency. Or go to walgreens and get a walgreens discount card nd the meds are cheap.
-I know no one's perfect but how many mistakes can they make with one account?
-Speaking of meds, Pharmacy never picks up. I've never had anyone pick up my call. Again even if you say it's an emergency. It's always leave a message.
-I've been going to this place for 3 years now and I've only met 1 friendly vet tech. Someone who actually smiles and talks to you and will see how your dog is doing.
I'm sure they have some better qualities i just haven't encountered them.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/4/2009
I never really cared about the cost when it came to my senior baby. If they say it's necessary I say… Read more »
On old college friend who lived in the City referred me here when my dog had an emergency. As I was from out of town, I did not know where else to go. It was a Saturday and most places were closed.
My dog was treated well and the staff was gentle and friendly. I was expecting the worse but everything turned out great - doggie cured, fast, problems explained clearly, and not expensive. Nice place too.
If you want to adopt a dog or a cat and you only have a few minutes in your rush rush schedule, this is not the place for you...
The whole process of adopting a dog was a big long. They require you to spend an inital 10 minutes with each animal and then if you are considering adoption, a full hour.
They also do not do same day adoptions. Big pain in the ass but a good idea because its better you have second thoughts in that hour or on the second trip.
Asha, my cat is very nice...
My geriatric cat became really sick, very quickly last week. I trolled the Internet for cat symptoms and couldn't find anything that fit. I rather sheepishly called Pets Unlimited (where I've been taking my pets for the last 21 years) because I kept worrying. When I explained her symptoms to the very cordial receptionist, she said she wanted to get a vet tech on the line with me. I was told to bring her in immediately. Am I glad I did! It turned out I had a very, very sick kitty.
I can't say enough good things about Pets Unlimited. She was seen immediately by the emergency veterinarian who diagnosed an abcess and found earmites (a surprise) as a result of taking the time to ask if I'd noted any other problems or had concerns. The vet was gentle with both my cat and me. Miss Marbles needed a lot of medicine. I was asked whether liquid or pills was easier to manage--a first in a lifetime of pets. Everything was explained, demonstrations were given, all the necessary tests (and no more!) were done. The detailed explanations and willingness to answer my questions (ok, I'm a neurotic cat mother and I asked a lot of questions, some dumb) helped a lot.
It took several days for Miss Marbles to feel better. I'd have been frantic without the detailed information and instructions given by a most patient staff. And, the vet called me to check up on her condition a couple days later. Dr. Kim (?) told me hyperthyroidism was diagnosed from the blood tests. I must have turned pale over the phone because she gave a concise explanation of what it was, how it would be treated (pills), and the possible complications in a geriatric cat.
While I waited to a procedure to be done, the front desk staff were comforting. Dr. Gervais, our regular vet, checked on Miss Marbles condition when she heard. She took the time to visit me and offer reassurance. When my dying dog was rushed in a few years ago, vets were waiting with a gurney and emergency equipment. They gave me time alone with Siggy after he died to say good bye and grieve. I later received a condolence card signed by all the staff who added personal messages.
Many reviewers complain about the expense at Pets Unlimited, a nonprofit. Pets Unlimited offers a special rate for people on Social Security, a godsend in this situation, and works closely with PAWS. They provide free care for abused and abandoned animals from all over the Bay Area along with their shelter. These animals require specialized, complex and intensive treatment for weeks and months. I'd rather pay the extra 5-10% to support Pets Unlimited rather than have those animals euthanized.
Pets Unlimited is a San Francisco treasure!
I used to take my dog here and it is the best place, especially with 24/7 schedule. I ended up taking him there on our last night together and they were very good through the entire process. Now that I have adopted a new dog I took her there again. Dr. Laurie Kadevsky was wonderful, diagnosed the issues right away, was very patient in answering my questions and was very knowledgeable. She didn't push unnecessary products either which was great. This is the kind of place that will care for your pet the way nobody else would. When visiting today I saw a young gentleman run in with his cat - it was obviously an emergency. 3 people ran up to him immediately and there were no delays in getting this cat the treatment she needed. Wonderful!
DO NOT GO HERE IN AN EMERGENCY!!!
my dog was choking and couldn't breath. It was late at night, so I called them to see what I should do. They didn't even tell me how to help my dog right away they just told me to bring her in. Even after explaining frantically that she COULD NOT BREATH, they didn't have any tips. So I rushed to Pets Unlimited as fast as I could... Luckily my dog started breathing on the way. When we got there they were ready waiting, but that's it, they didn't know what to do after that. They took my dog's temperature and asked me to fill out paper work. HELLO!! my dog was choking and couldn't breath for a minute plus!! shouldn't you check her airways, heart rate, something!!?? That's not even vet stuff, that's common sense, right?
In addition to their incompetence with an emergency, they were so rude. Not only do you have to deal with pets as a vet, but shouldn't you know how to talk to the owners as well? I get the impression they stick all the first semester interns here at night... they had no clue!!
I can't speak for the staff during normal business hours, but please do not go here if you are having a real emergency late at night!!
I hear people hate on PE, but I like it. Yes, it's expensive....it's in Pac Heights, duh. Yes, they have lots of different vets... but when you make an appt you can specify who you want. And I have to say, the front desk staff has gotten much friendlier over the past year or so.
Anyways, 2 years ago, my sweet yorkie Sophia Von Cuddlestein was hit by a car in the middle of the night. She didn't make it, but the emergency vet & staff did everything they could for her, & they were very compassionate throughout the ordeal. Obvi, I was an absolute wreck, & they were super nice & helpful.
The facility is conveniently located & clean. The vets are knowledgeable & friendly. Most importantly, they take good care of my wittle baby, Chloe McSnuggleton, even though she is the spawn of satan.
Pets Unlimited nearly killed my pup twice, worse they still charged me for their misappropriated medical services! I brought my sick puppy in and the doctor told me my pup was in dire need of shots from drinking stagnant rainwater. Still after returning home the little guy continued to worsen after receiving his $1000 worth of shots. So I returned to Pets Unlimited in tears with a screaming puppy. First thing they asked me is if anyone I lived with beat my puppy. NO! (I live alone, dammit!) Not to mention, I was here less than 24 hours ago. Then the doctor proceeded to tell me my pup needed a blood transfusion that would cost me another $2000!!! That is, if I wanted my dog to live. Well of course I did! 48 hours later, my fragile and vulnerable dog was ghostlike, pale and meek but alive. WTF!
Thanks Pets Unlimited for saving my dog, right, what, huh, I guess?!?
I previously posted how Pets Unlimited repeatedly failed to provide us with our kitty's lab results, but since then, one of the doctors who saw my post on Yelp contacted both me and my fiance (separate calls, which I found very thoughtful) to provide us with the urinalysis results and apologize. What struck me was that Dr. Mason did not simply leave it at the apology, but wanted to figure out exactly what had happened and tried to retrace the events, so that it wouldn't happen again to any other patients. He also credited our kitty the cost of the urinalysis, which is about 50 cans of Hill's c/d! Thanks, Dr. Mason, for sorting out what about 10 others botched!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/1/2009
If I could give negative stars, I would.
We came home one night to find our little boy kitty… Read more »
One has to appreciate the goal of Pets Unlimited and their adoption center. That being said--I find this Pet Hospital to be rather impersonal and inadequate (medically). They often recommend expensive procedures--but without much results. My dog has been a patient for over 8 years (yes I finally learned my lesson) and I've spent over $7K there--but they have been wrong more times than right..and for that kind of money they should be superstars. Only use them if you need the 24/7 service
Our dog Bailey hated all vets until we found Dr. Polly James, who had a very gentle way about her and Bailey responded instinctively. Bailey had spinal tumors and lost her ability to walk, so we had made an appointment to euthanize her because she just seemed so sad. Dr. James and the staff at Pets Unlimited had several suggestions, and they were able to get Bailey walking again, albeit slowly, and we got to enjoy her for three more months. More importantly, Bailey got to enjoy her life for three more months--trips to the park, Ft. Funston, and then, towards the end, very short walks followed by longer car rides.where she would look out the window. She suffered no pain and, though we were sad to let her go, we feel she got the best care she could have gotten and got to live an excellent doggy life. I would definitely recommend Pets Unlimited.
Dr. Richard Chu is awesome.
My cat escaped from my new Mission flat on the 2nd story, and either fell or got hit by something. However she managed it, she ended up hiding in my neighbor's garbage area and had a bad limp in her back leg. Not wanting to take any chances (although the 1st emergency place I called said it could probably wait until morning), I drove across town to Pets Unlimited and was very happy with the outcome.
Chu diagnosed her quickly but thoroughly, and then took the time to go through all of my options, taking into consideration that my finances are tight right now. They even offered to work out a payment plan with me if she ends up needing surgery. I got out of there for under $200, and came home with a pain killer/anti-inflammatory for what appears to be a torn cruciate ligament (I did not get x-rays to confirm, taking a wait-and-see approach based on a very thorough discussion with Chu about the condition, next steps, and a host of other things).
I got the sense that he was being very straight with me about her condition, and that if she was in danger or worse-off that he wouldn't hesitate to insist that she stay and have surgery.... but that he recognized that given her age and activity level (she is a blob), pain management and rest would probably be the best thing for her. When he went through all of my options, he really took the time to be clear but to give me the room to make my own decision. I like that in a vet.
Most importantly, when my cat peed herself in her crate, Chu was considerate enough to remove the padding I keep in there and replace it with another one, even securing it to the crate with tape like I do. My own vet doesn't even take this much consideration -- it was a small thing, but indicative of the type of guy the doc is: caring.
The front staff were friendly, helpful and efficient, too. I'm switching to these guys as my primary vet care providers.
Quit after going for 15 years. Loved my vet but got so much attitude--and wrong information--from front desk people that I gave up.
SF Vet at 600 Alabama is 24-hour emergency--pricey but fabulous!
It's all about money here. Don't get caught up in an extortion situation. I had two choices: Pay 6k for a surgery that most vets charge 2k or less for OR put the cat down.
I'm mourning.
This is no non-profit. They are most definitely making money. Lots of it. Animals are not shoes. They should not cost the same as designer items in Pac Heights.
I have two dogs and have been to Pet Unlimited for a variety of occasions.
Pets Unlimited does just enough to keep your business. Their staff is friendly, yet their vets come off as unsure, inexperienced and lacking any connection with those they are trying to help.
Pets Unlimited is also EXPENSIVE! So be ready to pay out, ESPECIALLY for an 'emergency visit' where you could still end up waiting about an hour.
Pets Unlimited is ok in a pinch, but I would recommend finding another, who is smaller and experienced, for your regular vet. The doctors at Pet Unlimited will not take the time to get to know you and your pet but there are some other vets around town who will.
I don't feel its right to 'advertise' another vet within this review, so if you want a recommendation feel free to drop me a note.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/20/2005
Went for the firt time the other day to utilize their pet 'ER'. The wait was long, but the staff was… Read more »
My review is for emergency services only.
My husband and I recently brought our dog in late on a Saturday night, after he exhibited some very frightening signs of dazed confusion, inability to walk, and fearfulness of noises or sudden movement. I won't get into the details, but the bottom line is that at some point, he ingested something toxic (damn SF city streets) - it's anyone's guess as to what it was - could have been narcotics or even benign (for humans) medication.
Dr. Villard was on staff that night, and treated my dog with great. care. He performed a thorough exam, walked us through exactly how he was going to approach the problem, asked lots of questions, and was all around very patient with a mom and dad who were very afraid and concerned.
My dog spent the night, and we received 3 updates during that period on his condition (including an update from Dr. James, who took over the morning shift). He stayed through the next day and we were able to pick him up in the evening (after an earlier afternoon visit). I saw the treatment areas in the facility, and they were very clean and well-staffed. I felt good knowing that's where my dog would be spending the night (and they wanted to make sure we felt comfortable).
His condition is much improved, and I feel very comfortable reaching out to them for further questions. Was it expensive? Yes. Did it cross my mind at all? No. So perhaps the cost is a greater concern for maintenance care, but for emergency services, it just was a non-issue for me.
P.S. My dog came here one other time for non-routine dental treatment (recommended by my regular vet), and that was successful - I experienced the same level of care and kindness. I also appreciate some of the alternative treatment they offer, like accupuncture (and know someone to have taken their dog in for that, with success).
I've had great experiences with this pet hospital. When my cat got cancer they were very sympathetic and tried quite a few treatments, and when they weren't successful they gave me a private room to spend my last moments with the cat before it had to be put to sleep. I think they cried more than I did. They are very professional and empathetic and go out of their way to help.
When my new kittens got sick, they were quick to respond and came up with an answer on the first visit. They saved my cat's life. It's not cheap however. The service at Pets Unlimited will set you back a lot! But I wouldn't trust the health of my pets to anyone else.
So expensive and every vet I've met there seems like they are fresh out of school. You also wait FOREVER. Not cool.
This review is for the exactly two occasions that my little buddy Oliver visited this pet hospital, once about 4 1/2 years ago when he fell out of my apartment's 3rd story window and once this last weekend when his short life ended.
The first time, Pets Unlimited whisked him away to treatment at about 10 pm on a hopping Friday night. He was diagnosed with a fractured pelvis and given treatment, immobilized and hospitalized. He eventually healed and lead the craziest, wildest life a cat could lead.
We had another vet closer to home that I quite liked so we did not return to this location until this weekend. Oliver was acting like a drunk angry sailor, and not in an pleasant way. He could barely walk and his eyes were shiny and sad. I made a quick Mommy diagnosis that anytime this rascal doesn't want to play or eat Bonito flakes you know the world is not right.
We hustled him off to Pets Unlimited and he had an examination by Dr. David Sierra. Dr. Sierra is a really pleasant man, in his early thirties and had a great rapport with Oliver. He examined him, gave us a run down of what the possible problems could be, swollowing thread, toxicity, etc. Unfortunately after running a few tests, Dr. Sierra had to advise us that he believed Oliver had ingested antifreeze...which does such great damage to the kidneys of your animal that there is no reversal.
Dr. Sierra patiently explained to us our options, tens of thousands dollars in dialysis or putting Oliver down. He was so kind the entire time. When it came to the actual event, he was so gentle and respectful that I believe he was actually sad with us. He also didn't bat an eyelash at my incredible outpouring of grief, I actually had to use a bag to control my hyperventilation.
Even after the little guy was gone the Doctor continued to pet him and talk to us. I really appreciated his bedside manner and wanted to give him a big ol' shout out here on yelp.
No one wants to have to put their animal down, but if you have to do it, you want to make the situation as mellow and supportive as possible and that's what we got here. Additionally, I found him to be very knowledgeable about the ins and outs of antifreeze poisoning and the possible other conditions that could have been affecting my little friend.
So thanks Dr. Sierra and Pets Unlimited for making that a really sad experience just a little bit easier.
I love this Pet Hospital. They have taken such good care of my kitties. Dr. Gervais is excellent. She has a magic tough with the critters and their owners. One of my cats is a little high strung and she handles with with finess and experience.
Have I mentioned that I like their business model too? A no kill animal shelter with a not for profit vetinerary clinic and hospital. That's a special calling.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/16/2007
My kitties see Dr. Gervais at Pets Unlimited. After moving to San Francisco it took me a couple of… Read more »
Sadly, my dog Maggie passed away, but she got great care during her last hours. She had a terrible seizure on a Friday night. We immediately called Pets Unlimited to let them know we were coming. I ran ahead while my husband carried our dog in. The staff, including the Vet on duty that night, were all waiting by the front door! They were so responsive. They immediately took her in and treated her the best they could. (side note: we didn't even have our wallets on us since we were on a walk when it happened, but they took her in without a problem) She stayed overnight and they kept her the following day. During that day, I was able to visit with her for as long as I wanted! They welcomed me to be with Maggie, so I could pet her and console her. This meant the world to me. They kept her the following night. Sadly, she stopped breathing the next morning. Dr. Haviland called me to tell me the prognosis was not good, and my husband and I went in to put her down. They kept her alive and comfortable until we could get there (we're only 5 minutes away). The entire staff, including Dr. Haviland, were extremely comforting and sensitive to the pain we were experiencing. They left it up to us as to when to give Maggie the injection, but also explained that she could be suffering. We were with her, holding her, as she passed away. Afterwards, we were allowed to be with her body, alone in a room, to fully grieve, and again they gave us as long as we needed.
I'm so grateful to them for the care they gave her, for the respect she got, and for the way we were treated. We gladly donated all of her things to their shelter and I'll continue to fully support them. If you have a pet, or are looking to adopt one, I highly recommend Pets Unlimited!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/27/2008
I've been taking my dog to Pets Unlimited for several years now. She's getting great care there. I… Read more »
I brought in my dog for a full body grooming, including nail cutting. It cost me a 1/2 day's worth of salary, which is a lot for me, and when I got home, I noticed that there was blood all over my car's back seat. My dog's nail was cut too short and that's where the blood came from.
Well, not only is that a major pain when it comes to trying to remove blood from ivory colored leather, but imagine how my dog felt bleeding and no one even knew.
I took my dog in for an emergency visit after she spent most of the night yelping in pain when she moved around. We had to wait for a bit, but considering it was during normal business hours and we didn't have an appointment, I really didn't feel like it was too bad. The vet did what I felt like was a very thorough examination, and recommended x-rays to make sure she didn't have something impacted in her stomach. Turns out she is just having some nerve damage/pain in her back - but I didn't feel like I had gotten hustled on the x-rays because, better safe than sorry, right? It was, of course, expensive, but I had expected an emergency visit with x-rays and a prescription to be pricey. Overall, I thought the staff was very friendly and attentive, and I wouldn't hesitate to go back if I ever had another emergency.
My two experiences at this clinic are all over the charts. I first brought my dog in after she had drunk some seawater and had a "negative reaction" that I'll spare the details about. However, the persistence of her condition had me worried, so I called ahead and told them I was bringing her in as an emergency. Well, my version of "emergency" must differ greatly from P.U.'s, 'cause we sat there for over an hour and a half. Eventually, her symptoms subsided, and we left without being seen by a vet, though the guy at the front desk was sympathetic and told me to call if Stella started getting sick again. Yeah, yeah. Thankfully, my dog was fine after that.
My second experience was so-so as well. This time, we had a scheduled appointment, and arrived a bit early. However, we waited for 20 minutes before going into the exam room, and then another 40 minutes for the vet to come. Although the vet tech came and apologized, I was a little peeved. What's the point in making an appointment here?
Once Dr. Kim arrived, however, I felt a little better. She was great about getting to know my dog, asking a lot of questions, and answering all of mine. I felt like we got a lot more out of our appointment than just the vaccination!
The time thing is just an issue for me, so I'm not sure if we'll be back.
Also, and this may not have anything to do with the clinic itself, but each time I've witnessed some Miserable customers (the people, not the pets). I've seen a woman yelling about her bill and how the payment was handled, and a really miserly old man yelled at me for double parking behind his truck, although the clinic asked me to.
Oh yeah, the parking thing sucks too. Four spaces (with additional room to double-park, and then get harassed for it) doesn't really constitute the designation of "parking available."
I called to schedule an appointment and was on hold for over 30 minutes. At one point there was a qeue if I wanted to leave a message, "press 1." I did.
I have gone to Petsunlimited several times. I think today was a bad day, unfortunately.
They called me back within 2 hours. (changed the 1 star to 3.. because they called back and forwarded me to the SPCA) They may need more personnel.
I came here during normal business hours, but for an urgent situation. My dog is prone(has had 3 in 5 years) to bladder infections, and I noticed the symptoms just barely beginning on her morning walk.
The doctor took forever to see us, even though we were the only ones there (twas early). And once he did see her, he spent more time trying to convince me to run a million advanced tests on her than he did actually examining her and testing the Ph of the urine I had collected from her (GROSS!). In the end,he recommended I spend $500 on tests, $250 on anti-biotics and wanted to keep her for 5 hours. I told him to shove it, give me the pills and I would take her elsewhere. They never even called me with the results of the one lab test I did request and PAID for.
I did take her elsewhere, and now she is on a natural cranberry supplement, has had ZERO urinary tract problems and didn't have to have a needle stuck into her bladder.
The short of it: They treat the problem, not the cause. They try to upsale you on services. And are hasty to diagnose. Not recommended.
It makes me sad to write a unfavorable review for Pets Unlimited because I really was a huge fan for the last few years.
However, my last experience was not okay. I took my 11 year old dog in for a senior wellness exam. A new vet saw him, and for the first time ever at Pets, I felt like the service was substandard and the bill wayyy to high.
I expected to pay over $200, but over $400? Without asking, or telling me the cost, the vet prescribed my dog both Heartworm meds (apparently, it's a new policy for them to push this because there was a positive case in the city), and pain pills for his arthritis. If she would have asked, I would have refused both--I'm still on the fence about putting my dogs on Heartworm meds, and I already had the same pain pills at home from a previous visit. I think the two medications added up to more than $150. I ended up returning the Heartworm medication.
Shouldn't a vet ask before prescribing medication? And, provide a cost estimate?!
Also, I ended up having to take my dog to the vet again last week (a few months after the visit to Pets) because I felt a lump in his leg. This time I went to Campus Vet in Berkeley (who was fantastic!!!). She asked if anyone had ever really tried to find out what was wrong with his weak leg. It reminded me that the vet at Pets didn't really do a thorough job in his senior wellness exam. She barely felt his hips; didn't bother to further examine his legs, even after I said that one of them bothered him. Anyway, my new vet did a thorough physical exam, much more thorough than at Pets. The bill was $90.
Long story short: For the first time at Pets I felt like I was at a fast food joint. In and out, and pay up.
I just moved to the East Bay, so I have switched to Campus Vet for good, but I sure hope Pets Unlimited isn't going to the let the economy take them in the direction of substandard service and hugely inflated bills.
What can you say about a group of amazing people who saved the life of your dog when it seemed impossible. What Pets Unlimited did for my dog Bobby and I over a two month period in 2007 was nothing short of a miracle.
While I was traveling my house burned down and Bobby had been trapped inside the house. My dear friend rescued him, but they both were horribly burned. Bobby was taken to Pets Unlimited in the middle of the night by some other friends of mine who found him after he had wandered 8 blocks to my friend's house. His face and body were burned badly and the pads of his feet were burned off, he had lost most of his vision.
Even then it took days before the true extend of his burns became apparent. But he just got worse and worse. At no time did the kind souls at Pets Unlimited ever let me lose hope for him. They treated me as if I were family, with compassion and kindness. There were many nights where I couldn't sleep and I would go to the hospital and they would let me spend time visiting Bobby. I would often find his vets still there late into the night tending to Bobby's recovery.
I can tell you this, had I not had the good fortune of bringing Bobby to Pets Unlimited it is unlikely he would have survived. To this day, there is not a day that goes by when I am with Bobby at the beach playing or just chilling somewhere, that I don't thank my lucky stars for Dr Haviland, Dr, Moser and all the good people at Pets Unlimited. They will forever have my gratitude in ways that words can not express.
This is a review of their emergency services only. I am sure they do great things with animal rescue and such.
I ended up here with my cat after Arguello Pet Hospital referred us. My cat suddenly started acting strange, so I wanted him to seen right away, even though it was a Saturday morning.
On the plus side, parking was easy, and they took the cat right away to check him out while I was filling out paper work.
But I was not at all impressed with the vet. He couldn't find anything wrong with my cat, who had decided that he was going to act just fine for the vet, and that's not the problem. The issue was the way the vet treated me, like I wasn't a good kitty mom. For example, he implied that previous vets who had examined my cat were not thorough or using the proper equipment because they hadn't told me that my cat had a heart murmur. He also lectured me because I couldn't tell him exactly my cat's eating and pooping habits because I have two cats. His whole arrogant tone rubbed me the wrong way.
They wanted to spend "about $500" for blood work and x-rays because they couldn't find anything wrong. It seemed overboard, so I paid the $90 emergency fee and left. The cat is acting fine, and if he starts having issues again, I'll take him to a regular vet for further tests.
I love my cats and all, but I am still reasonable. I have fallen into that trap of spending thousands on cat looking for things that you either can't do anything about, or don't change the treatment anyway.
Many years ago when I was in a different tax bracket, my fat apartment cat lost a tooth and was doing the freak. He crunched some dry food and his tooth came partially out and he would not stop clawing at his face. It was late at night and the only place open was Pets Unlimited. Of course an emergency like that - pulling the molar, holding for observation, etc... was astronomical. Just taking the cab across town was like buying into another universe for me. Anyway they were cool, and they took proper care of him, and though I did have a big bill they made paying it a realistic proposition. This was many years ago but I"m still thankful and would go to them for any emergency.
I have a 7 month old Mastiff puppy and she has been going to Pet's Unlimited since we brought her home.
She loves it there, the quality of the care is outstanding and her Vet Dr. Kim is caring and attentive. She always calls personally to give test results and provide us with information. If we call with a question, we always get help or worst case a call back.
The whole staff is friendly and knows our dog by name.
It is expensive, but I do not have a comparison in San Francisco, so I do not know if it is out of line with other places in the city.
For us this is the vet of choice.
After searching a long while for a good vet. I found Pets Unlimited. I live on the other side of town, but I don't mind driving to this facility because I feel confident that what ever ails my Sparky, he's in great hands. My poor little guy was having food allergies and this facility worked with me in getting him the right nutrition to rid his allergies. I know it isn't so easy at times with our furry friends, but I felt that the vet. really wanted to work and help us out. In the end I'd like to say Mr. Sparkles is doing fantastic.
Date & Time: Monday July 7, 2008 @ 1pm
Company: Michael for Jack
Crowd: Loving Pet Owners & Their Lucky Pets
Atmosphere: Nice w/ Lady Passing out Refreshments- Peppridge Farm Cookies
Decor: Neat w/ Cushioned Seating Benches in Waiting Area & Treats @ The Reception Desk. Visit Pets Available for Adoption to the Right of The Reception Area in Another Section. Pet Weigh-In. Clean Little Individual Examining Rooms for Pets. Makes an Unpleasant Pet Experience Comfortable:)
Service: Wonderful & Caring Vets:) Dr. Clark is Awesome & Gave Jack his Yearly Examinations & Vaccine. Jack doesn't need his $500 teeth cleaning for another 6 months:)
Notes: 24-Hour Emergency Pet Care Available
