South Boston Animal Hospital

4.5 star rating
24 reviews Rating Details

Category: Veterinarians  [Edit]

659 E Broadway
(between Emerson St & I St)
Boston, MA 02127
Neighborhood: South Boston
(617) 269-0610
Nearest Transit:

E Broadway @ K St (10, 5, 9)

E Broadway @ K St (10, 5, 9)

E Broadway @ I St (10, 5, 9)

Hours:

Mon, Fri-Sat 9 am - 4 pm

Tue-Thu 9 am - 7 pm

Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites' | Facebook Friends'

24 reviews in English

  • Review from Ella C.

    •  
    • 8 friends
    • 91 reviews

    West Palm Beach, FL

    5.0 star rating
    5/27/2011

    What a change from my horrible experiences with Angell Memorial.

    I was recommended here by Fenway Bark (equally freaking awesome, I highly recommend checking them out), and I'm so glad that I made the call.   From the moment I walked through the door, the staff was attentive and nice, as well as engaging.  

    I did not have the long wait that I had read from other Yelpers, but was rather only held up by my inability to fill out my paperwork with a dog who wanted to explore EVERYTHING and that I handed over my dog's 500 page medical records.   OK, slight exaggeration with the 500 pages, but I feel like that's not that far off.

    I really liked everyone who came in.  The doggie nurse that we saw before the Vet was great.  She asked good questions and was very helpful.  Dr. Waggener was awesome.  Instead of running up a bill with things that were a good idea to test for, she presented me with estimates for dental work (and understood I'd need my holiday bonus to pay for it), and told me about things to watch for since my dog's breed is susceptible to eye problems.   She didn't pressure me to do anything, but gave me time to think about it and also presented me with options.  

    I also really liked that there were more options here for heartworm/parasite pills without beef (my dog has a beef allergy) than there were at the larger animal hospital.  

    Overall, what was the best thing for me is knowing that my dog got excellent care without having to put myself in debt.  This visit was under $100, and usually at Angell, I'm paying around $400.   I will DEFINITELY be bringing my dog back here.    I couldn't be happier with my decision to go here.

  • Review from Secret S.

    •  
    • 4 friends
    • 54 reviews

    Quincy, MA

    4.0 star rating
    7/20/2011

    I chose this place as my new puppy's vet because of great Yelp reviews and also because I'm from Southie and love going back!

    Dr. Waggener was great with my puppy.  Thorough, kind and even gave my puppy a special beefy treat as she gave a rabies shot.  She was right - the puppy barely noticed the shot being given!  The price for a visit and 2 shots wasn't too bad at $101.  The spay estimate was higher than I expected but I guess that's just the way it goes (spays cost more than neuters and dogs cost more than cats I think).  

    Dr. W spent alot of time consulting us, even though puppy was very healthy.  She also gave me breed specific info for the future which was very helpful and enlightening.  (I have a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and despite lots of groomers etc saying they work with "alot" of them I see very few CKCS in my travels!!)

    We are going back again in a few days for her last puppy shot and to schedule her spay surgery.

  • Review from Frank K.

    •  
    • 161 friends
    • 13 reviews

    South Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    9/15/2010

    My new puppy had gotten into something and I wasn't quite sure what it was all I knew was her paws are now pink, so I decided to have her checked out.    

    Dr Waggener and the team at South Boston Animal Hospital were great from setting the same day appointment right through checkout everything was great!    The tech who did preliminary exam with the dog handled her well and made the process painless for all involved, including what must have been a very unpleasant taking of the dogs temperature.   Dr Waggener came in for the actual exam and made the dog feel comfortable and so relaxed she didn't even flinch during her shots.  

    All in all a great visit, I am looking forward to my relationship with my new neighborhood vet.  

    And who knew it was possible to get some digits while in the waiting room at a vet!

  • Review from Karma L.

    •  
    • 24 friends
    • 19 reviews

    Dedham, MA

    3.0 star rating
    Updated - 11/30/2008

    I was shocked to see such good reviews, but it turns out SBAH is under new ownership now.  Sounds like Dr. Waggener is cleaning up the bad rep SBAH had.  In fact, she wrote me:

    "I am really sorry to hear about your dog Bailey and I hope you never have to go through that again....We are trying very hard to restore the SBAH image and do work overtime to try to take good care of our families who may have been neglected in the past. No hard feelings here, we know it is uphill all the way! Like I said, you are welcome back to visit anytime, and I hope your furries get the best care in the future, no matter where!"

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 1.0 star rating
      11/26/2008

      Wow, I'm surprised to see such great reviews.  I don't know who Dr. Waggener is, but the vets I've… Read more »

  • Review from Mike H.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 26 reviews

    Salem, MA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 4/16/2009

    I've been taking my Pug Reggie to the South Boston Animal Hospital for over three years now. I liked Dr. Waggener the moment I met her. Three years later, my opinion of her hasn't changed a bit. She's absolutely professional, and it's obvious she loves animals.

    I don't live in Boston anymore, and I drive in from the suburbs to take Reggie to the SBAH. I could find another vet closer to my house and I'm sure they'd be adequate. But I don't want adequate care for my Pug. I want the outstanding care and attention that we get from Dr. Waggener and her staff. That's why we keep going back.

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 5.0 star rating
      9/10/2006

      I love these people. They treat my Pug like he's their own. Dr. Natalie Wagner is now the owner, and… Read more »

  • Review from Ulli R.

    •  
    • 2 friends
    • 37 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    6/21/2010

    I absolutely love Dr. Waggener and her staff. I have never had a vet who so genuinely cares about the pets, who checks in a few days after an appointment and who will rather do a conservative treatment than the more expensive surgery route.

    Always had a great experience here. Even my dogs like everyone here...mostly.

    The wait is sometimes long, but I don't mind. I prefer my pets being treated by staff who care and will take the wait into account.

  • Review from Annie M.

    •  
    • 11 friends
    • 27 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    5/13/2010

    I really cannot say enough good things about South Boston Animal Hospital!  Dr. Waggener and Dr. Chartrand and all the staff are amazing!  

    After taking my toy fox terrier, Jinxie, to another vet close to home, and feeling like I had just dealt with a used car salesman, I decided to check out my options.  Well, let me tell you- yelpers are right on the money with SBAH!  This is the ONLY place I will bring Jinxie from now on!  They were so patient, explained everything they were doing, had a terrific bedside manner with my dog (unlike the previous vet who made my 7lb, already neurotic dog even more anxious), and gave me estimates for everything they planned on doing- keeping me informed every step of the way!  They even gave me a Pet Passport and folder for all of my important doggie documents.  

    When Jinxie went in for her dental appointment (which she had to be put under for, and scared the bejesus out of me), the vet tech called me several times to keep me up to date on her condition, and let me know that she was doing well.  When I went to pick her up I saw that she was given a "surgery pal" stuffed animal to keep her company!

    I was so impressed, and since my wonderful experience, never hesitate to recommend SBAH and Dr. Waggener to anyone looking for a vet.  Yes, the wait times can suck, but I'd rather wait and know that the doctor is being thorough and professional, than get rushed through an appointment and leave feeling uneasy.  Jinxie and I could not be happier!

  • Review from Bella B.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 23 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    8/5/2011

    I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place. Sometimes getting through their phone system/ constant busy signals is a pain...but if that's my biggest complaint with a vet, I can live with it! My dogs see Dr. KC and I will see her for as long as she is practicing. Most vets are very smart, most vets love animals...but KC always goes above and beyond and on top of it always tries to save you money wherever she can. I've been to previous vets, who i have liked and thought were good...but often left the office feeling taken advantage of. I've actually asked KC to run tests before that she has told me was not necessary. She always tries to heal using alternative methods before shoving expensive tests/ medicine at you.

  • Review from Kelly C.

    Malden, MA

    4.0 star rating
    10/20/2009

    I made a same day apt to get my pups vaccinated. Staff was very friendly, but be prepared to wait. I was there for a total of 2 hours. Was seen about35 mins after apt time, but I was just happy to be seen that day, so I didn't complain. The Dr. was very good. She was able to diagnose 2 different things that no one else had, and my only complaint is that she needs to bring the vernacular down so us little people can understand what the heck shes talking about. I had to say, um what does that mean? more than once.
    I'm happy she's such a smarty pants though, cause I feel better about spending the $250 for my two dogs to get a checkup and shots.
    After 2 hrs, we(the pooches and I) were DYING to get out of there though, and it took forever to get checked out.
    Worth it though. I highly recommend, and will be back.

  • Review from Elizabeth E.

    •  
    • 4 friends
    • 12 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    2/28/2010 1 photo

    Dr. Waggener and Dr. Chartrand, and their team at South Boston Animal Hospital are absolutely top rate.  We've been bringing our French bulldog there for sixth months or so, and have the utmost trust and respect for the work they do.

    From sending Clark home with fluffy toys to making proactive calls to check-in, Dr. Waggener and Dr. Chartrand go above and beyond.  I am sure they have many, many patients, but we've never felt that they didn't have time for us (and my typically ridiculous questions).  

    Anytime we've called with a concern, they've managed to schedule an  appointment for us that day.  I especially appreciate their common sense, down to earth approach.  We love South Boston Animal Hospital.  Really, we do.

  • Review from HC F.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 28 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    8/23/2010

    Dr. Waggnor goes above and beyond everytime for my little guy-  Angell use to be our vet but they could never see us until 4 days out after a call-Dr Waggner makes herself more than available at all times and she is SO GREAT with my pup- You can contact her via email on her Blackberry with emergency inquiries and she always puts in the effort to follow-up with you each time you visit.
    Finally an amazing vet in Boston!

  • Review from Katie S.

    •  
    • 2 friends
    • 2 reviews

    Somerville, MA

    5.0 star rating
    8/5/2009

    My pup Murphy and I love Dr. Waggner!

    She takes her time, give lots of hugs and treats and makes both me and my pooch feel comfortable.

    She is knowledgeable, resonably priced (as far as vets go) and happy to accomodate patients and answer questions.

    Very happy to have found her!

  • Review from Rebecca D.

    •  
    • 11 friends
    • 6 reviews

    Somerville, MA

    5.0 star rating
    8/10/2009

    After doing six weeks of research to find the perfect vet for our little Jessiebell my findings led me to Dr. Waggener.
    There are truly not enough good things I could say about Dr. Waggener and her team. My first call to them I was greeted with a young lady that was polite, professional and knowledgeable. They were able to get Jessie (our new kitty) in right away for an exam.

    My husband and I were a little nervous given the emotional roller coaster we had just been on with her adoption (see review of St. Meow's). I had come up with a literal page full of questions, observations, and notes for Dr. W. and she took the time to go through and answer every single thing. We by no means felt rushed or hurried so that they could get to the next appointment. They even let Jessie come out of her carrier on her own.

    We learned in the exam that Jessie is going to need some extensive dental work. As we also wanted to get her chipped Dr Waggener was more than accommodating suggesting that everything be done the same day as the surgery while she is under the anesthesia. This would mean less stress on Jessie and less trips to the office and money on us.

    In these turbulent economic times my husband and I braced ourselves for the costs involved. To our surprise and delight Dr. Waggener had drawn up an itemized estimate comparing least to most so that we would know exactly what we would need to budget. Before leaving she made sure we understood everything and we didn't feel nickel and dimed at all.

    It is clear to us that Dr. Waggener and her staff's top concern and care is our beloved pet. She really loves animals and seems to want to do everything to make sure they are well cared for.

    Bravo Dr. Waggener and staff. Keep up the great work and see you when Jess comes in for surgery.

  • Review from Meg W.

    •  
    • 279 friends
    • 107 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    2.0 star rating
    8/31/2006

    If I reviewed this place a year ago it would have been 5 stars.  But every time I get used to a vet they disappear.  First there was the sweet girl from India who had graduated from Tufts I think, then there was Dr. Wagner, now there is a revolving door of different stressed-out vets who's names I can't remember b/c I usually don't see the same person more than once.  Even the staff behind the desk changes constantly.  Their prices are also a little steep, so alas, I'm in the market for a new vet, someone mentioned the Porter Sq. Vet???

  • Review from Melissa O.

    •  
    • 40 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    12/13/2010

    One word amazing! My cat ate my $3 flip flop and ended up at South Boston Animal Hospital.  Dr. KC was so amazing with him and explained everything thoroughly. Before leaving him in their care, she brought out a bill at the lowest cost she could get it to, and then showed me my options, explaining each item on the bill.  For a week after the surgery Dr KC called every day to check on him.  A couple of days after the surgery, I got nervous about his incision and called the hospital. They told me to come over and they saw him right away. Luckily, it was just dried blood.  All of the above had me convinced they were a great animal hospital.  Then I received a letter in the mail addressed to Oliver. Inside was a flip flip collar charm with a note saying "we saw this and thought of you." Amazing - A vet who really cared, who was warm, friendly, and made me feel ok about leaving my cat!

  • Review from Hillary M.

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    11/26/2008

    I really really like this place.  Dr. Waggener is super - friendly and competent and puts my pup at ease.  The vet techs are also great.  When my dog got neutered we had his dew claws removed.  Dr. Waggener called me and talked to me about having the front dews removed and she was very informative - and thankfully talked me out of doing it!  I never feel like we're being rushed when we call with questions or when we are there for an appointment.  I wish the dog treats and meds weren't so pricey, but it is a high quality service.  The location is convenient and the staff are great.  I wouldn't go anywhere else!

  • Review from Travis M.

    •  
    • 4 friends
    • 11 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    7/6/2009

    South Boston Animal Hospital is great, it really is. It sounds stupid but if you are a pet owner you would understand, you want the best care and they really seem to provide it. Plus the people are always so nice and friendly in there. Unfortunately our dog seems to always have something so we see Dr. Wagner and she makes him all better. I would highly recommend them.

  • Review from Deanna D.

    Medford, MA

    5.0 star rating
    8/30/2008

    I just moved to Boston and needed to find a vet for my cats ASAP. I looked on yelp and was very impressed by the reviews for DR. Waggner. So I brought my 4 month old kitten in to the SBAH to get a lump on his chin checked out. I was able to get a same day appointment and the staff was very friendly and helpful. The office is very clean and comfortable. Dr. Waggner was great with my kitten. She made him relax while she was giving him a check up & diagnosing the lump. It turned out to be an abbess that had come up and she explained what the options were for treating it.
    She explained everything and gave me med. to take home for him.
    She is a very kind and caring women and I appreciate her taking the time to explain and educate me on what was happening with my kitten.
    Her office is a bit out of the way for me but I will definitely be back to see her with my other cats. I highly recommend her if you need to find a great permanent vet who is very caring, considerate and professional.

  • Review from Jim M.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 29 reviews

    Marshfield, MA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 12/26/2008

    My dogs love Dr. Waggener's home made dog biscuits!

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 5.0 star rating
      4/22/2008

      Dr Waggener is  very professional and skilled as well as caring and  gentle with the my dogs. She's… Read more »

  • Review from James F.

    •  
    • 2 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    4/28/2008

    Dr. Waggener is the best vet I have been to.  In addition to being highly skilled and knowledgeable, she truly cares for her patients and takes the time to explain various conditions and treatment options.  I am amazed by her ability to recall even the smallest details of my cat's history without even looking at her records, which is consistent with her level of caring.  Most human doctors could learn a thing or two from her compassion and her attentiveness.  As questions and concerns about my cat's condition arise after her visits, the doctor always takes the time to return calls, listen to my concerns, and explain various treatment options.  On top of all this, her staff is friendly, the facility is clean, and her rates are very reasonable.  Anyone looking for a vet should venture to South Boston -- it's worth the trip.

  • Review from Mark S.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 7 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    4/30/2009

    I'm sure experiences are relative, but I have never had a bad experience going to the South Boston Animal Hospital.  The staff is very friendly and do good work...

  • Review from Kelley C.

    •  
    • 2 friends
    • 128 reviews

    Pembroke, MA

    4.0 star rating
    11/6/2008

    I really like Dr. Waggener. From my encounter with her, she is caring and thorough. She handled my baby in the most compassionate way possible and made sure she got the care that she needed when she was sick. She was also sensitive to the fact that I was upset, which was nice. She also followed up, despite the fact that she did not actually treat my dog. Luckily my little baby is ok now and I have a new found respect for what veterinarians do. I am extremely thankful that Dr. Waggener was there for us when we needed her.

  • Review from Trish C.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 1 review

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    12/10/2008

    I started going to SBAH a few months ago for my 2 dogs and have had the best experiences. I have been to several other vets and never really felt like they wanted to be caring for animals. Dr. Waggener really cares about the animals and it shows. Facilities and staff are always great and accommodating. Highly recommend!!

  • Review from Kerry S.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 33 reviews

    Washington, DC

    5.0 star rating
    6/30/2008

    SBAH is great again!! You will read some older reviews for SBAH and notice that they're bad... I brought my older dog to SBAH for a couple years (a couple years ago), then when Dr. Natalie Waggener left I left too (as did other customers, I found the new doc to be a troll). Well, Natalie is back and she now owns SBAH (yay!), which means that the place is better run, has updated the advice they give and the products that they recommend.  (My understanding of the history of this place is that East Boston Animal Hospital and SBAH were under the same ownership - I don't think that those were glory days for SHAH and when SBAH was closed one weekend and I had to go to EB in an emergency situation, I had a very bad impression of the management of both places and a bad experience with the vet.) This new ownership is a very positive change and I would highly recommend their vet services. My older dog also had to have a tooth cleaning there and the price was not too bad (under $250) and Natalie is conservative about medications etc., which I appreciate.  I have also used Alliance for Animals in South Boston - they are super nice folks, but I could not take the chaos over there.

People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...

People Viewed This After Searching For...