- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Uptown Animal Hospital
Rating Details »
Category: Veterinarians [Edit]
Neighborhoods: Edgewater, Andersonville5545 N Clark St
(between Bryn Mawr Ave & Gregory St)
Chicago, IL 60640
(773) 561-0734
- Hours:
Mon-Tue. 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Mon-Tue. 2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Wed. 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Thu-Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Thu-Fri. 2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sat. 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Sponsored Result
Special Offer Nearby
VCA Misener-Holley Animal Hospital
- Category:
- Veterinarians
- Neighborhood:
- Edgewater
New Clients get a Free First Exam. Click below for the offer: http://www.vcahospitals.com/misener-holley/offer/yelp09
75 reviews for Uptown Animal Hospital
Ah, the sweet smell of cat whiz.
Of all the logically improbable things to find yourself thinking. But I'm thinking it now, because my cat has piddled on himself, and he stinks to high heaven, and that is a beautiful thing when just hours ago he wasn't going at all.
Thanks to the careful ministrations of Dr. MacLellan and team, he's going now, (although sporadically-I'll be following him around all night to ensure that keeps happening). After a night at CVES, I rushed my cat over to Uptown this morning, unannounced, hoping they'd take us without an appointment before my kitty exploded.
Dr. MacLellan, bless him, made room in his schedule to see the fuzz. After explaining the possible causes of my cat's urinary blockage, Dr. MacLellan took kitty back and catheterized him, flushing out the blockage. Then he brought back a sample of what had been building up in my cat's bladder. It looked alarmingly like a small cup of weak coffee. Really Not Good. Still, Cat was in great hands - we're talking about a doc who saw my cat with no appointment and, rather than rushing us through, took the time explain the problem (using literature and props. Actually kitty blockages!). And they've been sensitive to my, ah, delicate financial state, using a conservative but thorough course of treatment, as far as I can tell.
Uptown kept kitty for the day and released him, provisionally, for the night. Fingers crossed, kitty pees rivers. Squick notwithstanding, let the floodgates open, furby.
And to the staff at Uptown, many hackneyed-yet-simultaneously-weepily sincere thanks for your excellent care for my cat, delivered on Thanksgiving eve eve. Eve.
Whuzzat? I HEAR PIDDLE!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
8/29/2008
When I adopted an insane orphaned kitten in June, I was referred to Uptown by my friends Danielle C.… Read more »
My fiancé's mom has known Dr. John MacLellan (the head of Uptown Animal Hospital) since they were in high school, and has been taking her family pets here for what seems like forever. I, however, did not meet Dr. John until last September when we found two scared kittens on the back porch, who were attacked by dogs, on the rainiest day of the year.
We called Uptown that morning to get them checked out and they were able to fit us in later in the afternoon. However, during the day we had a major nightmare: one of the kitten's stomachs had split open--literally! Frantic, I called Uptown again and they told me to come in immediately. After racing over there, the vet techs were very sweet but told me they would make him comfortable and to expect the worse until Dr. John was able to have a look at him. Waiting by the phone in tears, Dr. John called me and told me to come back so that we could discuss the options.
Fearing the worse, i raced back to Uptown with the other kitten (healthy) in tow. I was there in literally 15 minutes. By the time i had gotten there, Dr. John had the kitten in surgery and was already stitching him up--saving his tiny life. While I was thrilled, that the little guy was going to be okay we were concerned about how much the surgery was going to cost.
But what would've normally cost several hundred dollars (for anesthetic, boarding, etc), Dr. John charged us a quarter of that because they were strays. He also included the checkup for the other kitten and some starter formula and food.
He even took us to the back to check on Franklin (what we ended up naming him), who was sleeping his anesthesia off.
While this is a really long review, i think it's an example of how amazing the staff at Uptown is, from the vet techs to the vets. Everyone, was so sweet and extremely helpful. Since that traumatic day, the kittens have gone back for shots, a bout of ringworm and neutering and I have never been treated better. As long as Dr. John and his staff are around, I will be taking my pets here for years to come.
So, we decided to take our new puppy to Uptown because of the proximity to where we live, as well as the great reviews.
I have to say that I was really disappointed in the experience as a whole. We were able to get an appointment a week from the day we called, which was nice, as I had read that it is sometimes hard to get in.
When we got there it was pretty busy, and as I was told on the phone if our dog had any records, to bring them with so they could get anything on file. I handed the records over, and had to fill out a form- pretty easy.
We were seen a little after our appointment time which wasnt a big deal, but the lackluster experience started when we got back into the exam room.
I was literally asked why we were here. I had already explained this over the phone, as well as to the vet techs in front. We were seen by Dr Lilja, and while she wasn't mean or anything- she just seemed sort of...take it or leave it with us. I just wasn't really impressed.
So more weirdness happened after that. We were told that we could get the first month of HeartGuard for our dog for free, which sounded great to us. We were charged for it. Sure, $8 isnt a lot, but it would have been nice to not have paid it.
The most annoying thing to me was that they charged us $10 to put his records into their computer. On the phone I wasn't told this, and again was not told when I brought the records in. (And it wasn't even a lot of info- just his shot records and his neuter info.)
I didnt notice till we were out the door, and while it may seem silly that $18 dollars could have gone to something else.
I think we will keep going for now, but I will be much more cautious about what they are charging me for in the future.
I cannot say enough good things about Uptown, Dr. Tyler and Dr. Dickus.
Dr. Tyler has been my vet for 10 years now. I have nothing but glowing things to say about her. When faced with a medical (turned into life ending) emergency and Dr. Tyler was out of town, Dr. Dickus came to my rescue, saw me with minimal notice and sent me to a specialist in the burbs. He even called me the next day to see how our cat was doing and was very sympathetic when he heard he had died at the specialist overnight.
When my sick cat needed medicine twice daily for 4 years, they would greet me by name when we walked in which I always thought was so kind.
The services are affordable and they do everything with such a kind and friendly touch. I don't hesitate to recommend this office and am glad I found them for all of my pets medical needs.
Reasons why they rock:
1. My new puppy, Hume the Dog, was sick this week and even though they did not have an opening for a week they took him immediately.
2. The bill, for a visit, lab test, and medication, was only $90.
3. The vet, Dr. Dickus (sp?) was AMAZING! He immediately, genuinely, loved Hume and made his visit more pleasant. He also let us look into Hume's ear to see how well they looked.
4. The staff is awesome. Ann checked us in and she was super fast and helpful.
5. Great location.
We wound up here today with my grown daughter's male cat with the SAME problem as my male cat. We were even lucky enough to see Dr. Tyler, even though she had never been there before and we were an emergency visit (no appointment).
Uptown? Dr. Tyler? YOU ROCK!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
5/27/2009
I took my cat here in an emergency, after going to another vet (that I was in no way thrilled with)… Read more »
I am still in love with Uptown Animal Hospital and Dr. Dickes (in a professional way, of course).
I made appointments for both kitties to have dental cleanings. I arrived very early in the morning and they were ready to be picked up later in the day. My friend who picked them up knows little about cats, but the staff were very understanding and took extra time to explain the discharge instructions to him. He said they were very thorough.
My cats seemed to be in minimal discomfort, and the price was much less than we had anticipated at around $130 each, I believe.
Of course I don't wish any harm unto my kitties, but if something does happen, I will gladly return to this fine animal hospital!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/24/2009
I feel very fortunate that I was able to see Dr. Dickes when my cat was showing signs of an ear… Read more »
Super fast, convienent, and down to earth. My cat and I just were in there this afternoon, and I felt really at home. The vet was great, answered all my questions in a very non-judgemental way.
Definitely would reccomend it.
OH, and it was REALLY clean.
How did I find Uptown Animal Hospital you ask? My friend Lisa "dumped" her kitty on me when she moved to California, hoping that I would fall in love with the cat and keep her. Well, I had my own kitty and hers was a psycho....ANYWAY....she took Mouse (the cat...no wonder she was nuts with a name like that) to Uptown. So, since it was soooo convenient, I then took Tink there too.
At that time, about 10 years ago, Uptown Vet was in a tiny space, but had a great big personality. We were lucky enough to meet Dr. Jim Dickes on our first visit. Erudite, personable, and funny, Dr. Dickes took terrific care of Tink and later, of Jackie, the dog I got to keep my cat company.
The new office is so pretty and airy, and the staff is considerate, compassionate, polite and professional.
And while they are wonderful for the life of your pet, they are also truly sincere and supportive at the end-of -life care that we all wish our pets will never need.
5 stars!
I have gone here many many times because my cat was diagnosed with diabetes and we had to get it under control. The staff is always very friendly and I never wait more then a couple of minutes.
Dr. Dickes is the best. He is so friendly and helpful. He genuinely seems concerned and wants to take the time to make sure I am comfortable too. I have seen another doctor who was less helpful (he got the job done but was less concerned about my interest).
The staff and Dr Tyler have been very helpful ever since we made the switch to Uptown Animal Hospital. Switching to new medical personnel, for yourself or your four legged loved one, is always trying. Now not only do you have to worry if you will like them but you also have to worry if your 'little one' will as well.
Dr. Tyler has been great at putting my worries to rest and at translating those meows and noises I just cannot figure out. They even call back faster than my own last doctor did. And Lucien the Cat cannot get enough of the compliments she heaps upon him about what a handsome guy he is. Not to mention she lets him roam around freely on countertops, unlike his mother.
Weekend appointments are rather difficult to get. But when he was showing some odd symptoms, even for him, they were able to squeeze him in just as soon as we could get there. They are caring to not only the animals involved, but also compassionate of those of us lucky enough to graced by them. Sure I can tough it out when my doctor cannot squeeze me in, but to tough it out when the little beast is possibly ill would be unbearable.
I have never looked back since making this choice. In fact, I wish I could make them MY doctors. I am a human animal after all, am I not?!
I can't say much on a serious issue, since thankfully my little puppy did not need anything more than his distemper shot. But based on that experience alone, I can tell you this.
Right away when you walk in, the waiting room has a very happy aura. I thought I was at a puppy park, not a hospital. Puppies were happily chatting and playing and all of the attendants behind the desk seemed very upbeat. Immediately, I was impressed. And it seemed that all the pet owners waiting had a relaxed, trusting vibe.
Dr. Whisler was wonderful. My puppy immediately liked him, and the happy doctor took care of business right away. He was clean (i won't name the last vet i went to, but the doctor did not wash his hands between patients..), washed his hands, very knowledgeable.. I would trust his analysis. You can tell he is passionate about what he does and was dedicated to Dante's best interests.
A little more pricey than other places, but I think we all know we would spend more money if it meant better care.
They've got cat treats now, too.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
10/7/2008
One of the vets here takes care of the kitties at Felines Inc., which is lovely. The waiting room… Read more »
I can't thank Dr. Whistler and Uptown Animal Hospital enough for taking such good care of my little kitty Mena. Mena had mammary tumors on both her right and left side. Dr. Whistler was so calm, so gentle, and patiently answered all of my nervous mom questions about the surgery to remove the tumors. He wasn't even her regular vet (Dr. Beau is her regular vet) and Mena just trusted him immediately! I could tell Dr. Whistler cares about animals a lot.
I picked up Mena this morning, and they gave me detailed instructions as to her care and reassured me the surgery went smoothly. Dr. Whistler said I could call him anytime with any questions I may have.
I lost my job about 4 months ago, and Uptown reassured me that they would be willing to work out a payment plan so that Mena could get the care she needed. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Uptown.
A little update... my kitty Mena got her biopsy reports back and it turns out she has carcinoma. I am sad she is ill, but glad that I have a few months left to make her comfortable, loved and happy. When the time comes to say goodbye, I am taking her back to Uptown where I know she'll be treated gently.
Being new kitten parents, we recently decided to make the move from caring for the little guy from dragging him up to the Northbrook shelter where we got our little north shore prince and instead sending him to the animal hospital in the neighborhood. Of course, those worried new parent thoughts ran through my head. "Would he like his new surroundings?" "Would he adjust to the staff?" "Would he miss the North Shore???" Thankfully, I found the staff and vets at Uptown Animal Hospital to be friendly and efficient.
I had an appointment for 10:00 am and was promptly seen. The vet introduced himself and told me a little about his own background. When you are looking for a doctor, don't you expect the same? Why shouldn't a cat?? He then gently gave our little guy the needed shots and ear drops and sent us on our way.
The whole process was only 15 minutes long, though the vet was caring and open to any questions I might have as a new parent. I will definitely be going back. North Shore, you know I still love you for the shopping and overall ridiculousness...but Uptown Animal Hospital works for us and our little ball of fur.
Uptown Animal Hospital is a great vet office. The staff is clearly extremely qualified, knowledgeable, and they really love animals. They can run a little more expensive than some vets, but it's on par with the neighborhood and absolutely worth it.
Also, why is it that every vet I have been to claims that they sell the heartworm and flea meds "at market value." This clearly can't be true since I've paid such differing prices at different places. Uptown has very good prices on these items and I love them for it.
This place has been my vet for 11 years. The entire staff is curtious and kind. If you need some animal care these people are very smart and warm. Someone you can trust. They're like family. Tom.
I have been bringing my little princess here for a few months now and absolutely love this place. The doctors are so helpful and know what they are doing, not to mention their friendly nature. The staff here is exceptional and are always so welcoming. This is the best animal hospital I have been to!!
This use to be located where In Fine Spirits bar is now but the move a little north didn't warrant a change.
They have taken care of our dog for the last 8 years...started with the "fixin" and will probably be part of the "endin" but that won't be for years.
Everyone has always been very pleasant with us and has taken the time to explain everything in detail. It is a very busy place on the weekends but they did manage to get us in when our little Riv got the cough and fever from the doggie hotel.
I would say an all around nice place to take your dog or cat when the need some healin!!
Yesterday, I had to make one of the hardest decisions in my 31 years.
My chubby little Russian Blue, Moscow, was violently ill.
The Uptown Animal Hosptial got me in very quickly when I called yesterday.
The diagnosis was grim.
Dr. Taylor and her assistant Renee were as sweet and kind as could be, and allowed me time to call NY to get some "extra support." They then gave me time alone with Moscow while I sad my last good byes and gave her 200 kisses on her head.
Dr. Taylor even gave me a hug (regardless of the fact I asked for one).
Everything was explained to me, I felt like I had answers to all my questions, and they reassured me I was a good Daddy, I wasn't making a bad choice.
I miss you something awful Moscow.
Egon's new vet! Right in the 'hood. Friendly people, great location - very easy to schedule. Will update more later, after his first appointment.
May 19: Well, Egon had his appointment today, and despite a v. nice vet, they forgot to clip his nails. Minus one star, Uptown!
My family has been taking family pets here for years. We used to go to the old location on clark, south of catalpa. My girlfriend and I recently adopted a lab mix named Wrigley, and I could think of no better place to have our lil buddy cared for than Uptown.
The new location is clean, and well staffed. Other Yelpers seem to complain about the wait times, but really now, have any of these people been to a human Dr.s office or a hospital lately?? Lets talk about wait times.....lol
Wrigley sees Dr. Lilja who gives him a thorough exam, and never makes the visit seemed rushed. She is more than willing to answer questions, very professional, and seems to genuinely care about my dogs' health.
These guys are great. I always think I'm that only crazy person at the vet's office who doesn't know anything about cats. (Magpie is my first.) Uptown always put me at ease, and let me ask all my questions without making me feel silly for asking in the first place.
My regular vet is Dr. Lilja, who is great with my skittish kitty. Today we had to take Magpie in because she'd gotten sick and lethargic, and had been getting at her stitches from her spay last week. Dr. Dickes saw her right away, without appointment, and along with Dr. Lilja, made sure she was taken care of the rest of the day. She was taken care of and monitored all day, given meds and IV"s. When I picked her up she was back to her spunky self. And to top it off, I was told that there was no need to stop at the desk on the way out - there would be no charge at all for that day's follow up, since I had already paid for the surgery last week.
I have mixed emotions about this place.
I've only gone here about three times, but I'm just not feeling the love like I've been hoping. The front desk peeps are knowledgeable, yes, but could use a jolt of customer service. I've stood for what felt like an entire minute without any acknowledgment at check in. Do they maybe need to invest in a little bell like at seedy hotels- "ring for service"? Hmmm? And I wasn't too happy when I called to check on the status of my cat's bloody poop and got "it was negative, bye!" Hold up girl! Can we maybe take the next step here and make an appointment? Sheesh...
But once we get into the exam room, all is forgiven. We've seen Dr. Miller every time and I think I have a slight girl-crush on her. She's so with it!. Whether it be an annual check up, feline acne, or the most recent case of colitis (aka: inflamed brown eye) she's been on the ball, even though she appears to be a rather young vet. We even got a promotional bag of Low-Res cat food free! Hot damn! And, I must say, this is the most affordable place I've been to by a long shot. So we'll continue to go here for all of our kitty's swollen anus problems, even if the staff can be somewhat of a hemorrhoid.
So great! They're almost too popular, as it's sometimes hard to get a timely appointment ;) But the vets are very thorough and kind; they put up with all my craziness and paranoia about my animals' health. I'm a crazy-cat guy and they always reassure me ...
Uptown Animal Hospital is excellent. I took my first cat there for all 11 years I had her, and when my cat suffered kidney failure last year, they were amazing and accommodating during that stressful month. From the front desk staff to the vet techs to all the vets I ended up seeing - excellent, sympathetic and caring.
Dr. Dickes called to check in frequently - even on his days off when we were trying to figure out what was wrong with kitty. He got me in to see a specialist in Skokie on an emergency basis, too. When I had to put her down finally, they were extremely caring and thoughtful.
With my two new boys (well, I've had them a year now already - so I guess they aren't "new") - Uptown was great when they had some issues with simple infections.
I cannot recommend this vet office highly enough, and especially Dr. Dickes.
I took my cat here recently and had a great experience with Dr. W (I don't remember his full last name....). He was able to suggest a low-res food for my kitty, who has consistently had tummy problems for the past few years, and it seems to have fixed the problem. Plus he was very patient with me - I can be a bit of a neurotic pet mama.
I'm giving four stars because I've been bringing her here for three years for the same problem and no one has ever figured out what was wrong with her - I was going to try Blum but after reading their reviews (yikes!) I decided to stay with Uptown and I'm glad I did - Dr. W rocks!
Murphy just got back from getting his shots and told me he really wanted everyone to know how much he loves Uptown. We drive from the south loop to visit Dr. Whisler because the whole staff is so great!
Reasonable rates, friendly staff, people who really love animals. They are usually pretty busy, but are always helpful about scheduling appointments. Street parking is generally not too difficult.
Highly recommended!
**UPDATE**
The clinic moved a few blocks north to a much bigger and prettier space.
They creeped me into an appointment so I could get my new adopted dog a check up ASAP, we showed up and waited a short time for time with Dr. Taylor.
She was patient, gentle, and knowledgeable about the breed and "behavioral problems" that the dog supposedly had. We were in complete agreeance that it was simply not enough love and exercise that gave her these "problems."
"She's on anxiety medication, but I've reduced it by 1/4 of what is prescribed. I haven't noticed anything except that she smiles more," I said as Emma quietly nuzzled my chest from her position on the examination table.
"This dog is on anxiety medication?" Dr. Taylor looked at me dumbfounded.
"Yeah."
"Take her off. If a problem arises, call me ASAP, but she doesn't seem like she needs it at all."
"I agree. Thank you."
She then showed me examples of different worms that dogs get. Pickled jar after jar she brought out and, me being me, I wanted to snap some photos of the weird creatures. She more than obliged.
Honestly, it felt more like going to a friend's house than a doctor. Super laid back, cool, and hospitable.
Tell them Constable Emma Ruff'N'Stuff sent you.
I have been going to Uptown Animal Hospital for the past 2 years after being referred my close friend whose kitties have also been patients there (both have since passed away). The staff has always been quite knowledge (including the receptionists). There is one receptionist who gets kind of a bad rap but that's because she has a very no "BS" attitude. Be kind and respectful of her and she will more often times than not treat you the same.
The staff here that I have interacted with are all very genuine animal lovers and if you are upfront with them with help you figure out the best and most affordable options for treatment. Again, communication is key. Their hours during the week may not be convenient for most but they do have Saturday hours which I have found helpful. Quite honestly, they have been great at scheduling me sometimes on very short notice based on whatever issues my cats have been dealing with.
I recently had to put down my 19 year old cat and I couldn't have asked for better support in making this decision. Dr. Tyler, who has been both of my girls regular vet, made sure that I had all information I needed to before deciding to euthanize my cat and was extremely supportive once I made my decision. The nurse who assisted her was also very kind and gentle. I was allowed to be in the room during the process and was given as much time as I needed to spend with her before leaving. When I asked, I was offered a catalog to look through for my cat's remains. As difficult as the process was, they made it very peaceful for my family and my cat.
I still have a 9 year old kitty and she will continue to see Dr. Tyler. They are a great neighborhood vet and I love how they treat my pets.
I've only been here twice, but the first time left quite the impression. I took my cat who was having a lot of trouble breathing. I was afraid he was going to die, but Dr. Beau diagnosed him with feline asthma and gave him steroids that helped immediately. She recommended affordable long-term treatment options, and called a few days later (after hours) to report lab results and check up on him.
The other time was just a routine check-up and shots, but the vet assistant gave helpful suggestions for an upcoming airline trip I had to take with my cat.
The new location is very nice (and closer to my house).
The only con is the price, but it's comparable to other vets, and I'm not sure discount vet service is something I would want anyway.
Our two kitties have both been patients of Uptown for the past couple of years. We've been very happy with the level of care, professionalism, and kindness of all the employees, especially Dr. Miller, who is an absolute doll and a genuine animal lover. I can't really comment as to the price since we didn't do a lot of shopping around for that, but we've never been unpleasantly surprised by the cost of anything, so take that for what it's worth. The facilities are clean, the people are friendly, and they have always been very patient and thorough.
We've being going to Uptown Animal Hospital for years. They have been so helpful and accomodating in many situations. However, be sure to go to Dr. Dickes. He is especially great with cats.
I had some questionable experiences with other vets at Uptown Animal Hospital. Clear situations of the vets grasping for straws, rather than taking an investigative approach to my pet's problem.
That being said, Dr. Dickes wasn't like that at all. He's very thorough, and he really knows his stuff.
You know, I've only been here once so it's hard to give a real, solid review on this place. However, I know people who have been going here for years and they faithfully will not go anywhere else. So...
My 4 year old cat was being bad and peeing on the bathroom rug. I wanted to confirm that she wasn't sick and that indeed, the peeing was a result from behavioral problems. She's a highly emotional cat, so I was suspecting that it was a result of her being upset about something.
I took her to the vet. I got in right away with an appointment I had made a few days prior. They said that she was healthy and that she didn't have any kind of infection. I also got her shots while I was there. They gave me some tips to stop the peeing and I was on my merry way about 15 minutes later. It was very quick in and out - it was great that they didn't try and upsell me on tests or shots I didn't need. We all know how expensive vet care is.
So, I am giving this place 5 stars because they easily could have upsold me on other tests and BS that was unnecessary. They also didn't keep me waiting, which is great.
The fix to the peeing on the rug? The rug she was peeing on had no-slip coating on the bottom. We got a rug that lacked no-slip coating and she stopped. Cats are weird :D
Helpful and attentive both in the office and over the phone. If I have to bring my daughter, the staff always gives me a hand with my rambunctious dog.
Very reasonable prices.
I just momentarily frreaked out when I saw the post from John B. (sloop?) stating that UAH was closed. I've been taking my animals there for the past 20+ years.
I called the number, which is still active, and at the end of the message they mention their new location at 5545 N. Clark.
{exhale!}
I've never had a better experience with an animal hospital. Every member of this wonderfu staff is caring, kind and professional.
Dr. Dickes has cared for our dog and cat since we've had them. He is a real pro and a really nice person. Our dog is having some troubles in the later years of his life, and Dr. Dickes calls us to check up on him. He simply cares.
Can't begin to recommend them highly enough.
I actually went based on the yelpers' reviews. Starting out with optimism, let's give them a 5.
-1 for no website
-1 for constant busy signal when I call them to schedule an appointment
-1 for no voicemail to tell me the hours.
-1 for their late and long lunch which I arrived just in time for (yeah, you gotta eat and get your break, but having no way to find out their schedule, I assumed lunch would be over by 1 or 1:30. Not so.)
-1 for the price of neutering. I admittedly am cheap, but for that price, I could afford to travel 22 hours to our old vet, pay for the surgery, come back, and buy a few sandwiches.
I wasn't impressed by the snippy receptionists either, but since it was a short interaction, I'll give them a benefit of the doubt and not deduct another star.
All in all a purely frustrating experience. I'll admit that waiting over an hour in the frigid weather did not improve my or my pet's mood, but it would be so simple for it to have been prevented. Even if they don't want to bother with a website, how much can voicemail possibly cost? They wouldn't even have to let you leave messages - just the hours would be an immense help. Another source of frustration was that after all the phone calls trying to make an appointment, and finally just deciding to suck it up and show up in person, having no clue about the schedule, I was told they can't see me without an appointment. Ugh, that's why I was trying to call them in the first place!
Grand total.... 0 stars, for lots of EASILY preventable customer frustration. Yikes, an impossible rating.\
p.s. They gave me a business card with the hours, which I've added to the business info section.
*******************Edit*******************
I've thought about my review and decided I was just being bitter. I have since learned that their prices are not much different than other Chicago vets. This depresses me and my bank account, but that's the state of things. The receptionist was condescending to me and my dog and is definitely a reason we won't be back. I also can't give them a glowing review because it is truly stupid to not have a website or voicemail of any kind. Two is probably lower than they deserve, but a three implies that I might go back. Maybe I'll edit again later and go for longest review ever.
Love love love the doctors and staff here. I've been taking my dogs here for nearly 10 years and have had nothing but the most thoughtful care. My dogs regularly see Dr. Whistler but have seen the other vets when he wasn't available and have always been treated exceptionally well. Even folks at Chicago Veterinary Emergency Services had good things to say about them during a Thanksgiving Day emergency (when Uptown and all regular vet offices were closed). At Uptown Animal Hospital, the staff is incredible; there is sincere compassion, empathy, patience and friendliness all-around.
Uptown is A-OK although I seem to always be waiting and waiting. Even when I arrive 40 minutes early for an appointment. They take good care of my diabetic cat. Although when first diagnosed it seemed that they thought I would not or could not take care of him and it was a grim morning. Little did they know that a friend of mine also has a cat with diabetes and manages it very well with regular insulin shots and feeding times.
Once we got through that hurdle they have been very good about everything. He has to board there whenever I go out of town because of the shots required twice daily. He's never too happy about me leaving him but seems to be fine when I get him home.
