Des Moines Veterinary Hospital

"Dr. Onorati and Dr. Conger who built this business are retired and are no longer practicing here. Dr. Onorati's retirement left many of us scrambling to find alternative care for our exotic pets because we were given no prior notice. Des Moines Veterinary Hospital was sold in 2021 to Pet Vet Care Centers, a corporation that owns over 450 locations nationwide. These Private Equity Groups are buying up businesses across America giving consumers little choice (monopoly) and resulting in higher prices with many animal owners who are no longer able afford vet care for their pets. This particular office also charges an additional $7 surcharge per visit for PPE (personal protection equipment). Needless to say, higher costs for pet care has a trickle down effect resulting in over populated animal shelters that are sadly euthanizing adoptable pets at record rates. The veterinarians practicing for this corporation are on contract so you may not see the same vet each time if that matters to you. This review is to inform those who choose this vet hospital to know the history and standing today so you can make an informed choice about the care you choose for your pets whether it be private equity or independent and privately owned. I have no complaints about the care I have received for my pet from their vets here and the front end staff is helpful, very friendly and responsive."

"I used to like coming to this place, but not anymore. My dad has a dog who was diagnosed with diabetes and getting his glucose levels to be low was stressful and we had to go in once a week. Every time we went in his glucose levels were high even though we were doing everything they told us to do. And every time the vet would mention euthanasia, as if there was nothing we could do. He got so ill that I decided to take him to the emergency vet: they got him stable and they said he should be fine and that euthanasia wasn’t necessary. Last friday, they told me he might have melanoma and that it might be time to say goodbye. No tests were done. They just simply assumed he had it, and before she left she said goodbye to my dad’s dog as if nothing else could be done. I decided to get a second opinion and go to the same emergency vet. They conducted x rays, and blood work, and everything came out normal!! No cancer! And his glucose levels were fine. He just needs to eat more. We literally spent $600 because they gave us false information. They didn’t even conduct any tests, so I’m wondering why they claimed he may have cancer. Hopefully I can convince my dad to change vets."

"Des Moines vet always gives us wonderful service for all 4 of our dogs. The prices are reasonable compared to alot of other vets and each and every vet, vet techs and the office crew are understanding and caring."

"Des Moines Veterinary Hospital has only gotten better over the years that I have been bringing my cats and now dogs here to be cared for. A hard-working staff to be cherished and honored, as they treat each call and customer with compassion and concern, along with Dr. Onorati and his knowledgeable vet techs saw my Billy, discovered his ailment, and got him back on the road to quick recovery. There is no comparison, and this team can't be beat."