Paws and Claws Animal Hospital

"My recent experience at Paws and Claws for a vet visit exceeded my expectations on multiple fronts. From the moment I stepped into the clinic, I was greeted by a clean and impressive environment. The doctors at Paws and Claws demonstrated an exceptional level of knowledge. They conducted a comprehensive set of tests to ensure a thorough examination of my pet's health. Their expertise was evident, and they took the time to explain the procedures and results in a way that was easily understandable, making me feel actively involved in the care of my baby. What truly stood out, apart from the medical expertise, was the friendliness and warmth of the staff. Every team member, from the receptionist to the veterinary assistants, was approachable and eager to address any concerns or questions I had. Their genuine care for both the animals and their owners created a welcoming atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. One notable aspect that pleasantly surprised me was the reasonable pricing for the services provided. Despite the high-quality care and extensive tests conducted, the overall cost was reasonable and fair. This combination of affordability and excellence in service is a rare find in veterinary care and further solidified my positive impression of Paws and Claws."

"My kitty came home with an injured leg, I called Paws and Claws, and they made sure my baby was seen the same day. I had called the neighboring animal hospital, but they denied me right away instead of giving me an appointment option at all. Paws and Claws truly cared for my baby, and the front staff was very nice. Thank you!"

"I am so disappointed with the disorganization, lack of communication and empathy at Paws and Claws. I drove an hour to get my dog’s haircut with my 2 year old daughter. Nearly 4 hours later, when I called to check if my dog’s haircut was finished, the receptionist informed me it would take another hour because they were busy with larger dogs (my dog is a little 10lb Shih Tzu/Yorky). I told her, I couldn’t wait that long, and that I would have to bring him back to finish his haircut another day. At this point I needed to pickup my other daughter from school and it would take another hour to get to her. When I went to shop to pickup my dog, I was devastated to find out they didn’t cut his hair at all, because they had over booked themselves. My small dog spent 4 hours with large dogs, scared, and they didn’t even cut his hair at all. I wasted so much time and money driving there and they didn’t do a thing or inform me about the status of my dog. The women I spoke too that day when I went to pickup my dog, (which later, one of the receptionist told me was the owner) dismissed my frustration about the lack of communication and attention for my dog. She acted like my dog and I didn’t matter. I waited nearly 4 hours with my 2 year old for my dog’s haircut, and they didn’t even cut the hair on his face so he could see better. When I called to complain and questioned about what happened, it took their manager days to respond. I had to call again. I hope no one has to waste their time like this and experience this."

"Overdue review here… :) Dr. Birken and her team have always been wonderful, committed, and compassionate. We began going to Paws & Claws several years ago with our sons’ first two beloved guinea pigs, Tomás (aka Tom) and Jerry. Jerry developed a more complex neurological issue (right side facial paralysis) as a result of inner ear infections and Dr. Birken recommended we take him to an exotics only practice in Fairfax. So that is where Jerry’s chronic condition was managed for years. Fast forward to April 2021 when Jerry’s situation worsened and we were running out of options to maintain a good quality of life for him. It was heartbreaking but I called Paws & Claws to find out their euthanasia policies because COVID restrictions were still in place everywhere and I did not want to take Jerry all the way to Fairfax for an end of life appointment whenever the time came. I was unable to stifle the tears during my phone call but Jenna was so understanding, comforting, and helpful. She let me know that exceptions were being made for families to be with their pets during euthanasia appointments and to just call when it became necessary. No appointment would be needed. They were happy to help with little Jerry. Less than two weeks later, it was obvious that Jerry was not going to bounce back this time and he needed humane assistance departing this life so we brought him to Paws & Claws. Dr. Birken had not seen Jerry in years, but she remembered him very well when she came out to the car to discuss his situation with us. She explained what would take place and how we could be with Jerry. Dr. Birken had every right to charge an exam fee but she did not. We were only charged for the procedure and that was incredibly generous of her. After everything was done, we brought Jerry home for burial. A very sad day was made more bearable because of the kindness and compassion shown to us by Dr. Birken and her team. A few weeks later, we received a sweet and thoughtful card from Paws & Claws. Even though Jerry had not been an active patient for a few years, everyone there who had ever helped with him in any way wrote a message remembering him! Of course I cried because it brought back many bittersweet memories of his better days, but I was so grateful for the time each of them took to reach out and share their positive sentiments. It was so heartwarming and Dr. Birken’s kind message also reminded me that I made the best choice for Jerry, even though it was most difficult. I will always remember the level of compassion the Paws & Claws team extended and how they recognized that our beloved little Jerry really mattered to many. His life was significant and he was worthy of being fondly remembered. Thank you for truly caring, Dr. Birken, Dr. Spaniol, and the entire team. You will always have a special place in my heart and in my memories."