Pets First Animal Hospital

4.1 (71)

7702 Barnes Rd # 120, Colorado Springs, CO 80922
(719) 550-1744
petsfirstanimalhospital.com

Claimed
Pet supply store
Animal hospital
Dentist
Pet adoption service
Veterinarian

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance

Reviews

Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.

Write a Review

Jenna Press

2024-01

We can't say enough good things about Pets First and Dr. Walker! We have had so many wonderful experiences at this place. They have taken incredible care of both of our pups, including checkups, a spay and an ear infection. Everyone on the staff is lovely!

Abby

2022-05

When we moved here, we needed to find a vet that was going to take care of our sweet old dogs the way their old vet did. We stopped by here to get them all checked out and were very pleased with the quality of care. The office staff has been attentive and quick to help or resolve any issues, and Dr. Walker is such a treat. She loves old dogs and old dogs love her. I would absolutely recommend this vet for regular care and they'll be able to get your pets in quickly if anything urgent comes up. Even though we're down a pup, they're still here for us and we are so, so grateful. Many thanks from Abby, Chad, Ida, and Wilson đź’™

Ma Po

2024-05

I took my pet for her vaccinations. She had 3 of them on "the same day" then 3 days later my dog almost died with seizures. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE AT ALL.

Kyle Southard

2018-05

Pets First is amazing! We brought our Boxer in after taking him to an Animal ER that was very expensive and not helpful at all. Dr. Walker fit us in on very short notice and helped us determine what was actually wrong with Bogey and referred us to a specialist. All of the Pets First employees are extremely friendly and accommodating. Dr. Walker was so great with Bogey and thanks to her, he had a successful surgery and is doing great!

Jenn Watton

2019-05

I recently moved my animals over to Pets First and I am so thankful to have made the switch. The staff is overwhelmingly kind, gentle and positive. They truly care about the animals in their care. Dr. Walker is incredible. She is compassionate, respectful and loves her patients. My dog, who was mistreated at the last place she went to and was visibly afraid of that vet, is happy and excited to go and see her new friends at our new vet.I recommend this office every chance I get. The receptionist and front staff are very responsive. I have left messages a few times now in the couple months we have been there, and I always get a call back as soon as possible. They provide timely care, and I'm sad to see others gave them a bad review because they had to wait a whole 30 minutes when the staff was handling emergent issues.If you are looking for a safe and wonderful place for your pets, look no further!

Melinda l

2023-05

2022 Edit: I am sad to say that things have changed at Pets First over the last couple of years. The visits are very rushed and they do not take the time during the exam to explain things fully and ask questions. I am very disappointed and am sad to leave but I no longer have trust in what they say or that they are listening to me. I definitely don’t feel valued as a member here. I would not recommend them.Having a new puppy we’ve been a couple of times in the last year and every time it has been a great experience. They have always been great with booking appointments with my schedule and leaving a reminder message the day before with instruction so I don’t forget!Our fur baby had surgery and they called me a couple of times to let me know how it went and I really appreciated it so much!Dr. Walker knows her stuff and is great with our fur baby. She makes sure we know what is best and keeps us informed of why it is important.Her potty training directions were a life safer and super easy to follow!!

Casey Hemenway

2022-05

My puppy and I just had our first Vet visit today and the experience was great. I won’t lie I was a little nervous meeting the Veterinarian after reading a couple reviews on here. She was great extremely knowledgeable and straightforward. I got no rude vibe or arrogance from her at all and she even made me laugh a bit. My suggestion would be to not form an opinion from the bad reviews seen on here. Staff was very nice and the environment was very clean and friendly. My favorite part of the experience was the nice bag of information, toys and treats that was given to me, this was extremely helpful and above what I expected. I will be posting again after future visits for a update but I expect great things.

Amy T

2021-05

Dr. Walker is, in my opinion, one of the best vets I've ever taken my dogs to. She walks into the exam room and she acknowledges the "parents." She then proceeds to do the most amazing thing. She gives our pups baby food to keep them still and so she can look them over and calm their anxiety at the same time.They are easy to get an appointment with, her office is clean and smells nice, she has a small rug on the exam table so it's not just this cold sterile environment and their prices are very reasonable.I would HIGHLY suggest Dr. Walker and Pets First Animal Hospital.

Alexandria Crews

2021-05

I have been taking my family pets here since 2013. There is no mistake of how deeply Dr Walker and her staff genuinely care for animals. Dr Walker always takes time to discuss and educate me about the health of my pets. Especially my aging chihuahua, who is almost 13 years old. We found that she has precursor kidney disease a few years ago, and thankfully we caught it in time. Dr Walker has helped prolong her life by years. I have also heard other vet staff at another animal hospital praise Dr Walker for being a skilled vet (I was visiting another hospital for a consultation on knee surgery for my dog, and when they saw who my vet was they said “oh Dr Walker, she’s really good!”) Dr Walker is blunt and straightforward which, in my opinion, is a good thing as she will always give an honest and educated response each visit.

Nico Ruggiero

2021-05

Don't believe any naysayers! People tend to forget that doctors aren't a "one size fits all", and just because someone has had a "negative" experience doesn't mean most people will have or have had one. My experience with Dr. Walker and her team has been a good one, and I am grateful for her being there to help me with my pets when I need it. During these uncertain times with COVID-19 Dr. Walker and her staff are taking all precautions necessary while still maintaining an open business to her clients and patients. While this makes some people upset or irritated, I for one am glad to see a Doctor trying her best to do her part and keep herself, her staff, and all the people that come into her office safe. Owners of cats and dogs alike are bound to find quality service here!

Angie McCarthy

2019-05

I am very pleased with this hospital. I called yesterday because my pup wasn’t feeling well and they were able to get me in that same afternoon. When my daughter and I came in, I can tell they were very busy and they let me know as soon as I checked in that Dr. Walker was running behind. They had a kids area, which is awesome!! being that it’s an animal hospital, so we hung out there. When we got into a room the staff was very polite and they gave my pup lots of attention. Dr. Walker is a stern woman which i can appreciate because it just shows that she cares and she’s truly concerned for my dogs well being. It was definitely worth the wait and my pup absolutely loved her. Thanks Pets First !! ❤️

Jessica Webb

2017-05

We're so happy we found these guys! Excellent customer service and care for our three kitties. Jess was super helpful with scheduling in the beginning and I loved that they got all of our previous records transferred. Great communication! Dr. Walker and her vet techs were all so sweet and caring. They answered all of our questions and I love that Dr. Walker did the vaccinations herself. Overall it was a great experience, we're happy to have found our vet home!

Jackie Bridges

2021-05

We got in to see Dr. Walker today with short notice. I thought that she was very thorough, very gentle, and very patient with my obnoxious one year old black lab mix. Getting treatment for the reason we were there was quick, and I appreciated her additional concerns regarding my dog's dry skin as well as her food/ diet suggestions for him. She never tried to "sell" me dog food - she is passionate about a healthy diet for my dog. She did treat him to some baby food (turkey) and if she would have compared it to "heroin" I would have agreeed and laughed. My dog enjoyed it thoroughly. It's a shame that people are so critical and harsh about such silly things. Dr. Walker and her staff are all wonderful and clearly have the best interests of our animals in mind. I would 100% recommend and I will bring my pup there again!

Mariah Juarez

2021-05

I will not go to anyone else! I am always so nervous to take Baby (my dog) to vets because of bad experiences...but at Pet’s First they got me in right away as well as when Baby wasn’t feeling well, took care of her the same day. The staff is so kind and patient...what a great team! The Veterinarian is so informative and I have learned so much from her in the two visits I have made. She also will treat your pets as if they were her own. You won’t regret taking your babies here!

Christine P

2023-05

We initially chose this veterinarian because it’s so close to our home, being relatively new to the area. Our dog had a small lump on it’s tail and I gave them a call, they got us in the next day! The receptionist probably noticed panic in my voice when I was told the next available appointment was in 5 days..they double booked an appointment which was fine we knew we might have to wait a little longer but when it comes to our family member it’s just not an issue. Thankfully it was nothing serious, but they treated it like it was and that means everything. Well Buggy, I think you just got a new Doctor. Thank you Pets First Animal Hospital!! We appreciate the care. Well done.

Brett Marzo

2019-05

Dr Walker and her staff are amazing. They really care about your pets health and well being. I’ve been to a couple vets where they act like it’s just another job. Dr Walker treats your pet as one of her own and breaks down every issue that is easy to understand. So glad I chose this clinic to call home for my dogs.

Claire Andrews

2023-05

When I first got Binx she was 15 years old and very sick, basically on deaths door. With Dr Walkers help we were able to save her and get her healthy again. She lived another 4 years happy, healthy and active. When she turned 19 she was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of cancer. Dr Walker was there to support me and Binx all the way. When it was time for Binx to cross over the rainbow bridge, Dr Walker was there again to support me and Binx with kindness, understanding and compassion. She left me with a beautiful memory of Binx in her last few minute that I will hold forever in my heart. I cannot say enough good things about Dr Walker. I've had many pet in the past and she by far has been the best vet.

Judy W

2013-05

We would not use any other Vet but Dr. Walker. She is one of the most knowledgeable and caring Vet's that we have ever come across. My husband, daughter and I would not take are "Babies" to anyone else. We have had several babies that Dr. Walker has cared for and saved their lives. Even when we know that there is not any chance whatsoever to save them Dr. Walker lovingly cared for them and grieves right along with us. But she knows her stuff and I would not recommend any other place to take your Babies to than Pet's First Hospital. If anyone reading this is looking for a good animal hospital and Dr. I highly recommend you give this Dr. a try. You'll never use anyone else after using her. I can honestly say that anyone that wants and needs excellent care and services to try Dr. Walker and her staff. Thank you Dr. Walker and staff for taking such good and loving care of our Babies. Judy W.

Peggy Purvis

2019-05

Staff is so sweet to our dog Maya. From the first visit as a puppy , Maya is excited to go to the vet and is happy to be there. Dr Walker gave her turkey baby food on day one and every visit thereafter, Maya loved it and still does.Dr Walker stays up on research of dog foods and fads, which I appreciate, as foods keep changing., she answers questions and over all we feel very welcome and cared for

James Peabody

2020-05

It’s just like it says in the name: PETS FIRST! We’ve been with Dr. Walker since 2012. We’ve had three dogs and our beloved cat treated like family since then. The staff is FABULOUS! They are professional and kind to our fur babies and to us! One cannot ask for better treatment and care than what is provided here. They have seen us through having to euthanize our sweet dog Pooh and just recently, the loss of our wonderful cat, Puma. Puma’s life was prolonged by the excellent care of Dr. Walker. If your pets are more than possessions, and are part of your FAMILY, you owe it to yourself and them to give Dr. Walker and her staff your trust in their care.

Colin Caldwell

2021-05

Dr. Walker and her team are A+. If anyone wants to consider this vet I highly encourage you to give them a chance. Most of the 1-star reviews listed here derive from angry individuals who portray their lack of knowledge in the veterinarian world. This is a professional establishment which give expert advice but will also help you build a relationship between your animals health, the vet & staff, while your pet/fur baby learns to be comfortable with (eventually love) the team. It has been tough to find a vet to take in the breed of dog I have and has showed me how lucky I am to have found such an outstanding vet that wont discriminate against breeds. The expansive knowledge of Dr. Walker is unparalleled to any vet I have ever been to. You'd be mistaken to choose a budget vet over Pets First Animal Hospital. You might as well ditch you primary care doctor and go to an urgent care if your mentality is such as this.

Stephanie Richard

2017-05

Loved our first visit to Dr. Walker's office! Our incredible treatment first began when I made the appointment and was treated with tremendous respect and care from the receptionist who answered the phone. Dr. Walker was very thorough in examining our dog Scout and he fell in love with her at first sight/smell (of the turkey baby food!). Great experience overall and would highly recommend the staff and the hospital to anyone!

Christine Babcock

2020-05

I love the staff and how they are wonderful with all my Animals and now they are my Primary Vet. When I switched I had 2 dogs and a Cat and the rescue Chihuahua (Roxy) who is afraid of everything and since I started taking her to them she is calm in the car during the visit everything she is much better than she used to be and don't act like she going to have a heart attack it is amazing the difference they have made for her and My Cat (Freya) she is very touchy she only likes me to hold her or touch her and she does fine with them she don't hiss or act up like she used to since I started taking her to them. When our Golden Retriever (Shadow) was sick they got her in right away and took great care of her. As I said they are amazing and I highly recommend them as a vet and I know it says hospital but they are also a Vet Take your animals to them you will be amazed at the difference and great care they take of your Animals A++++ I would give them much higher stars if I could Thank you so much

Matthew Thomas

2021-05

My little friend was in some serious pain and like most owners we rely on the “experts” for help. They diagnosed him with diabetes gave him insulin and sent us on our way. Two days later we brought him back and they told us he wasn’t diabetic. Additionally he had trouble breathing through his nose so we were told he may have nasal cancer which they gave us medication for without testing him. They said let’s see if this medication will shrink the tumor even though they never tested or investigated it no confirmation was made by the facility he in fact had a tumor/cancer. Not only did they not know his gender when speaking to me, which lessens my confidence they just charged us for tests that were inaccurate. The following day, he had another appointment in which his health was deteriorating I requested an earlier appointment and was told take him elsewhere to be honest I’m glad we did because they identified he did have diabetes, and a high temp which was never taken at this location. I was advised by the alternate pet care facility that if a little more care and thought went into him with an original “professional” vet, he may have been in a better position. After reading the responses on here from reviews I’m not shocked anymore about this place. I do not recommend this “care” center for any person. Worst place to care for your loved one. DO NOT GO HERE!

Zane

2014-05

Dr. Walker is an amazing vet. She cares for your pets as if they were her own. She cares about her clients, and goes out of her way to make sure you are informed about all the things going on with your pet.Dr. Walker saved my best friend. She is amazing!

Mark Flutcher

2019-05

Dr. Walker and her staff showed incredible compassion for my dogs, especially when a tough end of life decision had to be made. As busy as Dr. Walker is, she also seems dedicated to studying the latest developments in veterinary science. I have had other vets that seemed to just coast after school and never learned anything new.

Wayne Griffin

2018-05

We had our first visit to Dr. Walker this afternoon. What a WONDERFUL experience! We walked in the door and one of the staff said "is this Winston?" They were expecting us! Never happened at other vets. EVERYONE in the practice is friendly and caring. We are so glad we found Dr. Walker and Pets First Animal Hospital.

Laurel Hirsch

2016-05

I just moved into town, and didn't know where to go when my dog became ill. I found Pets First on google, and didn't know what to expect. Dr. Walker and her staff were very compassionate and knowledgable. I felt completely at ease when I stepped into this office. I feel so much more comfortable knowing I have a great place to bring my two dogs and cat! Thank you for the great care <3

Hannah Dieball

2019-05

I would not recommend this vet clinic to anyone purely because of Dr. Ricia Walker's bedside manner. I was treated poorly from the moment she entered the room.My kitty had not been eating properly for several days and was beginning to lose weight unhealthily. So I took him in to see what was wrong.Right off the bat she was upset with me for letting my kitty be indoor AND outdoor (even though outdoor is only our small fenced backyard). She handed me a passive aggressive piece of paper showing the statistics of a cats life for indoor versus outdoor. She then went to examine my kitty (which included only looking at only his front teeth and eyes). She said they should do some bloodwork, which I expected. They took him and came back shortly saying he was too aggressive to draw blood so they had to knock him out for it, fine I understand. 30 minutes later I'm given my kitty back in his carrier and Dr. Walker comes in and shows me a picture on her phone of my kitty's mouth. She doesn't explain anything, she simply asks "what do you see wrong here?". Well, I'm not a vet (thought that was her job) but his gums were very inflamed so I said "it looks red". She then went off on a rant of how this was one of the worst cases of stomatitis she had ever seen and how he would probably have to get all his teeth pulled IF we could get the inflammation down.She then instructed me on how to give him his meds, particularly the powdered antibiotic and asked if he liked soft food. I responded no, he is a very picky cat and only eats hard food. She scoffed at me and said "oh, he's a hard food junky". I told her I would try soft food, tuna and even baby food but she literally rolled her eyes and said "you can try but he's a cat. Once he doesn't like something he doesn't like it". So at this point you're thinking she would give me tips on how to give him the antibiotic right? Nope! Sent me on my merry way without any advice and no instructions on a follow up appointment.At this point I was practically in tears because she made it sound like my kitty was dying and that the only solution was to pull all his teeth.The only positive thing about this visit was the vet techs. They were unbelievably helpful and friendly. They came in to give me his meds and tell me which ones to give when (at this point I was fully crying and trying to hide it). They were very sympathetic and complimented my kitty and tried to distract me.By the end of this visit I was out $650 and was told my cat needed a full teeth extraction.I reached out to another clinic to get a second opinion. The vets were 100% nicer and understanding and said he doesn't necessarily need all his teeth pulled depending on how he handles his meds. They gave me advice to give him his antibiotic and said to schedule a follow up in a few days.I then received an email from Dr. Walker with my kitty's bloodwork results (which were promised a day earlier than I had received them) and I found a very unprofessional note made by Dr. Walker herself that was upsetting.She had written "had difficulty understanding the severity of the kitty's oral problems and strongly advised owner to make kitty indoors only". This felt like a stab at my intelligence and was not appreciated nor helpful. Very unprofessional.All in all, this clinic would be a wonderful place if Dr. Walker would work on her bedside manner. I was treated like I wasn't worthy of taking care of my own kitty and was basically scolded on how to treat him. I did not go to the vet for advice on raising my kitty, I went to get him help. That's not what I received.I am adding to this review because I just received a letter from Dr. Walker apologizing for her harsh behavior. I am sad to say that my kitty was diagnosed with cancer and will not be making a speedy recovery as we had hoped, but his stomatitis did clear up thanks to Dr. Walker. Included with this letter was a check for the office call itself. This was a very kind gesture on Dr. Walker's part and I am extremely grateful for her reaching out to me. I wish her well in her practice.

Don Vigil

2019-05

We have been going to Dr. Walker for years. She is very knowledgeable and has treated all of our dogs like her own. Our dogs even get excited to see her. We wouldn’t go anywhere else, she and her staff are the best.

Opening Hours

Monday 8 AM-12:30 PM
2-5 PM
Tuesday 8 AM-12:30 PM
2-5 PM
Wednesday 8:30 AM-12:30 PM
Thursday 8:30 AM-12:30 PM
2-5 PM
Friday 8:30 AM-12:30 PM
2-5 PM
Saturday 9 AM-12 PM
Sunday Closed

QR Code

Scan the QR code to leave a review.

Pet Stores in the USA

Discover an extensive listing of reputable pet stores offering their products and services across the country. Find dependable solutions for all your pet care needs with ease.

Broswe by Population

Broswe By States

Browse by Alphabet