Hiawassee Animal Hospital

j acuff

2024-04

Really love Dr. V but ever since moving into their new facility the quality of care and the cost for that care has been shameful. Look at reviews from the past year. SO MANY bad reviews. They abuse the voice mail system, leaving you in limbo for days waiting for a return call. You can NEVER get a person on the phone. When you do want care, they cut corners in favor of the quickest, easiest solution and guess at the diagnosis. They throw medication at the problem without being able to tell you what's actually wrong. The cost of basic services has doubled with fewer and fewer appointment slots available. If they're too busy for the customers then the customers can help them out by going someplace that actually cares. Having a loved pet in need of care can cause enough anxiety without the veterinarian's office compounding that by being rude, uncaring and poorly run/ managed.

Jerry Brooks

2024-03

The management of the office operations is pathetic. We called a week ago to discuss need for a heartworm test (which should have been done in July when the dog was examined) and get a price for the annual cost of flea/tick and heartworm medicine. Someone answered the phone but said another person handles medications...so we were forwarded to her. Got a recording that that person would call back in 24 to 48 hours. NEVER GOT ANY CALL BACK. We are done with Hiawassee Animal Hospital and have made an appointment with a previous vet although they are an hour away but have a well-managed office. It is interesting that earlier review for Hiawassee also had problems with front-office management and the call-back routine, but obviously no action has been taken to correct the ridiculous policy of "well call back in 24-48 hours...or never".

Lee Anne B

2023-05

I am so so very pleased that I found HAH.My Furry Friend, Juju was just miserable. She was constantly scratching and chewing. I had taken her to two other Vets, neither was able to diagnosis or help. HAC fit me in on the day I called. The staff is so friendly, understanding and foremost very caring. They were able to help my Juju return to her fun loving life. I was able to finally breath a sigh of relief. I would recommend them hands down. Hands down …The absolute best clinic I have ever been too.

Barbara McConnell

2023-12

We really like the veterinarian(s) and staff. The low star rating involves the new appointment policy. Per a conversation with an office staff member, pet owners who need annual shots/exams for their pets are allowed to immediately make an appointment. However, pet owners with a sick or injured pet who call to make an appointment must leave a message with a vet tech and wait for their return phone call within 24 hours. Now, if you miss the return phone call, the cycle of trying to make an appointment for your sick or injured pet begins again. Sadly, after spending one week trying to make an appointment for an injured dog and a very sick cat, we were forced to seek veterinarian care elsewhere.******Response to vet office comments:*****Stop making excuses. It's insulting to those of us pet owners who have/had injured/sick pets who suffered or may have died when forced to wait on a return phone call to schedule an appointment at your office.

Dave McManus

2023-12

We have been taking our dogs here for a few years now. We love the care that they receive and never have any problems.

michele plummer

2023-10

I thought these guys would be my forever vet. I was mistaken. Called for an immediate appointment but was forced to use their “leave a message policy” I never received a callback and after waiting 6 hours took my dog to another vet and received the worse news possible with a fast growing cancer determination. My dog was put to sleep with some very caring attentive staff at a different vets office. Would never recommend this place for anyone’s animals.

Shelley Jones

2020-05

Came across Hiawassi when a bunny we purchased from a pet store became sick a day after we brought her home. Hiawasse was the only vet that can treat exotic pets. Dr. Alfozo was so kind also with a way to deliver the news when it is not good.We adopted 2 new bunnies, I take them both to Hiawassee, I also have 2dogs that I moved to this location.From the time of finding Hiawasse to a month later. The staff feels like family. Dr. Palm is always concerned about the well being of all four legged pets. To the ladies at the front always giving a warm greetings.

FRANK - CAROLE

2023-10

Been a customer for nearly 40 years and held Dr V highly giving exceptional care, but his assistance (s) should not be allowed to practice latest experience was couple of weeks ago. Bad diagnosis. I returned but they were to busy even though my previous call as nearly $300.00. Do to emergency went to Chatuge Animal. but had to put our 14 yr to sleep but received 5 star caring service for total less nearly 50% for full service

dave langman

2023-11

Dr V we loved and he loved our pets, however whoever is in charge of Hiawassee animal hospital ie setting appointments, having a heart for animals, emergency treatment is absolutely positively a horrible heartless person with need to be in power personality. We have been coming here for 30 plus years and changing vets...

Michael Colby

2023-09

Did not receive a call back, left message as instructed, with a genuine open wound concern on my dog. If you care about your pet, in a timely fashion, seek another veterinarian, you may wait, or worse, not receive a call back from this business.

Tanya Miller

2023-05

I had a review up and it was deleted so don't trust the reviews! I am a customer here! I used to love this place until recently! I took all 3 of my animals here! When my Babygirl started showing signs of allergies it was like pulling teeth to get an allergy test! Then they advertise as an animal hospital but when my cat was sick (she passed away by the way) they "couldn't get her in" for 3 days! When my dog became sick they couldn't see him for a week (lymphoma by the way) and now my Babygirl has inflammation of her ears and I get an email every 3 days about rabies shot due so I call and they can't see her for 2 weeks! Not to mention I should have left a long time ago because a couple of the ladies at the front are rude and treat me like they want you in and out! I've always paid my bills with absolutely no problems, I have even give tips for nail trims! I understand they're busy but I don't feel as if my animals are a priority as they shoul9yloyljód be! I've switched to Lake Chatuge which is a little more money but they see me same day for emergencies and treat my animals and me with respect and dignity! We'll see if this review gets deleted!

Kim Bierema

2022-05

We had to come to the rough decision of euthanizing our long time family member. He was over 16 yrs and had grown quite uncomfortable with several health issues. We felt it was time but the decision was so hard to make!!! We choose Hiawassee Animal hospital and we were so glad we did. The entire staff was so kind and compassionate! They helped ease our minds and emotions! It went well, fast, and peaceful. I highly commended them for your pet's needs! Thank you to the entire staff!

Adrienne Mae

2023-05

Scooter saw Dr. A today! He had a wonderful experience! Staff were amazing and the building was beautiful! So happy my Scooter had found his vet!

Teresa Wayne

2023-05

I have taken my shih tzu for his well visits, which they solicit. But I called when in NEED because my usually healthy dog is sick. I called multiple times before they answered (no option to even leave a message). Once they answered I expressed my concerns about my pet to the person who answered. They told me that Dr. Vardeman’s schedule was very packed today but that they would speak with him and CALL ME BACK. The entire day passed and never a return call. My opinion of this organization is lower than zero. We want your “well visit” money but we will not be there for you when he is sick. Moving my business IMMEDIATELY.

Karen Hurst Harris

2023-05

I couldn't of had a better experience. The staff were friendly and they worked me in with my sick dog. Dr. Steve was compassionate and friendly and put me totally at ease. Would highly recommend and is now my vet of choice. Thank you so much for all y'all did today.💜

Andrew Stolte

2021-05

I have used Hiawassee Animal Hospital for over 2 years and have always had a great experience until today. My dog had an issue that needed to be treated immediately and I called at 8:32 to get her in today. I was told they would have to call me back in a few minutes. At 12:21 I called back to make sure they had not forgotten or I had missed a call. I was told they were working on it and would call me right back. At 4:34 I called again at this point hoping to at least get an appointment for first thing in the morning. They put me on hold for a few minutes and then came back and said they would have to call me back.This is no way to run a professional pet care office. Obviously something has changed since the last time I was there and they have lost there caring value and my business.At 4:49 I called Lake Chatuge Animal Hospital and they said they wanted to see her as soon as possible and we will be there at 8am.

Jill P

2019-05

Although I did not take my dog here for health services, my experience here was outstanding. I came across this business because my Pomeranian had unfortunately passed away in the night. Losing a pet is heartbreaking. It's one of the most difficult and painful times, but Hiawassee Animal Hospital made the decisions I was left with at that time as easy and painless as possible. I was initially worried because I knew that cremations could be expensive, so I was so relieved and grateful to find out that their cremation services were very reasonably priced. At a time when little things can make a big difference, the staff and crematorium went above and beyond to treat me with consideration. The animal hospital stored her body before she could be picked up for cremation, and the cremation service fulfilled a last-minute request to take an impression of her paw. I wasn't charged for either service, which I really appreciated. When I returned to recieve her ashes, I was impressed by the presentation. The small, sealed, wooden box had a pretty, carved floral top that actually looked like something my dog would have approved of. A few days later, the animal hospital sent me a sympathy card. Even though I cannot personally attest to the veterinary care here, I can't speak highly enough about this business should you be suddenly faced with the loss of a beloved pet. I know I am grieving her loss now, but I am sure I will own another dog one day. When I do, I won't hestitate to take him or her here for care.

Joan Lewallen

2023-05

Outstanding pet care! My furbabies get great care with love and concern there. Even my very mean cat gets GREAT care and that is not found to often in this area.One other plus is that they do not charge huge amounts, they are very affordable!

Jelly Parton

2018-05

We have been going here for a year now, and always have good experiences. My special needs staffordshire terrier always gets lots of love from the staff - can always get worked in when we need it & pricing is very reasonable. My family also takes their pets here and they were very compassionate for end of life care.

Rachel Doll

2015-05

Caring staff and Doctor took the time to make friends with my dog. He can be pretty pretty aggressive in protecting himself but I can tell he doesn't feel the need with them. This was the 4th vet we've tried since moving to the area & this is the one I'm planning on staying with.

T Personal Email

2020-05

Never had an issue with them! I’m bringing my puppy here for puppy shots and flea meds, which are fairly affordable. I have been worked in quickly as a walk in when she scratched her eye as well, which is healing nicely thanks to the meds he gave us! Dr. Vardeman and team are awesome!

Bonnie Guagliardo

2022-05

We are from Brandon Florida. We needed medication for our 13 year old Australian shepherd. Our vet had diagnosed her with Cushing's disease While we were out of town in Hiawassee Ga. Which meant she needed medication Daily. Julia went out of her way to help us. Doctor Vardeman saw the need to get the scripts filled and was able to help us get the medication we needed. Thank you for helping us keep our fur baby healthy.

Deinna Drew

2021-05

I called your hospital looking for prescription dog food and was told that you carry it but only for your clients! I advised her I had a prescription and was here from out of town and still she insisted it was only for clients! I did receive a email from the office after emailing with my concerns and Susan was very responsive and willing to work with me! Thank you! I’m sure there are a lot of people that come into town that may need this same service.

Jane Wedemeyer

2016-05

I LOVE this animal hospital and have nothing BUT PRAISE. They have tended to two Goldens and now my rescue dog. Years ago their receptionist volunteered to drive a deceased dog to the crematorium as I was too distraught to do so.Recently they referred me an excellent knee surgeon for my present dog. These people are caring and top dog in my experience!

Mark Harrell

2022-05

I love that place! They are very helpful time inconsiderate. I have used them for many years and I would not use a different vet. They usually have a rabies clinic that works very well and your favorite cannibal priced for your pet to get vaccinated. If you need a bit this is the place to go! I highly highly highly recommend this place.

Priscilla Richardson

2020-05

Dr. Vardeman has been our family vet for over 18 years. While there have been some staff issues in the past, the office is now well run, and Dr. Vardeman is caring and thorough.

Kotie10

2021-05

We have been going to Dr. Vardeman for years! After today’s experience, I will NEVER go back! The staff was rude, except for one. They didn’t acknowledge the fact that I was standing by the window even after saying “excuse me”. Is that what kind of service you want for your animals? I think not.

Donald Lindemuth

2022-05

I have been taking two of my dogs there for the past couple of years never had any issues. Today I called to make an emergency appointment for my dog who is lethargic and can’t walk and they told me they can’t make appointments right now because they are having a new system installed tomorrow and they are all booked up. I repeated that my dog is not eating and can barely walk and they said I’m sorry we can’t help you. Will not be going back.

Anne Lee

2023-05

Dr. Vardeman and his entire staff makes you feel like family. They really care about your pets.

Angels Retreat

2022-05

They have helped us care for hundreds of rescue animals. I've never met a more patient and kind man than Dr V.