Paws and Claws Animal Hospital

Jessica Feinhals

2024-02

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.

Lael King

2024-05

The staff are SUPER friendly and nice but the vets do push product a lot it feels like even when it's not actually necessary and don't give you the pros and cons. Like they "prescribed" what they called a medication for my cat to help clear toxins from his liver disease, but really it was just a probiotic and independent studies showed it had no real effect for that purpose. I just feel like the vet should have known that and not been prescribing it. It's expensive and gave no real benefit to my animal. Plus! Have you ever tried to give a cat a pill orally? Ugh.

Melanie Aragon

2024-04

I spoke to them on the phone about a dog that I inherited. I had tons of questions and the lady on the phone was not only extremely helpful, she sounded genuinely compassionate. She did not rush me off the phone and explained to me “in her opinion” the best thing to do! I appreciate the service!

Karen Reynolds Romano

2024-05

The veterinarian insisted that my dog's tumor(s) were lipoma, an aspirate was even done. After significant change in size, we changed vet had another aspirate done and its not a lipoma but likely sarcoma. At this point the tumor has grown so large that surgery really isn't an option. The vet was unwilling to consider a differential to lipoma. Without a biopsy, I thought she was overconfident. And my gut instinct was spot on.You cannot convince someone to help you, even if you are asking with tears in your eyes. They have to be motivated to do so and do the right thing.

Erin Bila

2024-02

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!

Sophia Christina

2023-05

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.

Crystal Ferrell-Picken

2022-05

They are great i tell everyone about Dr B ... She is awesome Bella had cancer over a year ago they told me at that point that they didn't know if she would make it or not.. The other doctors there was unsure if she would make it throw surgery... They said we will do are best.. Dr. B says we'll see what we can to help your baby girl , when they opened her up it was more then they thought .. Dr. B did her Miracles and Bella is still here and still strong... Dr .B takes care of frosty also .. He is happy to go in the door .... Love 🐾paws and claws

Janet Remsnyder

2022-05

We LOVE paws and claws! Had a previous vet experience that was so so and they’ve been nothing but wonderful. Our dog was spayed here (for a very reasonable price!) and seen for routine visits. The techs are patient, kind, friendly and gentle. Our dog can be a handful and they’ve always been wonderful with her. The vets who run the practice are competent and helpful, they take their time at the appointments to answer any questions you have. Very thorough. As a first time pet owner this was huge for me! It’s the kind of practice that you walk in and feel like home. Highly recommend to anyone looking for the same! Grateful to have been referred here.

Gloria Maria

2023-06

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.

Shana Duvall

2023-05

My dog went to Paws and claws to be groomed. First off, she was there for 6 hours, then when I called to check on her they gave me information on the wrong dog. No big deal, however, upon pick up they had done several services that I did not request and charging me for them. My total bill was $116 FOR A 12 LB DOG and her haircut wasn’t anything to get excited about. Once home, I noticed she has a raw spot on her bottom, her skin is all red, and her eyes are goopy. She uses medicated shampoo for skin allergies, which they used but then sprayed some sort of perfume on her making her skin red and itchy. I now believe she may have pick eye because her eyes are red and have green discharge. I was very disappointed in their services and price, but mostly heartbroken about how my girl was treated.

M Sellers

2022-05

They take very good care of our pets, including our elder pup. Did not pressure us to perform surgery, but did offer advice and encouraged us to get other opinions. They take good care of him while doing nail trims, especially considering he is blind and has a tumor.

Christi Bausch

2021-05

Newly moved back to the area and needed to find a last minute vet for my dog when she became very sick. Paws & Claws worked with me to squeeze her in asap. Their communication was clear and responsive from the front desk, the technician, and then the vet herself, Dr. Spaniel. I was in the loop for the entirety of the process. I was extremely impressed with the care/quality/professionalism they showed in working to heal my pup long-term.Already recommended to family. My parents and their dog will be switching to Paws & Claws. As prior military, I've lived in several locations and switched veterinary practices with each new assignment. This place is one of the best I've seen....very happy with them!

Michael Clingan

2023-05

The vet dr.birken went out of her way to get me our cats insulin prescription after business hours on a saturday when she found out he would be without for a few days. That is amazing, thank you!! Now I see why my mom always swears by this place.

James Leavitt

2022-05

As far as the care my animals receive there, I am completely satisfied. The reason I’m leaving a three start review is due to the hidden charges I’ve gotten hit with at this particular facility. I brought my dog in for one service that should have cost approximately $100, and next thing you know, the cost of my appointment is about 4x that. Having said that, I did consent to additional services, but when the technician asked if I just wanted to take a fecal sample cup home (no mention of pricing), I was shocked to see that I was charged $102 for two cups. Again no mention of pricing, had I known that I was going to be charged $102 for those little cups, I wouldn’t have agreed to it.

Kristi Barnett Williams

2021-05

We’ve taken four of our pets there so far. They’re caring and gentle with our babies. Highly recommend.

Nikki Falato

2022-05

Paws and Claws is the first (and probably only) vet clinic I can see myself bringing my two dogs in. I have a Dutch Shepherd and an Akita/Corgi mix. But my Dutch shepherd had a random nose bleed (nothing too serious but concerning enough for me to bring her to the clinic) and Allie, the clinics receptionist was super friendly and prompt with following up with me on when I could bring her in. Originally it was going to be a drop off exam but they had an opening and took her the night after I sent the forms and request out.I’m new to the area so this was the first clinic I’ve brought one of my two dogs too. We saw Dr. Spaniol and the technician Tina Bodmer. They were super friendly and patient with our shepherd(she has very bad anxiety in car rides so they were definitely slow and cautious with her). Plus they gave me really good vibes just being very open and communicative with me. There was a lot of reassurance that nothing seemed to be alarming but for me to just monitor her behavior, if she has another nose bleed, etc and then I could bring her back in.I thought the bill was very affordable (for the exam and bloodwork and then the biohazard fee). It’s a little bit of a drive out from Silver Spring but I think with the positive and friendly vibes I got from the staff in general, I could see myself bringing her and other other dog back for general exams, bloodwork, etc.Staff of Paws and Claws if you’re reading this, thank you for being really welcoming and prompt with me. As a pet parent in a new area it was definitely hard to find a clinic I felt comfortable with and after reading other reviews I’m glad I took the opportunity to bring our dog in.

Savannah Flores

2021-05

The staff at Paws and Claws is amazing. During the disaster that is Covid, I was hesitant to drop my new puppy off curbside for his shots. The team made the process as seamless as possible. Dr. Birken came out and spoke with me about how everything went. She even followed up the next day to check in on my boy. I am so happy with my choice to trust P&C with my sweet furry friend.

Gina P

2022-05

They wanted 460.00 for the vet visit, which inclued 4 shots, blood work and rectal check. So I looked at their list of charges and was able to get it down for $120.00less, after I left they called me and advise they would have to check his ear for a infection, I asked how much would that cost, they said $about $110.00. I was fuming because they were really trying to get everything close to $500. They called and said my dog is ready, I told them I was in Mt Airy and would be about 30 to 45 minutes. They then advised me of a late charge if I was not there by 1:00pm. I had 8 minutes to get there, this would not happen. I walked in at 1;03 and advised them not to charge me a late fee, because I did not know they closed at 1;00. This place is very pricey and I will not return.

Brian Kenyon

2016-05

After moving to this area I was looking for a vet to replace the one we had in VA. I must say my girls are very, very selective and we visited several. Paws and Claws had just opened and when we went in they were very welcoming, took us for a tour of the facility (which is very well equipped). We found that all our pets loved the staff and they loved them back. They have taken excellent care of our four legged family and try to be respectful of your budget giving you multiple options when available to choose from. I really never thought I would find a VET to replace the one we had but I can say that we are more than happy with Paws and Claws and would not change for anything. I trust them completely and Melissa is a wonderful person as well as a very knowledgeable VET. The stories I could tell of others but let's just leave it that I would highly recommend this Animal Hospital.

Tracey Sales-Anderson

2019-05

We just moved to the area and our dog got into the neighbors yard with a few horses. He got kicked around pretty good, it was Sunday our usual vet was closed. We went to Paws and Claws animal hospital and they were amazing! They saw our dog right away, they were very professional in his diagnosis and treatment. They did not cost an arm and a leg (even for an emergency Sunday visit) and they took great care of our beloved pet. Thank you Paws and Claws, we will be back!!

Tracey Puckett

2022-05

First time vet with first pet. Staff is wonderful. They were patient with us. Our skittish cat did great. I was given a lesson on how to trim her claws. Nice.

Mark Baldwin

2016-05

We have had several vets but Paws and Claws is by far the best. Great care at a very reasonable cost. They know you and your animal by name and give you prudent advice. They provided our family tremendous care and went far above when our beloved family pet passed away. If you are looking for a lifelong vet, this is the place.

Jennifer Taff

2018-05

They were great. My bunny had an emergency and they were able to squeeze me in between appointments. They were ready for me as soon as I walked in the door and were very efficient. The doctor and tech were super friendly and helpful. I thankful for them and what were able to do to help my rabbit.

CJ Nick

2019-05

My family and I recently moved to the area. My 7 year old minpin snook was not looking good for the past two days. The staff at Paws and Claws were extremely friendly and welcoming. The techs handled Snook with care and showed great experience. I would definitely recommend Dr. Melissa who was clear and concise when telling us her diagnosis of Snook. We decided to make them our family vet. We look forward to annual check ups. Prices are reasonable as well.

Brittany Witt

2022-05

We had to put a family pet down. It was a hard decision coming to that conclusion. After 18 years, the first 15 with our grandmother, and the last 3 with us after Gma passed. The cat had steadily declined. We explained the situation, and at first the Vet tried to convince us that "maybe" they could fix the issue. The cat had lost the ability to find the litter box. After we decided to pursue the euthanasia, the person assisting was insulting. As my mother was holding the cat, the Vet staff states " So this is the last living memory of your mom right? " and continues to put the cat down. This was not an easy decision, it never is. But the sense of entitlement, judgy-ness, and disregard to how hard this was for us was unreal. I will never recommend this office!

Judy Landry

2017-05

I'm new to the area. I loved our previous vet, so there was a high bar for whom ever I decided to go with. I found Paws and Claws through a web search. Dr. Birken and her staff are wonderful. Dr. Birken and her staff have exceeded my expectations for our pet's care.

Matthew Lansberry

2018-05

I have been going to Dr. Birken for a couple of years now and have been pretty satisfied. They can always fit you in if you need it and absolutely love seeing the dogs. All of the staff are super friendly and genuinely care about my pets!

Terry Clingan

2019-05

Dr Birken and her entire staff are always professional, caring, loving and treat all of our pets like they were their own. You won't find better pet care anywhere. We highly recommend Paws and Claws !!

Laura Martinez

2023-05

I have seen Dr. Birken and Dr. Spaniol... Dr. Spaniol and the team had always been there for well visits but we had an early morning emergency today. They had to help me help Bosco across the 🌈 bridge. Thank you all for the support and love today.

Samantha Corvette

2021-05

My dogs and I love Dr. Birken, Dr. Spaniol and the whole staff. They are always so friendly and create such a positive environment. We always leave the office in a great mood!