Guardian Veterinary Specialists

Lisa Weigand

2024-04

The tech, receptionist and the doctor were extremely nice and excellent with communicating what the plan was for our girl how long to expect it to take ect. I was a vet tech for a little over 22 years so I have been in their position many times. Getting the estimate right away was great and very considerate and the kindness and compassion that the staff showed I felt was exceptional as I had always tried to be when I was practicing as a licensed technician.

Marianna Mayer

2024-03

With so few board certified veterinary cardiologists available to us in CT, it was for me a great relief to find Dr Jonathan Goodwin available at Guardian Veterinary Specialists in Brewster, NY so quickly. The facility and the staff are outstanding and ever so kind. I felt that they all love animals as much as I do. This touched me deeply. Dr Goodwin went out of his way to help my suffering dog Malcolm. He gave me careful advice and managed to guide me toward ways I can help Malcolm. I could not have asked for or expected such careful consideration from everyone, most especially Dr Goodwin's vet tech that night I was there for our appointment. I think his name is Mike. I remain so impressed and highly recommend Dr. Goodwin and Guardian Veterinary Specialists in Brewster, N.Y. should the need arise. To my mind, I feel reassured that such a highly professional facility and incredibly compassionate staff is available to me and my animals.

Lisa Walker

2024-05

Staff was very detail oriented while scheduling the appointment. Everyone I encountered was friendly and knowledgeable. There was fast communication between specialties- my girl requires both the neurology team and internal medicine team. I like getting the print out with a review of what we discussed and treatment plan going forward with follow-up instructions. I am happy to bring my dog here for specialty care and recommend that others do too.

Maria Acierno

2024-05

I found the facility in Brewster to be impressive. It was clean, had a hospitality bar and helpful brochures of the area. More importantly the staff, tech and vet were professional and caring. Top notch! I appreciate the straight forward discussion which led to a plan with options. Proper equipment was offered to my dog with much needed sizing for a new harness and boots. I have full confidence with Dr. Lenfest and will recommend her highly.

Marie Maldonado

2024-05

Such a wonderful animal hospital. They took such good care of my pup and made us feel very comfortable during an extremely stressful time. Staff is great and so caringl.

Dannielle Spencer

2024-03

Update: The scab completely fell off 2 days later so obviously it was not infected (2nd photo) and obviously this vet doesn’t know or care about practicing common sense medicine.The vet I saw here was extremely pushy, gave inaccurate advice and pushed expensive and unnecessary procedures.My dog and my cat play roughly. The cat sometimes bites him. He loves it. She also enjoys playing with him and often initiates play. This time the bite was completely scabbed over but because he has long hair it became itchy as the hair grows through the scab. The first time this had happened I took him to my regular vet (Banfield) and they scraped the whole thing for about $100.This time overnight he had scratched the scab on his neck and hurt himself. The next morning he was in a panic. I was able to look at it but he wouldn’t allow me to touch it. The real issue was that I couldn’t get him to calm down and he was panting heavily on and off for the day (Friday) and then the next morning (Saturday). When I couldn’t get him to calm down by Saturday afternoon with what I had at home I decided to take him to the ER vet.At this point I had been able to see most of the wound through his hair and it didn’t seem super serious but it was obviously serious to him and I although I kind of felt like he was being a bit of a baby about it, he’s a Shorky and that’s kind of his personality. I made it clear on the intake and with the vet that I basically needed stronger meds to help make him comfortable. This was my main purpose for being there.When I saw the vet after the check up she said she was able to cut away some of the hair that I was not able to cut away and started pushing a $3,000 procedure to put him under and scrape the area completely. I didn’t have a problem with the procedure per se but for $3,000 it didn’t seem like the situation warranted the expense because I already knew that the area had been completely scabbed over the day before, was not infected and had been treated with an antiseptic spray as well as neosporin.But she dishonestly pushed an infection in order to have this procedure done and wouldn’t take no for an answer. She didn’t look at the dog with me. When I got home it was obvious there was no infection.Infections take 2-3 days to set in. It had barely been more than 24 hours. I had repeated this several times and got dismissed. I also made clear that I’d either prefer to do a scraping at my regular vet or come back for if needed at which point she went into how much more expensive it would be later on.By not having the dog in the room and not being able to see the situation when she was discussing it, it would have been very easy for a less experienced animal person to think the situation was more serious that it actually was.This vet was also very derogatory on how my dog was treated at home. #1 I used Dermoplast which is a spray that’s an antiseptic and also an anesthetic. With the spray I was able to get the area medicated with pain relief much more easily without touching it but since it wasn’t specifically made for dogs she was derogatory towards me for using it. Yet the meds SHE prescribed are used in humans so it seemed like she was uneducated in basic animal care.#2 I vet wrapped the area because it was on his neck which she also made negative and inappropriate comments about. She inaccurately said that vet wrap is not breathable and will cause an infection. But it’s made exactly for the opposite purpose. They instead chose to put a collar on him which sat right on the area that was bothering him.I grew up on a horse farm in western PA and have much experience dealing with vet issues in a working farm setting. I did not feel comfortable seeing this vet and will not be using this place again. Overall it felt like they were trying to sell services over providing care and this vet in particular was either grossly uneducated in basic animal care or blatantly dishonest.Picture of the “infected” scab after we got home

Shelby Cain-Bielawski

2024-02

Our dog was hit by a car in a freak accident. Guardian were very professional and compassionate. We were grateful to be able to habe her treated at Guardian. Provided information and really had our dog's best interest in mind.

Lily Maset

2024-04

We recently had to bring our senior dog in for an emergency visit, he unfortunately had to be put down but the vets could not be more sweet, my uncle was the one who brought him in and they gave him flowers before he left and told him everyone in the back loved him, they also sent us a handwritten card and a pan flit on pet loss, his ashes were absolutely beautiful and they sent us a beautiful mold of his paw print, thank you so much for taking such good care of my baby on his last day

Heather Burns

2024-02

An update to review below, which was written the day after visiting the office.It's been more than a week and I'm still waiting for a completed ultrasound report for my pet, which was promised to be delivered the day after our visit. I paid in full at the time of the visit and to still be waiting for measurement and location of a tumor has me frustrated and flabbergasted. :/World-class expertise and outstanding customer service. Every single employee, from the front desk receptionists to the vet techs and the billing/check out were kind, efficient and top of their game. The level of technical expertise combined with outstanding customer service, kindness and grace makes Guardian Vet exceptional.

Nichole Metaxas

2024-03

They were amazing and took great care if Gizmo. They were ready for our arrival as it was an emergency. I'm truly grateful for all the staff and Vets who took care of him. He is doing great.

MS F

2023-08

I like the intake, reception area, and the way that the doctors and techs communicate with you. No patronizing tones. I received full and thorough explanations of what's happening. They do take the pet in the back to examine them which I was nervous about on our first appointment. But everything went well and he came back calm and happy. I appreciate the amount of time taken to explain what's going on with our pets. Dr. Gibson listened to my feedback at follow up and made thoughtful decisions about my pet’s care. I should also add they have a very considerate snack area for coffee, tea, and small bites. Very helpful if you've driven a long way, or feeling anxious about your little ones.

Liz Spillane

2023-12

I highly recommend Guardian Veterinary Specialists if you are ever in need of an emergency vet. Everyone from the front desk staff to the vet techs, and doctors are so kind and caring. I needed to leave my cat overnight which was stressful but I knew he was in the best of hands. Dr. Sirois patiently answered all my questions and Timon is on the road to recovery thanks to the excellent care he received at Guardian.

Little Ike

2023-12

Outstanding Facility, Staff and service! I would give 10* to the professionals. I'm thankful to have superior care close. I've been to plenty of emergency care vets from CT to NYC and this is by far my favorite. It's never easy when your pet is ill be rest assured this is where you want to be. Many thanks to the weekend warriors.

Trista Parker

2024-04

My visit was late on a Sunday evening (8p) and it was very busy, but despite the wait, I felt the care was exceptional! The front desk staff was so welcoming, even after what was probably a long day. The facility was spotless & the gentleman cleaning took the time to say hello to us…sometimes that personal touch when in stressful situations makes a difference! I work in healthcare and was impressed with the your well run facility…even at midnight on a Sunday evening! Thank you so much!

Melissa Drake

2024-04

The entire staff is always professional and friendly. The nurses are great, and they are always very friendly with my dog. I just love Dr. Sirois. I cannot say enough great things about her and the level of care Cooper gets when he sees her. I always feel welcome to ask questions and I never feel rushed during our visit.

Nathan Reffitt

2024-02

After being denied service by Catskill veterinary services, we took a 1.5hr drive to have our dog seen under emergency circumstances. As soon as she walked in, she was welcome by a large number of staff that was ready and waiting for her arrival. They jumped right on getting him in to be examined.This place is top notch and everyone was very friendly and helpful.I can't recommend this hospital enough..THANK YOU FOR BEING THERE FOR US.

Jennifer Vande Zande

2023-12

Fantastic, friendly staff who are truly compassionate people. The time dedicated to understanding the problem by Dr. Fox was shocking to me because I’ve used emergency vets before, and never has one of them been so thorough. My pupper’s eye was almost swollen shut when we left home, then like a car at a mechanic, appeared fine when we got there… we weren’t disregarded, and thanks to the thoroughness, the issue was discovered. Pet owners, search no more - this is the best place to take your loved ones after hours. The tech was also amazing, as was the individual checking us in. 10/10.

S Boben

2024-04

My dog was ill when she went to Guardian but I'm so happy with the care they provided to my pet. My funds were limited but they gave me options so I could make the best discussion for my beloved pet. Also the staff members were so kind and from the front desk to the tech also the doctor as well. Thank you all for what you were able to do for her.

Jeffrey Bennett

2024-03

We were there yesterday for the first time. Coming from Rhinebeck, there was an emergency care clinic much closer, but your facility came highly recommended. The friend who recommended was correct. Very happy with the level of courtesy, kindness, compassion, professionalism and most important, expert care and superb communication. I was there one day ago and already highly recommended Guardian to a local friend. I gave only five stars, because there was no higher number as an option. On a 1-10 scale, Guardian is a 15.Every single person we came in contact with at the facility, and there were many, were so caring, competent and knowledgeable, it made a difficult and serious situation much better and with a very happy outcome. If you have a problem with your pet, do not hesitate to go to Guardian. You will not be disappointed. They operate 24/7 too. Their details are now in my contact list, and they should be in yours too.

Sanford Littwin

2023-12

Outstanding experience 6hrs from him when our dog cut his foot. 5 stitches later. No anesthesia needed. Just great care and a grateful dog too.

Jeff Pedersen

2024-03

I can not praise this facility strongly enough. We brought our elderly dog to Guardian twice to deal with a very difficult condition and situation. The staff here is capable, compassionate, well trained and accommodating. We will be driving an extra 30 minutes to bring our pets to Guardian from now on. They placed the well being of our pet above everything else and for that I am very grateful.

Molly Hidle

2023-08

Everyone at the clinic was very professional & gave me the confidence I needed to entrust Brix into their care. I was impressed with how timely the whole procedure was, as well as the care that the staff showed to everyone I watched come and go from your facility. I was a vet tech for many years at a clinic where most of us were cross trained to work out front & in the back, so I know a thing or two about the joys & difficulty of dealing with people at a critical point in the lives of their pets. Your staff was excellent at assuring your clients that they were at the right place to receive the best care for their pets. A+++

Allison Shuchat

2024-05

This place is great if you want to work with a team that is cold and heartless. This place is horrible if you want to work with a team that treats your pet as their own and shows compassion and understanding.I was recommended to go to Guardian from my family vet. My nine year old dog has been declining and recently lost a lot of mobility in his hind legs, they have had a decrease in appetite and drinking. My vet did x- rays and bloods with no findings and recommended Guardian for a neurological work up. They sent my dogs paperwork to Guardian and told me to go through their ED.The front desk staff and the aids were amazing. My dog was able to walk to their front desk, but was unable to move past that point. The aid took his medical history as we sat on the floor and brought a gurney to the front room so he could go back to be examined. I wanted to go with him but I was told they would come and get me when the exam was completed. Not even 10 minutes later they called me into a room to meet with Dr. Andrew Shih.Dr. Shih was very blunt and to the point. He showed no emotion and did not look in my direction. He stated that they wanted to do an MRI and surgery but they were not clear on what surgery because they would not know what they would need to do until the MRI was completed. He sighted many possible causes of the lameness in his legs such as spinal cord dysfunction, possible tumor, stroke, trauma, etc. He provided the cost of the MRI and the surgery- over $14,000. When I asked about only doing diagnostic testing and then determining treatment he told me that they do not do that and that they will only do the MRI with the guarantee of surgery and that they would not discuss options once the MRI was completed prior to doing the surgery. I asked for other options and he told me, “This is the best option for your dog, your dog is part of your family, and you want to take care of him, isn’t he?” Which, yes, hands down I will do anything within my means to take care of my dog, but $14,000 is a large sum of money and he acted as if I was choosing not spend the money and not that it may not be possible for me to spend $14,000 for a what if surgery. He explained the risks of not having the surgery and told me to confine my dog to a small cage for 6- 8 weeks to stop any additional injuries. He told me that this would be hard for me but to do it anyway. I opted to continue my dog on the medications that my vet had prescribed and waited for my dog to be brought out to me.Over an hour later I asked where my dog was and I was told that it would not be to much longer. The aid then came out with a bag filled with medications and started going over them with me. When I shared that I was not aware that I would be going home with additional medications she said it was what the doctor ordered and proceeded to review five different medications to give to my dog orally two times a day, a total of 10 pills twice a day. When I pointed out that my dog was not eating the aid told me to just “pill them,” and made the motion of opening their mouth and shoving the pills in. I was then told to go pay my bill and waited an additional 20 minutes for my dog.While I was waiting I heard countless interactions with the staff of Guardian and other patrons. The staff seemed so uninterested in those that they were supporting and offered little to no compassion for the humans of the animals. I overheard one of the aids on the phone with my vets office demanding my dogs records, which had already been sent earlier in the day (I was included on the email), and he was so rude and condescending saying that they hadn’t done their jobs. The attitude and the aire of superiority that they had was obnoxious.I was told to follow up with them in two weeks but I will never bring my dog back to this place. I have also shared with my vet the disappointing experience I had while there in hopes that they never recommend this location to anyone. I am hopeful that people steer clear of this institution.

Karen Schuman

2024-04

Yesterday was the hardest day of our lives. We had to make some tough decisions for our Brody boy. Our loving, sweet, big old man. He was only 11 but he was very sick and we didn’t know why. Thank you to everyone who helped us through the process of doing what was best for our boy. We miss him so much but know that he is no longer in pain. Thanks to Guardian, we were able to spend so much time saying good bye. Although there’s never enough time to say good bye, we knew he was in good hands and went with us right by his side, the way he would’ve wanted. Thank you all again for making this painful process a peaceful one for him.

Vincent Frankel

2024-04

This was our first visit to Guardian and we are very happy our vet recommended it. Dr. Goodwin was thorough, informative, and very friendly despite a very long workday. We quickly learned that he loves his patients and his chosen profession. Everyone we met at Guardian, the staff and even the other pet parents were caring.

Jill Benson

2024-03

Guardian provides emergency and urgent care access at a reasonable price. Of course our beloved pets get sick on weekends and holidays and shouldn’t have to suffer until the next business day. I’m so appreciative of their kind and compassionate staff that can provide quick relief. We had a great experience and highly recommend.

Jean Logan

2024-04

I was really surprised that it looked like a human hospital. I was impressed but there was a spot of blood in the room where I was and kind of freaked me out a little. I really appreciated the real facts from the doctor. It made me feel like she was going to help me. I have to follow up with our veterinarian on Sunday. I just hope that my kitty will be okay till then. She’s already a lot better.

Andra OConnell

2023-11

Guardian veterinary hospital is a state of the art specialty and emergency hospital that has the best team and communication skills that I have ever been privileged to be a part of. My dog had blown a disc in her neck and was in extreme pain when I brought her in. Within no time she had had an MRI, and proceeded to surgery under the skilled hand of Dr. Eich. I brought a dog to the hospital that was in the throes of front end paralysis, unable to walk, on Saturday and on Tuesday afternoon I picked up a little dog that walked. The doctors called me with updates regularly and the nursing staff sent photos of the patient during recovery. The wagging tail and kisses that I got from this precious 12 year old dog are priceless. I am forever grateful.UPDATEIt has been 5 months now since Patti's surgery. She holds her head high, bounces when she barks at me and is often playful. She walks almost daily, usually 1.5 - 2 miles. Just an amazing recovery. We are thrilled.

Jennifer Rios

2023-08

I cannot thank Dr. Hart and his team enough for taking excellent care of my Golden Retriever. He dislocated his hip in May 2023 and needed emergency hip surgery. Today was our 11week check up with Dr. Hart. Tanner is in great shape and can go back to his normal routine. Dr. Hart is an amazing surgeon and he is so passionate about his profession. You are a God send and I am so thankful I found you I never would've believed my 11 1/2 year old Golden would be in the shape he's in today without your excellent skills as an orthopedic surgeon. Tanner and I thank you and will be forever grateful for you and your staff. Thank you!

Carmen Ringelmann

2024-05

The team at Guardian in Brewster are not only highly professional and courteous, but excellent at saving animals and restoring them to health. I am so very grateful to the entire team who cared for Ariel to save her leg after a bad car injury. If it were not for this team (Dr Hart, Dr Filetti, Dr Berenson and all the nurses and client advocates), Ariel would be without her 4th leg. Thank you, thank you, thank you! The experience you brought to Ariel's case and the optimism and hope you provided that her leg could be saved. And the high quality of surgery and care.