VCA Milwaukee Emergency Center for Animals

Dusty Hartl

2 months ago

I cannot thank VCA Milwaukee Emergency Center for Animals (MECA) enough for the kindness, compassion, and care they showed me and my dog Sprout. Yesterday, Sprout received a vaccine at VCA Pahle Animal Hospital just down the street. Unfortunately, he had an allergic reaction afterward, and despite our attempts to calm the swelling with Benadryl, it was not improving. I called MECA and was advised that it would be a good idea to bring him in, so I did. At 11:30 PM, I arrived at MECA and was immediately greeted, checked in, and seated in the waiting room. After about an hour, an incredibly kind vet tech came out to meet with us. I know they were extremely busy, but instead of rushing through things, she sat with me in the waiting room, asked detailed questions about Sprout’s condition and medications, and took the time to understand what was happening. After talking through everything, she brought Sprout to the back to be evaluated by a veterinarian. Within minutes, she returned and explained our options. We could give Sprout an additional Benadryl injection, or we could continue his medications at home and closely monitor him. I felt comfortable continuing treatment at home, and she immediately went to get my boy. When she returned, she brought Sprout back to me along with a receipt refunding my deposit. I was not charged for the quick evaluation, even thought he was looked at by a vet. I shocked and grateful for that. The team at MECA brought a sense of calm to what was a very stressful and scary situation. I am so grateful for the compassion they showed both Sprout and me. Over the years, I have unfortunately visited MECA during some of the hardest moments, including when I lost beloved pets — cats, birds, and my bearded dragon. Every single time, the staff made me feel cared for and reassured me that I was making the right decisions during incredibly difficult moments. Thank you to the entire MECA team for the kindness and compassion you show, especially in what I can only imagine is a very demanding and emotional work environment. It is clear that you truly care about your roles and about helping pet owners feel confident in the health and wellbeing of their animals. Sprout and I are incredibly thankful for you.

Jennifer Baez

2 months ago

I don't know how I forgot to leave this review, but it's long overdue. Two years ago, the team at VCA cared for my Pomeranian Leeloo while I was out of the country after she suddenly became critically ill. They not only saved her life at the time, but lovingly cared for her until I could make it back home. Every shift called with updates, and they were even thoughtful enough to work around my flights back from India so I could receive updates when I landed while I was desperately trying to get back to her. It is a MIRACLE what they did for her as she defied all odds as it took me 2 days to get home. They answered all of my questions and sat down with me each day when I got home and walked through kidney disease / failure with me and were so compassionate. After about a week of their incredible care, Leeloo was well enough to come home. Sadly, her kidney failure eventually took her just over two weeks later which they helped me during this process too. But without the compassion, skill, and dedication of this amazing team, I wouldn't have had those precious final weeks with my sweet girl. Those extra days were an immeasurable gift, and I will be forever grateful to every member of the VCA team for giving us that time together. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you also for starting the “Hospitalized Pet of the week” upon her inspiration. She was one of the happiest bounciest girls and I’m so thankful to see these updates on your page for other pets. It always reminds me of her and makes me smile. Your team is truly a blessing 🙏🏽 thank you for everything you did for us and that you do for all of your patients!

Bob Johnson

4 months ago

We would like to thank Dr. Larissa Wiger and the staff at the VCA Milwaukee Emergency Center for Animals for helping us during one of the hardest nights with our dog, Charlie. Dr. Wiger was compassionate, honest, knowledgeable, and caring during a very emotional and difficult time for our family. At first, after reading some reviews online, I was a little unsure, but after meeting Dr. Wiger, we felt much more comfortable and supported. She helped guide us through an incredibly painful situation and helped us come to the right decision for Charlie with kindness and professionalism. We just want to sincerely say thank you. The Johnson Family

Lori Anne Riegler

4 months ago

I wanted to share feedback about my visit because I have been bringing my pets to your ER for years and have always trusted and recommended your hospital to both friends and clients. I brought my dog in because he woke up making concerning noises and I was worried he may be in respiratory distress. While I was in the waiting room, I could hear him in the back stress barking continuously for quite a while. My dog has significant anxiety, and hearing him in that state while I was sitting right there was incredibly upsetting, especially when he was already not feeling well. My concern was not about being difficult or challenging your team’s process, I was trying to advocate for my dog because I know that stress escalates his symptoms and nervous system response. In my line of work, I spend every day managing anxious dogs and helping clients understand how stress impacts behavior and health, so this was very hard for me to ignore. I asked if he could be brought back to me so I could help calm him, and while he was eventually returned to me, the interaction that followed was disappointing. I was told that I would probably do better going to another ER down the street and, during a follow-up phone call, I was told I was being rude and that the call would be ended. That was honestly shocking, especially because I have had positive experiences with your hospital for years and have consistently referred people there because I trusted your care. I understand emergency hospitals are busy and policies exist for a reason, but the communication felt dismissive rather than collaborative. I was scared for my dog and trying to advocate for him, not create conflict. I wanted to share this because it felt very unlike the level of care and professionalism I have come to expect from your hospital. I value the relationship I’ve had with your team and felt this deserved to be brought to your attention.

Kim Nowak

5 months ago

Saved our cat's life. All staff very professional and caring. Dr. Rosie was very kind with us and our little guy. Most importantly skilled at her job. Appreciated the care and multiple phone call updates while he was hospitalized for 2 nights. Marty is happy at home and recuperating. Thank you to all your staff from reception, techs, nurses, and skilled doctors for treating a late Friday night near fatal urinary obstruction. 1st pic the moment he came home looking a bit disheveled. 2nd pic: happy to be home on day 2 in a new makeshift bed in mom's room.