Hoffman Estates Animal Hospital

I love this place! The staff is warm and friendly and very competent. I had an emergency situation that resulted in having to put down one of our beloved pets. She was fine in the morning and very, very ill when I got home after work. We managed to get her 75 lb body in the car and called on the way to the hospital, which was closing in 5 minutes. I was hysterical by the time we got my pup there, but the staff was nothing but extremely compassionate and professional. The facility was already closed for the day, yet the doctor offered to stay as long as I needed to say goodbye and get my family there to say goodbye. She waited an hour for my husband and sons to come and was a gentle and kind as could be. My son even went home to get our other dog to come and be with our girl when she passed. The office called me to see how we were and sent a beautiful card. Our new dog has been there, too, and he was very skittish about the whole process, but the staff was kind and gentle with him for his exam and follow ups. They had suggestions for his dangerous behavior of chasing cars, and spent time tutoring me on how to get him to stop. We are moving shortly, but I will make the drive.

Hoffman Estates Animal Hospital is by far the very best. It’s the reason I travel 50 minutes to continue to use them after I moved. They provide excellent treatment and provide options to fit any budget. I’m surprised at the reviews saying their costs are high. I’ve always been provided with estimates up front that provide a variety of treatment options to choose from. Of course, they recommend the plan they feel is best but usually it’s not the most expensive option. I’ve never felt that I have overpaid even a cent given the level of service and treatment they provide.
Not only do they take wonderful care of my dogs, they go out of their way to provide superior customer service. Dr. William’s is always happy, always helpful, takes amazing care of each of my pets, and has the utmost compassion for animals and people alike. She truly goes out of her way to keep her patients comfortable, often checking in with me on her days off to make sure my babies dealing with health issues are okay. When my first dog was terminally ill she called me every day including her days off and weekends to check to see if it «was time». I cannot even begin to imagine another vet could compare to the level of service she provides. Dr. House is also very kind and thoughtful. I see him when Dr. William’s isn’t available.
I’ve taken numerous pets here including 5 of my own dogs and too many fosters to count. My only compliant is they don’t treat exotics. I have yet to find an exotic vet that provides the quality of service and treatment as HEAH. Though the staff sees a variety of health issues every day, they are always sympathetic and understanding that it’s likely my first experience with a given health issue or treatment. They have impeccable bedside manner. The vet techs are wonderful too. Michelle often works with my pets and she is amazing. I have a dog that is fearful of people and she is so kind and caring with this dog so she’s comfortable. This dog barks and barks and acts hysterical so I’m sure this is not a simple task.
The front desk staff is also unequaled. They often deal with me while I’m in an emotional state due to concern for my pets. Admittedly, I’ve been nuts a time or two over the years. I know that their job cannot be easy… dealing with highly distressed people that have sick pets and possibly need treatments that they hadn’t budgeted for. Amy at the front desk told me about Care Credit years ago when I was having a mental breakdown over how to treat my terminally ill dog. I’m forever grateful to her. They do an absolutely wonderful job and are always composed and professional. Both Amy and Brianna have gone out of their way to help me with special requests that I’m certain are not a part of their job.
I’m beyond grateful for the care that this entire practice provides. They are THE BEST. Every pet and person that walks through their doors is in the very best hands.

My dogs are my babies. When I first got my two little pups I thought that I was going to the correct vet. There were multiple things that occurred at that vet and the last one left me speechless. My little Shih Tzu/​Maltese messed in the house a few times where it was dark brown. I brought her to my vet and they really were not worried. I talked to my boyfriend and he insisted that I go somewhere else. When I first went to HEAH I was astonished by the difference in the receptionists/​vet techs and also the vet.
I have had a couple of problems with my IG and my little Shih Tzu/​Maltese and HEAH has been nothing short of amazing. Dr. Williams always calls me and checks on my dogs which to me is very important. She always explains her recommendations in depth and makes you feel like your pet is in the best hands possible. She goes above and beyond and you can tell that she really enjoys her profession.
Yes, HEAH is a little more pricey, but you pay for what you get. For the amount of time that I have talked to Dr. Williams on the phone about my dogs it has been worth every penny that I have paid. I will not look any further and my dogs will ALWAYS be going to HEAH.
Overall, I would recommend them to my friends and family and I trust them 110%.,

Parakeets were our first pets. What I remember most about them was that they didn’t live long. I don’t think they were intended to teach my sister and me how to become detached from our feelings.
As one or the other or both birds died, our mom replaced each one every time. My sister and I buried the dead ones all over the backyard. Once our dad started mowing over the popcicle stick crosses marking their final resting places, mom stopped bringing home new parakeets. By then, we were apathetic.
Years went by before our cousin Susan asked my mom if we would adopt her Calico cat named Sasha. Because of my mom’s thick Japanese accent, we grew up calling her Slasha. None of us knew how to properly care for her. We didn’t even know she needed to be bathed or groomed.
For years I suffered. When the weather was warm, my mom told me I had hay fever. Every winter, I had a cold. It wasn’t until Sasha was literally dying in my arms when we took her to the animal hospital for the first and last time. Her death was such a traumatic experience, my mom announced there would be no more pets allowed in the house.
My eyes and nose stopped bothering me. When I finally went to see an allergist in my early twenties, he told me I was severely allergic to animal dander; cats were the worst!
In April of 2012, my sister made a surprise announcement that she had purchased a Shih Tzu from a breeder in Wyeth, IL for me. The news came as an unwelcomed shock. After some negotiating, preparations for its arrival began. I started to feel like I was in my third trimester and hosting a puppy shower even crossed my mind.
Chibi was born on May 15, 2012. Everyone who matters received a copy of the book Shih Tzu for Dummies.
First impression, the HEAH is a bright, yellow house with a front yard. Cats and dogs are not afraid to enter its foyer because of its vibrant and spacious reception area. They serve free bottled water, Kuerig hot drinks and treats for the pets.
They have a house mascot, a cat. They respectfully offer me Benedryl and keep the kitty away from me by hiding it in the back room.
Dr. House and Dr. Williams have become Chibi’s primary Veterinarians ever since we picked her up and brought her home in mid Aug, 2012. I trust their technicians who have been very patient with me, teaching me things that the Shih Tzu for Dummies book has not. I still call them for advice all the time.
Within her 1^st year, she’s been to the HEAH for vaccinations, treatment for a bee sting she got while on a walk with my sister and had her spayed at 4 months old.
We purchase her Frontline and Heartworm Rx from here. I also have her anal glands expressed and toe nails clipped by the technicians instead of a groomer.
Recently, Chibi was groomed at a Petco and coincidentally got sick the next day. We weren’t in the area so Dr. Williams referred me to the VCA in Franklin Park. She called to check on Chibi the day after.
During that week, my dog developed an infection under her chin and neck. I’m not one to take any chances after my experience with Sasha. We took her to see Dr. House. Chibi was weighed, cleaned up, given antibiotics and wrapped in gauze to protect herself. She goes back in a week to have the gauze removed.
Hopefully, this will be the last incident until her annual vaccinations are due in Sept followed by quick visits with one of their technicians for nails and glands.

This is more like 2.5 stars.
I don’t normally take my pets here, but one night I discovered a lump on my cat’s backside and panicked. I didn’t have enough time to get her to my normal vet, which is in Wheaton, before they closed so I drove her over to Hoffman Estates Animal Hospital simply because they were nearby and still open.
The receptionists were very nice and friendly (I love that they have a cat who just sort of hangs out behind the counter with them). The doctor (Dr. House) was a little cold but you don’t go to a vet for the hospitality, you go to heal your pet. I thought the care was good. They squeezed us in with little notice and were able to diagnose the problem (an abscess) and take care of her quickly. However…
About 4 – 5 months later, she got another abscess in almost the exact same spot (different cause, though). This time, I was able to take her to my normal vet in Wheaton.
HEAH: Exam, lancing of abscess, and course of antibiotics: $ 400
Wheaton: Exam, lancing of abscess, course of antibiotics, and painkillers: $ 125
I have to say, I was shocked when I got the bill from my vet in Wheaton. I couldn’t believe how much less it was. I had read the reviews on here about how HEAH is more expensive than other places but I had no idea there would be that much of a difference. (I’d like to add that we’ve always received very professional care at the Wheaton vet… in fact, the first time we went there was to get a second opinion after having left Elmhurst Animal Clinic, and Wheaton’s second opinion pretty much saved my cat’s life… so I think the level of care between the two is at least comparable.)
So is it a good vet? Based on my limited experience, I would say yes, they are. But are they worth paying more than 3 times the cost? No.

I brought my puppy here for her spaying. I adopted her and this was one of the vets that i could go to and they covered the whole spaying including meds and bloodwork which is great! The front desk girl was nice enough. It was 7 am when i dropped my pup of so i get it. The staff seemed knowledgeable and friendly. Dr house performed the surgery and then followed up with a call and answered all my questions. He even called the next day to check on his «patient» which is awesome. Stitches look great. My only one complaint. and it might seem minor to some but for me its huge
My dog REAKED cigarette smoke. I could go smell it as soon as i picked her up. 2 days later and i can still smell it on her. Idk if the person with her just smells that bad of smoke or they smoke around the dogs but that for me is unacceptable.

I brought in my dog for an appointment with Dr. Williams. The entire staff are very helpful and friendly, and she was absolutely great! I noticed people saying the prices were high, I’m not sure as I don’t have another practice to compare to, but you get what you pay. So if I have to pay a little more to get superb service, than that’s ok with me. I would absolutely recommend Hoffman Estates Animal Hospital, to anyone with a furry friend!

Great animal hospital. Wonderfull front office and tech staff. Dr. Williams is great and very caring. A little pricey but the trust I feel in Dr. Williams is worth the extra cost.

Paulina MachHoffman Estates Animal Clinic and its staff are the best of the best! They’ve been looking after Jazmin (our Rott) for 7 years, and just recently our new addition, Harley (the Pom). They are an extremely caring group of professionals and make our pets feel at home every time. Both pups adore the loving nurses who give them out-​most attention and seeing Dr. Williams is always a treat. The hospital recently moved to a very charming location in South Barrington. In addition to their love for animals the technological advancement within their new facility will give you and your pets the best experience. We recommend this establishment for any pet lover, as they will ensure to provide your pet with the best treatment! Our pets LOVE Hoffman Estates Animal Clinic!!!

GREAT people and totally lax with our super mean cat.
Went here to have our cat checked out cause she started to limp one day. Both the nurse and the doctor were both gentle with her, and tried their best to make her feel welcome.
Dr. House did not leave us in the dark about anything and gave us all options when it came to dealing with her limp. It was pricey, but if you want to take care of your animal, sometimes it comes with a price.

Have been going to HEAH for 15 years for my cats. The vets have seen my pets through lifethreatening medical conditions and surgeries multiple times and have always been caring and willing to «go the extra mile» to provide the best care. Of course they are expensive when serious health issues arise, but I too trust all the docs. I would not go anywhere else.

Just take it from me and go somewhere else unless you like to pay 50% more than most other vets, than by all means get ripped off!!! I took my dog there who had very bad allergies after seeing a vet at Banfield (located in petsmart I think) which is another big no, no. I was forced to look for a knowledgeable vet, who could help figure out what was wrong with my dog. They ran all kinds of tests and told me things I already knew. Like, I already knew my dog had an ear infection, I already knew she had a bacterial infection and they ran up those ridiculously expensive tests anyways. My dog would get better with medication/​steroids for a few weeks and then all the symptoms would return. I went there 3 times thinking that things should get better next time but they never did! They just kept prescribing more medicine. I followed my gut and did some research and found out that they were overcharging their medicine by 100% compared to buying online. I felt that enough was enough I chose another vet after not being impressed with them at all.. Sorry Hoffman Estates Animal Hospital you dropped the ball in my eyes. You shouldn’t be scared to take your dog to the vet due to the $ 300-​$ 400 price you’re going to pay every time.

I absolutely trust and recommend HEAH. Yes, they are pricey, and I think they pad their prescription costs quite a bit (which is why, at every opportunity, I use
), but the treatment and quality of service are superb.
Dr. House is very thorough and proactive when it comes to my 2 dogs’ health. Several reviewers noted that he recommended expensive, «unneccessary» procedures — in my experience, Dr. House does not push any procedures. He has always clearly explained the options, provided detailed pricing PRIOR to the procedure, and always allowed me to make the decision of whether or not to go ahead with it. Personally I would rather have a vet who is proactive to potential illnesses than one who simply reacts after an issue has appeared.
Dr House truly loves and respects animals and so do his staff. They are accredited by the AAHA (which is pretty hard to do, and means they truly offer the best medical treatment and services), have very flexible hours and appointments, and they take great care of my furbabies!

HEAH has always been wonderful! Mina H. is an idiot. Their prices may be a tad higher but the service is superior. I’ve taken my pup there since I got her. We see Dr. Behm and she has always been very professional and my dog loves her. The techs are very helpful and sweet too. While the waiting room has a bit of a hospital feel to it, the exam rooms are nice w/​fun posters. I would strongly recommend HEAH to anyone who really cares about their pet!

The initial time I wrote a review (April 2007) the vet I saw was wonderful. Unfortunately, she left this practice, and subsequent services and information I received from the replacement and owner/​founder (Dr. Jeffrey House) were substandard.
My cat Gabby was suffering from kidney problems, and developed CRF, which can be addressed with several actions (such as sub-​Q fluid therapy) and supplements (phosphate binders, prescription diets, etc) to decrease toxins in her blood… etc… in addition to addressing side effects such as UTI due to this kidney weakness.
Moreover, the expensive medications prescribed where not the best options — when I did my research… unfortunately too late.
I mean. seriously, if I have a cat that has nausea issues, why are you prescribing pills to force down her throat?
My impression… they try to pad the bill and are over the normal vet fees at about 20%. Every visit (usually 2+ a month) cost an average of $ 160… for her UTIs. If there were less tests done, they would add a couple more fees on there for some random check that had not been there the previous month. When I itemize the invoices I can be more specific.
They charge $ 56 for a basic checkup exam. Most vets charge $ 45.
The Baytril I purchased there recently averaged 20% more than what I had gotten at another vet for the exact same amount, the prior week.
PUSHING EXPENSIVE TEST
My experience with HEAH over the last 2.5 years in regards to her health have been a consistent push to have unnecessary tests done.
Tests such as x-​rays of kidneys and echo-​grams of her heart and so on… which I paid for… exact prices I have to review the invoices for, but they were prices $ 400 – 600 I believe, each. I did the x-​rays at different times.
The reason I consider them ‘unnecessary’ is that the resulting information (whether positive or negative for misshapen kidneys, kidney stones, heart size changes). is when I asked what would be the next step with that information? One example was the test for kidney stones.
Me: «Would you remove the kidney stones?»
Dr. House: «No. We would just increase her fluids to wash them out.» Me: «You mean I would give her more sub-​Q fluids, like I am doing now?» Dr. House: (pause) «Yes.»
Most recently… I had my other cat catch a cold from a new one that came in (Gabby has passed away now), and instead of being able to diagnose Griffin’s hacking and mucus and breathing issues as a URI (upper resp infection) even after a $ 600 x-​ray… I was sent to a «specialist.»
The $ 600 x-​ray they took was determined to be TOO POOR to use, so I paid for that again, as well as additional test totaling $ 1300+ and guess what? Griffin had a cold. I was given antibiotics… and that was the issue.
If a vet cannot determine that a cat has a cold… and it ends up costing you $ 2K in 2 weeks… what does that say about the competency of those veterinarians?
To me it suggests they only want money or they are incompetent or a mixture of both. I cannot understand it. I am contemplating legal action.
Oh — after they read a review that I posted, they mailed me Griffin’s records (not the $ 600 xray though) and told me to find another vet. Like I had not done so already. Duh.

Love HE Animal Hospital!!! They are the BEST! Caring, sincere, knowledgable & good with pet owners too! Cannot get any better

Took my elderly dog in for a tune up. Had her teeth cleaned and a lump removed. Liked that they quoted me ahead of time for everything and talked through all the possibities before they had her under the knife.
Dr. Behm was professional, and caring. I wish she took Blue Cross/​Blue Shield!!!