Banfield's track record is split: some owners report compassionate care and friendly staff, while many describe a clinic that labels nervous pets aggressive, pressures sedation, and piles on costly add-ons. Dr. Rodriguez stands out for attentiveness with serious diagnoses, but other vets (Dr. Torres, Dr. Rodriguez at billing time, and rotating vets from other locations) have left long-term clients feeling upsold and disrespected. Appointments are hard to book, staff attitudes swing from warm to dismissive mid-visit, and promised services often don't happen.
Their wellness plans appear affordable on paper but reviewers consistently report being told mid-appointment that plan coverage doesn't include what they thought, or that their anxious dog needs expensive sedation to proceed. One long-term customer of 10 years left after a pre-dental consultation spiraled into a $600+ upsell conversation. Several owners switched vets after feeling their concerns were ignored or exaggerated into crisis.
Recent shift: Declining sentiment over the past year. Early reviews (2+ years ago) were uniformly positive; reviews from the last 6-8 months show a sharp increase in complaints about sedation pressure, upselling, hard-to-reach scheduling, and dismissive staff. One long-term 10-year customer left recently citing that recent visits showed the clinic "only cares about money, not your pet."
All 16 reviews are five-star. Patients consistently praise Dr. Becca Klobuchar for combining acupuncture, herbal medicine, and nutrition advice with deep compassion. Families single out her at-home visits, especially for senior dogs and end-of-life care, as peace-giving and seamless. Limited review detail on pricing or scheduling challenges.
Caring Pathways specializes in bringing end-of-life and palliative care to pets at home, where families can say goodbye in a familiar setting. Reviewers consistently praise named vets like Dr. Coveyou, Brian, Dr. Midthun, and Dr. Sisk for taking unhurried time, listening to concerns, and explaining the process. The team offers quality of life assessments and comfort care (hospice) before euthanasia, cremation coordination, and memorial keepsakes. Families report feeling heard and supported even when their pets had behavioral challenges or needed same-day appointments. Many reviewers note this costs more than clinic euthanasia but is worth the premium for dignity and peace. Staff respond quickly to calls and emails, accommodate individual pet and family needs, and allow families to be present throughout. Multiple families have used the service three or four times, calling it the best possible way to handle an inevitable difficult decision.
Reviewers consistently report a warm, attentive experience where the entire team-from front desk to vets-shows genuine care for both pets and owners. Dr. Mills stands out for her patience and thoroughness, especially with anxious animals and serious diagnoses. The facility is clean and well-organized; staff proactively adjust schedules for complex cases and follow up afterward. One negative review flagged a specific veterinarian (Dr. Maria Perez) for speaking rapidly, becoming dismissive when asked to slow down, and failing to complete a scheduled treatment. The reviewer stated they would return if that person left. All other recent reviews praise the hospital's growth, location in Central Park, and the visible leadership of Practice Manager Maria, who reviewers describe as always present and smiling.
Last updated 2026-07-09