VCA Canada Calgary Animal Referral & Emergency Centre

We had two big, beautiful Bouviers, both with different kinds of cancer at the same time and both in treatment at the CARE Centre. We lost our beautiful Winnie in January 2025 and our gentle giant Sully in February 2025. We have settled into our new normal with a house much too quiet, more spare time, too much room for people on our couches, and a lack of obstacle courses on our kitchen floors. We are not fans, but this is the way things are right now.nnWe have sincere and abundant gratitude for the Oncology team and their treatment of our Sully and Winnie. We so appreciated the kindness and understanding that we received with each visit. Dr. Larson’s candid yet gentle approach to very difficult questions and delivery of difficult news was valued. At all times we felt that they had our babies’ interests ahead of all else. They gave us a clear understanding of our options but made it clear what was best for Sully and Winnie. We never felt like we were pushed into anything. Dr. Larson’s honesty was invaluable in deciding when it was time for us to let go. As difficult as it was, we knew it was best for our babies when the time came.nnWinnie was diagnosed first with lymphoma and actually went into remission twice within an 18-month period before we lost her to other circumstances. Sully was diagnosed later with a very aggressive form of MAST Cell cancer. Should you ever have questions about the value of their treatment, I would be happy to talk to you. I was also skeptical in the beginning, but Dr. Larson’s team gave us an additional 18 months or so with our Winnie and a little extra time with our Sully. Time we cherished and used to send them over the rainbow bridge as spoiled and loved as possible and we will be forever grateful for that. Of course, the price of that extra time is high, and we had pet insurance, so we were able to do it. Not everyone can.nnThe oncology team sent flowers and cards with personal, thoughtful messages after each passed. The messages in the cards made us all shed a tear, but it was touching to know that they all found Sully to be the gentle “goofball” and Winnie to be the quirky lovable pooch that we knew and loved.nnIt would be remiss of me not to mention the same caring and kindness from Dr. Genovese and the Dermatology team Winnie, Dr. Little and her surgical team Sully, and the ER veterinarian I did not get his name that helped us through Winnie’s chaotic end of life. As well all of their receptionists were always pleasant, sympathetic, and kind. I have nothing negative to say about anyone in the CARE Centre whatsoever.

My dog had been receiving treatment for lymphoma here for over a year. Dr. Larson’s team was highly professional, skilled, and compassionate. They showed us so much love and care, which deeply touched me.nThe emergency team is also truly admirable. During my time in the emergency room, I witnessed their dedication and hard work firsthand. They work tirelessly with a strong sense of responsibility, which is truly commendable.nEveryone here is genuinely friendly. I am truly grateful to them and will always cherish the time we spent together.

We can’t say enough positive things about the staff at the VCA , from the moment we went in with our gorgeous golden retriever Nelly the front desk staff couldn’t have done more. very friendly and so accommodating, Becky was truly amazing checking in on us and keeping us updated. The vets are truly miracle workers for what they did for our Nelly , We are forever thankful and grateful to everyone that helped Nelly . The care she received was outstanding and as very worried doggie parents the Communication and updates we received was amazing . We even got pictures sent to us. Nelly spent 4 days in the care of the vets and nurses it’s so hard being away from your pet but we knew she was in the best hand at the VCA .nThank you all so much for making our girl better and giving her so much love and care

We spent a lot of money at paramount vet before being directed here by our regular vet. We got a diagnosis and treatment in one place in one session. They were professional and concise. Our boy needed a neurologist we found out. Dr.Diaz is the only one in the province. He has gone above and beyond for our boy Pluto. My only regret not coming here sooner to get the help he needed. Wet will not be going to any other emergency services from now on. And we drive from the north end! Can’t best the quality service. Thank you.

Our dog Biggie has been receiving treatment with Dr. Diaz for almost two years, and we truly cannot express how grateful we are for him and his team. Dr. Diaz essentially saved our dog, and we owe Biggie's recovery and well-being to his expertise and dedication. From the very beginning, Dr. Diaz and his staff have been nothing short of amazing.nnThey consistently keep us updated and ensure that we are informed every step of the way when Biggie is in for his treatments. Their communication is outstanding, which has given us peace of mind during what could have been a very stressful time.nnWe are beyond thankful for the exceptional care and attention Biggie has received and continue to receive. Dr. Diaz and his team have made a lasting impact on our family, and we wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of compassionate and skilled veterinary care.