Tampa Bay Veterinary Specialists & Emergency Care Center

Made the difficult decision to put my baby, Milo, down but everyone at this clinic was incredibly helpful and caring. A special shoutout to Dr Cooke for clearly explaining everything and Kelsey for being so kind. I even got a card in the mail following his passing. It brought me so many happy tears :) my Milo got to live a wonderful 15 years on this earth and was able to cross the rainbow bridge peacefully

A good Samaritan found my lost dog and brought it to Tampa Bay Veterinary Specialist, she subsequently notified me after seeing my lost dog post immediately after dropping him off at the Vet hospital. Upon me contacting the veterinary hospital, I was informed that despite my dog's microchip, they required verification from Pinellas County Animal Services to confirm ownership. This process, which delayed my ability to see my dog, was supposedly necessary according to their protocol. The hospital was aware of my dog's extensive severe injuries and the potential need for a difficult decision regarding his care. I believe it would have been more humane to allow me (the owner for 11years) to be present with my dog given the severity of his condition. Instead, the hospital waited for my angel to be picked up by pinellas county animal services the following morning. The delay in notification meant I couldn't ensure my dog's comfort and companionship during this critical time. Given the veterinary hospital's ability to scan the microchip, it seems feasible they could have contacted the registering company to expedite the verification process of the owner. Your hospital definitely needs to review its protocol, as this wait caused a lot of distress for me and my family.

While I would rather never have a reason to rate an emergency vet, the fact remains that stuff happens to our dogs after the regular workday and we need them. And Tampa Bay Vet Specialists & Emergency Care is a PHENOMENAL group of people. There were several animals already there being seen and such, yet the entire crew somehow made us feel like we were the only ones in the building. I was mild train wreck with our 4 year old Golden (Revy) who had just had an entire nail ripped off her front paw - nothing but exposed quick left dangling. They got us moving fast, kept me informed of every single move they made without interrupting her care, and treated us both like family. I'm bad with names but the tech who helped us directly was Joel or Joey and he was wholly amazing with my girl, and keeping me looped and comfortable in the office. If I had to deal with an ER visit for our dogs at all, I'm glad it was here. The front desk staff and the doctor were ALL, SO wonderful and it felt like every single move anyone made was "above and beyond" somehow. We could not have been treated better if they were private vet-care staff for only us. Seriously amazing people, end of! Thank you, to the entire staff. You guys are awesome-sauce, period! We appreciate everything, start to finish. Thank you. Here's a couple pics for you guys, Revy (as a baby) and another, all grown up (on the left) with her "younger sister" (Seras) on the right. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

I am so grateful for Dr. Oakes and the entire team at Tampa Bay Vet Specialists. My 3 year old bully Lottie busted her knee and needed surgery. My vet had one recommendation. Dr. Oakes. The staff was so kind and responsive. Lottie LOVED going to see everyone. When she had surgery they kept me updated and encouraged me to even contact in the middle of the night if I got worried. When we had a hiccup with Lottie chewing her stitches they got me right in and did not judge or shame at all. Every person I have interacted with there seems to truly love their job, love animals, and treat clients with respect and empathy. Today we got the all clear from Lottie’s surgery. We are going to miss visiting and might have to stop by if we are ever in the area. Thank you Dr Oakes and team!

Thank you so much for the most amazing care you showed to our Bella while she had her knee surgery. Dr. Rudd was highly informative, professional and supportive throughout the process. The staff assisted us with our questions and help with filing claims with the insurance company. (Outstanding) we highly recommend their services for all your pets needs.