Horizon Veterinary Specialists

DO NOT GO TO THIS HOSPITAL. I believe my dog died because of this vet’s (Dr. Melissa Von Zup) negligence. Background context: My girl Baby was a 2.5 year old pitbull. Healthy, happy, adventurous, silly. Reactive when strangers tried to touch her without proper introduction, especially at the vet. I was well-aware of this and actively working on it with her. We had successful vet visits with our primary care vet when I was in the room to help calm her. Aside from her slight behavior issues, she was an angel and loved by sooo many. On Feb. 25th, 2026, Baby got bit by a snake while hiking with me. The snake was black. I took Baby to Horizon immediately. Knowing Baby’s behavior at the vet, I asked for a muzzle before bringing her in. Front desk staff argued with me, wouldn’t give me a muzzle upon first request. Finally brought a muzzle + cone for her. Baby was agitated and starting to become lethargic. No noticeable swelling at our time of arrival. They took Baby back immediately. I waited for about 30 minutes before speaking with the vet. Vet let me know that Baby wouldn’t let anyone touch her. I already knew this would be the case. I offered to go back to calm her. I was denied. The vet kept asking me what kind of snake it was, if it was venomous, etc… I am no reptile expert. What I remembered was that the snake was black. As a CA native, I have never seen a black rattlesnake... Vet offered to look up snake photos so I could try to ID the snake????? All while my girl was back there being untreated. Not even a bowl of water was given to her… The vet then offered me two options: sedate Baby and do bloodwork or take her home with pain meds because “black snakes are not venomous.” I was continuously told this by the vet. I was also continuously told, “it's your decision." No expert opinion was offered. No urgency. No confidence in this vet's approach. The vet kept stressing that Baby was only “mildly” swelling. Vet said Baby’s lethargy was normal. She told me that if it was a venomous bite, there would be major swelling… Knowing my girl and her stressors at the vet, I took the vet’s word and decided to bring Baby home with me to relax and heal. The vet said to bring Baby back to be rechecked if “extreme” swelling occurred. Baby and I got home around 5:30pm. She drank a lot of water and ate some food. Went potty and rested. Around 10pm, I noticed her belly was swelling more. I called the vet and texted them photos. They said, again, “it’s your decision to bring her back or not.” I told them that THEY said to come in if swelling was extreme and asked many times on the phone, “DOES THIS LOOK EXTREME?”. The vet said no. Baby held on that last night. On Feb. 26th, 2026, she passed away on our bed in our home. I am devastated, furious, and completely heartbroken. These people should not be practicing animal care. I felt like the vet that day. No guidance, no expert opinion, no one caring for my girl in the slightest. AVOID THIS PLACE AT ALL COSTS. Rest in peace, my sweet sweet girl

On February 7th, I found it necessary to take my 14-year-old Pittie Roxanne to Horizon for emergency medical services. Upon my arrival, the staff was very concerned and accommodating for Roxanne‘s medical condition. She was rushed in to assess her situation, but unfortunately, it was not a treatable condition. We all know what had to take place from there. This was by far the hardest thing I’ve had to face in a very long time. Emotional? Yes! Crying? Absolutely! Almost nonstop. The entire staff was so accommodating and compassionate. I was never rushed to make a decision, nor was I rushed to leave Roxanne’s side during the whole ordeal. I asked one of the Assistants, Reagan, If she would mind staying with me during the entire time. She politely agreed. I knew Roxanne didn’t want to be alone, and neither did I. Horizon staff never fell short of their commitment to animal care, compassion, and customer service. I am so very grateful for them, seeing Roxanne off in such a loving and compassionate manner To go on, I received a card yesterday addressed from Horizon, expressing their condolences, with multiple staff members heartfelt greetings inside the card. Off to tears once again. None of us ever want to let go of our pets. But if that time does come, and you find yourself in need of people who will treat you with respect and compassion, I highly recommend Horizon Animal Hospital. One last time, a huge, heartfelt, thank you Horizon. Respectfully, Joe Bentz …… and Roxanne

So grateful for the kind staff here. From the front staff, to the techs and the vet, every person was kind and compassionate. Our dogs got into medication and they were able to pump their stomach quickly and ensure they were safe and healthy. We are beyond grateful to them all! You all are fantastic!

Everyone that helped me during my dogs emergency and last days were very helpful and compassionate. I'm thankful for the expertise and efficiency throughout our ordeal. Both veterinarians were very communicative, detailed and empathetic. Aja- front desk was very sweet and helpful. Miranda- (I think that's her name) brought whipped cream for Cosmos when I said he loved pup cups, but he was too sick to even taste it. Dr. Herrera was very gentle and sympathetic during my dog’s last breath. This was the hardest thing I've had to do, was lay my dog to rest. 🙏🏽 What I appreciated most is the compassionate care for my dog Cosmos. Thank you!

We’ve been through so much with our dog, Ghost, and his complex health challenges. I cannot express enough gratitude for the entire team at Horizon Veterinary Specialists. From the moment we began this journey, I have felt that Ghost’s well-being has always been their top priority. Dr. Herrera has been truly exceptional. Her expertise, compassion, and patience have guided us through every step of Ghost’s diagnosis and treatment. She takes the time to explain everything clearly and always considers both medical effectiveness and financial practicality, which means so much to us. The entire staff has shown such kindness, professionalism, and dedication. Their support has made an incredibly difficult time manageable, and I genuinely believe we’ve been able to keep fighting for Ghost because of Horizon’s unwavering commitment. His fight isn’t over but I know we’re in the best hands possible. Wherever his journey leads, I’ll always be grateful for the care, skill, and empathy shown by Dr. Herrera and the Horizon team.