Animal Care Center of Spearfish

I do not recommend Animal Care Center based on my recent experience. On my first visit, I explained to the veterinarian that my dog had experienced severe, random outbursts of pain the night before. I was very concerned and asked what could be causing it. While I was there, I chose to update his rabies vaccination. However, I left the appointment without any answers regarding the cause of his pain. The following day, his pain became even worse, so I brought him back immediately while he was actively having another episode. When I explained the situation to the front desk, I was told there were no notes in his chart about the pain I had discussed the day before — only documentation of the rabies shot. That was extremely concerning. During the second visit, the same vet examined him, but no bloodwork was performed and there was no thorough physical exam to determine the source of his pain beyond taking his temperature. I did not feel that my concerns were taken seriously, and neither my dog nor I felt comforted during the visit. We were sent home with pain medication and told that an X-ray could be done the next day after the medication kicked in, and that if nothing was found, I would need to take him somewhere “higher.” I left feeling more worried and frustrated than when I arrived, with no clear answers. The next day, I took my dog to another veterinarian in Spearfish. Within the first five minutes of examining him, she identified the source of his pain. X-rays were done immediately, and we began a treatment plan that included laser therapy for a pinched nerve in his back. The difference in thoroughness, communication, and compassion was night and day. After two visits at Animal Care Center without answers, proper documentation, or a thorough exam, I felt my time and money were wasted. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this clinic based on my experience.

My go to place for all my animals, very friendly staff and they treat my babies like family

Dr Whalen and the entire staff have been excellent in all areas. Thanks for everything guys!

Because the Animal Care Center is open on Saturday and due to previous reviews, we chose to schedule euthanasia for our larger dog at this business. It was an absolute nightmare! Our rescue dog had unpleasant experiences with other veterinarians and I had mentioned the same to the receptionist when calling. We brought his muzzle, just in case. Because there were several cats and other dogs in the waiting room when we arrived for our appointment, we kept our dog outside and filled out the paperwork. We then brought him in and were taken to a room right away. The floor blanket was not even close to big enough, and was very thin. I would guess we waited 10 minutes before somebody came in to give us explanations for things we didn't need explanations for. Two younger gals came back and attempted to put an IV in our dog's right leg. He was not happy about it, so they decided to give him an IM sedative. It wasn't nearly enough, but they made the decision to poke him some more. After the first attempt, he started getting pretty upset and after two tries, she gave up. Then they decided we needed to take him in the back because it was our fault they couldn't get the IV. We could hear our dog screaming and crying from the back room. Not only was it heart breaking for us, it was absolutely horrible for him. They finally they brought him back with the IV in the same right leg they had already poked twice and asked if we needed some time. I responded that I thought they had tortured him enough. Thereafter, who I presume was the veterinarian came in and the administered the overdose. No one introduced themselves or said what their role was. It was horrendously noisy and not at all calming or pleasant. If they had not made us pay in advance, we would have taken our dog and left. I suppose that's why they have you pay in advance! Overall, while the building appears clean, the staff are amateurs and inexperienced. We will never return to their facility. What should have been at least a semi-peaceful experience was anything but. I will forever hold the guilt knowing the last hour of my beloved protector and close companion's life was pure, unadulterated hell.

Dr. Whelan wasted no time getting our puppy in and diagnosed. We appreciate his honesty and the staff was phenomenal.

The doctors and techs are amazing. They really care about your animals and your situation. Glad I found them! Only place we'll take out animals.

I had a 3:45 appt. with this vet today for a nail trim and a microchip. First time ever at this facility. When I was brought into the exam room I reiterated just a trim and microchip. I explained that I was going to wait until the waiting period was over for my pet insurance to kick in before I did an exam and labs. I just adopted my girl 2 weeks ago. The vet came in with 2 techs and again I explained my situation and what I wanted to have done today. The vet, Dr. Olson said ok. The techs began trimming her nails, and the vet checked for a microchip. Amazingly she already had one! She got out her stethoscope and listened to her heart, looked in one eye with a light, and lifted her lip on one side. When her nails were done, I left the room to check out and get the microchip info. My total was 72$. I asked why it was so high. I was charged for the trim and a wellness exam. I DIDNT ASK FOR AN EXAM. And if that's what you call an exam, you are charging WAY TOO MUCH! Very unhappy with this situation and will be looking elsewhere for a vet to take care of my girl.

Truly wonderful clinic to take your pet to. After being turned away from a few vet offices today with an emergency with my dog, I called ACC of spearfish seeing if they could take a last minute walk in. My dog had seemingly broken his foot. From first contact to consult room it was maximum 20 minutes. They got my best little mate fixed right up and were so helpful & timely. Can’t speak highly enough for this team of professionals! Thanks again gals, Yeti will be back to chasing cows in no time! Appreciate you all!