Albatross Veterinary Svc

Myself and my family previously used to see Dr. Z ,the owner of Albatross Veterinary Clinic for all our pets before he retired. Staff was always super helpful, until our visit a few weeks ago under the newer owner Dr. Christopher Wessell.

I called to make an appointment for my (very large cat) and requested some help,as I also have a 3yr old son who is adhd & asd and is super hyperactive. He also has Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and is borderline immune compromised.The clinic is small and cannot accommodate a stroller. I can’t manage both the cat carrier and my hyperactive 3yr old on my own.

Reception said that it would not be problem to help with our cat. When I arrived she took the cat into the female veterinarian,who called me on my phone,so I didn’t have to bring my son inside the clinic.

The female veterinarian advised our cat needed some additional tests in which we would have to put the cat to sleep.I said I didn’t know when I could come back to the clinic,as I would have to bring my daughter to help with the cat.

Reception said it would be no problem and that I would just have to drop the cat off and “ they could help me bring the cat into the clinic, from my car again.

When I arrived the next day to drop our cat off, I only opened the door of the clinic and asked if someone could assist me getting the cat inside ( he was in a carrier) The office manager had no idea who I was at this point. She was rude and seemed “put out” that I was asking for assistance. Even though I was told at our last appointment, this would not be problem.

She then wanted me to bring the cat around the back of the clinic, which meant I would have to leave my 3 yr old screaming in the car on his own.

I was told to call the clinic at noon about my cat. I believe it was the office manager,who was again rude on the phone and said she couldn’t help bring my cat to the car.

She went on to say my cat was on a “caution” and she wouldn’t touch our cat. Our cat is the most docile cat ever and loves people.(See attached photos)

When I arrived at the clinic, I called to speak to the owner of Albatross, regarding the office manager’s rude unhelpful behaviour.The Office Manager came outside again, after I requested NOT to speak to her again. She purposely started arguing with me while my 3 yr old was in the car.

This was the most DISGUSTING customer service and animal service EVER. An animal medical clinic that won’t help a mother with a special needs young preschooler and their pet?Do they not help elderly clients with their pets either?

The male Veterinarian owner Dr. Wessell who took over from Dr. V offered no apology, but just tried to justify his Office Manager’s behaviour. He said the cat has a “ caution” so she didn’t need to help me.

Keep in mind that when I first went into the clinic in the morning,The Office Manager had no idea who I was or which animal I was bringing in when she started being rude and unhelpful.

All I asked for, was if they could help bring the cat to my car in his CARRIER. If she was concerned that our cat was aggressive, the cat was in a CARRIER!! If the Vet or Vet Tech are unable to get a cat in a carrier, I definitely would NOT recommend bringing your pets to this clinic!

We will NOT be coming back to Albatross Veterinary Clinic.Absolutely,disgusting behaviour. Recently,we attended Crescent Beach Veterinary Clinic who were VERY helpful and caring!

Our cat was assessed and they found he had an abscess tooth which it seems was the cause of his problems.The fact that Albatross’s Veterinarians did not check his mouth,even when he was asleep for testing is outrageous!
I would NOT entrust your pet’s care with this clinic.

We have been going to Albatross for just about 20 years. The staff is always accommodating and Dr. Zwamborn, was sometimes a little rough around the edges,but always had our pets best interest at heart, along with our feelings. Although the clinic is not dazzling like you see most, and it takes time to process things due to lack of current computer technology, it is all reflected in the reasonable prices they charge. We are happy for him, but sorry to see that Dr. Zwamborn retired recently. We have had our pets to the clinic recently, and it appears that things are being run in the same manner as always with respect to care of our pets and pricing.

We wouldn't even consider ever again, taking our 14 yr old "4 legged kid" anywhere else... we've been other places... what they have done for our "kid" when other vet said she was too old is amazing, they gave her a new lease on life.. she had a lump under her front leg that was growing and impeding her ability to walk... other vet said she was too old, took her to Albatross and she had her surgery and was able to walk/run around normally again. As with most older animals (and people), issues come up, as they happen, they fix them... and cost is not like at most vets.. I really think that the vets here, are in it for the love of the animals!! Don't let the decor fool you.. there are no fancy seats, no potted plants... but there is love in that place and dedicated well educated Dr.s and the staff there are amazing to!!

I had first gone this vet recommended from our old cat breeder who has sadly now passed away. It is a little out of the way but the drive itself from South Surrey/White Rock is pretty calming if you go down 8th Avenue. I have been to other vets at times and ALWAYS return as I find Albatross just has so much more of a reputation and does not rip you off like other vets who do unnecessary tests. We had a Chihuahua who had a broken leg and the first vet in WR wanted to put a pin in her leg and give us a bill of $2000. Albatross was so much more compassionate and said that if this was his dog he would not as the dogs leg would not support a pin as it was so thin/delicate. I will never forget this and because of this our Coco was taken care of and healed well. We are now back with our Cat who is not too well and they are fantastic and very accommodating too. Best thing is their prices are the best with no second fee for check up after initial consultation. OK it is a step back in time but at least you are not paying for esthetics you are paying for service and great quality vets.

My sweet little companion, Shoosha, has been at Dr. Zwamborn's clinic for a week. He is trying very hard to save her life as she has auto-immune disease. I appreciate his concern and his efforts greatly as Shoosha and I have a deep heart bond that can never be broken and I can't wait until I have her home again. I know she is in a safe and caring place with Dr. Zwamborn and his dedicated staff. Thank you all so much for taking care of my Shoosha.

I and my dog love this vet hospital , its not all fancy but what it lacks in décor it makes up for prices and expertise .
I want a non nonsense approach with my pet , and this is the place .

I have been taking my beloved dogs to Dr. Zwamborn for over 10 years. He is the most loving, caring and competent vet I have ever been to, and I have been to many. His office might not be high tech, but I don't go there for that. I go for his expertise, his caring and loving for animals, and his very fair pricing. He loves his patients and what more could you want in a Dr. for your beloved pets? You really need to go here.
Linda Thomsen

I was not impressed with our visit to this vet with our 3 month old puppy. The Dr. was not compassionate or willing to listen to any concerns I had with having a new puppy. The examination room was like a dimly lit closet, and so dirty I did not want my children to touch a thing. The only positive comment I have is that their services are much cheaper than anywhere else. Needless to say I will not be going back.

I have been taking my animals to Albatross Vet Clinic for years. I am more than pleased with the compassionate care that has been given to my pets. My dog has arthritis, Dr. Zamborne comes to the car to give her the shots so she doesn't have to make the journey into the clinic. Not only do I appreciate this, my dog is very appreciative as well. The staff are friendly and professional. The country settings are perfect for a great veterinarian practice. I have recommended Albatross Vet Clinic to many.

Miss H has it wrong. They must have had the visiting vet. I was not impressed with this fellow for a replacement when Dr. Zwamborn was away. He stays very much up-to-date on care (When he is away, it is usually to seminars to familiarize himself with the newest advances in veterinary medicine.) And his fees are generally at par; or slightly better, than most. The animals love him. The staff are compassionate and truly care about the animals.

I have been taking my dogs and cats there for over 35 years and have found them to be excellent both in compassion and good service. I had to have my last Shepard put down due to cancer. Dr Zwamborn came right out to the truck to give her the shot. My son had his put down at a mall vet and had to carry his Shepard's body through the parking lot afterwards. Thumbs up to Albatros

I love them. Go there and you will never regret it.

My most recent of escapades with this out of date veterinarian has led me to seek a new veterinarian. I brought my dog in whom was suffering from sort of bowel blockage hadnt been to the bathroom in 3 days when I brought him in. Dr.Zwamborn treated him with anti biotics an something for an upset stomach then sent us on our way after $330.62 saying to come back again in the morning. okay, your the veterinarian I thought. The condition worsened we came back he gave another round of shots. When I asked what was being administered he mumbled I also could not read on the receipt what I was actually paying for. After another in & out visit for $75.00 I was told to come back yet again later that afternoon. I was done I sought another veterinarians care whom is now helping my dog, he also had to phone Dr.Zwamborn to find what he was giving our dog as he could not make out his writing either. Albatross Veterinary also brushed off my other dogs extremely puffy legs as water retention which 5 months later turned out to be lymphoma, which in turn took his life & piece of mine with it. Also the office is very un cleanly and both my partner & I saw fleas in the waiting room. I watched a staff member clean blood off the floor using no sanitizing products & also on our first visit, there was a very upset dog in the back whom howled for the whole while we were there & nothing was done. Please for your pets safety an your bank accounts safety seek another veterinarians opinion. I'm also filing a formal complaint with the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia. Anyone else wishing to do the same can find info at www.cvbc.ca

My mom wouldn't take our pets anywhere else, they are the kindest and most "patient-centered" office. It's about your pet and the best for them, not about making piles of money.

My dog's actually like to go to this animal hospital. And that is the 1st.

Vet Seanna Thrasher helped me with my dog Sally when it was time to say goodbye. she was so compassionate , even calling the next day to see how I was.

This great vet from Holland took care of our both dogs over many years in the past, best care ever, sincerely friendly staff, open also on Saturdays, warm and welcoming farm-surroundings, most reasonable fees, well-established and spotless reputation. Real animal doctors, they may still remember my little Mini-Schnauzer Erwin Rommel and before that a little grey female poodle who passed away with leukemia...
I would recommend those services to all real animal lovers.
With respect to all of you there,
Peeter Valing

I've been using this Vet service for 19 years now and am very happy. It is owned and run by Dr. Zwamborn who has expertise in both farm animals and family pets. His fees are very reasonable, yet he gives excellent care to the animals.