Iowa Veterinary Wellness Center

Reviews 6

JE

Jeffrey Kinderdietz

Recently moved to Iowa and searched reviews of vetinary facilities in Des Moines. We also searched the state board records for any complaints. By far, IVWC was the highest reviewed and was absent of board action of the 15 vetinary doctors and hospitals reviewed. Our last vetinary facility was CityVet in the Oaklawn district of Dallas. Their facility is tantamount to the Mayo Clinic for vetinary care, so IVWC had a clear mountain to climb. Sparky (our terrier/chihuahua mix) needed to have one of his vaccinations updated and was having some scratching issues with his right ear. An appointment was made. We arrived at IVWC taking in the med spa like atmosphere of the office noting that they also practice alternative vetinary medicine: pleasant and welcome surprise. Checkin was welcoming and swift and they already had Sparkys medical records at hand. The waiting room also has rockers to calm worried fur-baby and their pet-parents nerves. Nice touch. For the first time ever, Sparky stepped onto the scale without having to be cajoled. Very good sign! Then we were lead back to an examination room with the aire of a front room, obviously meant to keep pets and people calm. It worked for us both. Sparkys Vet Assistant and Doctor were extremely pleasant, gentle and provided the best of care. Upon news that we were new to Iowa, the care team briefed us on Iowa winters where pet care is concerned and how to pet friendly manage sidewalk ice. This was also much appreciated. A few days after our appointment, IVWC made a followup call to our home to check on how the ear treatment was progressing; a week later, a hand-written (YES! Hand written) note arrived by USPS checking on Sparky and thanking us for using their services. That pushed me over the top! Excellent customer service combined with premier vetinary care! We are overwhelmed with joy and confident we have selected the best care for our fur-kid. I am considering sending my personal physician to IVWC for schooling on medical customer service.

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KA

Katy Severe

We absolutely love Dr. Wilke and her office staff! I love that she doesnt push unnecessary vaccines or immediately prescribe antibiotics when you bring your pet in. She is willing to work with you to create a holistic plan to help heal your pet, including food and diet, herbs, acupuncture, and traditional western medicine when needed. Our previous vet was so pushy about vaccines and having us purchase our flea and tick meds from their office (and pay the extra $ for them!), but Dr. Wilke suggested that we just go to Walgreens and buy the medicine there. This was a true testament to her primary mission as a care provider and not just in it for the profit. When our youngest dog had her spay surgery, there were some unforeseen complications that required her to be watched overnight. Dr. Wilke actually took our dog home with her and had her husband sleep on the couch while our dog slept on the floor next to him. Seriously, there are so few people out there who would truly care for your pet as if it were her own. Dr. Wilke diagnosed our oldest dog with lymphoma and helped refer us to the right specialist to start chemotherapy. While she couldnt help with the chemo treatments, she did help by suggesting herbs and other treatments to help boost her immune system. We are happy to report that our dog is in full remission and we hope she can stay that way for as long as possible! We feel so comfortable with Dr. Wilke and her staff. We have no doubt that when she suggests something for our pets, that she has their best interest at heart. We are so thankful that we found her and her office.

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Andrea Piekarczyk

My cat has been a patient of Iowa Veterinary Wellness for three years, and my partner and I recently began taking our rescue dog there as well. In this time, Ive had nothing but very positive experiences. The staff at IVW is unfailingly kind, competent, and supportive. Their love for animals and ability to get "on their level" is obvious: Dr. Wilke often sits on the floor with me and my cat during visits, rubbing his belly and gently checking him while we chat about his health and any concerns. Likewise, veterinary tech Christina took the time to sit down with my partner and I to talk through post-surgery care and follow-up after our dog had major dental work. Staff members are always willing to go the extra mile to answer questions, discuss care, and even provide emotional support (turns out major surgery is stressful!). Pricing is appropriate for the high level of care. Moreover, IVW is transparent about costs (itemized bills, etc.) and openly discuss why certain expenses or aspects of care are necessary. I would highly recommend them to anyone (and I do!).

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SA

Sandra Howard

I took Fred, my Labradinger, in for his check up and get his shots updated so he could attend dog day care. These folks have helped Neal and I with Freds adoption and care since we adopted him 1 year ago. We saw Dr. Gearhart this time. Fred has had issues with allergies since we adopted him, lots of gastrointestinal problems, not to mention some anxiety issues from his former home. We make frequent trips to Minnesota, so keeping Fred treated for fleas and tick bites is a must. This time his eyes were mattering terrible from his allergies. Dr. Gearhart suggested an herbal treatment that we have used for just 2 days and the mattering is gone! The gastrointestinal issue is almost resolved and they help me keep a watchful eye on any issues by sending me reminders. The whole office staff love Fred up every time we take him in. Fred doesnt mind going in because he gets so much love and attention. Dr. Gearhart and staff take time to listen and they give good solid advice that helps. Thank You Iowa Veterinary Wellness Team!!! Sandra Howard

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Melinda Carriker

I met Dr. Wilke at an event that I was at and decided to check out Iowa Veterinary Wellness Center when it was time to update my dogs vaccinations. I will now continue to go to IVWC for everything! For the first 4 years with my dog my experience with my dog going to the vet was that as soon as I opened the car door she did not want to get out, then she pulled backward on the leash the entire way into the building, tried to climb over my shoulder to get out when on the exam table, and couldnt get out fast enough at the end. Every time we have gone to IVWC (which has now been 3 times) she is exploring from the moment the car door opens, goes in the building with her tail up, has to check out every corner of the building, is ok with the exam, and doesnt pull her way back to the car (her tail is still up and wagging the entire way). The staff are all very friendly and are willing to answer any questions you have. Scheduling is also very easy. I have already begun recommending IVWC to everyone that I know!

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CH

Champion Family Chiropractic

This is the most first class care and customer service we have ever been to. Ever. From the moment you arrive, you know its different. Its set up like a home so that my dog was never nervous or shaking like a normal vet clinic where you wait in an uncomfortable, smelly waiting room to go back to an exam room with a cold slippery, stainless steel table. NOT HERE! Every detail was thought of. The individual rooms are awesome and comfortable. The animals are loved on and at-ease immediately. Dr. Kim listened to my beliefs and concerns and instead of force vaccinating, ran blood work and titres to determine risk and need! And the one vaccine (Rabies) that we did, they distracted my pet with love and treats while he was being poked and he never even knew he got it! Amazing. Top notch, all-around. My vet for life and I will continue to send everyone I know there! Thank you Dr. Wilke and Team! Dr. Justin Luneburg & Boji

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