Shelter Island Veterinary Hosp

I took my dog there to get treated for emergency stomach surgery (my dog had swallowed some legos) and I just wanted to say that the doctors were great and the staff knew how to make my dog comfortable and relaxed. I was afraid my dog wouldn't make it, but fortunately I was wrong and now I make sure that there's no easy to swallow plastic toys lying around for him to swallow. I'm very thankful for the great service. more

I am sorry to say I also had a very negative experience at this clinic and do not recommend it to others.\r \r Dr. Darnell did not act in a professional or courteous manner and appeared to have lots of reasons why phone calls weren't returned and why she spoke rudely.\r \r I received a letter in response to my correspondence to Dr. Darnell, but not until after I filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. \r \r Very disappointing experience. more

I had a terrible experience here and would NOT recommend this place to anyone unless you're a millionaire. \r I took my cat here because she seemed to be having problems urinating. After checking her out, I was told that she had a UTI, but that they also suspected that she had a bladder stone. The initial cost was going to be somewhere around $200, but after discovering the possible stone, it went up to somewhere around $400...which was fine....I agreed and was sent on my way (they had to keep her until her bladder was full to run the tests). Before I left, I asked what we would have to do if it was a stone and for a rough estimate on cost. I was told that they would HAVE to do surgery and that at the MOST it would cost $1200. I left, held my breath and hoped for no stone. \r About an hour later, I got a call telling me that it was in fact a bladder stone. I was then informed that because my cat is a senior (she's 8), they wanted to run some more tests on her so my total for this visit was going to be near $700! IN ADDITION to that, the surgery was going to cost over $1500. In shock, and obviously upset, but wanting to do what was best for my cat, I asked if I had ANY other options as there was no way I could afford that amount of money. The lady on the other end, who I believe was the vet's assistant of some sort, told me that surgery WAS MY ONLY OPPTION AS IT WAS NECESSARY and started giving me information on a credit card I could get to pay for the services. I told her I needed to process everything and that I would call back in a bit. When I got off the phone, I started doing my own research on stones and discovered that there are actually two kinds of stones, the more common one (struvite) can be cured with antibiotics and change of diet (in most cases). I called a different vet (Grand Animal Hospital) and told them about my situation. They said that if surgery was necessary, which it may NOT be, the most they would charge was $800. I made an appointment with them and went to pick my cat up immediately. \r When I got there, I told them I was going to take her elsewhere and that I only wanted to be charged for the services done that day. After having a debate with the cashier lady on my bill, I was called back into the office to talk with Dr Darnell. It was then she told me about the two kinds of stones (she actually couldn't remember the names of both!!! Her reason being.....she had a headache!!????!!!) She then told me that we could try changing her diet and put her on antibiotics to try and get rid of it first (all of a sudden, now that I was taking my cat elsewhere, I had options other than surgery?!?! hmmmmm...weird, cause when I asked on the phone, I was specifically told that surgery was the ONLY option) She said she just suggested the surgery so my cat wouldn't be in pain any more (but duh, she would be in pain from the surgery any way!). She went on to say she personally has done surgery for her animals in the past, but then again she doesn't have to pay (SHE ACTUALLY SAID THIS TO ME! Not helping her case if you ask me). Dr. Darnell then sold me some of the prescription food and gave me an antibiotic. \r To close, when I took my cat to Grand Animal Hospital, I found out that she gave me THE WRONG PRESCRIPTION FOOD!! (there are two kinds c/d and s/d). I would NEVER NEVER go back here again. Like previous reviews have said, they are ALL ABOUT THE MONEY. I do think Dr. Darnell truly cares about animals, but she should really get her priorities straight. It is really messed up to toy with someone like she did. When it comes to your pet, people are willing to pay $$ because they are like children to you. It is seriously appalling when people like Dr. Darnell take advantage of that. If you care for your pet, take them to Grand Animal Hospital. My cat is on a special diet now and doing great!\r \r more

I do cat rescue and know many, MANY veterinarians. If I have learned nothing else along the way, it?s to chose your vet carefully. We assume they all like animals, but some shift more toward the money and others toward really doing what is best for the animals. Since the animals can?t speak, it takes instincts (for lack of a better word) to diagnose what is really wrong. I have met a few vets as good as Dr. Darnell but none better. In my layman?s perception, she is a superb diagnostician. She has gotten to the bottom of tricky issues that other vets have missed, and she?s not afraid to say when\r she just doesn?t know which hasn?t been very often. She has always been very upfront about what needs to be done and why. In addition, she is PASSIONATE about the animals and rescue in general. I can quote dozens of stories about how she has stood up for the animals?against the humans if absolutely necessary?and has taken in sick, injured, neglected and abused animals\r and nu more

Since I was a child (back in the '60's) my family has taken all of our animals to Shelter Island Veterinary Hospital. I now take all my family's animals to Shelter Island Veterinary Hospital. Dr. Barbara Darnell-Schuber took over SIVH and I was so impressed with how she interacted with my pets. Dr. Darnell-Schuber is a very caring veterinarian and she and her staff are all so wonderful. I recommend SIVH to all who are looking for a new veterinarian. more

I've taken numerous cats to Dr. Darnell (my own 4 and cats I foster through a local rescue group). She has gone above and beyond, even fitting me in last-minute for emergency issues. She loves animals and is really nice to you and the pets! Thanks Dr. Darnell! more

SIVH was wonderful to our kitty (heman). He had 3 major surgeries and they explained everything to us and made us feel very confident. Our kitty was in great hands and it went very well. All the ladies were so friendly and they remembered our names. We felt like family while being in there. I wouldn't take my kitty anywhere else. \r \r Dr. Barbara Darnell-Schuber is so knowledgeable and professional. She is so great with animals and you can tell she loves her job. She always made the effort to come and say hi to us and the kitty. She even answered emailed questions that I had about the surgeries. \r \r The hospital is good size and the rooms were very clean. In all the experience with them was wonderful. I would highly recommend them to anyone with a pet. You wont be disappointed with this group of doctors and staff. more

I am very much in agreement with Pilar N. I moved about 6 months ago (after going here for 2 years). Dr Darnell was very unprofessional. She seems to be a good doctor, but I also would hear her ranting and raving in other parts of the hospital. She also would talk too much about her personal life and other clients!! The overall appearance of the hospital had definitely gone downhill, too. Messy lobby, dusty cobwebs, dirty floors (understand this is a pet hospital, but more care should be taken to keep clean).They always run behind in appointments, have a chaotic atmosphere, and are expensive. more

I accompanied my Girlfriend to Dr. Darnell's office for a new kitten exam. We were not greeted or acknowledge right away, finally after a long wait we were put in a room.\r The technician was very informative and did not seem like a car sales man, she was genuinely nice and wanted whats best for our new kitten. The tech then offered us water or coffee while we waited for the Doctor to come in. I can hear in the background a woman going off on an employee than rambling about some contractor issue, it was as if she wanted the whole hospital to know. The exam was very brief and the doc seemed very pushy about recommendations that we had decided not to do. She cut us off twice while answering her questions. At time of checking out I can still hear the Dr. going off again, she is extremely loud without limits or concerns of clients in the lobby.I feel for the staff that has to work with such a "child". The moral of the hospital is very low, not a happy place at all. I cant remember your nam more

Dr. Barbara Darnell is the best vet I've ever encountered. She is at the other end of the county but the trip is easily worthwhile.. My cats have thrived in her care owing to her knowledge and skill. I was sure they would have to be euthanized until she took over. Her compassionate and personable yet direct approach always assure me that my animals are in capable hands. Kudos! more

No words can describe how blessed we feel that our beloved black labs are in the care of Dr. Darnell and her staff. Back in December Seamus was diagonsed with osteo sarcoma in his hind leg. She knew what it was before the biopsy even came back - She cleared her schedule the next day so she could amputate his leg. Saved his life! It's 7 months later and he is thriving! She is one of the most compassionate people I have ever met! She understands that crazy people like me would take in every stray animal if I could. She treats my dogs as if they were hers. It bothers me to read negative things about someone that my family holds dear. My dogs have had everything done from teeth cleaning to having a leg amputated! Thank you Dr. D for taking such great care of our boys!\r Love, The Holt Family more

I was referred to Dr. Darnell by a woman who is involved with cat rescue, who has taken dozens of rescued cats to Dr. Darnell. My cat ate a rubber band and became horribly sick. Dr. Darnell performed surgery and saved my cat's life. He recovered well from the surgery and is back to normal now. She exhibited compassion and commitment to getting him better. She is also down-to-earth and I like that about her. I am very grateful for Dr. Darnell and what she has done for my cat. more

I was introduced to Dr. Barbara Darnell about eight years ago when my beloved ferret developed an oversized spleen. She removed the spleen and my ferret was like a new animal. Since that time, Dr. Darnell has performed a complicated hip surgery on my dog who got hit by a car, helped my roommate's cat had congenital heart failure after the Cedar Fire burned down our home, treated my elderly cat with hyperthyroidism and renal insufficiencies, came to my home to euthanize my 15 year old dog and most recently worked non-stop to help save my two cats who became ill from eating recalled Iams pet food. After a year of care, they have been taken off daily fluids and are on maintenance only therapy. If it were not for Dr. Darnell, my cats would have died. I have never doubted her ability to perform whatever care my animals require. She has shown enormous compassion, understanding and professionalism in every circumstance and challenge I have presented to her. Since I have numerous ani more

I just became aware of this site, and after reading the three negative reviews, it is hard for me to believe they are talking about the same veterinarian that I have known and used for the past four years.\r Dr. Darnell discovered a very small, but very deadly, tumor in my dog during his yearly physical, and the physical she performed was anything but superficial. If she had not discovered the small growth, removed it, suggested a biopsy and recommended specialists to continue treatment, my dog would not be alive today.\r Now, two years later, she correctly diagnosed a unique, venomous bite which was later confirmed by biopsy and additional tests.\r I have never had anything but a positive experience with Dr. Darnell, and since I'm one of those radical individuals who consider his dog a son rather than a pet, I would never take him to someone I did not trust. \r Lastly, I have never had anything but excellent service from the staff. They have always treated me professionally, answered an more

I have had wonderful experiences with Dr. Darnell and her office for both my own animals as well as animals I foster for a local rescue. I like that she takes time to pet my cat, talk to me, answer questions, offer advice. I love her standard of care, and how she simply explains things, and puts things into perspective whether or not she would do it to her own animals--and I absolutely trust her judgement. She doesn't use ridiculous and incomprehensible medical jargon, she advises, offers solutions and alternatives, she takes a real interest in each and every animal--and owner. You can't ask for better. So many practices have a front office staff that is easily confused and don't understand animal-speak, but even her front office staff is knowledgeable and helpful. If you're even considering using her, she is absolutely, hands down, worth checking out. more

Dr. Darnell is the BEST vet I have ever had for my pets. I have always had good vets over the last 32 years, but none compare to Dr. Barbara Darnell. She has a love for animals that shows in her care for her patients.\r \r Dr. Darnell is very knowledgeable, caring, explains procedures in detail, gives options for treatments, is reasonably priced compared to what other vets charge (I've price compared), and as I mentioned...loves the animals.\r \r I have recommended her to all my friends that have pets, and they agree...she is an outstanding vet. We have been going to Dr. Darnell for over 6 years now. We will continue to go to Dr. Darnell until she retires. She's young, so this is a long time away.\r \r Please take the Anonymous Review with a fraction of a grain of salt. This person could not even put down their name. How credible is that. It sounds as if he or she may have some type of emotional problem with reasoning, and it sounds from their comments as if he or she is far from hav more

My dog had to have emergency surgery from another vet after having his tooth extracted from her. I brought him to see her after the extraction site had gotten infected, she prescribed antibiotics and said to flush the extraction site and he'd be fine in a few days(she didn't even give him anymore pain medication, which he was on his last day of- even after I asked her if he needed it). Two days later I read the review on here about the cat who had died from an infected tooth extraction site. I called Dr. Darnell and asked if my dog could die, she laughed and said no it was no big deal. I took my dog to another vet right away. They immediately took my dog into surgery. He was x-rayed and bone fragments had been left in the site. There was so little tissue left after the infection was removed, that the new vet was forced to drill away part of my dog's mouth bone to create enough to close the hole. The new vet told us that he would never have removed the large k-9 tooth unless it w more

Our dog Max should be named "Hoover" because he is a vacuum, eating anything he finds on the floor. When our ?typically puppyish? 4-year old Lab started acting lethargic and wouldn?t eat, we knew something was wrong. We took him to the office where Dr D took some x-rays. She could see he had eaten a rock, but it was already most of the way through his system. The x-ray showed a different problem with his intestines. She did surgery and found he had eaten a plastic bread tie, which had pinched his intestines shut. The surgery went well, but he needed to be on an IV and medication through the night. We explained we were on a tight budget, so rather than keep him overnight, Dr. D graciously agreed to send us home with detailed instructions, shots and an IV for Max. We brought him in the next day for a follow up visit, and he was quickly back to his playful ways. We have no doubt that Dr Darnell saved his life. Her professional manner, knowledge and genuine love of animal more

We've been bringing our two cats to Dr. Darnell for the past eight years. We've followed her wherever she's been and were very happy that she got her own practice there in Shelter Island. The reason we came to Dr. D originally is that no other vet could accurately diagnose our cats' urinary tract and bladder issue. She's extremely knowledgeable about animal medicine and keeps up on the latest procedures and techniques. She's also very compassionate and treats our cats like her own. We wouldn't trust our "kids" to anyone but Dr. Darnell. more

We highly recommend Shelter Island Veterinary Hospital. The staff is always very courteous and helpful and Dr. Darnell is a fantastic vet. Our cat would not be here if not for her dedication to the practice and her sincere compassion for animals. She treats your animal(s) as if they were her own. We like that she is straightforward and completely honest regarding your pet?s health - good news or bad. Our cat has been under Dr. Darnell?s care for almost 9 years. We?ve had a few scares with our cat?s health, but knowing that she is in Dr. Darnell?s care puts us at ease. We know that Dr. Darnell will always go above and beyond to make sure her clients are well taken care of. If you are uncertain or just not happy with the vet you are currently with, definitely give Dr. Darnell?s office a call. You will not be disappointed. Keep up the amazing work, Dr. D!!!\r \r Honestly, does it really matter what color a person?s hair is?! I don?t think so. more