When a dog arrived critically ill after other vets refused help, Gentle Touch took her in without hesitation and gave her a chance. Long-term clients credit the team for treating serious illness with genuine care, remembering details, calling to check in, and making euthanasia sessions dignified rather than rushed. Staff names like Dr. Dunham, Dr. VanKoot, Dr. Drees, Dr. Snyder, Natalie, and Brandon show up across multiple years of reviews.
The main friction is pricing. Reviewers note estimates that jump from $650 to $900, a $350 bill for a rabies shot, and descriptions of the hospital as "here for the money not actual wellness." Yet others cite reasonable exam prices and note the cost reflects quality care. A few long-standing clients call out what they see as the clinic's defensive response to criticism online.
Staff earn consistent praise for warmth and expertise, and the practice retains long-term clients by remembering personal details and supporting them through pet loss. Long waits are routine, diagnoses can shift between vets, and billing communication has tripped up families, particularly around Care Club renewal and collections.
Staff combine genuine compassion with deep expertise, especially with exotic pets like rabbits, geckos, and birds. They see animals as individuals, handle them gently through stressful moments, and explain care steps so owners feel confident. Appointment length occasionally stretches, and isolated cases report frustration with medication refills and exam communication, but the overwhelming pattern is staff going beyond protocol, like texting results after hours or demonstrating medication techniques on the lobby floor. Named vets including Dr. Ruoff, Dr. Guerrera, Dr. Lykins, and Dr. Fitzgerald bring specialist skills in surgery, avian care, and exotic medicine. They offer same-day urgent care, exotic surgery, dental work for small mammals, and financing through Cherry (no hard credit checks). The clinic welcomes walk-ins with stray animals needing help and coordinates internally with evident professional respect.
Most owners report clean teeth and fresh breath after anesthesia-free cleaning, with Dr. Kaci and technicians Emily and Tori praised for gentleness and thoroughness. The service costs less than vet clinic dental work and suits dogs who tolerate handling well, but front desk rudeness, fixed prices regardless of dog size, and inability to detect disease beneath the gum line without radiographs concern some reviewers. K-9 Smiles operates from grooming facilities and uses anesthesia-free scaling. Owners appreciate the option for older or anxious dogs, though critics note this approach cannot assess true dental health. Staff warmth varies notably between clinical and administrative personnel.
Last updated 2026-07-07