Veterinarian Review Response Examples & Templates
HIPAA-safe, copy-paste templates for every type of veterinary review - from 1-star complaints to 5-star raves. Just fill in the [brackets] and hit send.
1What star rating is the review?
Why Veterinarians Reviews Matter
Online reviews directly impact your bottom line. Here's what the research shows.
of pet owners read online reviews before choosing a veterinarian
Source: BrightLocal
average annual vet spending per dog - making trust essential for retention
Source: APPA
minimum star rating most pet owners require before booking a new vet
Source: ReviewTrackers
of pet owners say they'd switch vets based on negative online reviews
Source: Veterinary Economics
Common Veterinarians Review Complaints
Understanding the most frequent complaints helps you prepare responses in advance. Here are the top issues customers mention in veterinarians reviews.
Misdiagnosis / Treatment Concerns
Concerns about incorrect diagnosis, wrong treatment, or pet's condition worsening after a visit.
Example review:
"Brought my dog in for limping and they said it was a sprain. $500 later, another vet found a torn ACL. Wasted money and my dog suffered longer."
Pricing & Overcharging
High vet bills, surprise charges, upselling tests or treatments, or costs not explained upfront.
Example review:
"Went in for a routine checkup and walked out with a $900 bill. They kept recommending more tests without explaining why or how much they'd cost."
Long Wait Times
Extended waits in the lobby or exam room, even with an appointment.
Example review:
"Had a 2 PM appointment and didn't see the vet until 3:30. My cat was stressed and howling the entire time. No apology, no explanation."
Staff / Bedside Manner
Rude, dismissive, or uncompassionate staff or veterinarians.
Example review:
"The vet seemed annoyed when I asked questions about my dog's treatment options. Made me feel stupid for being concerned about my own pet."
Poor Communication
Not explaining treatment options, test results, or discharge instructions clearly.
Example review:
"They gave my cat medication but never explained the side effects. When she stopped eating, I panicked. A quick heads-up would have saved me a lot of worry."
End-of-Life Experience
Complaints about how euthanasia, grief, or end-of-life decisions were handled.
Example review:
"The hardest day of my life and the vet rushed through it like it was routine. No compassion, no time to say goodbye. I'll never go back."
Scheduling & Availability
Hard to get appointments, long waits for bookings, or limited emergency availability.
Example review:
"Called for an urgent appointment and was told the next opening was in 3 weeks. My dog was visibly in pain. How is that acceptable?"
Post-Procedure Complications
Complications, infections, or issues arising after surgery or dental procedures.
Example review:
"My dog's spay incision got infected. They didn't seem concerned when I called and told me to just watch it. Had to go to an emergency vet."
Veterinarians Review Response Templates by Star Rating
Browse all templates organized by star rating. Click any section to expand and find the perfect response.
Misdiagnosis / Treatment Concerns
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We take all concerns about the quality of care very seriously. We would like the opportunity to review this matter and discuss it with you directly. Please contact us at [email/phone] so we can address your concerns thoroughly.
Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry to hear about this experience. The well-being of every pet that comes through our doors matters deeply to us. We'd love to talk with you about what happened. Please reach out at [phone] - we want to make this right.
We're deeply sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. We understand how distressing it is when your pet is in pain and you feel the care fell short. We would value the chance to discuss this with you personally. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Pricing & Overcharging
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We understand that veterinary costs can be a concern, and we strive to be transparent about pricing. We would like to review the charges with you. Please contact us at [email/phone] to discuss.
Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry about the billing surprise. We never want pet owners to feel caught off guard by costs. We'd love to go over the charges with you - please call us at [phone].
We completely understand your frustration, [Customer Name]. We know how stressful unexpected veterinary costs can be, especially when you're already worried about your pet. We'd like to review everything with you. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Long Wait Times
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We sincerely apologize for the extended wait time. We understand how stressful long waits can be, especially with anxious pets. We are reviewing our scheduling procedures. Please contact us at [email/phone] to discuss.
Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry about the long wait. We know how hard it is on both you and your pet. We're working on improving our scheduling so this doesn't happen. Please reach out at [phone].
We're truly sorry, [Customer Name]. Watching your pet stressed in a waiting room while the clock ticks is awful. We take this feedback seriously and are making changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Staff / Bedside Manner
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize that your experience did not reflect the compassionate care we strive to provide. We have addressed this with our team. Please contact us at [email/phone] to discuss further.
Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry you felt dismissed. Your questions and concerns about your pet are always valid, and our team should reflect that. We've spoken with our staff and are committed to doing better. Please reach out at [phone].
We're sincerely sorry, [Customer Name]. Being made to feel foolish for caring about your pet is unacceptable. You deserve compassion and respect, and we failed to provide that. We're making changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Poor Communication
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the lack of clear communication. Ensuring pet owners understand care instructions is essential to our practice. We are improving our procedures. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry about the communication gap. You should always know what to expect with your pet's care. We're working on explaining things better. Please reach out at [phone].
We're truly sorry, [Customer Name]. Worrying about your pet because you didn't have all the information is a terrible feeling. We should have communicated better. Please reach out at [email/phone].
End-of-Life Experience
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We are deeply sorry that your experience during such a difficult time did not meet the level of compassion you deserved. We take this feedback very seriously. Please contact us at [email/phone] if you would like to discuss this further.
Hi [Customer Name], we're so sorry this experience added to your pain during an already heartbreaking time. You and your pet deserved gentleness and patience. We're addressing this with our team. Our hearts go out to you.
We are deeply sorry, [Customer Name]. Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest experiences, and you deserved nothing but compassion and time. We failed you, and we are profoundly sorry. Please know your feedback is being taken to heart.
Scheduling & Availability
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the difficulty in scheduling. We understand that timely care is critical and are working to improve our availability. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry you couldn't get in sooner. We know how scary it is when your pet is hurting and you can't get help. We're working on expanding our availability. Please reach out at [phone].
We're truly sorry, [Customer Name]. When your pet is in pain, every day of waiting feels like an eternity. We understand your frustration and are making changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Post-Procedure Complications
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We take all post-procedure concerns very seriously. We would like to discuss your experience and ensure everything is addressed. Please contact us at [email/phone] as soon as possible.
Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry about the complications. We want to make sure everything is okay now. Please call us at [phone] so we can follow up and help in any way we can.
We're deeply sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. Worrying about your pet after a procedure is incredibly stressful, and we should have been more responsive. Please contact us at [email/phone] - your pet's recovery is our concern too.
Misdiagnosis / Treatment Concerns
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We take all concerns about care quality seriously and would like to discuss this with you. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry about your experience. We'd really like to talk about what happened. Please reach out at [phone].
We appreciate your feedback, [Customer Name]. We understand how worrying it is when your pet's care doesn't feel right. We'd like to discuss this further. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Pricing & Overcharging
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the pricing concerns. We are improving our cost communication. Please contact us at [email/phone] to review your charges.
Hi [Customer Name], sorry about the billing confusion. We want to be upfront about costs. Let's go over the charges - call us at [phone].
We understand the frustration, [Customer Name]. Vet bills can add up quickly and you deserve clarity. We're working on better upfront pricing. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Long Wait Times
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the wait. We are reviewing our scheduling to reduce delays. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Hi [Customer Name], sorry about the long wait. We know it's tough on you and your pet. We're working on it. Reach out at [phone].
We appreciate your patience, [Customer Name]. Long waits with a stressed pet are no fun. We're making changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Staff / Bedside Manner
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the experience. We are reinforcing our commitment to compassionate care. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry you didn't feel welcomed. That's not who we want to be. We're working on it. Reach out at [phone].
We're sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. You and your pet deserve warmth and respect. We're taking your feedback to heart. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Poor Communication
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the communication gap. We are improving how we explain care and follow-up instructions. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Hi [Customer Name], sorry about the communication issues. We want every pet owner to feel informed. We're working on it. Reach out at [phone].
We understand, [Customer Name]. Not knowing what to expect with your pet's care is stressful. We're improving our communication. Please reach out at [email/phone].
End-of-Life Experience
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We are sorry your experience during such a difficult time was not what it should have been. We are reviewing our end-of-life care procedures. We extend our condolences.
Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry this experience wasn't handled with the care you deserved. Losing a pet is heartbreaking, and we should have done better. Our thoughts are with you.
We're sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. Such a tender moment deserves the utmost compassion, and we hear you. We're making improvements. Our hearts go out to you and your family.
Scheduling & Availability
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the scheduling difficulty. We are working to expand our availability. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Hi [Customer Name], sorry it was hard to get an appointment. We're working on opening more slots. Reach out at [phone].
We understand, [Customer Name]. When your pet needs care, waiting weeks feels impossible. We're expanding our schedule. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Post-Procedure Complications
Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We take post-procedure concerns seriously and would like to follow up. Please contact us at [email/phone].
Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry about the complications. We want to make sure everything is okay. Please call us at [phone].
We're sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. Post-procedure concerns are stressful, and we should have been more attentive. Please reach out at [email/phone].
Misdiagnosis / Treatment Concerns
Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the balanced feedback and take your concerns about care quality seriously. We are committed to continuous improvement. Please contact us at [email/phone] if you'd like to discuss further.
Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the honest review! Glad some things went well. We take your care concerns seriously and are always working to improve. Reach out at [phone] if you want to chat.
Thanks for sharing, [Customer Name]. We're glad parts of the experience were positive. We take all care concerns to heart and are constantly working to do better for every pet.
Pricing & Overcharging
Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the honest feedback on pricing. We are working to improve our cost transparency so pet owners know what to expect.
Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! Glad the care was good. We hear you on the pricing and are working on clearer cost communication upfront.
Thanks for the balanced feedback, [Customer Name]. We know vet costs can be stressful. We're committed to more upfront pricing so there are fewer surprises.
Long Wait Times
Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback on wait times. We are working to improve our scheduling. We hope to provide a smoother experience next time.
Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! Sorry about the wait. We're working on tighter scheduling so you and your pet spend less time in the lobby.
Thanks for sharing, [Customer Name]. We know waiting with a stressed pet is no fun. We're making improvements and appreciate your patience.
Staff / Bedside Manner
Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the balanced feedback. Compassionate care is our priority and we are reinforcing this with our team.
Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the honest review! We hear you on the bedside manner. We're coaching our team to be warmer and more patient. Glad the care itself was good!
Thanks for the feedback, [Customer Name]. We want every pet owner to feel heard and respected. We're working on it and appreciate you sharing.
Poor Communication
Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback on communication. We are improving how we explain care plans and follow-up instructions.
Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! We hear you on the communication. We're working on making sure pet owners always know what to expect.
Thanks for sharing, [Customer Name]. We understand how important clear communication is when it comes to your pet's health. We're making improvements.
End-of-Life Experience
Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We are sorry for the loss of your pet and appreciate the feedback. We are continually improving our end-of-life care to ensure every family receives the compassion they deserve.
Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your experience. We're working on giving families more time and compassion during these moments. Our thoughts are with you.
We're sorry for your loss, [Customer Name]. We take your feedback about this sacred moment seriously and are making changes. Our hearts go out to your family.
Scheduling & Availability
Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback on scheduling. We are working to expand our availability to better serve our community.
Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! We hear you on the scheduling. We're working on more appointment slots. Glad the visit was good once you got in!
Thanks for the feedback, [Customer Name]. We know getting timely care for your pet matters. We're expanding our schedule to reduce wait times for appointments.
Post-Procedure Complications
Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback and take all post-procedure concerns seriously. Please don't hesitate to contact us at [email/phone] if you have ongoing questions.
Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! We hope everything is going well now. If you have any concerns, call us at [phone] - we're always here to help.
Thanks for sharing, [Customer Name]. We want every recovery to go smoothly. We're improving our follow-up care and are here if you need anything.
Misdiagnosis / Treatment Concerns
Thank you for the great review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the overall experience was positive. We appreciate the feedback and are always working to provide the best care possible.
Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! Glad your pet is doing well. We're always working to improve and appreciate the honest feedback!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We're so glad the experience was positive overall. We take all feedback to heart and are always striving to do our very best for every pet.
Pricing & Overcharging
Thank you for the kind review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the care was excellent. We appreciate the pricing feedback and are working to communicate costs more clearly.
Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! We hear you on the costs. Quality pet care is an investment, and we're working on making pricing more transparent.
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know vet bills can add up. We're glad the care was wonderful and are committed to clearer pricing so there are no surprises.
Long Wait Times
Thank you for the positive review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the care was excellent. We appreciate the scheduling feedback and are working to reduce wait times.
Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! Sorry about the wait - we're working on it! Glad the care was top-notch once you got in.
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We appreciate your patience and are glad the care was worth the wait. We're improving our scheduling to make the whole experience smoother.
Staff / Bedside Manner
Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the care was wonderful. We appreciate the feedback and are always working to improve the experience.
Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! Our team loves caring for pets. We hear the feedback and are working to make every interaction warm and welcoming!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We're thrilled your pet received great care. We're always working to make sure pet owners feel just as cared for as their furry friends.
Poor Communication
Thank you for the kind review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the care was excellent. We appreciate the communication feedback and are improving our information-sharing.
Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! We hear you on the communication and are working on keeping pet owners better informed. Glad the care was awesome!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We want you to feel informed and confident about your pet's care. We're improving our communication and appreciate the feedback.
End-of-Life Experience
Thank you for the kind review, [Customer Name]. We are honored to have been trusted during such a difficult time. We are sorry for your loss and are committed to providing the most compassionate care possible.
Thank you, [Customer Name]. We're sorry for your loss and are honored you trusted us during this time. Our whole team sends love to your family.
Thank you for sharing, [Customer Name]. Helping families through this moment is sacred to us. We're sorry for your loss and are here for you anytime.
Scheduling & Availability
Thank you for the positive review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the visit went well. We appreciate the scheduling feedback and are expanding our availability.
Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! We hear you on the scheduling. We're adding more availability so it's easier to get in. Glad the care was great!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know timely care matters. We're working on our schedule so getting an appointment is easier. Glad the visit was wonderful!
Post-Procedure Complications
Thank you for the great review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the overall experience was positive. We appreciate the feedback and are here if you have any follow-up concerns.
Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! Glad everything went well. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call [phone] - we're always here!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We're so glad the experience was positive. We're always here for follow-up questions - your pet's recovery matters to us.
Misdiagnosis / Treatment Concerns
Thank you for the outstanding review, [Customer Name]! We're thrilled that our team provided thorough, accurate care. The health and well-being of every pet is our highest priority. We look forward to seeing you and your pet again!
Wow, thank you [Customer Name]! We're so happy to hear your pet is doing great. Our team loves what they do, and reviews like this make it all worth it!
Thank you so much, [Customer Name]! Knowing your pet received excellent care and that you feel confident in our team means everything to us. We're here whenever you need us!
Pricing & Overcharging
Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! We're delighted that you found our pricing fair and our care exceptional. Transparent, honest pricing is important to us at [Business Name].
Thanks for the amazing review, [Customer Name]! We work hard to offer great care at fair prices. So glad you and your pet had a wonderful experience!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know pet care is an investment, and it means so much that you feel the value matches the quality. We're here for your pet, always.
Long Wait Times
Thank you for the outstanding review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the appointment ran smoothly and your pet received excellent care. Respecting your time is a priority at [Business Name]!
Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! In and out with great care - that's what we aim for! So glad you and your pet had a great visit!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know your time matters, especially when your pet is involved. We're so glad everything went smoothly!
Staff / Bedside Manner
Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! Our team takes pride in providing compassionate, gentle care for every pet. We're honored by your kind words and look forward to seeing you again!
Thanks for the amazing review, [Customer Name]! Our team truly loves animals, and it shows. So glad you and your pet felt the love!
Thank you so much, [Customer Name]! We believe every pet (and pet parent) deserves compassion and warmth. It means the world that you felt cared for!
Poor Communication
Thank you for the outstanding review, [Customer Name]! We're pleased that our team communicated clearly throughout your visit. Keeping pet owners informed is a core value at [Business Name]!
Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! We love explaining things so pet owners feel confident and informed. So glad the whole experience was great!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know how important it is to understand your pet's care. We're so glad our team kept you informed and at ease!
End-of-Life Experience
Thank you for your kind words, [Customer Name]. We are honored to have been trusted during such a profound moment. Our team provided the most compassionate care possible. We extend our deepest condolences to your family.
Thank you, [Customer Name]. We're honored you trusted us with this moment. Our whole team sends love to your family. Your pet was lucky to have been so loved.
Thank you for sharing, [Customer Name]. Being part of this sacred moment is a privilege we never take lightly. Your pet was surrounded by love and gentleness. Our hearts are with you.
Scheduling & Availability
Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! We're glad we could accommodate you quickly and that the visit was wonderful. Your pet's health can't wait, and neither should you!
Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! We love being able to get pets in quickly. So glad the visit was a great experience all around!
Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know how anxious it feels waiting for a vet appointment. We're so glad we could see your pet quickly and provide excellent care!
Post-Procedure Complications
Thank you for the outstanding review, [Customer Name]! We're delighted the procedure went smoothly and recovery is going well. Our team takes pride in thorough, careful work. We're here anytime you need us!
Thanks for the amazing review, [Customer Name]! So glad the procedure went perfectly and your pet is bouncing back. We love happy endings!
Thank you so much, [Customer Name]! We know how nerve-wracking procedures can be for pet parents. We're thrilled everything went smoothly and your pet is doing great!
Veterinarians Review Response Best Practices
Templates get you started, but these best practices will help you craft responses that truly build trust.
Never Confirm Patient Status
HIPAA-adjacent privacy rules apply to veterinary records in many states. Never confirm that someone is or was a patient/client. Use phrases like "We take all feedback seriously" rather than "When you brought [pet name] in..."
Lead with Compassion, Always
Pet owners are emotionally invested. Even unreasonable complaints come from a place of love and worry. Acknowledge the emotion first - then address the substance. Defensive responses are read by every future pet owner.
Handle End-of-Life Reviews with Extra Care
End-of-life reviews are the most emotionally charged. Never be defensive. Express genuine condolences, acknowledge the sacred nature of the moment, and offer to discuss offline. These responses define your practice's character.
Explain Costs Without Being Defensive
Vet bills cause sticker shock. In your responses, briefly reference the quality of care, equipment, and expertise without arguing about pricing. Invite them to discuss offline. Future pet owners are watching how you handle money concerns.
Respond Within 24 Hours
Pet owners often write reviews during emotional moments. A fast, compassionate response can turn a negative reviewer into a loyal client. Set up review alerts and make daily responses part of your practice routine.
Celebrate Your Team in Positive Responses
When responding to 5-star reviews, mention your team by role (not name): "Our veterinary technicians take pride in gentle handling." This builds trust, helps with SEO, and makes your team feel appreciated.
Emotional Reviews Require Emotional Intelligence
Veterinary reviews are unique because they're about beloved family members. A bad experience at a vet isn't like a bad meal - it's about fear, guilt, grief, and love. Your review responses need to match that emotional register. Lead with empathy, validate the feeling behind the complaint, and resist every urge to explain or defend. The pet owners reading your responses are imagining their own pets in that situation. Show them that you care as much as they do.
HIPAA-Safe Response Checklist for Veterinary Practices
Responding to pet owner reviews requires careful attention to privacy. While HIPAA technically covers human healthcare, many states have similar veterinary privacy regulations, and professional ethics standards apply. A well-meaning response can create issues if it confirms someone's client status or references specific treatments. Every template on this page is written to avoid these common mistakes:
- ✓Never confirms or denies that someone is or was a client of your practice
- ✓Never references specific pets by name, breed, or condition
- ✓Never mentions diagnoses, treatments, procedures, or medications
- ✓Uses general language like "We take all feedback seriously" instead of confirming details
- ✓Always redirects to private communication for specifics
This is exactly what makes responding to veterinarians reviews different from responding to restaurant or auto repair reviews - and why generic templates can be risky for your practice.
Templates Are Safe. AI Is Safe and Personal.
These templates follow HIPAA-safe practices - but they’re still generic. You have to find the right one, customize the placeholders, and copy-paste it every time. Reply Champion goes further:
- ✓AI reads each review and writes a truly personalized response
- ✓Every response is automatically screened for common HIPAA red flags before it’s posted
- ✓Built-in safeguards designed to help prevent accidental disclosure of patient information
- ✓You review and approve, or auto-post - your choice
No credit card required
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about responding to veterinarians reviews.