MORE CATS! (seeking vet recommendations)

[thismightbejess.livejournal.com]

I am a relatively new pet owner and I would like some advice on local veterinarians. My cat is young and healthy and just needs a wellness exam, and maybe some help with some sudden itchiness. Very routine. I am, however, "living on a budget" as they say. There are rave reviews for many vets in the area; Porter Square, Union Square, Winter Hill and Huron all have 4 to 5 stars on The Yelp, but I suspect they are all rather expensive. Also, since I am a new pet owner, I don't actually know what "expensive" is.

Do you have any suggestions for a reasonably priced cat vet in the Davis-ish area?

Could any of you tell me what to expect to be charged for a basic exam?

Also, I'm curious if any of you have tried the Merwin Memorial Free Clinic in Allston. It seems you just show up with your pet, are seen on a first-come-first-serve basis, and are only charged for medicines and materials (though they encourage donations). The downside is that there can be a crazy-long wait. I, personally, wouldn't mind waiting, but I suspect Pickwick might consider it An Ordeal. I also think it might be better to establish a relationship with a nearby vet, who would then have all of the cat's information on hand. But super-cheap vet visits are mighty tempting....

Comments

[sd210.livejournal.com]

Dr. O'Donnell at Winter Hill Vet is excellent. I've been going there for years with my 2 cats. If your cat ever has a serious medical issue, she will refer you to Angell Memorial and is great with follow up with the specialists there. Also, she is very good with my female cat who is positively EVIL when she's at the Vet.

Finally, my friend has been going there with her cats for many years. During this time, my friend had to put one of her elderly cats to sleep after a long illness. The cat took a turn for the worse over the weekend and Dr. O'Donnell came in on a Sunday to attend to the cat. I happened to be there with my friend (I drove as she was understandably upset.) Dr. O'Donnell was compasionate and understanding during the difficult decision to put the cat down. (Sorry this post turned into a downer, but I cannot say enough good things about Winter Hill Vet).