With our team of nationally recognized specialists and our state-of-the-art facility, pet owners and referring veterinarians know they can count on us for exceptional care in Plainview, NY. This care is delivered with genuine compassion, fueled by our unwavering commitment to treat you and your pet with thoughtfulness and respect. We give our best so your pet can feel better - and so can you. We proudly serve the pets of Plainview, New York City and surrounding areas. Call us today at (516) 501-1700!.
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When your pet needs emergency or trauma services, or advanced treatment from a board-certified specialist, you can count on Long Island Veterinary Specialists (LIVS) 24/7, every day of the year. While we serve Long Island's primary care veterinarians and pet owners, we often receive patient referrals from farther away-a testament to the reputation we've earned for superb care.
As board-certified specialists, residency trained veterinarians, and credentialed professionals, we have dedicated ourselves to delivering the most advanced treatments in our chosen field. By working alongside colleagues who share our commitment to offering leading-edge therapies, we are a unique blend of experts who provide hope, help, and healing.
Did you know that accreditation for animal hospitals is voluntary? Surprising, isn't it? Nearly 60 percent of pet owners believe that their pet's veterinary hospital is accredited when it is not. In actuality, only 12-15% of animal hospitals have gone through the accreditation evaluation process by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
A medical emergency is frightening for you and your pet. Knowing that Long Island's most advanced veterinary emergency and critical care facility is here for you 24/7 can make things a little easier. With a highly skilled trauma team, advanced technology and a fully staffed intensive care unit (ICU), LIVS is equipped to handle emergencies for dogs, cats, and all exotic animals including birds, rabbits, reptiles and other pocket pets-ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet and peace of mind for you.
Reviews (17)
Nicole Guy
Jun 29, 2022
I waited almost two hours to see a Vet. There was one dog already with the Vet at 6am. I also watched at least 10 people that work there come and go with no concern for my dog. I get a call at 8 am to come in. When I said I left they called for me to come in and when I explained I left she laughs and says I'm sorry your not happy with our "company".
I thought I was at a "emergency" vet that cares for animals health? I was wrong. If you need an emergency vet go to Westbury. Your pet is not a priority there & neither is your time.
I thought I was at a "emergency" vet that cares for animals health? I was wrong. If you need an emergency vet go to Westbury. Your pet is not a priority there & neither is your time.
Matt Esrick
Jun 26, 2022
This place is run poorly. Saw my normal vet, was sent here as an emergency to see a neuro specialist. They call, we call, to set it up to ensure things will go smoothly and I live an hour away. We get there and they take the dog in 15 mins which was good. But no one falls to mention that the CT machine is down and the specialists left before we even arrived. Missing the whole point of coming.
I'm writing this while sitting in their parking lot right now. Been here since 4pm. Apparently it takes 4 hrs to do a cbc and inject with a steroid since there's nothing else they can do since the people and machines i came here for weren't operational. But again no one decides to communicate that. Now I can't pickup my kid till 9pm at the earliest and the receptionist puts me on hold for 10 mins at a time to get an ETA.
This whole experience makes me regret coming here. Maybe they know their stuff but can't confirm that since we never saw the specialist we came for and now it's laughable that they want a followup next week to see said specialist. All this time here and no one can even suggest a treatment protocol. Oh and don't forget the ridiculous $22 medical waste fee on top of the actual charges, which is 4x what my normal vet charges. Not doing this again and I don't recommend anyone else do it.
I'm writing this while sitting in their parking lot right now. Been here since 4pm. Apparently it takes 4 hrs to do a cbc and inject with a steroid since there's nothing else they can do since the people and machines i came here for weren't operational. But again no one decides to communicate that. Now I can't pickup my kid till 9pm at the earliest and the receptionist puts me on hold for 10 mins at a time to get an ETA.
This whole experience makes me regret coming here. Maybe they know their stuff but can't confirm that since we never saw the specialist we came for and now it's laughable that they want a followup next week to see said specialist. All this time here and no one can even suggest a treatment protocol. Oh and don't forget the ridiculous $22 medical waste fee on top of the actual charges, which is 4x what my normal vet charges. Not doing this again and I don't recommend anyone else do it.
Noel DuBois
Jun 05, 2022
I called Monday, June 6, to speak to someone in the Dermatology Department and was told no one would be in today. So I called back today, Tuesday, June 7th and was told my message would be forwarded and someone would contact me on Wednesday. Again, no one is there to talk to. I questioned why staff wasn't in on Monday or Tuesday and whomever I was speaking with got rude and said, ''Do you want me to leave a message or not''' in a very rude tone.
My comment was, ''Nice and yes I do want you to leave the message!'' I then hung up. My dog has been under their care for a month at over $2000.00 in expenses only to see her getting worse. Being concerned I wanted to see what else we can try. I am sorry I did not get the rude persons name because I would lodge a complaint with the Administration Office. But if my message was forwarded to the Department, she can be found out and I hope this complaint is taken seriously.
My comment was, ''Nice and yes I do want you to leave the message!'' I then hung up. My dog has been under their care for a month at over $2000.00 in expenses only to see her getting worse. Being concerned I wanted to see what else we can try. I am sorry I did not get the rude persons name because I would lodge a complaint with the Administration Office. But if my message was forwarded to the Department, she can be found out and I hope this complaint is taken seriously.
Virginia Forletta
May 15, 2022
If I could give 20 million stars I would. I initially wanted to get my Yorkie Jagger evaluated for a collapse trachea. He has been having difficulty breathing since I rescued him 2 years ago. I took him to different Drs hoping I can find an alternative to surgery. All vets advised not to get the surgery and to give him cough suppressants, which really did not help.
I knew his struggling to breathe was getting worse and was just curious what a specialist would say. I arrived for a 3:30 appointment to have my baby looked at by Dr Marino. I will say I was bit upset sitting in the parking lot waiting for someone to take him in and almost left because I just had a very bad feeling. As I decided to leave when someone came to the car and picked my dog up.
Within 15 minutes the Dr called me back and told me my dog will die if emergency surgery was not done immediately. At first, I thought is he kidding me but I knew I was there because he was struggling to breathe and it was getting worse. I just said do it & held my breathe and cried all the way home thinking it was the last time I would see my baby.
I read so many negative reviews on this site and I cringed to think I just said yes. I received a phone call before I pulled into my driveway and was told he was doing fine & the operation was successful. I picked him up the next day and to my disbelief I had a new dog breathing normally, barely coughing or bad side affects. I still cannot believe how great he is doing so far just 2 days in and to think I would keep him on poisonous medication vs surgery is unbelievable. Dr Marino, thank you, thank you, thank you for saving my baby Jagger life.
I couldn't bare the thought of loosing him as he brings so much joy to our family and friends, he's our family, he's my life. Anyone reading this, do not hesitate having Dr Marino as your angel when your baby needs help because he's definitely mine and his great staff! Thank you all!
I knew his struggling to breathe was getting worse and was just curious what a specialist would say. I arrived for a 3:30 appointment to have my baby looked at by Dr Marino. I will say I was bit upset sitting in the parking lot waiting for someone to take him in and almost left because I just had a very bad feeling. As I decided to leave when someone came to the car and picked my dog up.
Within 15 minutes the Dr called me back and told me my dog will die if emergency surgery was not done immediately. At first, I thought is he kidding me but I knew I was there because he was struggling to breathe and it was getting worse. I just said do it & held my breathe and cried all the way home thinking it was the last time I would see my baby.
I read so many negative reviews on this site and I cringed to think I just said yes. I received a phone call before I pulled into my driveway and was told he was doing fine & the operation was successful. I picked him up the next day and to my disbelief I had a new dog breathing normally, barely coughing or bad side affects. I still cannot believe how great he is doing so far just 2 days in and to think I would keep him on poisonous medication vs surgery is unbelievable. Dr Marino, thank you, thank you, thank you for saving my baby Jagger life.
I couldn't bare the thought of loosing him as he brings so much joy to our family and friends, he's our family, he's my life. Anyone reading this, do not hesitate having Dr Marino as your angel when your baby needs help because he's definitely mine and his great staff! Thank you all!
Halegua Family
Apr 24, 2022
Our cat was back and forth to our local vet for vomiting and poor appetite for a week when they finally discovered a mass in her intestine and referred us to LI Vet Specialists. LI Vet Specialists fit her in right away with an appointment and ended up performing emergency surgery on her that day. She had to remain there for 3 nights for monitoring.
We called multiple times a day to check in with her status and every single employee was so kind and answered all of our questions (even if our questions were redundant, they never seemed bothered at all). We had a few hiccups when we got her home and when we called to speak with a vet, we got a prompt call back and they made us feel at ease. She is back to normal now (yelling at us for food and treats, being playful, and kneading on us like crazy).
I am so grateful for LI vet specialists for saving our cats life. We whole heartedly trust them and will be choosing them for our cats care from now on. Thank you so so much to Dr. Barber and staff! We appreciate you all more than you know!
We called multiple times a day to check in with her status and every single employee was so kind and answered all of our questions (even if our questions were redundant, they never seemed bothered at all). We had a few hiccups when we got her home and when we called to speak with a vet, we got a prompt call back and they made us feel at ease. She is back to normal now (yelling at us for food and treats, being playful, and kneading on us like crazy).
I am so grateful for LI vet specialists for saving our cats life. We whole heartedly trust them and will be choosing them for our cats care from now on. Thank you so so much to Dr. Barber and staff! We appreciate you all more than you know!
Eric Jay
Feb 20, 2022
We have been having trouble diagnosing our Italian Greyhound issues for more than 6 months. After many vet visits our Veterinarian advised us to go here. Dr Marino examined and gave his recommendations. I felt this was a last ditch effort to help Sophia our IG. Italian Greyhound. So thankful to have brought her here. She was diagnosed, had surgery which she came through quite well.
She is her old self again and my wife and I are so happy with all the great care and friendliness of the entire staff. Very impressed with the professionalism, smiles, information and expectation of the entire process and outcome A BIG THANKS TO DR MARINO AND HIS FANTASTIC STAFF.
She is her old self again and my wife and I are so happy with all the great care and friendliness of the entire staff. Very impressed with the professionalism, smiles, information and expectation of the entire process and outcome A BIG THANKS TO DR MARINO AND HIS FANTASTIC STAFF.
Beth Lipson
Jan 18, 2022
There doesn't seem to be a negative star so hoping I can post this without a star rating. Basically, I feel that LIVS killed my 4.5-year-old dog. He underwent a very tough operation and it seemed to be a success. They wouldn't let me see him for the week he was there. He was sent home a week later and I saw right away that his left eye was bulging.
He had been there for neck surgery, not eye problems. I brought him back and their eye specialist did nothing and sent him home. I was concerned enough about his eye that it was suggested to bring him back for a CT Scan. I did that the next day and dropped him off. They called me a couple of hours later and I thought it was to tell me to pick him up, instead, they told me his heart stopped on the table from the anesthesia.
She told me they were trying to revive him and that she would call me right back. She didn't. We waited 15 minutes for the call and when it never came we rushed there and were kept out in the car for 45 minutes before anyone would even tell us if he was alive or dead. They finally let us in to see his dead little body being wheeled into the room for us to say goodbye.
Not once did they say it was something they did and never gave a reason his eye was bulging in the first place. I asked the surgeon and he insisted the area he worked on was the other side. I find it hard to believe it wasn't something done to him during surgery. His eye was right near his neck because he was very little, he had a very short neck.
I am fairly sure that they gave him too much anesthesia. They never warned me about the risks. He had it before several times. They took no responsibility. I often think if only I didn't take him there for that CT scan, he'd still be here. He was my best buddy and I just want to spare other people the pain of a loss like this that could have been prevented. I still miss him and cry every day.
He had been there for neck surgery, not eye problems. I brought him back and their eye specialist did nothing and sent him home. I was concerned enough about his eye that it was suggested to bring him back for a CT Scan. I did that the next day and dropped him off. They called me a couple of hours later and I thought it was to tell me to pick him up, instead, they told me his heart stopped on the table from the anesthesia.
She told me they were trying to revive him and that she would call me right back. She didn't. We waited 15 minutes for the call and when it never came we rushed there and were kept out in the car for 45 minutes before anyone would even tell us if he was alive or dead. They finally let us in to see his dead little body being wheeled into the room for us to say goodbye.
Not once did they say it was something they did and never gave a reason his eye was bulging in the first place. I asked the surgeon and he insisted the area he worked on was the other side. I find it hard to believe it wasn't something done to him during surgery. His eye was right near his neck because he was very little, he had a very short neck.
I am fairly sure that they gave him too much anesthesia. They never warned me about the risks. He had it before several times. They took no responsibility. I often think if only I didn't take him there for that CT scan, he'd still be here. He was my best buddy and I just want to spare other people the pain of a loss like this that could have been prevented. I still miss him and cry every day.
Beverlee Rose
Dec 29, 2021
You may see that this place currently has over a 4 star average, but read the 1 star reviews and you'll see you have to avoid. We brought our 4 year old cat here in early November. He had been grooming himself to the point his front legs were going bald. After being "looked at" (we weren't allowed to go in) we were told he had no signs of a bacterial or fungal infection, and it was stated it was likely allergies causing him to groom so much.
They billed for the visit, told us to see a dermatologist and that they had one on site to make an appointment with, and recommended an allergy pill we could order online. We didn't like that we weren't able to go in with him, so we went about looking for an unrelated dermatologist on our own. About a month later, we notice some things resembling "grains of rice" on his hind end.
I consulted Dr. Google and learned that these are signs of tapeworms, and called back to bring him back in. I was told we refused a test when we were there last time, which we did not, we would have definitely had tests done and not just accepted "allergies" as an answer. When we brought him in we spoke to the vet and were told the tapeworm was unrelated to his alopecia (hair loss) and that he'd be treated with a one time medication.
We were also told to check in with our regular vet after 2 weeks to be sure the tapeworm was gone. Well. yesterday, we went to a new vet in Garden City and let me tell you. we were SHOCKED to learn the problem the entire time was that he just had fleas. FLEAS. You might say hey, how did you miss the fleas at home? One, it was the first thing I checked for, with a flea comb, before the first visit.
I didn't see any, though one or two could have been missed as his fur is literally all black (no white or any other color on him, head to toe). Secondly, he's an indoor cat, which I learned at this new vet, doesn't matter -- they recommend using a flea/tick/heartworm preventative on indoor cats as well, and we will be doing that. You would expect professionals to catch this super basic stuff if not the first time, at least the second.
Especially when the most likely cause of tapeworms is. fleas. Oh, at our second trip they gave us a liquid sedative to relax him, because we were also told he could just be an anxious cat. After the 2nd time of giving him a dose and seeing just how lethargic (and still uncomfortable) he was, we stopped that. Like a few other reviews have said, this place just wants $. AVOID.
They billed for the visit, told us to see a dermatologist and that they had one on site to make an appointment with, and recommended an allergy pill we could order online. We didn't like that we weren't able to go in with him, so we went about looking for an unrelated dermatologist on our own. About a month later, we notice some things resembling "grains of rice" on his hind end.
I consulted Dr. Google and learned that these are signs of tapeworms, and called back to bring him back in. I was told we refused a test when we were there last time, which we did not, we would have definitely had tests done and not just accepted "allergies" as an answer. When we brought him in we spoke to the vet and were told the tapeworm was unrelated to his alopecia (hair loss) and that he'd be treated with a one time medication.
We were also told to check in with our regular vet after 2 weeks to be sure the tapeworm was gone. Well. yesterday, we went to a new vet in Garden City and let me tell you. we were SHOCKED to learn the problem the entire time was that he just had fleas. FLEAS. You might say hey, how did you miss the fleas at home? One, it was the first thing I checked for, with a flea comb, before the first visit.
I didn't see any, though one or two could have been missed as his fur is literally all black (no white or any other color on him, head to toe). Secondly, he's an indoor cat, which I learned at this new vet, doesn't matter -- they recommend using a flea/tick/heartworm preventative on indoor cats as well, and we will be doing that. You would expect professionals to catch this super basic stuff if not the first time, at least the second.
Especially when the most likely cause of tapeworms is. fleas. Oh, at our second trip they gave us a liquid sedative to relax him, because we were also told he could just be an anxious cat. After the 2nd time of giving him a dose and seeing just how lethargic (and still uncomfortable) he was, we stopped that. Like a few other reviews have said, this place just wants $. AVOID.
Tigermom Kate
Dec 24, 2021
I was reluctant to leave a bad review but reading others' horrible experience made me want to share my own so others are aware. In my most recent visit this summer, they had me and my pet waiting in the car for hours and hours in the sunny parking lot. My poor dog was so exhausted just from the wait which made his condition worse. When my dog was finally brought in, he waited another two hours inside to be seen by the vet to be diagnosed.
And then another hour to be discharged. We spent our whole day there and left with a big fat bill. I immediately tried to contact the office via phone and e-mail but no response! I even spoke with the supervisor who discharged my pet who didn't seem to care. It's unfortunate to see because I used to bring my pets here for all our emergencies. The care and service has been going downhill in the past 2 years or so.
And then another hour to be discharged. We spent our whole day there and left with a big fat bill. I immediately tried to contact the office via phone and e-mail but no response! I even spoke with the supervisor who discharged my pet who didn't seem to care. It's unfortunate to see because I used to bring my pets here for all our emergencies. The care and service has been going downhill in the past 2 years or so.
Natalie
Dec 23, 2021
We noticed a growth on our dog Penelope and decided to make the trip out. We've been working with Dr. Selmer in the integrative department for a couple weeks and he has been amazing to say the least. He has been attentive, knowledgeable and went above and beyond my expectations. He truly is the caring vet. With his recommendation, we were guided into the right path and was able to have a very successful surgery with Dr. Larkin.
Everyone on staff is very responsive, called us before and after every procedure and made sure we parted ways without any lingering questions. I'm so glad we worked with such amazing people and so thankful for them.
Everyone on staff is very responsive, called us before and after every procedure and made sure we parted ways without any lingering questions. I'm so glad we worked with such amazing people and so thankful for them.
Gyselle Kaufmann
Nov 29, 2021
I waited over a month for an appointment that took 30 minutes. You are not allowed inside which I thought was a little strange considering we are not in the middle of a pandemic anymore. It seems they are operating out of a trailer because the front of the building is completely under construction. No one told me when booking my appointment, which they should have!
They also spelt my name completely wrong, along with my address and when I arrived the other person on the phone had a hard time finding me in the system. The address is still incorrect as I discovered when I received the bill. I had the absolute displeasure of speaking with Dr Kim. I asked her if my dog was blind and she responded to me by saying "well I can't ask your dog, if they are blind" Is it really that hard to be professional doctor Kim?
Why would you say something so condescending about a sensitive matter. Along with numerous negative reviews from other patients, they also have horrible reviews from former employees! Like many others have said in these reviews if you love your pet don't bring them here. I would rather drive out to NJ. This clinic demonstrates that they are insensitive, unprofessional, lack empathy and perhaps in the wrong field!
They also spelt my name completely wrong, along with my address and when I arrived the other person on the phone had a hard time finding me in the system. The address is still incorrect as I discovered when I received the bill. I had the absolute displeasure of speaking with Dr Kim. I asked her if my dog was blind and she responded to me by saying "well I can't ask your dog, if they are blind" Is it really that hard to be professional doctor Kim?
Why would you say something so condescending about a sensitive matter. Along with numerous negative reviews from other patients, they also have horrible reviews from former employees! Like many others have said in these reviews if you love your pet don't bring them here. I would rather drive out to NJ. This clinic demonstrates that they are insensitive, unprofessional, lack empathy and perhaps in the wrong field!
Katherine Peter
Nov 28, 2021
DO NOT GO HERE! This place is a rip off and only cares about money. I brought my dog here the other day because she had gotten attacked by another dog and had open wounds. She clearly needed stitches because the wound was open and blood was gushing out. They held my dog for an hour while they had me think they are stitching her up. Instead, they were shaving her whole body down instead of taking care of the open whole on her back and handed her back to me with with no bandages and blood going down her leg.
I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED SUCH UNPROFESSIONALISM IN MY LIFE! They don't not care about your dog they only care about money. They tried charging me $1500 for ONLY shaving my dog completely down and tried to make me open credit cards for payments. My mind was blown how much they DO NOT care about animals. Another thing that was was suspicious was they did not let me in the room with my dog so you DO NOT know what they could be doing in the back room! If I could give this place a negative review I 100% would.
I HAVE NEVER EXPERIENCED SUCH UNPROFESSIONALISM IN MY LIFE! They don't not care about your dog they only care about money. They tried charging me $1500 for ONLY shaving my dog completely down and tried to make me open credit cards for payments. My mind was blown how much they DO NOT care about animals. Another thing that was was suspicious was they did not let me in the room with my dog so you DO NOT know what they could be doing in the back room! If I could give this place a negative review I 100% would.
Elaine Mendonez Kawas
Nov 23, 2021
This animal hospital is wonderful! I unfortunately a few years back had to bring my daughters puppy here due to an unfortunate accident where she had eaten a poisonous mushroom while being walked by a dog walking company. During that time the staff did everything possible to revive my daughters puppy. Even though the puppy did not survive, the staff was caring compassionate gave my little girl everything that she needed as she suffered through this terrible time. Tonight, our new family dog who is now four years old was having some digestive problems and in fear of the situation a few years ago.
We decided that we should take her to an emergency vet hospital, but As a mom, I decided to take our dog to another hospital to try and save my daughter from some horrible memories of what happened to her first puppy. Terrible decision on my part, as the first hospital was a horrific experience with rude unprofessional staff, waiting over three hours and just being treated like our situation was nothing.
After the third hour of waiting, I decided to call this hospital, and I was treated with the upmost respect and professionalism the care and compassion as I was treated the first time around a few years ago! Their staff here is wonderful. they always go above and beyond, for pet and Owner the same! I would highly recommend this hospital to anyone that has unconditional love for their furry family member as they have for their owner!
Their customer service is impeccable! Your dog or cat will be looked at right away! You will be treated with such care and accommodation! I will never take my pup to another another hospital again. this place is worth the drive, even tho I have 3 closer to my house, the staff here is amazing to me and my dogs. I wouldn't trust them with anyone else! Thank you guys for everything, your guys are the absolute best at what you do and in this industry!
We decided that we should take her to an emergency vet hospital, but As a mom, I decided to take our dog to another hospital to try and save my daughter from some horrible memories of what happened to her first puppy. Terrible decision on my part, as the first hospital was a horrific experience with rude unprofessional staff, waiting over three hours and just being treated like our situation was nothing.
After the third hour of waiting, I decided to call this hospital, and I was treated with the upmost respect and professionalism the care and compassion as I was treated the first time around a few years ago! Their staff here is wonderful. they always go above and beyond, for pet and Owner the same! I would highly recommend this hospital to anyone that has unconditional love for their furry family member as they have for their owner!
Their customer service is impeccable! Your dog or cat will be looked at right away! You will be treated with such care and accommodation! I will never take my pup to another another hospital again. this place is worth the drive, even tho I have 3 closer to my house, the staff here is amazing to me and my dogs. I wouldn't trust them with anyone else! Thank you guys for everything, your guys are the absolute best at what you do and in this industry!
Mike Campbell
Nov 23, 2021
Had to bring our dog up to LIVS last night. Understood that since it was an emergency and late in the evening that prices would be higher than liked. Most importantly, though, the staff was very helpful to us and wonderful with our dog. From receptionist mobilely checking us in to the multiple phone calls from the Dr explaining his diagnosis, it was as efficient a visit (and calming) as we could have hoped
Taylor Harlin
Oct 21, 2021
I was happy to find an office open on a Sunday and would return to this office for that reason alone. The Doctors here are eager to give every test under the sun no matter how repetitive or unproductive. They prey on concerned pet owners to keep their doors open. If you visit this office, know your information and don't be bullied into unnecessary testing.
Kenny Miller
Oct 17, 2021
Want your pet to suffer in a parking lot for hours in pain without being seen by a vet or anyoe?then this is the place to go. No one and I mean NONONE came to my car to check, triage or even look at my puppy the enire 3 hrs that I waited in the parking lot. Not sure who decides what's considered an emergency at this place. After waiting 3hrs and complaining several times I had to take my crying puppy bloody eye and all to a different emergency pet center at almost midnight. staff just doesn't care and they show it.
Marlene Del Pilar
Sep 04, 2021
Amazing stuff! Was at 5am with my baby Angel as an emergency walk in!, he was taking care of right away. Friendliest stuff amazing service, great team, Doctor where great on following up and explain everything on test. Got to visit my baby to cheer him up so he could eat. They saved my poodle's life. Will eternally be so grateful on this tuff times is becoming harder to find amazing service and you guys are doing amazing thank you so much! I 1000% recommended this team!
