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Irvington Pet Hospital Our two vets, Deborah Anne Rue, D.V.M., practice owner, and Carol Mertens, D.V.M., associate veterinarian, have been in this field for almost 30 years. These years of experience and this long relationship provide for a continuity of treatment and a synergy of expertise.

Our veterinarians have diagnosed and healed many conditions over the years. They keep their knowledge base by frequently attending continuing educations and availing themselves of the latest techniques and treatments.

Our vets readily consult with many experts in the bay area to ensure your pet gets the best possible care. If there is a need, referral to a specialist is facilitated and expedited without delay to ensure your pet's treatment is done right with modern equipment.

Our veterinarians are supported by a highly trained team of technicians and assistants that show a love of animals in everything they do. Our employees work as a team to offer your pet with compassionate state-of-the-art care. The technicians and assistants attend continuing education seminars to broaden their knowledge and capabilities.

Our hospital is actively taking part in mentoring both Quest students and Regional Occupational Program (R.O.P.) students interested in the field of veterinary medicine. Our highly trained veterinary technicians teach these students the different aspects of veterinary care.
Associations and certifications
  • California Veterinary Medical Association
  • American Veterinary Medical Association
People
Deborah Rue, D.V.M.
Deborah Rue, D.V.M.
Owner
Education: B.S. Zoology 1977 Cal Poly Pomona; D.V. M. Washington State University 1982 Cum Laude.
Professional History: Practiced in Fremont since 1983, became owner of Irvington Pet Hospital in
1990.
Special Interests: Internal medicine, soft tissue surgery.
Hobbies: Golf, volleyball, hiking in Yosemite.
Pets: Two Collies (Kaylen and Tavish), two cats (Meisha and Lila)
Married: To Ted Rue, D.V.M. owner of Ardenwood Pet Hospital.
Reviews (11)
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Laura M.
Sep 30, 2019
Been taking my kitties here for a few years. My one cat has diabetes and Dr Rue has been very helpful. She's very straightforward and to the point which I like. She's always upfront with costs. I've boarded my kitty there too and they took great care of him. The front desk staff and techs are great as well.
Juanita Elizabeth-Hacker
Jul 11, 2019
Dr Rue is awesome, she informs you of the situation with your fur babies. She cuts to the chase and lets you know her opinion and options! Love her
Carol Rodgers
May 31, 2019
Such a very special experience they were great with the lose of my dog. Very helpful
April P.
Dec 09, 2018
We have been going to this pet hospital for many years (8+) and overall love Dr. Rue--lots of experience, honest, and straight forward, but recently we had to have our dog euthanized and the following was a bit concerning:

We were under the impression the procedure would be done with a professional anesthesiologist like on the previous occasion with my other dog.

For our other dog the specialist performed the procedure but this time they did not. Be sure to clarify this if it's important for you. After the procedure was done, the male vet tech came in to help get the dog's footprints as we requested. He was quite rough handling our dog and he dragged him around by his neck so he could reposition him to get his footprints.

It was difficult to see and I was appalled at his lack of empathy or care for our dog, especially since we were still in the room grieving. We understand that vets / vet techs handle these situations often, but we wish that the vet tech had been more mindful of the way he treated our dog in front of us. Even though our dog had passed, we still wish the vet tech would have treated him with care and consideration instead of dragging him by the skin on his neck.

For example, the vet tech could have carried him more gently and respectfully. If we knew he was gonna treat our dog roughly, we wouldn't have had his footprints taken. Please be more mindful and considerate while handling euthanized pets. :(
Kim Miller
May 11, 2018
I love this place! I used to do volunteer work here back in 2008 when I used to go to The Young Adult Program. I loved it. It was a fun Volunteer job. Plus I love the animals
Nora Valadez
Oct 09, 2017
My in-laws have been going to dr.rue for over 35 yrs. So i trust dr.rue with our kitten. And we will keep going to irvington pet hospital. We always leave with a sense of relief that our fur babies are in the best of care.
Harley Blacksun
Sep 28, 2017
This is the best vet I've ever been to. All of the staff is knowledgeable and kind, and they work with you to the best of their ability. The office cat, Dexter, is also a total sweetheart. For as long as I live in this area, Irvington Pet Hospital will be my go to.
Heather P.
Sep 23, 2017
Thank you to Dr. Rue, and ALL staff for taking such good care of our River. We highly recommend them for any services you Pet may need!! Thank you!!
Tricia Meyer
Jun 23, 2017
Dr Rue and Dr Mertens are fantastic with my Basset Hound and my Goldendoodle. They are down to earth, practical, and kind. I trust them and their staff. They have my highest recommendation.
Kathy Hamilton
Feb 12, 2017
Our boy severely sliced his pad. Dr. Rue was swamped and the waiting rooms were full but she took him anyway. She sedated, stitched him up and he's on his way to recovery. Dr. Rue and her team of caring people are top notch!
Kelly Northcutt
Apr 08, 2016
Dr Rue and Dr Carol just saved our guy from a painful death while being incredible caring and patient with his distraught and basket cased owners! I've used other vets in the Fremont area and by far they are the best!