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Big Creek Pet Hospital We are a full service animal hospital and will take both emergency cases as well as less urgent medical, surgical, and dental issues. Doctors Fegan, Zabik, and Souders are experienced in all types of conditions and treatments. Beyond first rate pet care, we make our clinic comfortable, kid-friendly, and a very calm environment so your pet can relax in the waiting room and look forward to meeting his or her own veterinarian.

Our veterinary team is committed to educating our clients in how to keep your pets healthy year round, with good nutrition and exercise. Big Creek Pet Hospital stays on top of the latest advances in veterinarian technology and above all, remembers that all animals and pets need to be treated with loving care in every check-up, procedure, or surgery. We are constantly trying to improve our team and operations, that's why every Wednesday from 1-3 pm we close our office for staff training. We also send team members to Veterinary Continuing Education Seminars
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Pet Medical Care
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Is your dog, cat, or pocket pet sick or injured? Maybe you’re not sure but they are acting strangely. This page describes symptoms your pet may be showing that need veterinary medical attention. Also described are the services we provide to get your pet healed fast.
Dog, Cat and Small Animal Surgery
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Having surgery on your pet is never an easy decision. But if you’re looking for a Cleveland area veterinary hospital to assist you make a decision about your pet’s surgery or actually do the surgery, call us we can help, (440) 234-5831.
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Dr. Deborah Fegan
Dr. Deborah Fegan
Owner
Dr. Deborah Fegan has been the owner of Big Creek Pet Hospital since 1992 and has been involved in veterinary medicine for over forty years. (She started early caring for pets in a veterinary kennel when she was twelve.) She has a bachelors degree from West Virginia University (Lets Go Mountaineers) and her doctorate in veterinary medicine from Purdue University in 1979. Prior to moving to the Cleveland area in 1985 and becoming a licensed veterinarian in Ohio, Dr. Fegan practiced as a veterinarian in Tennessee, Kentucky, and North Carolina.
Reviews (35)
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Suzanne Krupa
Jun 18, 2022
I just started taking my dog to Big Creek Pet Hospital and am very pleased with the service my dog and I received. Every worker there from the receptionist to the vet tech to the vet is friendly, professional and caring. They treated both my dog and I with respect and took care of all our needs. I would recommend this vet to all pet owners.
Alesondra M.
Jun 03, 2022
I've brought both my cats in for appointment & everyone there was super nice especially with one of my cats being EXTREMELY nervous about the vet. Recently I took my 1 yr old cat Knox in for an appointment & she needed cultures done for possible ringworm. We were told the results would be in 24/48 hours. We were hoping to get the results by that Friday afternoon which would have been 48 hours.

We ended up getting the results Tuesday afternoon. I decided it wasn't a big deal as Knox was in quarantine & it was the weekend. The problem I began to have was the communication with the medical team. We tried EVERYTHING to get Knox to take the pills she was given for ringworm. I called & asked if there was a liquid version of the medication. I was told someone would call me by the end of the day to talk about her medicine.

No one ever called. I gave it the day and figured they were busy and they would give me a call tomorrow, again no one ever called me. I rang them 2 days in a row after that before we got the liquid version. Even the front desk guy said he remembered asking for someone to call me. In the meantime (the liquid had to be shipped) I continued to try and give Knox her pills.

As soon as I gave the liquid to Knox she started foaming & drooling. I knew vomiting was a side effect but as she is my first ever cat it worried me so I called anyways just to be sure that was normal. The lady who I spoke with on the phone was super nice & calmed me down (I was so nervous for Knox I was in tears) she assured me that she will write a note & have someone from the medical team give me a call within the hour.

After a day & a half NO ONE EVER CALLED! I figured out myself that if we mixed the med in with her food she'll eat it without having any problems. Overall it was just frustrating & scary for me as a first time cat owner in this situation. My boyfriend & I are considering taking the cats somewhere else as if this was a urgent thing (besides taking them in) something wrong could have seriously been wrong.
Kristen Kolesar
May 11, 2022
I highly recommend you take your fur babies here. Every employee we had the pleasure of interacting with on all our visits were incredible. Everyone truly respects you and cares deeply for your pets. They spend however much time you need to feel comfortable each visit and go over your pets health and recommendations. They will treat you and your fur babies like family.

There's so much more I could say. Bring your fur babies here! Special shout out to Carolyn, the way from the first appointment to the last you were incredibly kind. Truly made me feel like family and we felt so comfortable with you. Other shoutouts to Dr. Zabik, Dr. Fahrmeier, Bill, Renee, Sarah, Michelle and Mehlaina. My apologies if I forgot or misspelled anyone! Lacy, Alex and I will never forget how caring and kind you are. You have a customer for life!
Kathryn Shaffer
May 05, 2022
I can't say enough good things about how we were cared for and treated when my kitty went in as a new patient. She was very lovingly and thoroughly and quickly taken care of. I was super impressed as a pet parent as was my baby!
Lex G.
May 01, 2022
Big creek pet hospital has been talking care of my babes for years the staff is amazing the doctors are the absolute best they take such good care of my sweet animals they always keep me updated and give me the up most information regarding my pets i know they are well taken care of and loved! wouldn't recommend any other place other than Big Creek Pet Hospital! best hospital staff i have ever met!
Stacey C.
Apr 05, 2022
My sister has been taking her dog there for many years. Today unfortunately was time for her dog to cross the rainbow bridge. They were the most insensitive and unprofessional at helping us through this.one girl even told my sister as she was crying her eyes out that if she did not muzzle her dog she would have to cut its head off, if she bit her!

First of all who says that to someone grieving with their dying dog? Second of all, after researching why she would even say something like that, we found that if a dog bites a person and it suspected to have rabies, that's what they do, BUT being that it was her dogs vet and she has always been up to date on her rabies shots, that was a totally unnecessary thing to say!

She will never go there again, and she will be looking for another vet for her other dog. Her old girl was sedated beforehand anyway, there was no reason for her to have a muzzle on as she died from the euthanasia! I will NEVER forget this awful day and the animal hospital that did this! I'll never take my dog there and will advise anyone that if they want compassion for their animal. DON'T go here!
Lynn Farmer
Feb 22, 2022
I've been taking all my pets to Big Creek Pet Hospital for many years now. They are everything you are looking for when it comes to expert care and sincere concern for your furry family members. From the minute I walk in the door, I feel comfortable and at ease. I seriously wouldn't consider taking my animals anywhere else. They love them as if they were their own. Highly professional, friendly and so very helpful. Thank you Big Creek!
Colleen Andrews
Feb 04, 2022
They took excellent care of our 7 month old puppy that was being spayed. I received very thorough discharge instructions verbally as well as in print. I was given more detail than I receive from my own physician
Amy Mahnke
Jan 19, 2022
I have always taken my cats to Big Creek. I have never had a bad experience & always feel included in their care. My cat recently had to have emergency surgery & the staff at Big Creek were absolutely perfect. They're responsive, kind, informative. and they LISTEN! My babies will always receive their care here.
Marylynn Podusiwsky
Aug 23, 2021
I have been going to Big Creek for over 15 years. We lost our sweet Mr. Lucky in March and now have adopted an older bonded pair of dogs. With old age comes issues but I cannot wait for everyone there to meet the new members of our family. Honey and Fonzie are characters and Fonzie will be having an appointment scheduled very soon. The staff is knowledgeable, compassionate, and always professional.
Donna
Jul 21, 2021
Dropping your dog off with the expectation of having them seen in a timely manner (under 4 hours) is far from attainable at Big Creek. Management abilities are not yet evolved there. After you pay the bill one might expect to have the pet handed over, again management has not figured out that either, this process takes 20 minutes. They cannot walk to the pet and surrender it back to the owner.

This process has nothing to do with COVID. My total wait time yesterday was 5 hours start to finish to take off a bandage and have the vet call me.
Amoxicillin was prescribed and 14 tablets were billed at $87.00. I refused the medication highway robbery and called my vet from out of state. A more appropriate antibiotic (stronger) was procured. FaceTime saved the day.

How dare they use our pets to line pharma’s pockets and most likely their own. Giant Eagle found a way to give Amoxicillin out for free. No one volunteered a written RX for me to take to a pharmacy. No one offered to reduce that med for my pet. Our vet out of state has an “ Angel Fund” for these cases when they over charge. Guess no one has suggested it here. All an all management is grossly lacking and vets are remarkably attentive. Shame that staff can drive away patients from good vets.
Ron B.
Mar 06, 2021
We cannot say enough good things about Big Creek Animal Hospital. From the excellent care that Bentley and Lola have received through the years to the vacations they enjoy when they stay at the kennel, we could not be happier. When they know they're coming to Big Creek, their tails go a mile a minute there little butts wiggle. They can't wait to run in to see their friends inside.

Especially now during Covid, Big Creek has taken every precaution to keep both the pets and their owners safe during this challenging time. From the medical staff, reception staff, kennel staff, and everyone in between, thank you for taking such good care of our fur kids. We would not hesitate for a minute recommending you to others who are looking for a vet, a place to board, or friends that welcome us with each visit.
Ron B.
Mar 06, 2021
We cannot say enough good things about Big Creek Animal Hospital. From the excellent care that Bentley and Lola have received through the years to the vacations they enjoy when they stay at the kennel, we could not be happier. When they know they're coming to Big Creek, their tails go a mile a minute there little butts wiggle. They can't wait to run in to see their friends inside.

Especially now during Covid, Big Creek has taken every precaution to keep both the pets and their owners safe during this challenging time. From the medical staff, reception staff, kennel staff, and everyone in between, thank you for taking such good care of our fur kids. We would not hesitate for a minute recommending you to others who are looking for a vet, a place to board, or friends that welcome us with each visit.
Barbara Norris
Nov 02, 2020
First the vets and staff at this hospital are GREAT. However, beware of the grooming services. I chose the groomer because she was associated with the hospital and I knew my pup was familiar with the facility - reducing his stress. When I met with the groomer, I specifically said, "DO NOT shave my dog and to leave his face furry." She totally disregarded my instructions - shaved him completely, leaving sores on his face and feet.

He was nervous, itchy and generally a nervous wreck. My neighbor also had this experience with this groomer. Dr. Sauder refunded my grooming fee, and comped the laser treatment on his wounds and medication. As I said, the vets and staff are great - just beware of the groomer.
John S.
Oct 29, 2020
Big Creek Pet Hospital examined Trixie, my cat, and I could not have been more impressed with their Covid precautions, their professionalism, and the thoroughness of the exam. 5 stars to the entire staff!
Andrea C.
May 11, 2020
If I could give zero stars I would. I can't even believe this. My dog died yesterday because of you guys. Are we kidding. You guys tested my dogs blood for issues he was having and "nothing came up" other than you believe he has stomach issusss. He died from cancer and tumors. Are we kidding. How foul of you guys to lie and not care about my best friend.

He was the light I needed, an angel that cared for me. And he's gone forever because of you guys. NEVER take your animal here. They will not be ok. He went multiple times because we thought he was acting different and he has a bump on him. But you didn't care. My heart is broken and my best friend is gone forever. I can't believe this.

You guys are the absolute worst. And obviously you do not care enough about animals, I pray this never happens to anyone else. rip to my baby boy. I'll miss him forever. Thanks to you guys.
Sainte Roche N.
Jan 08, 2020
I've used Dr. Fegan's cat expertise (6 high maintenance and opinionated cats adopted from the Berea Animal Rescue shelter) for over a decade now, and she continues to remain knowledgeable and caring, throughout all of these years. Since she and her staff of Vets are extremely busy (with regular pet checkups, surgeries, grooming or boarding, I highly recommend making an appointment, about 3 weeks in advance, to either location (Middleburg Hts. or Olmsted Falls).
Josh S.
Aug 25, 2019
All the staff is super friendly. They also do their best to keep the animals calm if they stress out easily too.
Maria D.
Jul 25, 2019
Came from a different vet that wasn't. My golden had a scratched cornea. The entire staff was absolutely wonderful, doctor knowledgeable and didn't rush me thru our visit. Prices very reasonable. Even followed up the next day with a phone call to check up on him. Won't go anywhere else!
Laura F.
Jun 23, 2019
I've been taking my yellow Labrador Retriever for three years now and he has received exceptional care and attention from the staff at Big Creek Pet Hospital. From the moment we walk in, we are greeted with smiles, affection, and treats. More importantly, though, the staff is always willing to answer all my questions (no matter how minor or silly) and get us in quickly for an appointment.

We've seen a number of veterinarians at Big Creek Pet Hospital and all have been fantastic to work with. It's nice that we can see any vet and get consistent care and attention every time.
Ryan P.
Sep 23, 2018
My dog has anxiety worse than I do and is terrified of new people so when it came to finding a vet for her I thought it would be a chore. I've been taking my pup to Big Creek Pet Hospital for years! When you're looking for a doctor for yourself you want someone who is kind and understanding so why wouldn't you want the same for your pet?

The entire staff is kind and welcoming! They do everything they can to make my girl feel comfortable and they're always gentle and supportive whenever she needs to be seen. She had to have a minor surgery on her leg and my dog is more comfortable with one vet and they let him do the surgery. Thankfully for my own sanity she didn't have to stay overnight when we went to pick her up she was bandaged nicely and they did a beautiful job on her incision.

This place is also very clean I have NEVER seen it dirty which is crazy to me considering it's an animal hospital. My dog just looks at me and I'm covered in her fur. What is their trick!? If you're looking for a place who loves animals as much as you do and who will care for your pets the way they deserve then please check out Big Creek Pet Hospital! I give it two thumbs up but my pup gives it 2 paws up!
Joseph C.
Aug 16, 2017
Very long read but wanted to give and accurate truthfull review. If you have a short attention span my dog tore his acl/ccl under their care they won't even call me back let alone take any responsibility. Took my dog in with an eye ulcer. I had been in several times to check on the eye and see how it was progressing. All the staff seemed very friendly and it wasn't all that expensive.

On one of the follow up visits they took my dog into the back to draw blood to make serum for his eye. While he was in the back for only a few minutes I heard a loud scream from my dog. He came in back limping. When the vet returned and I imeditley asked her what happened if they drew blood from his leg or why he was limping. She said said no that they don't take it from the leg and shed find out.

She came back in and said that the vet tech said he "jumped up a bit." She examined his leg and said she thought it was arthritis. Scheduled a follow up appt for a recheck. Before the recheck I called up to see if I could get a better understanding of what had happened. I asked to speak with the office manager. I was than called back by the vet tech who took him in the back room and again just told me he "jumped up".

I went back in for a recheck with a different vet same office where I was told my dogs ccl was completely torn. I then explained to this vet about what had happened under there care and I'd really like to speak to the owners or a manager. I was told he left for the day but they'd have him call me. A few days go by and no call. I call him and I explained who I was and asked why he had not called me back.

He said " I was supposed to call you." Then says "I'm not sure how taking blood caused your dog to tear his ccl." I said exactly. He was perfectly fine when he went in there and then he was limping when he came out. He said he would have to talk to his people and he call me back. The next day he called me back and said that they wanted to xray his knee to make sure of the diagnosis.

Then we see what they could do. So I came in again and had the knee xrayed. They tell me they will call me back with the results later that day. Two days go by and no call. I call up asking for the results and they have the vet call me back he explains the surgery options and the cost of treatments. I explain to him that the office manager told me to come in for the xray and that he was going to then decide what to do about it.

He says that he's on vacation but he'd call him to call me back. He never called back. A couple days later I have a recheck for the eye and I tell the vet he never called and he explains he talked to him and thought he called me that they would offer free lazer on the knee but the office manager would call me back to talk about what else they could do.

He let him know again that I was expecting his call. Now another week(about a month since the orginal incident) has gone by msgs left and no call. So in short I feel like my dog was hurt not on purpose by maybe and accident/negligence. I was hopefull since they were so nice on all my visits they'd make it right. It would have been nice if they even could just call and flat out say sorry we feel were not responsible and you should go ahead and schedule the surgery somewhere else on your dime.
Rae B.
Jan 06, 2017
I took my 7 year old girl here for the first time recently. I called on a thursday and was able to get an appt for the coming Saturday. I recently moved to the area and let them know where my girls previous records were. They asked about vaccines and I stated we do not vaccine as my cats are never allowed out, do not interact with other animals and the last cat I vaccinated nearly died within a week.

When we got there, we were taken into an exam room. This exam room had a cut out in the wall that opened to the exam room next to it. I'm not sure if all the rooms are like this, or if it's just this one? but it doesn't seem like a good idea to me. My girl is a scared cat, she is stressed enough having to leave the house, let alone if she saw another animal in the room next to her.

There are also cut outs at the top of the walls above the cabinets.not quite sure what that is about either. Oddly, there also wasn't a scale in the room.they had to take her out in front and try to get her to stand on what looked to be a scale made for dogs. The vet tech came in and again asked about past records and vaccines. I explained again and she said "well she will have to get the rabies shot as it's required" to which I said, ok, but she's stressed enough today, I don't want to stress her system anymore. the vet tech left the room. Dr. Fegen came in and said she would not touch my cat without her getting a rabies shot as it's required by law in the county. (which, btw seems a bit ridiculous for a strictly indoor cat, that in 7 years has never escaped or interacted with another animal) We just about packed up and left.

I said I wish someone had told me on the phone when I called, because I would have taken her elsewhere, but now, because she is such a horrible traveler, I can't just pack her up and take her somewhere else. Not to mention she had an injury, which was the whole reason we were there. Dr. Fegen agreed I should have been informed prior to bringing her in.

Not the way I wanted to start off the visit with a new vet, in a strange room, being forced to do something to my girl I wasn't, and still am not, comfortable with. That being said. Dr. Fegan was an absolutely gem to my girl. She walked in with a warm towel for her, and was incredibly gentle examining her. It took her about 2 minutes (not kidding, 2 minutes, tops) to figure out what is wrong with my girl.

They took her back for some x-rays and again, everyone was very gentle with her, and kept commenting on what a good girl she was for them. Dr. Fegen came back in and showed us the x-rays and explained everything in detail. We came up with a reasonable treatment plan to start off with see if the problem improves. Overall, I would recommend Dr. Fegen, she was extremely kind to my girl, and very thorough explaining the issue, just be pre-warned about the rabies shot, and the strange room.

If you have a cat or other animal that is very reactive to the site of others, you may want to call and see about a different room, or if the opening can somehow be covered. I think the place in general just needs some updating. It was also a bit on the expensive side, the exam was 79.99 (but I can take her back within 30 days at no charge) X-rays were in the $200 range, with a session of laser therapy and meds, we were in the $350 range total.
Karen M.
Nov 10, 2015
The staff is always friendly and sympathetic to mine and my dog's needs. Putz is treated like a star by all! He is actually thrilled to go to the Vet!
Johanna B.
Nov 05, 2015
It was a very nice/friendly appointment. You didn't try an push all kinds of stuff at me, like telling me I need to have a whole bunch of other stuff to him that is not necessary. A lot of places do that. Thank you! I will be going back with all my fur babies, as needed!
Dave R.
Feb 10, 2013
Super expensive and don't know if it's sanitary. My dog went in with a bladder infection and was peeing often. I kept taking her outside when I could. While they where checking my dog's vaccination record (which was difficult since my previous vet retired) my dog peed and was very uncomfortable. They came in and wiped it up with paper towels.

I can only hope they mopped up with some bleach before bringing in the next pet. $75.00 for an office visit seems excessive to me. But what really got me was the $5.00 a pill charge for an antibiotic that can be had from a well respected online source for.76 cents a pill. It seems that they know when you need meds now to save your pet and profit excessively from it.

The people seemed nice and caring, just not very upfront about cost. They could have offered me the option of buying less meds from them and a prescription for the balance. A move like that would promote loyalty. Don't want to go back and need to find a new vet.
Michele B.
May 24, 2011
I took Binks to Big Creek Pet Hospital yesterday for the first time. The reception staff was very friendly and polite. Hannah was first to come into the exam room- she was empathetic to my kitties needs, very knowledgeable, gentle, friendly and efficient. The Dr came in after and spent ample time with me to answer questions and provide feeback about the exam.

I never felt rushed or obligated to get any additional services or perform any unnecessary procedures. The entire staff was organized, friendly and very welcoming. I highly recommend Big Creek Pet Hospital to help take care of your furry friends!
Kelly C.
May 12, 2011
After moving to the Cleveland area in the late summer, I searched Angie's List (see my review of Angie's List) for trusted vets for the care of my 13 year old golden retriever. She visited their office several times before passing in December. While the staff IS great, I was quite disappointed when they phoned me one week after her passing with test results. Really?! Are you kidding me?!

And sent flowers 2 weeks later (nice touch, but not after two weeks.)Then the doctor who called blamed it on their new system. Well, I think that's a huge mistake! And, they tried to keep her after she was groomed once due to a staff meeting they have every Wednesday afternoon (they close the office for 2 hours). Let's just say that didn't happen!

Not for a 13 year old who was battling several health issues! So today I had my new golden retriever rescue groomed and he came home looking like a poodle. His chest and "butt beard" were shaved and that was NOT what I asked for nor paid for! Goldens are not typically shaved-certainly not my long haired one! What a disappointment after paying $70 for the grooming!

They were kind enough to refund my grooming fees but that didn't put hair back on my dog. I will NOT be returning there for grooming and am considering finding a new vet. It's too bad. The staff is nice. After that, I've had a lot of frustrations and they have continued.
Sarah A.
Mar 30, 2011
I love Dr. Fegan and the staff at Big Creek Vet Hospital! I have been bringing my pets there for about 4 years now and I have never had a bad experience. It is so important and hard to find a doctor of any kind that you can really trust. Especially if you are trusting them with the care of your furry friends. I have always been greeted with a smile and made to feel welcome.

They are usually very good at getting you in appointments right away and calling you back promptly if you have any questions. To all of you rat owners out there (yes, RATS- they are wonderful pets.), I highly recommend going to Big Creek if you are having trouble finding a vet that is knowledgeable about rodents! So many vets really aren't familiar with caring for rats or they are looked at as less important than cats or dogs.

Trust me, I have bonded with many a ratty over the years and they will steal your heart. What won me over was whenever I would bring in one of my ratties, Dr. Fegan always kissed them on the head when she picked them up to examine them. YES! Now THAT is a really animal lover. I have had to have a few rats put to sleep and the vet techs are very sympathetic and kind.

They know how to put a rat to sleep comfortably and ethically (if you are a rat owner and you have done your research, you know that the way rodents are normally "put to sleep" is gruesome and horrifying). Plus, they give you a little keep sake of your pets paw prints in clay to take home with you along with grieving literature. Interestingly, I now have 3 cats (all my ratties have crossed the rainbow bridge) and this is the vet I will continue to bring them to even though it's a little further of a drive from where I live now. Lastly, another great thing about this vet is that you have 30 days of free follow-ups every time you need to bring your pet in for a visit.
Eliza Mariner
I've been going to Big Creek with my pets for 7 years and I cannot say enough good things about them. Their staff treats my dogs like one of their own and my dogs actually get excited when they walk in the building. I have a pit bull and I foster new dogs all of the time and I get the same amazing treatment for every furbaby I bring in. The doctors and staff are extremely knowledgeable and I would trust my own life with them! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Lorrie Battista
Reese's surgery went great! Her incision looks great even on day two. I also truly appreciate you taking the precaution to postpone her surgery so her blood clotting test could go for further testing since the initial test you did showed it was slow. You always have my animals and my best interest not only in your mind but your heart also. Thank you so much!!!
Kaitlyn Kostyo
Had a great preventative care exam with Dr. Souders for my Boston terrier! I had a few minor concerns about her health, Dr. Souders took a good look at her and was able to give me great answers for what was going on and what to watch for in the future. My dog is always very nervous when she goes to the vet for any reason. Every single staff member (front desk, assistants, techs and dr) took their time with her and by the end of her appointment her stress level had been reduced significantly. Overall my dog had a great exam and the cost was much lower than I expected. I will absolutely be back! Thanks everyone!
Lacy Sharratt
Not only are their locations convenient, but everyone there is so wonderful! They always do what's right for my cats, listen & discuss with me, and treat my cats with kindness. Absolutely recommend.
The Clarks
Now, Dr. Fegan has our real firecracker, Cody. Cody is a two and a half year old Havanese and he has informed Dr. Fegan that she best be around his entire life a he only wants the best of care. As far as we are concerned, she is the only friend and vet for our family.
The Cermaks
Dr. Fegan has been our go to vet to pull our feline family out of the fires we have experienced. Today Elsie, Gracie and Wahoo are great friends and we hope to have all three for many more years with Dr. Fegan's skilled and loving care.