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Mc Killip Animal Hospital Limited - Megan Bender McKillip Animal Hospital in the Lakeview area of Chicago is a full-service veterinary hospital. We use compassionate veterinary medicine and the latest technology to provide the best care for your dog or cat. We treat all animals as if they were our own and we're glad to have you as part of our family.
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We are a multi-doctor practice that prides itself on a small-town feel with warm, friendly and courteous service. When you and your pet arrive at our hospital, you aren't just "visiting the vet"-you're joining a family of compassionate pet owners and veterinary medical experts dedicated to the health of your pet.
Dr. Anthony Brizgys is the medical director at McKillip Animal Hospital. A native of Chicago, Dr. Brizgys enjoys meeting new clients and getting to know their pets. He also enjoys the relationships and bonds he has formed with the clients and pets that have come into the hospital since he began practicing veterinary medicine here in 1974.
McKillip Animal Hospital in Lake View offers complete wellness and surgical care for dogs and cats in Chicago. We use the latest veterinary diagnostic technology, along with advanced surgical techniques, to provide the best care possible for your pet. Prevention is the key to keeping your pet healthy.
Your pet's safety and comfort are our highest priorities during all surgical procedures. Whether your pet needs a routine spay or neuter procedure or requires a more complex soft-tissue surgical procedure, we can help. For more complex orthopedic surgical cases, we may refer you to a local board-certified veterinary surgeon.
Reviews (32)
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Jasmine Farley
Apr 16, 2022
Love McKillip Animal Hospital! It's not my primary vet but I love that it operates like an urgent care, you can take your pets here for primary care or emergency care. The best part is there are no emergency prices! Just standard vet prices! So whenever one of my cats needs immediate same day care I bring them here. Dr. Larson is great with cats and he explains things very well.
Caitlin Hegarty
Mar 18, 2022
Have been going to McKillip for almost 8 years. They always take great care of my goldendoodle, Ellie!
Anna P.
Mar 09, 2022
Great experience here! Adopted a dog and needed to find a local vet for her. When I called they said they aren't really taking new clients, but I could walk in and they would try and make time for me. AMAZING. I was in and out in less than an hour, they gave her all the vaccines she needed updated and all her heart worm medication for the next year. They were helpful, knowledgeable and took time out of their day to see my dog. Will definitely be coming back.
Hillary Richards
Feb 07, 2022
Highly recommend. I have taken my cat here multiple times and always get individualized, very caring treatment from the staff members. Sometimes the wait can be long depending on the walk-ins at the time, but the staff works hard to give every pet and owner the best care possible. The vets have always discussed their observations respectfully, and they've been transparent about costs and expectations so that I can make the best decision for me/my pet.
Daniela Bueno
Dec 21, 2021
I've been taking my pets to Mckillip for years now. I love that Dr. Larson has been following my little ones health since the beginning. Staff have always been caring and very understanding of my Chihuahua's bad temper.
Becky W.
Dec 21, 2021
My dog has been using this animal hospital for vet car and boarding for over 2 years. They called today, December 21, to cancel my nearly 2 week boarding reservation for December 26, that I had confirmed a month ago. Their lack of reliability means I may have to cancel my vacation now.
Kendra T.
Oct 31, 2021
I made an appointment for my cat after her foot started bleeding. Even though they are limiting clients right now they made an exception for me since I just moved here and my primary vet is back in another state. Both the veterinarian and the vet tech were very thorough and explained everything to me. The vet tech especially did a great job of putting up with my cranky kitty. Overall, I had a great experience here and was thankful that they could help me right away
Charles Noble
Sep 21, 2021
When we needed meds refilled for our cat quickly, they acted fast and still took the time communicate medical information thoroughly.
Lauren Owens
Aug 26, 2021
We recently relocated to Chicago and had not yet established consistent vet care for our senior dog. When she became ill, we visited our neighborhood vet, however, when the time came to say goodbye to her, that vet was unable to schedule her. They recommended McKillip and I'm so thankful they did. This was my first experience saying goodbye to a pet and I expected the worst. Dr. Lauren at McKillip was so caring and didn't rush us at all, despite us arriving late in the day. The techs were compassionate and reassuring. We are so grateful for the experience we had at McKillip and would highly recommend them for anyone else in this situation.
Joseph Kirchgraber
Aug 18, 2021
I love this hospital. (Sorry story time) My dog at the moment has had a cough that is getting progressively worse so I made a vet appointment with Andersonville Animal Hospital. Jim Dickies is amazing. Even though he couldn't diagnose his problem and told me I may need to see an internal medicine specialist. He's also been e-mailing me for two weeks after the fact to checkup on my dog.

Every vet right now is booked out 4+ weeks and said I would need to make an appointment to be seen or go to the ER. Medvet, vcahospitals, goodvets and premier all said they couldn't do anything right now and make an appointment. I called McKillip, told them my problem and they said, "We're not taking any more walk-ins today. Come in tomorrow morning and we can help your dog in the mean time until he has to see a specialist".

That easy. Please note, that they are seeing me because I had already taken my pup there earlier in the year so I am an established customer. McKillip said that "They would not turn a customer away if they had a problem with their pet." Screw the glitzy vets that look like you just walked into a 5 star hotel. McKillip will take care of your pet, no bs. Hell even when I went in a year ago, they asked if i wanted to buy human medicine over the counter to save $20. Everyone who works at McKillip are legends. Thank you
Juli Hirsekorn
Jul 24, 2021
I had to have my beloved cat put to sleep over the 4th of July weekend, I was completely heartbroken. ALL the staff at McKillip Animal Hospital were professional and compassionate and made me feel like they loved my Lily as much as I did (and still do). This was my first time having to go through this procedure and the vet walked me through exactly what was going on, answered all my questions and let me hold her as I said my final goodbyes.

In the mail yesterday was a card from them, which everyone personally signed and wrote a note of condolence, enclosed where her right and left paw prints that they imprinted on card stock. For a situation that no pet owner wants to go through, they really made me feel as comfortable as possible. I will always remember how I was treated and will recommend to anyone in need of a great animal hospital.
Camellia Milhouse
Jul 06, 2021
Spoke with Margarita after I was already informed several weeks ago that I could bring my dog in for his vaccinations. Margarita informed me that they weren't taking new customers at the moment (which I was not told this two weeks ago). Now all of a sudden we cannot come in for a visit at the moment. Wish I was told this a few weeks ago when I called.

She was rude and short with me. Customer service is important especially being new in the area and trying to find a new animal hospital for my dog and to feel "at home". Not a warm welcome!
Tina N.
Jun 23, 2021
I went for my first visit to McKillip as I needed a same day appointment for my cat. I didn't realize it was walk in only until I read other reviews, but I was able to go in as soon as I called that morning. I wasn't allowed to go in with my cat due to COVID, which was a bummer as I'm a helicopter mom, but the staff and Dr Bennett are really nice. Dr Bennett gave me a call after and explained everything I needed to know. I hope my cat gets better and I'll bring her back here again for her wellness exam!
Pamela Neylon-Williams
Jun 05, 2021
They are very professional and friendly. I took my cat Carson who's fifteen years old there as an emergency and he was taken in immediately and after an hour to maybe two hours they called for me to pick up up. He was given great care sent home with instructions and medications and right now he is doing well. Thanks everyone at Mckillip you are AWESOME
Keara K.
May 28, 2021
Our cat developed an upper respiratory infection, and no local vets could get her in for at least 2 weeks. McKillip was recommended to us by one of the local vets offices, as they only take walk ups. The wait was long (not their fault- they had a lot of patients today), but that is understandable. I found the Dr Bennett to be helpful and honest, offering a holistic approach first, and recommending a more regimented antibiotic treatment only if needed. Pricing was average, and it is a great option if you don't have the time to wait weeks for your local vet. I would absolutely recommend this clinic!
Brian R.
Apr 30, 2021
Pretty much the only vet in the city I could get into and they have amazing "walk in" hours. No pet parents allowed inside for now which is understandable until covid is gone for good. I was on a budget and the Doc walked me through the most important vaccines I should get done and what could wait a bit, very honest and appreciated. Also gave me a medication to calm one of my poor girls for her next trip she was not happy with her first car ride! A bit out of the way for me to travel but worth it 100%
Louis I.
Apr 17, 2021
I'd never been to McKillip prior to this visit--I decided to try them out because my usual vet had a three week wait for an appointment. Never again. Every other vet that has cared for my cats took the time to explain the tests/procedures they thought would be appropriate, provided an estimate for those procedures, and requested approval. Not so with McKillip.

I dropped my cat off and didn't receive a call until they had already performed a slew of unnecessary tests without my approval. It's clear that they were trying to run the bill as high as they reasonably could. Their prices are also well above market rate for Chicago. When I questioned their pricing and that many of the tests were unnecessary, they were hostile and threatened to hold my cat hostage until I paid for all of the testing. Stay away.
M. S. S.
Mar 20, 2021
I have to say that I simply don't recognize the vet hospital that I've relied on for 40+ years [yes, 40+ years!] in postings that decry lack of empathy or professionalism in McKillip's response to theirs and their pets' needs. McKillip has cared for nearly a dozen of our beloved cats and dogs over four decades and never has anyone at this clinic expressed anything other than concern for their (and our--pet parents') well being and thriving. They've stood by us through multiple visits and re-visits to MedVet and Integrative Pet Care--not for every pet, but for those most in need. Dr. Glater, as others have said, is our go-to PCV [primary care vet]. but the team of vets and helpers at McKillips has been, for many years now, the caregivers to whom we turn when our care isn't sufficient to ease our buddies' pain or discomfort.

Most recently, Dr. Glater spent time with us to help my husband understand that letting go of Grady, our 14-year-old tabby, was the right thing to do for him, the right way to love him. There may be cheaper vet hospitals in Chicago, there may be vet hospitals who'll provide more sentimental support, but I cannot imagine a vet hospital more compassionate and more competent with whom to entrust the lives (and deaths) of your best friends in the world!
Jennifer M.
Dec 28, 2020
McKillip has been our go-to vet animal hospital for over twenty years. And Dr. Glater, at McKillip, is our absolute favorite vet of all time! He has always been so kind, knowledgeable, and patiently answers all of my questions. He helped my beloved cat live until age 19; he came over to our place when it was time to say goodbye to my husband's cat to help her pass away peacefully in our home; and now he is helping our pandemic foster dog (who we adopted) beat heartworms with his expert treatment. Yes, McKillip is not cheap, but you really do get what you pay for for- esp. when you want to take care of your beloved furry friends.

We are so thankful to Dr. Glater for all of his advice, guidance, and expert care over the years. And he always calls me the next day to see how the "patient" is doing! Highest recommendation, ESPECIALLY for Dr. Glater.
Caroline L.
Nov 01, 2020
Our family started going to McKillip recently after we adopted our dog during the pandemic. We used to go to our vet closer to us, however it was almost impossible to get an appointment during these times. The staff here was so efficient and the process of the walk-in appointments they offer has gone very smoothly each time. Our doctor at McKillip is Dr. Brizgys and he is so friendly and helpful! We chose them specifically because of the walk-in appointments amidst the lockdown, however we'll continue going here even after things are back to normal!
Jake M.
Oct 31, 2020
My cat was injured tonight and in pain. I was referred to this location because our normal vet was closed, and was told they are a walk in clinic. Their website and phone message confirms this as appointments are only needed for things such as a surgeries and grooming, and walk ins are welcome during normal business hours. They even have an entire section of their website that says they treat emergencies.

The woman who answered the phone was cold, and dismissive. "I'm sorry, we can't help you." "It's a weekend." (It was Friday around 5, and their normal business hours are listed as open until 7pm) "We're not taking any more appointments. We can't help you." When I told her I couldn't afford MedVet her response was also dismissive and lacking any empathy. DO NOT look to this office if you experience an emergency - they do not care, and will not assist you!
Stacy S.
Sep 26, 2020
McKillip is a walk-in, immediate care animal hospital that was recommended to me by my primary vet when they were booked and couldn't see my dog who had stopped eating. I've been there twice now and I've been extremely happy with both experiences. They seem very sensitive to the fact that if you're bringing in a pet that needs immediate attention, then you are probably a stressed, worried pet parent.

Everyone I came in contact with, both curbside because of Covid and over the phone, was extremely caring and kind. The vet techs take a very thorough history and when I spoke with the vets after my dog's examinations, they were patient, honest, and never made me feel like they were rushing me. The first time I brought my dog in it was a Friday afternoon and we only waited twenty minutes to be seen.

Impressive for a place that does walk-ins instead of appointments. I've waited longer at my regular vet WITH an appointment! The vet examined my dog, took a stool sample, and determined she was very healthy but had stopped eating because of stress (we were fostering a dog at that time). I was most impressed with his honesty. He could have ordered a bunch of tests to make extra $, but he straight out told me that he could do a blood test if I wanted him to just double check everything, but that he felt it was an unnecessary expense at that time.

It turned out he was right, because my dog resumed eating two days later after our foster was adopted. The second time we went it was a Saturday morning and my dog had been bitten by another dog. They took her in IMMEDIATELY, cleaned her up, and sent us home with antibiotics. Overall, I'm very happy with the quality of care at McKillip and would recommend them to anyone who needed immediate pet care.

They are slightly more expensive than our regular vet, but MUCH cheaper than MedVet. And like I said, they aren't trying to nickel and dime you, and their prices seem very fair for immediate veterinary care.
Brian K.
Sep 22, 2020
Dropped off our new kitten and he was seen and returned within 45 minutes by a very polite and friendly staff. This will definitely be our regular Vet!
Kayla E.
Jun 26, 2020
After moving to Chicago I sought out a new veterinarian for my 3 year old dog. Our first visit went relatively well, although I was uneasy about the techs taking my dog away to the back to give his routine vaccinations (I have always had vets who did vaccines in the exam room with me present) and the cost was more than double what I had paid in the past elsewhere for the same services (though I chalked this up to just being in the city).

The problem came when my pet had a critical situation. My dog was sprayed in the face with chemicals by a stranger while out on a walk. I called the hospital for immediate advice (I had already flushed his eyes and nose with water) and the girl on the phone seemed completely disinterested and didn't even respond. Eventually after I asked multiple times what they advised, she said to bring him in.

I immediately headed to the hospital with my dog only to be completely ignored. Multiple techs walked past my dog crying on the sidewalk and ignored us. Due to covid procedures they're not allowing people inside and say to call when you arrive but no one would answer the phone. I literally watched someone at the desk pick up the phone and hang it back up.

After 25 minutes with no one answering the phone and techs just walking past and ignoring me asking to get him inside I couldn't stand to leave my pup in pain and took him to a different hospital. Thankfully he is going to be fine but this experience has left a bad taste with McKillip and we will be seeking a different primary vet. I gave two stars because I think McKillip's doctors are phenomenal, but their techs and admins lack care.
Jennifer N.
Mar 27, 2020
Due to corona, my sick cat was basically dropped off at the door like a Grub Hub delivery. I was told they would call me, as I walked around the empty city, sobbing, waiting for the results of my cats fate. The doctor, friendly, said my cat was talking and moving. Omg! Really?! Amazing! As I was bringing him in, basically to hear the news of euthanasia is my only option.

The doc started with an $800 charge for who knows what, then brought it down to $300 for bloodwork. and when I got my cat back he was exactly the same. Near death. Not chatty. Not walking. None of the things this doctor assured me of. What a ripoff and complete liar! I honestly feel like when I said I couldn't afford the original $800+ option, they stopped any sort of "treatment".

So cold and heartless in a very distressing time. I will never come back or recommend this establishment. And mind you I never in stepped foot inside. I ended up taking my kitty elsewhere where even in these trying time, they were kind and understanding with my circumstances, and I was able to sit with him until the end. Who knows how you would have handled it. Drop him off at the door and that's that? No Goodbye to my 14yr old feline. Another charge for nothing. A phone call. Never again.
Thora R.
Sep 23, 2019
Dr B and his staff are compassionate and highly knowledgeable. I trust their expertise with my beloved furry baby
Bj F.
Sep 13, 2019
Our family has been affiliated with this establishment for decades, as clients, and as business neighbors, and I cannot believe that the quality of care has degraded to the degree that my daughter experienced this week. She has no idea that I am posting this, but I am so angry for the treatment she received. One of her cats, an elderly female, has been losing weight and energy, so she took her in last week, and it was determined that she was possibly diabetic, and may have a urinary tract infection. An antibiotic was administered as well as instructions to wait for a call with the results.

The treatment was $600+, which they could ill afford, but which they willingly budgeted for. The following is what transpired, and I am so upset for my daughter, and for this poor creature who is going without any meds until they return Monday from a prescheduled trip. The only reason they even get one star is from our prior history, and for the fact that the receptionist was very solicitous and understanding, in lieu of any professionals being on hand Her report: Ok, so the vet called me Sunday evening to tell me our cat is diabetic.

He told me I should come back in soon so he could walk us through what we would need to do, giving insulin and such. We talked about when I could bring her back and settled on today, as soon as I could which I told him would be around 6:15. I hustled to get home as did Bobby so we could bundle her into a carrier and head over. We get there and: 1.

The vet was not there. Neither was the office manager who is the only one he spoke to about everything. She leaves at 4 every day. The vet specifically knew I was coming in after 6. 2. We did not have the insulin. Because we were never told we should get it, nor were we given a prescription or told the delivery method, and they did not have it in the clinic. 3.

The receptionist was great, and very apologetic as she gave us a prescription for insulin and needles. So we basically hauled our cat out for nothing at all. We will now be shopping for insulin, and we have to leave our cat home as sick as before for our weekend away. Hopefully we'll get this resolved soon.
Bryan N.
Aug 17, 2019
Excellent service and professional staff. I have been very satisfied with the professional staff and immediate response that we have received with a recent emergency visit. They rushed the dog in, and knew exactly what to do when the dog was accidentally poisoned. Thank you Elaine to you and your staff for your help in our time of need.
Tatiana C.
Apr 23, 2019
They have a lack of communication and kept me waiting around for weeks they set up a work interview for me and left me waiting outside for 1hr. Terrible place honestly. Their staff was little to no help at all.
Ben P.
Jan 08, 2019
Only available for routine visits. 2 dogs later, still hard to get in touch with a vet. And when you call and vet 'is gone for the day', if you give a 'good enough reason' vet amazingly reappears at the practice. Our current Doc here was alright with out last pet's death. Coincidently, she was right out of Vet Med school at that time. Now we are dealing with a dying dog and we can't get in touch with a Vet. We simply want a little a little assistance as we handle this end of life issue again.
Mr. M.
Nov 21, 2018
I can't get a hold of them by phone or email. I call the phone number provided on their website, (773) 248-7266. There's no way to leave voicemail about your issue or contact them via email.
Jill S.
Mar 15, 2016
I feel it's important to add another review of McKillip after taking my cat Luna there last Friday for a dental appointment. (Confession: I was an anxious mess because of a scary dental surgery my cat went through last year at a different animal clinic.) From the very first phone call I made to book the appointment to after the procedure, the entire staff at McKillip were incredibly helpful, reassuring, and supportive.

Most important: They took great care of Luna the whole way through. Dr. Stephanie Bender was fantastic. She called me as soon as Luna was done with the procedure (only a cleaning this time!) and took time to speak with me while I there. She also gave me helpful information to take home about keeping kitty teeth healthy. I'm grateful to live so close to McKillip and absolutely recommend it. If I could give 10 stars, I would!