Coombs Veterinary Hospital
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Coombs Veterinary Hospital
Coombs Veterinary Hospital was started in 2008 by Dr. Rhett Mortenson. From the start CVH has always worked to blend progressive technology, high quality medicine, and genuine enthusiasm for the veterinary field. Coombs Veterinary Hospital serves the communities of Qualicum Beach, Parksville, Coombs, Nanaimo and Port Alberni.

We also accept referrals from other veterinary hospitals from all over Vancouver Island. The Coombs Vet team prides ourselves on the compassionate, friendly, and fun atmosphere that we have created within our clinic. We know that visits to the veterinary hospital can be stressful, especially when your animal is sick, and we try to minimize this stress as much as possible.
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Dr. Rhett Mortenson (aka "Rhett the Vet") started Coombs Veterinary Hospital in the spring of 2008, after graduating from New Zealand's Massey University in 2006. Shortly after returning from New Zealand he and his family settled in Parksville and founded Coombs Veterinary Hospital. His special interests include Ultrasound and Surgery, with a particular focus on Minimally Invasive and Orthopedic surgeries.
A native of Robin Hood country in the UK, Chris graduated from the University of Cambridge in 2010 and returned several years later to undertake research into blood clotting disorders. Since then he has worked mostly in emergency and critical care medicine and has particular interests in ultrasonography, endoscopy and interventional radiology, as well as a love of exotic pets.
Andrea has been with Coombs Veterinary Hospital since 2010 and is married to clinic owner Dr. Mortenson. Prior to joining CVH Andrea worked as a medical office assistance and also earned a Diploma as an assistant accounting specialist. Andrea is always smiling and there to help our clients with all their needs.
As family veterinarians, we become part of a lot of important family events. Everything from a child's first puppy to the passing of her grand-mother's long cherished cat. We also experience the change in personal circumstances that can affect the ability of owners to provide care for family pets.
Marley was a beautiful 5 year old German Shepherd. She was a rescue dog that came from California. Late last year she began having difficulties with her eyes. She then developed an acute, severe lameness starting in February. After the lameness began, she deteriorated very quickly despite attempted treatment, and required ICU care.
Reviews (10)
Terrolo Terrolo
Terrolo Terrolo
Jan 10, 2022
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Jan 5th brought in our dog presenting with colitis-like symptoms. Technician took dog's temp and Dr. Rhett suggested a pancreatitis diagnosis with blood work and x-rays ordered to confirm diagnosis. We paid the $870.33 bill and took our dog home. With instructions from Dr. Rhett to email with any questions (even on the weekends because he will check email when the clinic is closed). Later that evening my wife sent the attached email. To this day there has never been a single response from Dr Rhett's office.
Our dog kept getting worse through the weekend so on Jan 10th we took him to another vet
Chelsea Goral
Chelsea Goral
Dec 29, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Reliability, Responsiveness, Value
The doctor is very patient and thorough. Explains things well and goes above and beyond. I appreciate most, the genuine care/concern about my pets well being and the sensitivity when communicating with us.
Kathy Ryan
Kathy Ryan
Dec 29, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Reliability, Responsiveness
I love the team of people here! Very caring and always willing to answer your questions and concerns! I have dealt with both of the vets here and they are both equally amazing! Their support staff are great and informative! I highly recommend bring your pets here!!
Kelly B.
Kelly B.
Dec 09, 2021
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I switched Veterinarian clinics and am so very pleased! The techs and Dr.Beale were so pleasant and caring towards my pets more than once now! I highly recommend having them take care of your pets health needs, they do it wonderfully! Thank You so much!!!
C. B.
C. B.
Oct 15, 2021
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The staff were very professional and responsive, however the lost star can be contributed to putting me on the spot to make decisions about additional costly services moments before my pup went into surgery for her lap spay. It would be great if Coombs Vet clinic would have emailed all of the potential extra services and the costs associated with those services prior to the surgery so I could have time to review and make an informed decision. Ultimately I would have likely chosen to pay for the additional services, but not having a moment to think about them, and why they were needed left me feeling
Donna Tourand
Donna Tourand
Sep 17, 2021
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I could not be happier with the service we receive. Everything from phone services, silly email requests answered promptly and with humor, all the way to vet and vet tech interaction is fabulous. Great experience beginning to end (except can you do something about the tourist traffic on the drive down???) Communication from everyone is prompt, friendly and accurate.
Stormy Sweet Huggins
Stormy Sweet Huggins
Sep 13, 2021
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Absolutely wonderful to deal with. We had a cat with an emergency and they were able to get him in right away. They kept up great communication throughout his exam and diagnoses and they were understanding of his slightly feral temperament. In the end, our very senior cat would have required eye removal surgery and after talking personally to the vet about our options, we made the painful choice to let him go. Everyone we dealt with was compassionate and understanding and kind. The fees were in line with what we expected and the care was excellent. We are so happy our boy was in such good hands
Demica Pusch
Demica Pusch
Sep 13, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Reliability, Responsiveness, Value
Kind, caring, compassionate, and wonderful service! The best vet experience I have ever had. They also do not charge you an arm and a leg for your babies! Thank-you Coombs Vet Hospital!
Zoe Weir
Zoe Weir
Aug 23, 2021
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I have nothing but wonderful things to say about everyone at the Coombs Veterinary Hospital. Such a wonderful group of people, as well as a caring and comfortable environment for our pets. Our pets are our family and I always want to feel like they are getting the love and care they deserve. I absolutely feel like we get this at Coombs!
From my very first phone conversation I had a great feeling. We started visiting during covid so it was a little difficult to meet anyone but I have always trusted that my animals are in good hands and the more times I visit, the happier I am! Very happy we found
Sheila Dowson
Sheila Dowson
Aug 20, 2021
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I have been a dog/ cat owner for over 30 years. This clinic is extremely busy and staff try their best to keep up, but were running 1 hour behind. Respectful staff, compassionate, willing to answer questions. Provided a quote for the treatment prior to starting, phoned me with an update.