Considering Veterinary Care in Jacksonville: An Overview of Alta Bluff Animal Hospital

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital Introduce

For pet owners in Jacksonville, Florida, choosing a veterinary care provider is a significant decision that impacts the health and well-being of their beloved companions. Alta Bluff Animal Hospital, located in Jacksonville, has served the local community for several years, offering a range of veterinary services for dogs and cats. This article provides an overview of Alta Bluff Animal Hospital, based on publicly available information and customer experiences, to help Florida residents make informed choices about their pet's care.

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital aims to provide compassionate veterinary care to pets in the Jacksonville area. Like many veterinary practices, their mission is to address the health needs of animals, from routine check-ups to more specific medical concerns. Over the years, the clinic has seen various changes, including staff and veterinarian rotations, which are common in many service-based industries. While their dedication to animal health is foundational, understanding the operational aspects and client experiences can help local pet owners gauge if Alta Bluff Animal Hospital aligns with their current expectations for veterinary services.

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital is situated at 3130 New Berlin Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USA. This location is in a part of Jacksonville that makes it accessible for residents in the northern and eastern sections of the city. As with any local business, ease of access can vary depending on a pet owner's specific location within the sprawling Jacksonville area and traffic conditions. Facilities typically offer on-site parking for client convenience. Understanding its geographical placement is important for local pet owners to consider travel time, especially for routine visits or if an urgent situation arises.

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital offers a variety of veterinary services designed to cater to the general health and wellness needs of pets. Based on their listed services and common offerings at similar facilities, these likely include:

General Wellness Exams: Routine physical examinations for dogs and cats to assess overall health and detect potential issues early.
Vaccinations: Administration of necessary vaccines to protect pets against common diseases, including rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and others relevant to the Florida environment.
Parasite Prevention and Control: Providing solutions and advice for preventing and treating internal and external parasites such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms.
In-Hospital Diagnostics: Utilizing in-house laboratory equipment for blood work, urinalysis, and fecal exams to get quick results for diagnostic purposes.
Digital Radiography (X-rays): Employing advanced digital X-ray technology for clear imaging to help diagnose various medical conditions affecting bones, organs, and soft tissues.
Dental Prophylaxis: Basic dental care services, including professional cleanings to maintain oral hygiene and address dental disease.
General Surgery: Performing common surgical procedures, which typically include spaying and neutering.
Supportive and Urgent Care: Offering care for pets needing immediate attention during business hours for non-life-threatening conditions. For emergencies outside of business hours, they refer to local emergency clinics.
Puppy/Kitten Initial Care: Providing initial examinations and vaccine series for young pets.
Client Education: Engaging in discussions with pet owners about preventive health care, nutrition, and ongoing wellness.
Limited Hospital Boarding: Providing boarding services for pets in a supervised environment, often with veterinary oversight.
Bathing and Sanitary Trim: Basic grooming services for pet hygiene.
Referral Options: Collaborating with and referring to board-certified veterinary specialists when more intensive or specialized services beyond standard medical, surgical, and dental care are required (e.g., orthopedics, internal medicine, neurology, oncology).

Client feedback provides insight into the perceived features and highlights of Alta Bluff Animal Hospital over time. While initial experiences were often positive, recent feedback suggests some shifts:

Initial Positive Experiences: In earlier periods (around 2017-2018), clients frequently found it easy to get appointments and perceived pricing as reasonable. The care received from the doctors was generally appreciated.
Experienced and Caring Doctors (Historically): Individual veterinarians, when available, were noted for providing good care. The quality of care from the medical staff often maintained client loyalty despite other changes.
Clean Facility: The physical environment of the clinic has been noted as clean and well-maintained.
Partnerships for Referrals: The hospital has a history of working with other clinics, like Saint Johns Bluff Animal Care Center, for overflow or specialized needs, demonstrating a network approach to care, which was appreciated by some clients in the past.
Challenges with Appointment Availability: More recent feedback indicates significant challenges with scheduling, with appointments reportedly being booked "months out" and "very limited hours," making it difficult to get timely care.
Increasing Costs: Clients have expressed concerns about escalating prices for routine services, noting that costs are higher than other clinics in the area for comparable services. For example, routine shots cited at $396 compared to under $200 elsewhere.
Decline in Responsiveness for Established Patients: A critical highlight from recent reviews is the reported lack of accommodation for established patients needing follow-up care from ER visits, with clients being told to "seek another vet" and a lack of proactive communication (e.g., no follow-up calls). This suggests a shift in how urgent cases for existing patients are managed.
Perceived Shift in Priority: Recent sentiment indicates a feeling among some long-term clients that their pets are no longer a priority, especially during high demand.

For current services, scheduling, or general inquiries, you can reach Alta Bluff Animal Hospital using the following contact information:

Address: 3130 New Berlin Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USA

Phone: (904) 757-6000

Mobile Phone: +1 904-757-6000

For Jacksonville, Florida, residents, Alta Bluff Animal Hospital has historically provided a valuable local veterinary service for dogs and cats. Its range of general veterinary services, from wellness exams to diagnostics and basic surgery, covers foundational pet care needs. While it has been a convenient option for some due to its proximity and past ease of scheduling, recent client experiences highlight evolving considerations regarding appointment availability, pricing, and the ability to accommodate urgent follow-up care for established patients. Local pet owners seeking veterinary services should weigh these factors carefully, including current scheduling challenges and cost considerations, when determining if Alta Bluff Animal Hospital is the most suitable option for their pet's immediate and long-term healthcare needs in the dynamic Jacksonville market.

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital Services

Animal Hospital
Advanced Surgical Procedures
Annual Vet Check
Basic Dental Services
Complete Medical
Complete Physical Exams
We conduct thorough examinations to assess your pet's overall health, from nose to tail. These exams are crucial in detecting any potential issues early, ensuring a long and healthy life.
Comprehensive Medical Care
Our team provides comprehensive medical care tailored to your pet's specific needs, from preventive care to diagnosing and treating complex conditions. We strive to keep your pet in the best health possible. Contact us today to learn more about our services!
Dental Cleaning
Regular dental cleanings are vital in preventing oral diseases and maintaining your pet's overall health. Our professional cleaning service removes plaque and tartar, keeping your pet's mouth healthy and their breath fresh.
Dental Health Care
We provide comprehensive dental care, including examinations, cleanings, and treatments to address and prevent oral health issues. A healthy mouth is essential for your pet's overall well-being.
Dental Prophylaxis
Preventive dental care is key in avoiding painful and costly oral health issues. Our prophylactic services include regular cleanings and check-ups to maintain your pet's dental hygiene.
Dental Treatment
Diagnosis And Treatment
Digital Radiography
We utilize the latest in digital radiography technology to provide clear, detailed images for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This tool is essential in identifying issues not visible to the naked eye.
Drug Administration
We ensure safe and accurate drug administration for pets, whether it’s for ongoing treatments or immediate care. Our experienced staff carefully administers medications to keep your pet comfortable and healthy. Need expert care? Call us today for assistance!
Emergency And Urgent Care
When unexpected illness or injury strikes, our clinic is ready to provide emergency and urgent care. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies promptly and effectively.
Flea And Tick Prevention
Protect your pet from the discomfort and health risks of fleas and ticks. We offer a variety of preventative treatments to keep these parasites at bay.
General Surgery
From routine spaying and neutering to more complex procedures, our surgical team provides safe and effective operations. We focus on pain management and swift recovery for all our patients. For a pet consultation, call our team today to schedule an appointment.
Geriatric Care
Older pets have unique health needs, and our geriatric care services are designed to keep them comfortable and healthy in their senior years. We focus on preventive care, pain management, and quality of life.
Grooming Services
Health Care
Heartworm Prevention
Heartworm disease can be devastating, but it's easily preventable. We provide effective prevention options to keep your pet safe from this serious condition.
In-House Pharmacy
For your convenience, we offer an in-house pharmacy stocked with the best medications and supplements. You get quick access to the medicines your pet needs, without the wait. Contact us today to fill your pet’s prescriptions easily!
Intestinal Parasite
Intestinal parasites can harm your pet's health, but with our comprehensive testing and treatment options, we can keep your pet parasite-free. Regular screenings and preventive care are key to their well-being.
Lab Work
Our in-house laboratory allows for prompt, accurate testing, from blood work to urinalysis. Quick results mean faster diagnosis and treatment for your pet.
Laboratory And Radiology
Our advanced in-house laboratory and radiology services allow us to quickly diagnose your pet’s health issues, ensuring they receive timely and accurate care. Trust us for reliable diagnostic services—schedule an appointment today!
Laser Therapy
Our clinic uses advanced laser therapy to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and provide pain relief for various conditions. It's a safe, non-invasive treatment that can significantly improve your pet's recovery and comfort.
Physical Exam
Preventive Health Care
Preventive care is the foundation of good health, and our services are designed to protect your pet from illness before it starts. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings are part of our proactive approach.
Procedures Requiring Anesthesia
Puppy Vaccinations
Essential vaccinations for your puppy provide protection against various diseases. We'll help you create a vaccination schedule that ensures they're protected at every stage of their early life.
Puppy/Kitten
Bringing a new puppy or kitten into your home is exciting, and we're here to support their health and development. From initial check-ups to vaccination schedules, we provide everything your new companion needs.
Radiology Facilities
Our advanced radiology facilities offer detailed imaging to assist in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. It's a crucial tool in providing the best possible care for your pet.
Sanitary Trim
Keep your pet clean and comfortable with our sanitary trim services. We offer gentle, precise trims to maintain hygiene and prevent matting in sensitive areas. Call us today to schedule a trim and keep your pet looking and feeling great!
Sanitary Trims
Spaying And Neutering
Spaying and neutering are vital for your pet’s health and population control. Our skilled team provides safe and compassionate procedures that contribute to a longer, healthier life. Schedule your pet’s spaying or neutering with us today!
Surgical And Dental
We offer expert surgical and dental care to address your pet’s specific needs. From extractions to complex surgeries, we ensure a safe, caring environment. Need surgical or dental care for your pet? Contact us today for a consultation!
Surgical Procedures
Our experienced veterinarians perform a wide range of surgical procedures, from routine to advanced surgeries, with a focus on safety and recovery. Trust us for your pet’s surgical needs—reach out today for a detailed discussion!
Teeth Cleaning
Regular teeth cleaning prevents tartar build-up and oral diseases, contributing to your pet's overall health. Our dental team ensures a safe and comfortable cleaning experience.
Tooth Extraction
When a tooth is beyond saving, extraction can relieve pain and prevent further health issues. Our skilled veterinarians perform this procedure with your pet's comfort and recovery in mind.
Urgent Care
When time is critical, our urgent care services provide prompt and effective treatment to address your pet’s emergency needs. We’re here to help when you need us most. Contact us immediately for urgent care support!
Veterinary Care For Pets
Veterinary Health Care
Our comprehensive health care services address every aspect of your pet's well-being. From routine check-ups to complex treatments, we're dedicated to providing the highest level of care.
Yearly Vaccinations
Annual vaccinations are vital in protecting your pet from a range of diseases. We'll help keep your pet up-to-date with their immunizations, ensuring they're protected year-round.

Veterinarian
Cats & Kitten Care
Dedicated care for cats and kittens, offering everything from preventive health checks to behavioral advice, ensuring your feline friend thrives in their environment. Our team understands the unique needs of cats.
Dental Care
Professional dental services, from cleanings to extractions, to prevent disease and keep your pet's mouth healthy. Good oral health is vital for overall wellness.
Dogs & Puppy Care
Comprehensive services for dogs and puppies, including vaccinations, wellness exams, and nutritional advice to keep your canine companion healthy and happy. We're here to support every stage of your dog's life.
Emergency Care
Immediate medical attention for pets in critical condition, available when unexpected illness or injury occurs. Our team is prepared to handle emergencies with care and speed.
General Surgery
A wide range of surgical procedures provided with the utmost care and precision. Our experienced team ensures the safety and comfort of your pet throughout the process.
Laser Therapy
Innovative, non-invasive laser therapy to reduce pain, inflammation, and speed healing, providing comfort and faster recovery for various conditions. It's a safe, effective treatment option.
Spaying & Neutering
Safe and humane spaying and neutering services to prevent unwanted litters and provide health benefits. It's a responsible choice for your pet's well-being.
Urgent Care
Prompt care for non-life-threatening situations, ensuring your pet gets the attention they need when they need it. We're here to address your pet's urgent health needs.
Wellness Testing
Proactive health screenings and tests to detect issues early and ensure your pet's long-term health. Regular wellness testing is key to a happy, healthy life.
Yearly Exams
Annual check-ups to assess your pet's health, update vaccinations, and discuss any concerns. These exams are crucial in maintaining your pet's well-being.

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital Details

Service options
Onsite services

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom

Amenities
Restroom

Planning
Appointments recommended

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital Photos

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital Location

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital

Florida Duval County Jacksonville Oceanway New Berlin Road

3130 New Berlin Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226, USA

Alta Bluff Animal Hospital Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 255 user reviews.

babypricesfurgroomingmoneyquestionsfeeljobinformationfluids

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

We have been using Alta Bluff since 2017 or 2018 for dogs and cats but we are done.Initially, they were fantastic. Easy to get appointments and pricing seemed reasonable. Fast forward and we have had ups and downs over the years due to staff change and vets leaving/new ones coming (life is change, so we have stuck with them due to proximity, ease of scheduling, and care received by doctors).Now, they are booking months out with very limited hours and pricing is high. Last straw was sitting more than hour after our appointment time.
June 20 · M M
My pets have been seen at this clinic for 4 years. With every visit, the bill kept getting more and more expensive for the same routine shots. Their prices are much higher than any other clinic in the 10 mile radius. My last invoice with them for routine shots was $396 when most vets and mobile pet clinics can do the routine shots for under $200.Previously when their schedules were full they would send us to Saint Johns Bluff animal care center. My dog was seen there for pink eye because they were able to fit us in and worked with Alta Bluff directly and I was very thankful.Fast forward to now: My pet needed a follow up appointment from an ER visit for a scan and I was told they are booked months out and I should see another vet. I understand a full book, but when an established patient has an issue that needs a follow up from and ER visit then usually the schedule has a little room for such instances. I never imagined being told in the email that they are booked that far out and I should seek another vet since they can not see my pet. Not once did they pick up the phone and call me to see if other accommodations were made or to attempt to find a spot for her on their schedule.I will no longer use any services from this hospital and highly recommend seeking another location to take care of your babies that won't drain your bank account and actually make your pet a priority.
May 16 · Yana Rusk
Amazing staff! The groomer (can’t remember her name right now) did an amazing job on our fur baby! He’s so handsome and she was able to get the couple matted spots out!
June 06 · Leandre Rogers
We used to go to this pet hospital for ALL our pets but the past couple times we’ve gone we have been treated so poorly. The woman at the front desk made it evident that we were bothering her with our emergency. Every statement or question made was served with attitude and annoyance, and no amount of sympathy was given even with our puppy in critical condition. While I understand everyone has bad days, EVERY time I have came in regardless of the reason for being there, it seems as though we are just not welcome. Something that no pet parent wants to feel when they’re trusting these people to take care of our lovely pets. After this last incident, we will be switching vet offices immediately.
May 16 · Destiny Robinson
This used to be a great vet's office when it was run by Dr. Chris. He saw my cat Casper emergently when he was in acute renal failure, and gave him the treatment he needed, even admitting him overnight for fluids. I tried to schedule an appointment with the new vet at Alta Bluff for a subacute issue and was told to see an emergency vet in fernandina, 45 minutes away! I'm sad that this office is no longer run by Dr. Chris, who was fantastic. The way they are doing things without him is incredibly disappointing.
May 12 · Holly Nichols