Pet Owner’s Note: My French Bulldog, Beau, hated going to the vet. It’s totally understandable as we’d have to cram into a sterile waiting room crowded with pets and worried pet parents. Then we’d wait and wait and wait… But, we recently discovered Small Door Veterinary — convenient, personalized vet care with a friendly neighborhood vibe. (Plus, it’s only a few blocks away!) When Beau and I are out for a walk, he’ll often tug at the leash and stand outside Small Door like he can’t wait to go back! From his first exam to vaccines to managing his allergies, Small Door is there for us with exceptional treatment, support, and kindness.

Here’s What Our Doggy Life Was Like Before Small Door Vet:

When I moved to NYC, I brought along my two cats — Izzy & Abie. They really helped me to settle into the city and get cozy. But I never vetted the vet. I just took what I got. As the years went by I stayed with my local vet because they knew me and my pets. 

But once I moved downtown, making the trek with my animals for their checkups was a pain. When our new pup Beau’s allergies presented, I practically lived in that ugly waiting room.

Although the receptionist was friendly enough, booking an appointment was like getting a table at The Polo Bar. The vet was sweet, but I didn’t have a lot of confidence in her treatment. Beau’s allergies weren’t improving. They were getting worse — pink welts showed through his white fur and he was even rubbing his back on the floor desperately trying to stop the itching. 

During the last appointment, I realized that I was the one suggesting possible treatments instead of the vet. I was done. The following night, I was coming back from yoga and happened upon Small Door Vet — a spacious, modern clinic with a high-end, personalized approach to pet care. 

I peeped in the windows and saw whimsical murals on the white walls, super smart alcoves where pets and pet parents can sit in relative privacy. So different from my old vet’s waiting room, where the pets were tumbling around the place, giving each other the sniffles. 

I went home (just a few blocks away) and saw that Small Door has same-day or next-day appointments, transparent pricing, and — for pet parents who need round-the-clock advice, there’s 24/7 telehealth support. 

With locations in the West Village, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Gramercy, and Williamsburg — as well as locations in Boston and in DC — it’s easy to see why Small Door is the new go-to choice for pet parents.

Beau’s allergies had been costing me a fortune and a ton of heartache — it’s tough to see him in such agony. I was impressed that Small Door has an optional membership, offering perks such as a free annual exam, discounted visit fees, 24/7 telehealth, and same or next day appointments. If I preferred to try out Small Door before committing to a membership; I could go with their Pay As You Go option. And while I don’t have to be a member to visit, the membership provides great value for those with pets who need exceptional regular care.

Ultimately, I went with Small Door’s Wellness+ Bundle because I anticipated that we’d all be working together to solve Beau’s allergies for a little while (at least). Designed to provide comprehensive preventive care, the Wellness+ Bundle includes: extra exams, core vaccinations, annual bloodwork, fecal checks, deworming, preventive medication, and more. It’s a smart way to stay on top of Beau’s health throughout the year. 

Their flexible online appointment scheduling and telemedicine options are ideal for those who need quick care for their pets. Plus, their app is excellent for appointment management and reducing stress for pet owners — especially for people like me who hate calling. Small Door says they never overbook, so the doctors have more dedicated time for Beau. Wow. I am dazzled by Small Door Vet.

So, I booked our first visit for the next day!  Let me tell you how things went.

Our Life With Small Door Vet:

When you open the door and step inside a Small Door location, it’s instantly clear that this is not your typical vet’s office. The space is designed to be a calming, welcoming environment — it’s light-filled and clean with bright pops of color.

The cheery front desk staff greeted Beau (and me!) by name. That totally put us at ease before our appointment — such a stress-free atmosphere where everyone feels comfy.

A true standout with Small Door Vet is actual one-on-one time with the veterinarian. Unlike traditional vet offices, where appointments can feel rushed, Small Door makes sure that I have ample time to ask questions and fully understand my pet’s health. Our veterinarian took her time to explain diagnoses and care plans in clear, simple terms. She quickly established clear, open communication about Beau’s health so I could make informed decisions each step of the way.

At the end of our visit, Beau loved the treats he earned just for standing still! Plus, a clear summary of what we discussed, the vaccinations administered, and the next steps appeared on a prominent screen. Talk about transparency. 

When they say there are no surprise bills at Small Door, they mean it — an itemized bill appears on the screen. With my Wellness+ Bundle, I saved a lot! Their medical team will always inform you of the costs of additional services, such as vaccines, lab tests, or surgeries before the treatment starts.

As we strolled out the door, I took note of the calming, pet-friendly touches — what a kind and caring team Beau and I now have. And right in the neighborhood.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right vet for your pet is a huge decision; it can affect you and your pet’s quality of life. And while both Small Door and traditional vets offer great care, Small Door’s customer-focused, state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated team, take the experience to the next level.

For pet owners who value convenience, expert care, and a stress-free experience, Small Door Vet is a clear choice.

And they have a special offer for new patients that you can access here!