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Westgate Pet & Bird Hospital

Updated 2026-10-06 · 1,242 reviewed · 240 listed · Scored from 1,115 Google reviews · How we rank ›

4.7(1115) 87 composite score See reviews on Google ✓ Google-verified
Exotic & Avian VetsGeneral Practice VetsEmergency & 24-Hour VetsSpecialty & Referral Vets
Westgate Pet & Bird Hospital
Location
Westgate, Austin
Services
Exotic & Avian Vets, General Practice Vets, Emergency & 24-Hour Vets
Reviews
1115
Ranking
#16 in Exotic & Avian Vets
Best for
Owners of birds, exotics, or long-term pets needing surgical care and same-day urgent slots.

Business data from Google Business Profile, checked 2026-10-06. Facts from the business's own website were fetched 2026-10-06.

What recent reviews say

Westgate combines long-standing local trust with genuine animal care. Reviewers consistently name specific vets-Dr. Lusk, Dr. Krall, Dr. Villalva-and describe surgical outcomes, avian expertise, and follow-ups that feel personal. Pricing is discussed openly; urgent appointments fit in same-day. The one recent friction: a routine prescription renewal triggered a re-exam request and delayed callback, though older longterm clients note this as an exception to otherwise outstanding service.

Praised for
  • compassionate, kind veterinarians
  • expert surgical care
  • thorough exotics and avian care
  • transparent pricing
  • responsive scheduling and follow-up
Watch-outs
  • occasional delayed callback on routine prescriptions
  • variable communication style between providers
compassionatecaring-with-animalsthorough-diagnosisknowledgeable-vetfriendly-staffclear-communicationgood-emergency-carehandles-anxious-petsclean-facilityeasy-scheduling
Best for: Owners of birds, exotics, or long-term pets needing surgical care and same-day urgent slots.
Think twice if: Expect longer waits or delayed callbacks during high-volume periods; communication can vary by vet.

Where this business shines

  • Named expert veterinarians with recognized specialties
  • Transparent pricing and open cost discussion
  • Exotic and avian expertise with patient education
  • Daily urgent appointments available
  • 20+ year patient relationships common

Worth knowing

  • Dr. Lusk known for avian expertise and knowledgeable follow-up care
  • Dr. Krall performed splenectomy on 15-year-old Schnauzer with strong outcome
  • Dr. Villalva praised for clear explanation of complex topics
  • Staff keeps finances in mind when recommending diagnostics
  • Handled end-of-life care with grace when avian patient (eclectus with bornavirus) did not improve

What reviews say by service

General Practice Vets
Long-term clients report consistent, caring routine care; one recent review noted variable communication on prescription renewals.
Emergency & 24-Hour Vets
Same-day urgent slots available daily; reviewers praise quick response and emergency handling.
Exotic & Avian Vets
Deep expertise; vets educate owners on anatomy, coordinate with specialists, handle end-of-life with compassion.
Specialty & Referral Vets
Surgeries (splenectomy) and specialist coordination praised for outcomes and follow-through.

How it compares

  • Rated 4.7 against a 4.62 average across the 214 general practice vets businesses listed here.
  • Has more Google reviews than 97% of the businesses in this directory.

What earned this score?

How We Score
Star rating 80
Review volume 100
Review recency 100
Review sentiment 70
Profile completeness 100
Verification 30

Rating breakdown

5
993
4
54
3
14
2
6
1
48

Common questions

Can I get an urgent appointment the same day?
Yes. Urgent appointments are available every day according to recent reviews.
Do they work with exotic pets and birds?
Yes. Reviewers specifically mention eclectus, rabbits, and other birds seen by Dr. Lusk, Dr. Villalva, and the avian team.
How long have they been operating?
Since 1986. Many current clients have been coming for 10, 20, or more years.

Similar veterinarians nearby

Westgate Pet & Bird Hospital - Dr. Paul Brandt
74 low data

Westgate Pet & Bird Hospital - Dr. Paul Brandt

4.8(15)

Staff and vets earn consistent praise for caring treatment and expertise across common pets and exotics. A recent review flagged higher-than-expected pricing and cool front-desk reception, though most testimonials highlight fair costs and devoted long-term relationships.

Exotic & Avian VetsGeneral Practice VetsEmergency & 24-Hour Vets
Westgate Pet & Bird Hospital: Lusk Rick DVM
70 low data

Westgate Pet & Bird Hospital: Lusk Rick DVM

4.8(4)

Dr. Lusk's practice earns consistent praise for compassionate care and diagnostic precision. Clients credit him with uncovering serious conditions early and providing exceptional support during emergencies and end-of-life decisions.

General Practice VetsEmergency & 24-Hour VetsSpecialty & Referral Vets
Mouser Dee Ann DVM
23 low data

Mouser Dee Ann DVM

No rating yet

Limited review evidence is available for this AAHA-accredited clinic. Their website lists services spanning wellness, exotic and avian care, diagnostics, surgery, and urgent care, but recent reviewer feedback is not yet in the directory.

Emergency & 24-Hour VetsGeneral Practice VetsSpecialty & Referral Vets

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Last updated 2026-10-06