Back Bay Veterinary Hospital

This is it! I finally found he perfect vet. Dr. Fanou is amazing. I came in with my shiba inu for first time exam (free!)
Colin was the vet tech that called us back, and he is so gentle and professional. He took his time for my dog to smell him and rewarded my dog with treats to gain her trust. You can tell he truly likes animals and his job. He was thorough when reviewing my dog’s medical history. Just a great guy.
When the doctor came in, he was so polite and nice. He was very thorough about explaining in answering my questions. He drew diagrams on the paper and took out teeth models to show me where my dogs tooth broke. He even gave me a business card with the cell phone number on the back seem to feel free to call or text if I have any concerns, that is good patient care. I will definitely recommend everyone to come here

I want to give zero stars. My review is only on the boarding since I have never used the vet services.
From the first time coming in I had a bad feeling about the manager & her demeanor. Her employees were very confused & each response was different. I got my final quote & made a appointment to board while having my surgery. When I came in the guy had never scheduled me. They still had space but the lack of organization was evident. I went through all meds for cat & vitamins for dogs. Not once did anyone mention there was a extra charge. Remember this. Next my surgery had complications & I needed one extra day & one day they were closed for holiday, they asked for more food, so I sent my family, not once but 3 times & each time no one would answer. Even though I was told someone was there, they walked around & called to find someone, but nothing. They also Do NOT have cameras, so your pets are at their mercy. Ok so when I got them they said they gave them other foods & it might affect them when I change back. It did. Diarrhea galore. Yay! Price of boarding was different than quote but manager fixed it to amount I was told before.
Next as I’m walking to the car I noticed both ears are inflamed, red & irritated. I showed the guy helping me & said you want meds?, I said huh? What is it first? He says I’ll clean both & put ointment. I figure they were horsing around but never got a clear answer. Next few days it got worse, I took them to the vet & they got a shot & antibiotic ointment. Didn’t think much of it till I had a work trip & had to board again last min, since I’m new to the area I wasn’t able to search for another place & since they came out alive I figured I’d try it out regardless of their misunderstanding. Called and was quoted again, made appointment.
I get there & was not able to wait. Told them I would call to go over my written instructions on the bags I made for each. They said fine ok. I leave & in the airport after explaining everything, the manager jumps on the phone & says you have to pay a med fee per day per dog. This is a first time anyone mentions this! I said what are you talking about & how much & how come no one had said anything. Her answer– you left too fast, $ 9 per pet per day and we have always done it.
I say how come no one said this on the phone calls or last time I was there. She says because you confused my employee you are the one with problems you have to pay or we won’t give you the pets. I said well I’m at a airport boarding & you are telling this to me now. I didn’t want to argue and left it at that.
When I got back she started again and changed pricing to over $ 655 for three pets under ten pounds for 5 days when I was quoted for $ 485. She verbally attacked & insulted me, saying I’m the problem.
No dear I’m not. You are. You are having a power trip and can’t train your staff.
I got the vet over & he tried to get her to stop but she wouldn’t stop or move. Your employee is treating paying clients like garbage & lacks professionalism !! I said I’m not paying the fees he told her to change it and I start giving her my cc number and she starts again. No give me a card or I’m keeping the pets & calling police. The guy is holding the dogs and feels bad & hands to me, I notice both have ribs showing and ears and really red. I ask what did you guys do to them again??? She says bring proof I’ll reimburse you. They takes my cc number and throws me out.
You guys hurts my boys and tried to overcharge me and blame me for your shortcomings?
Both doctors should realize you are a bad manager, considering every bad review is about the boarding.
People beware of the boarding here. It is not safe! Don’t forget price gouging too!
Both dogs have skin infections. All three had lost ½−¾ of a lb. dogs weighed 5lbs before and cat was 9.6lbs.. When I got him out of the carrier he was covered /​caked in urine!! Cat was freaking out and crying for 6 hours! Seriously what was going on here?

Let’s just say that I’d come to this veterinary clinic all the way from Arizona because I think that the doctors here are simply the best! I can’t tell you how passionate, loving, and intelligent the doctors are in diagnosing and treating your pets. It shows here!

What a great vet that treats it’s customers like people and not like $. Dr. Fanous is by far the best vet I have ever met. Genuine shows concern and knows how important your Lil buddy is to you. Addresses all concerns in a very calming manner. My wife says how much more she like him than our general family doctor. I can’t recommend this place enough and encourage anyone to give this place a try. Also, the prices are very reasonable. The only problem is that they’re so good that it’s hard to get an appointment quickly. Call weeks in advance to ensure you get the time you want.

As you walk in you feel the friendly vibe from the staff (they even provide you with coffee). Dr. Fanous never seems to disappoint. I have shop around at different veterinary places, but I always end up coming back. He is very honest on the conditions my dog has and gives me choices based on my finances. Dr. Fanous is the best vet.

My boyfriend and I bought a chocolate lab towards the end of December. With not having a vet in mind, we did some Unilocal research. Back Bay Veterinary Hospital exceeded my expectations. The first examination is free. I didn’t have a travel sized crate for our puppy and was carrying her in an oversized one. While struggling to open the door, their front desk staff immediately stopped what they were doing and came to the door asking if I needed assistance. They were nice enough to ask if I would like to be in the room during the examination. I was brought to a room and greeted immediately by Dr. Fanous and Jeff. They were informative, caring, friendly, and showered my puppy with attention. Bailey got a few extra treats that day! I was asked if I’ve raised a puppy before. This is my first pet outside of childhood. Dr. Fanous printed out a few articles for me and gave me training tips, etc. A few days after our visit, I received a text from the vet asking how Bailey is doing. I’ve returned twice for puppy vaccinations and am always treated with outstanding customer service. If you’re looking for a practice that is knowledgable, patient, and personable, give them a call!

I love Back Bay Veterinary Clinic. I have been bringing my dog here for years and could not be more pleased. It is worth the drive from Laguna Niguel. This past week I dropped my dog off in the morning for daycare while I went to work. We had a 4:00 pm appointment with Dr. Fanous. When I arrived for the afternoon appointment, a staff member brought my dog out from daycare along with a cute little report card & four pictures taken of him throughout the day. It was so great! I think my pug got spoiled by the staff.
Dr. Fanous is so wonderful, so kind and caring. I highly, highly recommend!!! He truly cares about his patients and is very good about educating me each time I bring my dog in for an issue. I feel very confident that my dog is getting the best care.

I can not express in words my gratitude & overall respect to Dr. Fanous. My Great Pyrenees mix has never been able to be examined by a vet without being anesthetized until Dr. Fanous. He has had a couple of opportunities to take advantage of my dog’s fragile nature as well as my wallet. He goes above and beyond professionalism and care. He is the dog whisperer of animal doctors. I have had many animals & veterinary experiences and he super exceeds all. He came highly recommended & I could see why the second he met my dog. Reviews have raved about his staff and again, I could see why from my first phone call. I wish all doctors cared as much as he does. I 100% trust him, his ability & approach. Trust me with this review/​recommendation as you will not be disappointed. Thank you Back Bay Animal Hospital again & again.

Initially used it for rescued dogs that I was fostering. Soon became the vet for my personal dogs. Dr. Fanous is the absolute best vet. Staff are very friendly and excellent customer service. I finally got my sister to bring her cats there after she was told by Banfield that her cat was likely dieing, would need more expensive tests and medicine that they did not have. Brought cat to Back Bay and learned that the Banfield diagnosis was very wrong and meds were wrong. This was nearly a year ago and her cat is happy and doing well.

Absolutely exceeded my expectations! My chocolate lab was SO incredibly loved by all of the staff. My 4 year old chocolate lab has been house trained for many years and was concerned when she began soiling at inappropriate times and places. Imaging then worst case scenario, I contacted Back Bay Veterinary due to the positive review and luckily, they were able to take us in first thing the very next day.
Dr. Fanous confirmed that my lab did in fact have severe UTI. He was able to do so by taking the time to evaluate her blood under the microscope himself rather than sending and running lab work (which can easily be very expensive). Dr. Fanous not only took the time to personally review her blood work but also grabbed me from the waiting room to personally show me what he was looking at and also proceeded to demonstrate and compare images from a medical book between a healthy and infected image. Dr. Fanous prescribed antibiotics and aside from this, Dr. Fanous took the time to send me a text message that evening from his cell phone to extend his services if necessary. I couldn’t be happier knowing my lab is such good hands. it is evident from Dr. Fanous demeanor that he very pragmatic, and sincerely cares and loves animals. He isn’t interested in trying to just rack up your bill, he just wants to treat and cure animals back to health.
His staff is amazing as well, while we waited, I needed to use the restroom and since my lab is a rescue and isn’t fond of small dogs, the staff offered to bring my dog around on their side of the desk while I quickly used the restroom. Upon my return, the staff advised me that my dog released her anal gland. I quickly apologized but they seemed like it was a common thing and asked if it was okay if she take my dog to the back and quickly shampoo her butt.

This review is regarding the boarding service. No doggy cams (like they’ve had at other dog hotels we’ve used when traveling) but they said they’d send picture texts to keep us updated on the pooch, which they didn’t despite us asking and giving our cell number twice. That was pretty disappointing but they did give us a brief «pawgress» report when we checked out.

I honestly think this is the best Vet hospital in OC. Whenever my dog has health issues, Dr. Fanous is very knowledgable and thorough with his examinations. The reception and staff here is very friendly, accommodating and they truly make you and your pet feel at home. I also have tried their boarding services which they gave me a tour of and these pets have clean and ample room and get plenty of play time. I know that when I drop off my dog, he will be in great hands.

Great service and best veterinarian hospital I’ve been to! I would recommend this place to anyone!!!

Back Bay has excellent customer service!
I’ve never felt so welcomed at a facility for animals before.
I had found out about Back Bay from an event at Skyline. From the moment I called about their Doggy Day Camp services to the visit itself — their staff was kind and very informative. The only negative I felt in their Doggy Day camp was that the others dogs were not able to socially interact with other dogs. It’s understandable as dogs are unpredictable creatures at times. I live in an apartment and do feel bad my Chihuahua doesn’t have constant dog interactions or a yard available ²⁴⁄₇. (Darn Work) But the staff makes up for it with the yard they provide to the dog and playtime they dedicate them.
Reason for 4 stars? I will definitely continue to bring my Mia here, but wouldn’t really consider having any staff do any procedures here on her where I wouldn’t be available. She smelled a little funky when I picked her up. Skunk like) If you catch my drift. Haha.

Dr. Fanous is the best! Our dog suffers from major allergies and he has been there every step of the way. You can tell the staff here really care about your pets and love their job. We take both our boys here for their shots and emergencies, wouldn’t trust taking them elsewhere!
P. S. They offer free first-​time exams, so we’ve recommended them to all our friends and they have become long-​time patients now too!

Can’t say enough good things about Dr. Fanous and his staff! He took care of Wally, our French bulldog, and removed some benign tumors for him. He is very warm, pragmatic, generous, and sincerely caring. All good traits you would want in a doctor.
We also recently had Wally come in to perform bloodwork as a precautionary measure (Wally was accidentally fed grapes) and he was very helpful in explaining treatment plans and what to watch out for against conservative but maybe «overkill» (ie expensive) options. We appreciate his opinion.
Would highly recommend.

This is by far the best veterinarian I have been to… Dr. Fanous is amazing and the staff couldn’t be more friendly. From the minute Zoe and I walked in we knew we were in good hands.
I have been in and out of the vet over the past two weeks with my new puppy, who has been vomiting almost nightly, and for the first I feel like my little Zoe is going to be okay!
Thank you Dr. Fanous and all the staff at Back Bay Veterinarian!

Wow. Where do I begin?
I came in recently with my brother to take our little Gigi in. He had been abandoned and then recently adopted into my family and we wanted to get an all-​around check-​up.
I showed up a little late as I was coming from work, but as soon as I walked in I was greeted by the super friendly front desk. (This might have also been because I handed them cupcakes from my shop ;) Either way, the employees seemed to have a great relationship with the Dr and vice versa, which seemed to create a fun, friendly workplace.
The Dr and his assistants handled our Gigi with so much love and care. What more could you ask for? I would DEFINITELY recommend this place to anyone and we will be back!

You’re in a hurry — I know — so I’ll give you the highlights in 10 seconds!
1. Super friendly and happy staff; if you’ve been to a vet where no one is happy then you know how important this is!
2. Clean facility; you don’t get that strong sanitized hospital type of smell but it’s still clean.
3. Dr. Fanous is very helpful and personable; he even gave me his cell phone number in case I had questions and texted me later that evening to thank me for coming in!
4. They serve coffee; sure, it has nothing to do with the quality of their services but I love my coffee!
5. Overall great experience; I work down the street but live 30 miles away. Although it would be easier for me to stick to a vet in my area, I’m planning on switching to Back Bay!

I do not understand how this vet has received so many good reviews. Just one visit revealed big red flags!
I moved to the area from Los Angeles and was looking to establish a new vet. I read the Unilocal reviews and made an appt with Dr Fanous for an exam on each dog. I have two very small Chihuahua mixes, one barely 7 lbs, the other 11 lbs. They are terrified when we take them to the vet. They shake and are startled and reactive/​bark at every move or sound. Every vet who has ever examined them in the past laughs at them because they are so little and no one is ever phased by them. They know exactly how to deal with them. As do the techs. They walk in the exam room, ignore their barking, let them calm down and take one in the other room and do the exams separately. Never had a problem.
The techs at Back Bay even laughed at them and ignored them, while taking initial information. One tech then sat on the ground after they calmed down and pet them. Then he left the room and we waited for Dr Fanous to come in.
Dr Fanous was ridiculous! When he walked in and my dogs started doing their thing, barking and squealing. Dr Fanous ran out of the room and shut the door behind him. (I had them both on leashes, as always and they’re tiny… and he’s a VET, right?) He then opened the door just a crack and talked to me through the cracked door! He acted like he was terrified of these two little dogs. HOW IS HE A VET?!
He never looked at them, never examined them, nothing. One of my dogs has a gallbladder issue. While Dr Fanous and I spoke through the door, I told him that my dog has been doing very well on the two supplements (not medication) that my previous put him on. That his liver enzymes and proteins are back to normal and he’s been doing great! Dr Fanous said he would take my dog off the supplements he’s on and start him on «natural remedies». He said he only uses natural remedies. But the supplements my dog is on are natural supplement remedies and they work great. Dr Fanous never looked at either dog nor did he acknowledge the two natural supplements that I was telling him my one dog is on.
He told me I should reschedule and make two separate appointments, one for each dog. I’ve never had a vet do this.
The whole thing was the strangest, most disturbing experience I’d ever had with a vet. And I’ve had dogs for 20 years! I would NEVER feel comfortable putting my dogs’ lives in his hands.