Best Vet

1434 Irving (at 16th Avenue), 664-0191

What struck us immediately about Irving Street was that the staff didn't insist our 83-pound dog be lifted onto the cold metal examination table. They tended to him on the floor, crouching to his level. Also, the vet -- Dr. Dean Beyerinck, our personal favorite here -- asked questions about his personality and interactions with other animals, taking an interest in our pet as an individual. Finally, the practice is open to homeopathy and is not interested in over-vaccinating (some studies suggest yearly boosters are not necessarily effective and could be hard on animals' immune systems). Irving Street is a little more expensive, but it's a small trade-off for the peace of mind that comes with feeling you've found a vet you can trust.