Business Details
16 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Compassionate Veterinary Care in Guelph
Southgate Animal Hospital is a privately-owned veterinary clinic dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care for pets and their families in Guelph's South End. Since 2010, we have prioritized Fear-Free veterinary medicine while maintaining the highest standards of surgical, medical, and dental care. Our team combines over 20 years of collective experience with specialized certifications in acupuncture, spinal manipulation therapy, and emergency medicine. We emphasize low-stress environments for both pets and owners, offering comprehensive services from wellness exams to end-of-life care. Our practice philosophy centers on building long-term relationships through personalized attention and evidence-based treatments.We maintain rigorous quality standards through CVO accreditation and continuous professional development. Our facility features advanced diagnostic tools including digital radiography, ultrasound, and in-house blood analyzers. We also provide telemedicine consultations for follow-ups and minor concerns. The hospital expanded its services in 2023 under new ownership while preserving its commitment to community-focused care. Our team's diverse expertise ensures we can address complex medical cases while maintaining the warmth of a small practice.
Services
Wellness Care
Diagnostics
Surgery
Dentistry
Acupuncture
End of Life Care
Telemedicine
Phovia Therapy
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- CVO-accredited veterinary practice with Fear-Free certification
- Veterinarians certified in acupuncture and spinal manipulation therapy
- 24/7 emergency care through partnered clinics
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to individual pet needs
- Advanced diagnostics including digital radiography and ultrasound
Associations and certifications
- CVO
What people say
Caring team
Life-saving expertise
Personalized service
Pet-friendly environment
Compassionate euthanasia
Services
Wellness Care
Our wellness programs include annual exams, vaccinations, parasite control, and nutrition counseling. We emphasize early disease detection through regular checkups and tailored preventive strategies. Our approach combines traditional veterinary medicine with lifestyle recommendations to optimize pet health.
Diagnostics
We offer in-house blood analysis, digital radiography, ultrasound, and electrocardiogram services. Our diagnostic capabilities enable rapid assessment of internal conditions, supporting timely treatment decisions. Board-certified specialists provide advanced imaging consultations when needed.
Surgery
Our surgical services range from routine spays/neuters to complex orthopedic procedures. We collaborate with board-certified surgeons for specialized cases. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork and advanced monitoring ensure patient safety during all surgical interventions.
Dentistry
Comprehensive dental care includes cleanings, extractions, and digital dental radiography. We address periodontal disease and oral health issues using modern anesthetic protocols. Preventive education helps owners maintain their pets' dental health between visits.
End of Life Care
We provide compassionate euthanasia services with flexible options for families. Our protocol includes pre-appointment counseling and comfort measures during the procedure. Aftercare options include individual or communal cremation with memorial services available.
People
Dr. Barb Deter
Founder
Graduated from Ontario Veterinary College in 1991 with extensive experience in small animal care. Certified in veterinary acupuncture through IVAS. Founded Southgate Animal Hospital in 2010 to provide personalized veterinary services.
Dr. Shanna Clinch
Veterinarian
Atlantic Veterinary College graduate with expertise in Chinese medicine and dermatology. Certified in peaceful euthanasia practices. Completed advanced training in veterinary acupuncture and herbal medicine through IVAS certification.
Dr. Melanie Gagnon
Owner
OVC graduate with decade of mixed animal practice experience. Certified in Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy. Acquired Southgate Animal Hospital in 2023 to continue its tradition of personalized pet care.
Dr. Jackie Haas
Veterinarian
Emergency medicine specialist with general practice expertise. OVC graduate experienced in community outreach programs. Provides comprehensive care combining emergency response skills with preventive medicine knowledge.
Nikki
Veterinary Technician
Certified technician with surgical monitoring expertise. Graduated from Sheridan College Animal Care Program. Specializes in laboratory work and emergency patient stabilization. Provides calming presence during critical care situations.
Questions
What veterinary services do you offer?
We provide wellness exams, diagnostics, surgery, dentistry, acupuncture, end-of-life care, and telemedicine consultations for dogs and cats.
Do you handle emergency cases after hours?
For emergencies outside our operating hours, we recommend Emergency Veterinary Clinic of Waterloo Region or Campus Estates Animal Hospital, both open 24/7.
What payment options are available?
We accept debit, Visa, Mastercard, and cash. Financing options through PetCard are available, and we process direct payments for Trupanion pet insurance.
Are your veterinarians specialized in specific areas?
Our team includes IVAS-certified acupuncturists, veterinary spinal manipulation specialists, and practitioners with advanced training in emergency medicine and diagnostic imaging.
How do you handle pet anxiety during visits?
We implement Fear-Free handling techniques and offer anti-anxiety medication options to make visits less stressful for anxious pets.
Can I schedule telemedicine appointments?
Existing clients can book phone consultations for follow-ups, minor issues, and behavioral concerns. Photos/videos can be shared prior to appointments for review.
Reviews (4)
Kevin Pelling
Jan 27, 2022
Report
We are extremely pleased & satisfied with the professionalism, kindness & conscientious approach Southgate applies to the care they provide their animal patients. We originally placed the care of our Calico cat in the hands of the Staff at Southgate based upon a referral we received through close friends. The kindness, empathy and thoughtfulness the Staff here showed us upon our "Sadie's" passing has remained with us to this day. We are now entrusting the care of our "Abby", a 6-month old "Cotton-Poo", with Southgate and feel completely comfortable with our decision.
Southgate has just performed
Southgate has just performed
Chad Mitchell
Dec 22, 2021
Report
Great location, great staff and Doctors. They take great care of our dog, they send lots of reminders and follow up after procedures. Great at answering any questions or concerns and spend extra time to take you through things.
Nathan Osborne
Nov 03, 2021
Report
Have been bringing my dog here for awhile and my pup has always gotten the best treatment. Very friendly staff and they are really good at explaining what's wrong with your pet and how they'll treat them. Highly recommended!
Danielle C.
Sep 19, 2021
Report
This is the only vet I've been to who explains everything to you which sets your mind at ease. Very nice staff, and really fair pricing. I drive all the way from another city to go here.
