Animal Surgery and Advocacy Services Windham, Maine

Dr. Doug Kern and his staff are absolutely amazing, definitely the best care for your beloved pets. We recently had an emergency with our French bull dog (Buddy). Doug answered my text messages at all hours of the day, night and weekend. Doug also made Buddy his first priority on an emergency Basis, got him in for surgery and saved his life. His assistant Marcie was an angel, took buddy home first night after surgery and rehabbed him for us. We don’t know what we would do without Doug and his staff and can’t thank them enough for all the amazing care they have givin us over the years.

Licensed surgeon Dr. Kern, Assistant Marcy and the staff at First Choice are the best! The doctor is conservative and careful not to rush procedures that could heal on their own, not many doctors promote natural healing. Turns out we did eventually need a CCL and meniscus surgery a couple of months later, and we were so glad we went through with it. The procedure itself was only about 45 minutes and they have a window where you can watch the surgery should you feel so inclined. That was very comforting! I found that level of transparency says a lot about the quality of care you get at First Choice! I wish more vets let you do that. Dr. Kern is confident in his work and spends the time talking with you to make sure you're on the same page. 3 days post surgery our dog is happier than she's been in months! Her spirit is back and she is ready to go full tilt again! The staff called twice to check up on her and we have 2 follow up visits over the next 2 months where they will teach us physical therapy techniques. First Choice is a 3 hour drive for us each way but well worth it! While we were there another dog had the same CCL surgery and he traveled 2 hours each way. The surgery procedure Dr. Kern preformed is the gold standard for CCL injuries since (at least) the 90s. He doesn't buy into the propaganda of other "hyped up" procedures and instead has many years perfecting the one he masterfully performs today. Don't think twice before booking your appointment. They won't let you down.

Amazing staff! Doug Kern is excellent at what he does. I’ve never had another place care for my animal like they do here! If your looking for the best then end you search because you have found it with Dr Kern

I have been to many veterinarians over the last 15 years and by far this is the best place I have ever taken my cats!! The doctor is very knowledgeable & the staff are super friendly & both are gentle & kind. I'm very grateful for the excellent care my cats have received. We have one elder cat that was misdiagnosed by 2 other vets but Dr. Kern knew right away what was really going on & prescribed a medication that has helped our baby. He did a fantastic job with our other cat's teeth & diagnosed kidney failure. He's also going to be helping me to better manage our other cat's diabetes. I highly recommend taking your fur babies to Dr. Kern & staff.

I had called to make an appointment for my dogs when I had asked why I had to pay for another full exam when they had just received one in jan I was told that it was mandatory in a very rude manor! I was in the middle of talking when I lost service and when I tried to call back later I was trying to set up the appointment because I had lost service. I again lost service going to work and by the time I was back in service range the office was closed! When I called back a week later I was told I was no longer welcome! Which is fine because I would rather take my babies somewhere to a place that doesn’t lie and isn’t all about money! I would never recommend this place and i will be surely to make sure to never send anyone there! I was warned before I took them there but thought I would give them a chance! Do not take your pets here!

Dr.Kern is the best vet. His care for my dogs is outstanding! His staff are all wonderful. He explains everything and all the options for treatment. I drive over 2.5 hours to see him...yes he is that great!

Welcoming supportive staff. Exceptional & devoted veterinarian Dr. Kern!

Dr Kern and his crew are extremely knowledgeable! More importantly, they know animals. I say that because I have a scared dog, but they respected that in a manner that relaxed my dog enough to take a treat from Dr. Kern's hand. My dog would normally show aggression. He explains what and why he is doing what he's doing. He seems more affordable too.

Does all the can to help your pet.my third visit there for my dog's knee problem and didn't charge a dime that's people that really care

The BEST vet... and a nice guy too. I refer everyone.

They are awesome! They got my chihuahua right in with just info over the phone. They took excellent care of him, and they don't try to charge you for unnecessary tests. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND! ????????????⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Very friendly, helpful and kind. Affordable Care for your animals.

The best bet in the state of Maine

This guy is absolutely terrific. He explains what he is doing and why, and never tries to sell you any unnecessary treatments. He always does what is in the best interest of his client, and not the industry. If you live within an hour of this place and go anywhere else, you are missing a great opportunity.

Awesome Doctor who doesn't jump to surgery unless it's the best option for the animal. Very informative about all the options for your pet and doesn't pressure you into anything. Always happy to answer questions and listen to clients thoughts. I'm extremely picky about who I allow to work with my dogs and I feel completely comfortable with Dr Kern, highly recommend him!!

The doctor was very informative and gave me piece of mind that I was making the right decision for her wellbeing.