Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Veterinary Care in Harvard, IL
Founded in 1956, Harvard Veterinary Clinic has dedicated over six decades to providing compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care for companion animals in Harvard and the surrounding communities. Since Dr. Charles Svoboda acquired the clinic in 1986 and partnered with Dr. Shawn Costello in 1990, we have maintained a commitment to combining advanced medical practices with personalized service. Our team specializes in preventive care, advanced diagnostics, surgical interventions, and dental health, ensuring pets receive lifelong support.Equipped with modern tools like digital radiography and ultrasound, we prioritize accurate, timely diagnoses. Our boarding services cater to special needs pets, and we offer cremation with dignity. Rooted in the community, we treat every animal as family, emphasizing transparency, affordability, and a client-centered approach. With flexible hours and a legacy of trust, we remain a cornerstone of veterinary care in Northern Illinois.
Services
Veterinary Exams
Vaccinations
Dental Care
Orthopedic Surgery
General Surgery
Spay/Neuter
Pet Boarding
In-House Diagnostics
Deworming
Cremation Services
Details
- Year established: 1956
Highlights and features
- We provide over 60 years of trusted veterinary experience in the Harvard community.
- Our team offers advanced diagnostics including digital radiography and ultrasound.
- We treat horses, cows, and exotic pets in addition to cats and dogs.
- Our team includes certified professionals with decades of combined surgical expertise.
- We prioritize transparency in care recommendations and pricing.
What people say
Top notch care
Compassionate staff
Accurate diagnoses
Lifesaving treatment
Community-focused
Services
Veterinary Exams
Annual wellness exams assess pets' health through skin, teeth, heart, and organ evaluations. Early detection of abnormalities ensures preventive care, including rabies and distemper vaccinations for kittens and puppies.
Orthopedic Surgery
Specialized care for fractures and ligament ruptures, including anterior cruciate ligament repairs. Sterile surgical environments and modern techniques ensure optimal recovery for pets needing mobility support.
Pet Boarding
Secure boarding for cats and dogs, including specialized care for diabetic or heart condition pets. Accommodations prioritize comfort and safety, with attentive staff monitoring animals' needs during stays.
In-House Diagnostics
Digital radiography and ultrasound systems enable rapid diagnosis of critical conditions. Immediate access to advanced imaging tools reduces delays in treatment, improving outcomes for urgent cases.
Dental Care
Routine cleanings, extractions, and periodontal care prevent abscesses and tooth loss. Emphasis on oral health maintenance reduces systemic health risks, ensuring pets' overall well-being.
People
Dr. Charles Svoboda
Veterinarian
Founded in 1986 after practicing in Yorkville, Dr. Svoboda specialized in small animal medicine until 2021. He now balances patient care with outdoor pursuits and gardening in Harvard.
Dr. Shawn Costello
Veterinarian
Joined Harvard Veterinary Clinic in 1988, becoming partner in 1990. Dr. Costello assumed full ownership in 2021, focusing on surgery and cofounding Hartland Veterinary Clinic in Woodstock.
Stacy Vincenzo
Veterinary Assistant
Has worked at Harvard Veterinary Clinic since 1999, specializing in blood draws, X-rays, and surgical prep. Passionate about animal rescue, she owns eight dogs, a bird, hedgehogs, rats, and horses.
Amy Peterson
Veterinary Assistant
Seven-year clinic veteran with expertise in IV catheters, X-rays, and dental cleanings. She enjoys outdoor activities and lives in Hebron with two dogs, balancing family life with client care.
Nikki Pierce
Receptionist
Harvard native with 18 years at the clinic, Nikki combines community involvement with animal care. She raises four children and rescue dogs while volunteering for local emergency services.
Questions
What services does Harvard Veterinary Clinic offer?
We provide exams, vaccinations, surgery, dental care, boarding, and diagnostics. Special services include equine dentistry and cremation.
Do you treat exotic pets?
Yes, we care for small exotics like rabbits, ferrets, and pot-bellied pigs in addition to cats and dogs.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Call us at 815-943-5459 during business hours: Mon-Wed & Fri 8 AM-7 PM, Thu 8 AM-5 PM, Sat 8 AM-12 PM.
Are your diagnostic services in-house?
We have digital radiography and ultrasound for rapid diagnosis without needing external facilities.
What boarding options are available?
We offer secure boarding for healthy pets and specialized care for those with medical needs like diabetes or heart conditions.
Reviews (6)
BelieveAlways Smw
Nov 25, 2021
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Not only were they great with my dog's well check visit. But when my cat, Mork, got hurt fairly badly, they stayed late for our emergency, and took excellent care of him. They were and still are extremely understanding, great with communication of his injuries and care. Also, very understanding and fair with pricing and charges. It's clear from the drs to the front desk that their top priority is the animals they treat. I would recommend them to anyone! :)
Elisabeth Hansen
Oct 03, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Reliability,Responsiveness
I've had a few exams and blood tests done on my cat Penny, and every time I'm greeted with kindness, hospitality and my concerns are taken seriously. I think the expenses are really reasonable too. Just overall the best experience I've ever had with a vet, a definite 10 out of 10!
I've had a few exams and blood tests done on my cat Penny, and every time I'm greeted with kindness, hospitality and my concerns are taken seriously. I think the expenses are really reasonable too. Just overall the best experience I've ever had with a vet, a definite 10 out of 10!
Gina Norton
Aug 05, 2021
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The veterinarians graduated at the top of their class. Both veterinarians are very caring. They discuss and answer every question thoroughly. Dr. Charles Save my 11 1/2 year-old Airedale from going through a recommended surgery (scheduled by another vet in McHenry) that wasnt nessesary. The staff is amazing & caring also. Thank you so much!
Karen Kick
Jul 14, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Reliability,Responsiveness
cat wellness check up and vaccination: Both vets at the clinic have taken care of my Siamese. They were thorough, professional and answered my questions. When my cat had a bad reaction to a vaccination, they took care of him promptly and with no charge. I will continue to go back-the staff is friendly and knowledgeable..
cat wellness check up and vaccination: Both vets at the clinic have taken care of my Siamese. They were thorough, professional and answered my questions. When my cat had a bad reaction to a vaccination, they took care of him promptly and with no charge. I will continue to go back-the staff is friendly and knowledgeable..
Ashley Jane Collins
Jun 30, 2021
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I drive all the way from Tennessee to continue seeing Shawn! I have found no other vet with such a high level of expertise. From his knowledge to his ability to accurately diagnose in a timely manner to his ability to work with animals of all temperaments. He is also excellent with humans! I will go to no other clinic. I will only use Harvard Vet clinic for the rest of mine and my pet's life.
Lorrie Lamberti
Jun 02, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Reliability,Value
Doctors Sean and Chuck are super competent and alway honest with you. They never try to push you into the costly solutions first. Being able to trust your vets care of your beloved furry babies is so very important. The staff is always friendly. The bottom line?..... you and your pets are in the best hands at Harvard vet
Doctors Sean and Chuck are super competent and alway honest with you. They never try to push you into the costly solutions first. Being able to trust your vets care of your beloved furry babies is so very important. The staff is always friendly. The bottom line?..... you and your pets are in the best hands at Harvard vet
