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Is it time for me to change vets?
My elderly Golden was recently diagnosed with megaesophagus, a disease which causes her to regurgitate her food. We have taken her to our vets and had all the suggested tests done. During this whole process, my vet has pretty much been MIA. Neither she or anyone on her staff have contacted me to ask how Mollie is doing. When I called to ask if test results were in for my dog, the secretary told me "Dr.will CALL you when the results are back." During the conversation, the secretary did not even ask how Mollie was doing. I had to volunteer the information. With 6 animals in our house, it seems I am frequently at the vets with one or the other for well-checks and not-so-well checks. I don't expect effusive gushing over me, but it would have been nice had the secretary asked how my dog was. When I mentioned I had seen "mega-e" on the Internet, my vet chided me for doing research. Do you think it's time to find a more caring and involved vet, or is this what everyone experiences?
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Mollie got her wings 9-28-09
on Jun 24th 2009
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in Other Health & Wellness
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- Cast your vote for which answer you think is best!
Answers
My vet ALWAYS calls 2 days after we've been in, even if it's for a routine check up. I would definitely find another vet, and even write a letter to the previous vet explaining why you're leaving. Be sure to pick up your pooches records from the previous vet, so the new vet can see what all has been done and stuff. Good luck.
Reyna
answered on 6/24/09.
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If you're not comfortable with the vet, then maybe visit another vet. But, are you getting good care from this vet? Did he diagnose her rather quickly or did he keep brushing you off? Some vets along w/human doctors are great at medicine, but their bedside manner leaves something to be desired.
I have been very lucky with the vet I have now. Fantastic. She takes a lot of time with my dog and cat when I bring them in. Even when they're in for shots and a check up, my vet will go over everything, see if I have questions and is so, so sweet to them. The office people are great when I call about something. They'll put me on hold, ask the doctor and then relay the answer. If they ask who I'm calling about they always ask how they're doing. Very sweet. I've bumped into my vet while out with my dog and the vet just gushes over my dog. She is great.
You have every right and reason to go to the internet and find out what you can. The doctor shouldn't discourage it. Check w/another vet.
Guest 404377
answered on 6/24/09.
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I think the answer to your question is in actually IN your question.
What I hear is that you're frustrated with the quality of care/ follow through from the vet
I think you're right to feel this way. Your expectations are not unrealistic. I'd worry about a vet who had time to call me after every single visit, but I'd also be very put out it my dog were facing a serious health issue like Mollie is and didn't appear to be concerend enough to be around let alone follow up with me.
Instead of chiding you for looking online, she should have encouraged you to ask all your questions of HER since she's the one who should have the most accurate information about this condition. You are clearly working with her not diagnosing your dog online.
This vet doesn't sound like she's living up to her job. I'd get a second opinion. Maybe you'll end up liking a new vet even better and they you can decide if you want to switch.
Good luck with Mollie.
Jack
answered on 6/24/09.
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My doctor calls every day at sometime between 4:00 and 6:00 to check on my dogs if one has been in for anything the least bit serious. If he can't, the tech who has been helping with that issue calls. When my Sasha was down, someone called every day for 5 weeks. Usually the Dr, but sometimes the tech who happens to be the most UTD on orthopedic problems called.
If you are dissatified with your vet and there are others available, I would check one out.
Lily
answered on 6/24/09.
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What area of the country are you in? Maybe someone here could recommend their vet.
Fin
answered on 6/24/09.
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I would. My last vet treated me and my critters like family. (though the critters weren't impressed). I felt totally safe and comfortable with him, his gentle manner toward the animals, and his advice. He even took my low income into consideration when advising me (without having to bring it up--he remembered). He would certainly have encouraged me to do research. He was personable and available. He also had a good sense of humor which is necessary when you have to dismantle someone's dashboard to get the cat out. I found him by asking the most caring pet owners I knew. I only know to suggest that you ask around and see who has consistently good experiences with their vet. If you are not happy with your vet, can your dog possibly be?
Guest 854878
answered on 9/17/09.
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