I do not write reviews lightly, but I feel obligated to share my experience so that other pet…read moreowners can make an informed decision.
My experience with Dr. Marcus was extremely disappointing. My pet was being treated for dry eye and a corneal ulcer. We followed the treatment plan exactly as prescribed, including waiting for a medication that had to be specially shipped to us because it was not immediately available. Dr. Marcus knew we were waiting for that medication.
Once the medication arrived, my pets eye seemed to worsen rather than improve. When we returned, instead of showing compassion or discussing all possible options, I felt the responsibility was shifted onto my family by suggesting we had not brought her back soon enough. That was difficult to hear, especially because we had been following the treatment plan and waiting on the medication that had been prescribed.
During that visit, Dr. Marcus told us my pet's eye had perforated, that she was already blind in that eye, and that her other eye would likely begin having problems as well. No compassion, just blunt and he was very rough with her eye during the examination. We were given a list of veterinary ophthalmologists in Illinois and told to pursue surgery. There was no expression of empathy or reassurance during what an incredibly emotional moment.
After researching the referral options, I was advised to take my pet to an emergency hospital where she could be evaluated by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist immediately. That decision changed everything.
The ophthalmologist thoroughly examined my pet and developed a completely different treatment plan. He prescribed three ophthalmic medications along with antibiotics. He also explained that the previous treatment recommendations including relying on the shipped medication, lubricating drops, and contact lens saline alone were not appropriate for my pet's condition. Most importantly, he gave us hope instead of assuming the worst.
His examination also differed significantly from what we had previously been told. He found that my pet's eye still responded to light, there was still healthy blood vessel growth supporting healing, and her other eye was healthy. After just one week on the new treatment plan, I could clearly see her full pupil again. At her follow-up appointment, the ophthalmologist confirmed that the corneal ulcer had healed. We are now beginning another medication to continue her recovery, and once her eye is fully stable, we will address her cherry eye to help reduce her risk of developing dry eye disease in the future.
The difference between the two experiences was remarkable. The ophthalmologist was patient, compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my pet. He took the time to explain every step of her condition and treatment, and he treated both my pet and our family with kindness and respect.
Based on my personal experience, I would not go back to Glen Park When it comes to complex eye conditions or specialty care, or any care at all. I feel like he really didn't know what meds to give her and it was really beyond his scope of work and should have referred me out from the beginning. I would strongly encourage pet owners to seek evaluation from a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
I do want to recognize the nursing staff at Glen Park. Every nurse we encountered was kind, professional, and caring, and I sincerely appreciate the compassion they showed us throughout our visits.
This experience was heartbreaking and I am grateful we pursued a second opinion because it gave my pet another chance.
