My husband said, "Let bygones be bygones." My friend - a longtime Austin Equine Customer - said, " If you're in a pinch for a vet, they'll step-up out of concern for the horse." Unfortunately, her assessment proved to be wrong.
Backstory: Years ago, I complained, verbally and in writing, to Austin Equine because I specifically asked to work with a chosen vet, not an intern. I had been warned that, oftentimes, the vet chosen steps aside and supervises; thus, letting the intern work. I specifically asked that only the chosen vet work on my horse. My beloved horse is not a teaching tool for an intern nor do I want to pay sky-high prices for the B team. My money my choice... Right? Not at Austin Equine.
As you might guess, an intern descended on my horse upon arrival. I waived her away. The vet begins to examine my horse. While discussing my horse's condition, intern descends upon my horse again to jab a needle into her neck.
As I leave, I confirm with the front desk that my file indicates my request that no intern(s) should handle my horses' care at all, even while under the supervision of the selected vet. The answer: yes, my file indicates that request when I scheduled the appointment. Hmmmm...
As if that isn't enough, the instructions provided for the care of my fragile horse weren't delivered as promised in a time-sensitive situation. Also, the instructions for her after care included date errors specifically, duplications of dates delineated. WOW! The meds required exact dosing.
Now, I'm very unhappy. I'm the paying customer with forty years of experience in the horse world as a student, horse owner and competitor in two different disciplines plus I managed a 50 acre equestrian center for a decade. I've lived in three different states, as horse owner. I've valued my relationships with my vets in every state. They'd take my calls today. I paid my bills promptly and followed their instructions precisely.
When I reach-out to complain to Austin Equine, I'm blacklisted.
Recently, three years later, when I reach-out in a pinch with a colic, I'm reminded that I complained years ago, about their process and mistakes; so, it's a no.
In my opinion and based on my experience over the course of 40 years in three different states, I rate this practice as the very worst I've ever encountered. read more
