Good afternoon. I am struggling to put my thoughts into words due to the devastating experience we…read morefaced during and after Sunshine's appointment last week. With a family member sick every moment is traumatic, and unfortunately, Tuesday's difficulties were compounded by the insensitive treatment we received.
Upon arrival the vet Tech's comment caught us off guard. When my husband explained that our indoor cats were overdue for vaccinations this year, she responded by saying it was "illegal" offering vaccinations services on the spot. I clarified our intentions to vaccinate in the future but not that day, which unfortunately set a negative tone for the rest of the visit and left us feeling judged.
During the visit, the vet told us Sunshine's pulse was racing and said it was unusual, recommending an x-ray and ultrasound to rule out heart issues. When I explained that my baby was clearly scared, she disagreed, saying it couldn't be solely nerves causing the rapid pulse. This is quite concerning especially since she made the diagnosis without using a stethoscope. During our call today she said she did have one in the back. When pressed further she said I had one in my palm that you did not see and did it in the examination room. Which one is it??? Before each trip to the back, I requested to accompany Sunshine to keep her calm, Considering the vet had already noted her rapid heartbeat earlier. Unfortunately, I was denied and she had to endure the blood draw and treatment alone without any comfort from her family which will forever weigh heavy on my heart.
I believe the underlying issue stemmed from the vet's apparent frustration with us seeking a second opinion from a family member who's also a vet tech. When I mentioned this concern, the vet in question claimed I couldn't hear her while I was on the phone. Which doesn't make since three other people in the were actively listening to her. ( My mother, husband, and son )
My main concern is that when I followed up on Friday after noon which was three days later per your instruction, to report Sunshine hadn't eaten. I asked if we could PLEASE bring her in immediately for further assistance. However, despite explaining our financial situation - having paid you $500.00 three days prior and offering to set up payment plan. You refused to help. Advising me to find another vet that took payment options or to secure credit. Not once did you offer to look at her chart and advise on the medicine you mentioned or to call it in to assist my sweet fur baby.
On Saturday October 4th at 11:32 pm, Sunshine Arnold was euthanized due to her suffering. After reaching out to an emergency clinic in St. Peters, they advised us to bring her in immediately for examination, without charging any fee, they showed compassion and care for Sunshine prioritizing her well being above all else. Their actions demonstrate the kind of empathy and understanding that any fur baby owner and their loved one deserves. I am working hard not to beat myself up.. but I can't help but wonder what could have been if I had taken my sweet baby to a different facility that cared more about the patient than money.
Regards,
Crystal Arnold
Their response: Which is no response really. No answers. No accountability.
Mrs. Arnold,
At Cave Springs Pet Hospital, we are truly committed to providing excellent service and high-quality medical care. We are truly sorry for the loss of Sunshine-this outcome is heartbreaking, and not what anyone wanted.
We have made multiple efforts to speak with you and find resolution, including conversations with both our Practice Manager and Medical Director. After reviewing those discussions and the phone calls, it appears that all reasonable options were offered, and unfortunately, we have not been able to reach a mutual understanding.
As a result, we will be discontinuing our relationship. This is private property, and we will no longer be able to allow further visits or communication at the clinic.
We sincerely wish you the best and extend our condolences again for your loss.
Sincerely,
The Management Team
Blue River Petcare, Cave Springs Pet Hospital