I started going to this vet back in 2018 because I was pursuing my bachelor's degree, couldn't work…read moretwo jobs during that time, and therefore couldn't afford my previous vet, Dr. Hilla at Callahan Drive.
When I first went to Magnolia Animal Clinic, I met with a vet for my first visit, but after six years, I haven't ever seen or spoken to one. The receptionists are hit or miss, sometimes they are professional and friendly, other times they have a lot of attitude and behave like I'm bothering them.
When I bring my dog there for his check-ups I, unfortunately, often get this grumpy female vet tech (probably in her 50's, about 5'4" with long brown hair that is always in a ponytail). After six years, she has never introduced herself, acts like I'm inconvienicing her by asking questions, rushes off with my dog, and returns just as abruptly with hardly a word. I'm a pretty understanding person so I'm usually like, well she is probably having a bad day, maybe she is going through a difficult time, perhaps she is burnt out....so I typically let it roll.
I have been fortunate not to have any problems with my dog, and they said everything looks great. However, my most recent visit on August 5th was terrible. The grumpy vet tech came back with my dog and said he needed oral surgery or he would likely die from congestive heart failure. Just like that, zero compassion or kindness.
My dog is 14, and I knew that small chihuahuas are prone to having bad teeth in old age, despite my regular attention to brushing his teeth. But I had no idea it could cause heart failure. I wish that in the six years I had been going to this vet, they had taken the time to explain that tooth brushing is not enough and that preventitive dental cleanings were necessary.
Initially, I scheduled an appointment with them to get his oral surgery, but I was really worried about the anesthesia and their behavior. They didn't take my concerns seriously at all. I realized I couldn't trust these people to take care of my dog, and I was worried he wouldn't survive the surgery under their lack of care.
So I sought out a second opinion at The Gentle Doctor of East Tennessee, based on a friend's recommendation. I immediately felt better after just five minutes on the phone with them. They were incredibly kind, professional, and before I even asked said they would like to run bloodwork to determine if my dog could handle the anesthesia before proceeding with oral surgery (something Magnolia never offered, even after I expressed concern).
When I took my dog in, I met with the actual vet. She walked me through everything in a kind and professional manner. They ran the bloodwork, and things came back normal, so they proceeded with his surgery. They explained everything from beginning to end, called during surgery to ask about tooth extractions, and even called when my dog woke up to let me know when I could come to pick him up. Their rates are cheaper, the staff is way more professional, and I know I made the right decision for my pup. I will never go back to Magnolia and am disappointed in myself for putting my dog in harms way by using this vet clinic.