I have avoided writing this review for years because the experience is still painful to think…read moreabout, but I feel it's important to share.
Years ago, my dog was diagnosed with a heart murmur by Dr. Corinne Lemay. As many pet owners know, a murmur can be an early warning sign of heart disease, and early referral to a cardiologist can make a meaningful difference. Unfortunately, Dr. Lemay never recommended a cardiology referral at that stage. Instead, we waited until my dog was already in heart failure before a referral was finally made; long after she could have been evaluated for early-intervention medications that might have helped delay the progression.
Throughout the months that followed, I often felt dismissed when I asked questions or expressed concerns. Any time I asked something heart-related, I was met with, "I'm not a vet cardiologist, so I cannot answer your heart questions," delivered in a tone that made me reluctant to ask anything further. Because of that, during appointments I only brought up issues unrelated to her heart; not because I was in denial, but because I was trying to respect the boundaries she set.
One appointment stands out clearly: I brought my dog in because I suspected an upper respiratory issue (she was later diagnosed with asthma). Dr. Lemay looked at me and said, "You know what I think? I think you're in denial that your dog is in heart failure." It was one of the most hurtful comments I have ever heard from a veterinarian.
I was not in denial, I was living in constant panic, managing an exhaustive medication regimen (Flovent inhaler, Hydrocodone, Prednisone, nausea meds, Torsemide, Sildenafil, Spironolactone, Benazepril, Vetmedin, vitamins, and more), monitoring her symptoms 24/7, and doing everything in my power to keep her comfortable. I rarely slept. I never left her alone. I even risked my job once by bringing her to work because I refused to let her struggle without me. The suggestion that I was somehow ignoring her condition was not only inaccurate, it was cruel.
That comment, combined with the lack of early referral and the overall dismissiveness, was the moment I knew I could no longer bring my dog back to Manchester Animal Hospital. I needed compassionate, proactive care, and unfortunately, I did not receive that here.
I wish I could write a different review. I wish this experience had been supportive, collaborative, and respectful. But it wasn't, and sharing this is the only way I can help other pet owners advocate for their companions.
