My dog rolled in a porcupine carcass. I removed all but two quills stuck in thicker fur in his neck area. I called Dr Bert's office, described my situation and asked for an appointment. The receptionist asked if I could be there at 10:30, I agreed. At no time during my appointment call or during my visit did any staff mention that an "emergency fee" might apply.
I was required to sign a Media release consent form that allowed all records and photos of my dog to be uploaded to any online platform. I tried to get a "rough" estimate of costs but instead the receptionist mentioned a $60 inspection fee and that anesthesia costs "could be more".
I asked 2-3 times to have a topical anesthesia rather than to sedate the dog and was told by the assistant the only the doctor could decide (based on price?). He sedated my dog and easily pulled the two quills with no resistance.
When we went to leave, Dr Bert insisted on sending two packets of drugs. I declined but then he stated, "I'm gonna send them along anyway"! I had to say "No" and decline a second time, stating politely that I would order them later if needed (I never used his last batch).
Dr Bert advised that the sedation would wear off after "a couple of hours" or that I could inject another drug and have him come to attention right away. Rather than inject my dog with another drug, each with its risks & trade-offs, I chose to allow him to return to normal naturally. (It took five hours for the sedation to begin to wear off.)
At the checkout counter I was suddenly advised of the $283.52 charge, which included the "emergency visit fee". (Had I cheated him of drug kickback fees and thus he recouped?)
Dr Bert was demanding & rude to me. He also never advised of an emergency visit fee following a routine call for an appointment. I will not return.
A lady at the senior center said that she found him to be rough on her dogs and now goes to Ponderay. read more