In the U.S., we were quoted $10,000-$20,000 for lifesaving IVDD surgery for our dog, Leela, but we…read morewere blessed to connect with Vet Playas, who performed the same surgery for under $5,000. We love this place and are forever grateful--keep reading for details.
Vet Playas absolutely saved our dog's life.
On March 4, our 4-year-old pug mix, Leela, tried to jump onto our bed and injured two discs in her spine. She became completely paralyzed from the midsection down. She was unable to control her bladder or bowels; she couldn't stand or even wag her tail.
We took her to two veterinarians in Los Angeles who diagnosed her with IVDD. We were told surgery would cost approximately $10,000-$20,000 and, when we explained that we couldn't afford that, we were told that euthanasia was the likely outcome.
Because we weren't ready for that, we initially tried the long-shot recommendation to see if Leela could heal on her own. We were told to try at least four weeks of 100% crate rest and gave her steroids and painkillers as prescribed. While this treatment works for some dogs, after about four weeks with essentially no improvement in Leela's mobility, we realized we couldn't keep waiting and began looking for another option.
That's when I found Vet Playas through MexiVet Express, and I am SO GLAD I did.
Vet Playas provided Leela's examination, MRI, medications, spinal surgery, intensive overnight care, and four physical therapy sessions for under $5,000.
Her MRI showed two herniated discs, including one causing approximately 80% compression of her spinal canal. Thankfully, Leela still had deep pain sensation. The surgical team operated on both affected levels.
Wonderfully, Vet Playas is only about a six-minute drive across the border, in a cute neighborhood close to the beach. When we brought Leela down for her appointments, we brought our kids along and rented an Airbnb for the weekends. We were able to stay close to Leela during her treatments and got to know the staff well. If you're nervous about crossing the border for veterinary care, our experience was overwhelmingly positive. (Admittedly, crossing back into the U.S. is time-consuming, but we packed a lunch and mentally prepared for a 4-6 hour wait in the car each time. It's doable!)
One of my favorite things about Vet Playas was their communication. Dr. Odette Ramos was wonderful. When Leela had her spinal surgery, a veterinarian stayed awake with her the ENTIRE night, texting me photos and updates approximately every hour. I never expected that level of support and was so moved and grateful for the care she received.
When I visited the recovery area, I saw many other dogs in an extremely clean environment being cared for by an engaged and compassionate staff. Everyone looked very well cared for and loved.
One tip: I strongly recommend signing your pet up for the physical therapy package. I hesitated at first, but Leela loved the physical therapist and genuinely enjoyed their time together. After each session, I noticed that she was able to move better. They also taught us exercises that we were able to continue doing with her at home throughout her recovery.
It's now September, and Leela has made an incredible functional recovery. She can walk, play, and completely control her bladder and bowels again.
I'm not exaggerating when I say that this has felt like a miracle to our family. Our dog who couldn't even wag her tail in March walked half a mile to the park this morning.
Vet Playas gave Leela her life back, and they gave our family our dog back. We will be forever grateful to Dr. Ramos and the entire team.
This is a wonderful veterinary hospital that will make sure your dog receives world-class care.
