I phoned this veterinary practice on behalf of a friend who does not have a computer so I was checking on possible vets for her in Greeley, CO. My friend is a senior citizen, on Social Security and works a 15 hr a week job which does not pay the greatest.
A Dr. Ponder answered and I inquired as to the fee for neutering a 9 week kitten, explaining why I was calling and also that my friend was low income. Dr. Ponder said he did not give fees over the phone which was the initial red flag. In other words, if you call this guy, you more than likely have to pay for a house call and if the treatment is outrageous, then you are out of luck. He then went into a dissertation of low income vets who would to the surgery. I also TRIED to explain that my friend was looking for a permanent vet to whom she could take her kitten for neutering and then use for any other services.
The reply I got was, "I don't do charity". I said that was not the point, she wanted a vet. I also said that she had checked with other vets and some of the costs were extremely outrageous and he said veterinary care was not cheap.
The conversation ended with "I am not a cheap guy" but by that time, I was totally put off with this pompous attitude. There are way to explain things and ways NOT go explain things and Dr. Ponder was in the huge NOT category. I got the feeling that money was his prime concern here, not taking a client who was not as well off as I gather his other clients are. His attitude simply left a very bad smell in the air. The "I don't quote prices over the phone" was somewhat of a giveaway. A reputable vet ALWAYS gives you a price, and does not force you into a service call first.
I have a mobile vet service in Boulder, CO, and the vet is wonderful, the prices are reasonable, and the services rendered are excellent. My vet has always been up front with pricing. Dr. Ponder apparently thinks that he is above this.
So, my recommendation would be - if money is no object and you don't mind an attitude, this is the vet for you. He has carefully chosen some good review on his website, but, I would be there are others not so happy. If he was a turnoff on the phone, I cannot imagine he is very pleasant in person - unless you have plenty of money. Bet he is really charming them. My friend does not have that luxury, so, I got the rude, pompous treatment! read more