Set an appointment to meet with Dr. Ed Rowan about a small tumor on the underside of my 8 year old male Cocker Spaniel. The tumor was about a half inch in circumference and a half inch tall. During the appointment Dr. Rowan said it appeared to be an enlarged nipple and should and could be removed easily and he would send it off to be analyzed for the fears I had regarding possible cancer. Dr. Rowan stated the next time we are home from work to make an appointment 24 hours in advance and bring the dog in at 9am the next morning.
Several weeks passed and we returned from a trip called and set up a time two days later. When we arrived at 9am we met with Dr. Brubaker and I told him what we had discussed with Dr Rowan and I also asked if I could stay until he gave my Cocker the shot required prior to surgery as Foster can be easily frightened if I am not in sight. The shot was given and they said to come pick him up after 4 pm.
Bear in mind the only protruding items on the underside of my dog are his penis and this tumor (enlarged nipple)... when I picked up Foster at 4 pm he was in a kennel area in the rear of the building, I paid my bill prior to picking him up and carrying him to the truck. Being very gentle as to not touch or damage the area of his surgery placed him in the passenger seat for the trip home. After arriving home I noticed a bit of bleeding and as one would expect became concerned, rolled him over on his back to see what the problem was. Not too difficult to imagine the shock and utter anger as I realized the tumor was still intact. The needless surgery they did perform was 3-4 inches up towards his chest area. Still do not know what was removed, my dog is with me almost 24/7 as we work together, he is laying in the truck next to me as I send this, my hands are always on Foster petting and checking for ticks as we are in many different states during the month... There was nothing to remove from the area where the surgery took place other than a few dollars from my wallet. There was no tumor in that location. How do you miss a tumor on the tummy of a 21 pound Cocker Spaniel when the only other bump on his underside is his Penis. What excuse do you give the pet owner, I was told " we are sorry for the bad communication" that is it. And after that they do not want to discuss this any further, but they DO want my money.
If they were in doubt about what was to be removed, do the Doctors not speak to one another... they have my phone number I received NO call. Why didn't they call, still we wait for an answer. Went to Athens Vet Center for some follow up care and the Doctor was very surprised there were no stitches as some were needed, I elected to not sedate Foster another time and to try and see if the area would heal with care. Two visits for follow up care ; one for $117 and the second for $46.. there is still some scarring and may go back to have it looked at one more time, we want reimbursement for the follow up care and will seek a solution in Small Claims Court if need be.
Not at all surprised the "doctors" do not wish to speak with me anymore about this matter, I really can't imagine the embarrassment they as Professionals must feel for such a blatant disregard for a Pet and it's owner for no other reason than to produce a Bill for a procedure to keep the lights on and the door open. We plan on further comments through Social Media as to warn other Pet owners to travel the additional 12 miles into Athens to an actual Vet who will care for the well being of the animal and the owner and not the financial well being of the Vet.
Merry CHRISTmas,
Don Luckett n good Ol' Foster read more