Cindy Mellema
1 review
Overpriced
If I could leave zero stars, I would.
I normally never write reviews, good or bad, but I left this appointment extremely frustrated and upset.
I made an appointment for my bearded dragon because he has been dealing with parasites. We had already seen another veterinarian twice and tried treatment, but the parasites were still present. I went to this office because I genuinely just wanted to get my dragon the help he needed.
Unfortunately, the experience was extremely disappointing. The veterinarian asked me numerous questions and spoke to me in a way that made me feel as though he assumed I didn't know what I was doing. Ultimately, I was told that without a DNA sample from my dragon's stool, they could not help him.
The veterinarian also mentioned that my dragon was slightly dehydrated and wanted to start IV fluids. I declined because, aside from the ongoing parasite issue, my dragon was eating, active, and otherwise doing well.
What was especially frustrating was the billing. I was charged $150 because the appointment went over the allotted exam time. However, I did not choose to extend the appointment. I waited approximately 20 minutes before the veterinarian came into the room, and once he arrived, much of the additional time was spent with him talking and asking questions.
I also asked to speak with the manager because I felt the additional charge was unfair. I was told they would not reduce the bill, even though the extra time was not something I requested or caused.
I am a mother of two children, one of whom has an autoimmune condition, so I am very familiar with advocating for someone who needs medical care. I found it incredibly frustrating to be treated as though I was incapable of caring for my own pet when I was simply trying to get him appropriate treatment.
The office also requested my previous veterinarian's records, including the results from his last fecal examination. I was told that fecal samples are not reliable, which was confusing because the sample in question had been collected directly at the veterinary office.
I left this appointment having spent $150 and without a treatment plan or any real solution for my dragon's ongoing parasite problem.
I went there looking for help, and instead I left feeling dismissed, talked down to, and frustrated with both the care and the billing. Based on my experience, I would encourage anyone considering this office for an exotic pet to ask questions about the diagnostic process, treatment options, and potential additional fees before proceeding.
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