Albavet Veterinary Surgery Dennistoun

I Brought along my elderly dog today to enquire about managing any pain he may be experiencing with medication. He requires a lot of care due to his lack of mobility so had to be laid down on the examination table in a lying position. The vet, Jo, after examining him (which did not include taking his weight) recommended euthanasia which I promptly made clear was not an option I was willing to consider. Instead of then accepting my decision and exploring an ideal alternative for palliative care (ie. Painkillers) she proceeded to further discuss her recommendation of euthanasia which made me feel uncomfortable. I had to remind her that this option was not on the table and that id prefer to remain supportive and manage any suffering with pain relief. Unfortunately she still seemed intent on convincing me that euthanasia was the best choice, even suggesting that perhaps I couldnt somehow bring myself to make that choice due to emotional attachment. I felt that she just didnt seem to respect my decision not to euthanize my dog and by this stage was I becoming a little annoyed. This challenging of my decision continued all the way through the consultation even although she insisted that she did not want to get involved in a debate about euthanasia or "who is right and who is wrong". She did point out, correctly, that he was "Just lying there staring at the wall" which I had to tell her was only because I lay him in that position so he wouldn't try and get up or move around. I felt very uncomfortable and unhappy that I wasn't being listened to. Instead of drawing a line and moving on from her original suggestion she just kept proceeding along these lines. In the end there was no discussion about giving pain relief other than her commenting that there was nothing at all she could give him to ease his suffering which is of course nonsense. It got to the point where I had to just tell her either to at least consider giving him something to help, as is her job, or I will just leave. She prescribed some medication (without discussing any details of these whatsoever with me) that I collected from the reception before leaving. I was sent away with 14 antibiotic tablets for some tail sores and a bottle of meloxicam anti Inflammatory painkiller. I found the meloxicam prescription surprising considering that she commented during the consultation that it was only for low grade pain and not really suitable for a dog with spinal issues like mines. I would have expected a stronger painkiller. What was even more surprising was the dosage prescribed which was for a 10kg dog. I happen to know that my dog is 17kg. Even more surpring again was the bill for £91 which seems a little excessive for 14 antibiotics, a small bottle of meloxicam and a standard consultation. Needless to say I will be very hesitant to return to this practice. The vet should realise that if they make a specific recommendation then it is wise to respect the decision of the customer whatever their wishes are in respect of it. Read Less

More than happy with care my dog had for many years. Unhappy that recently 'scolded' for using shampoo on dog for not seeking their approval ! Unhappy to be treated as a bad doggy owner for not buying medication as I could calculate an accurate dose from supply I had only just purchased...when I find out today that it is perfectly acceptable for another dog owner at this practise to do exactly that !!! Have registered elsewhere for my dogs treatment. Guess it's just me ? Read Less