I have been loyal to Banfield for years, even staying with them from relocating half a dozen times over the past 6 years. We even had to put our beloved dog to sleep with Banfield, Santa Cruz, last ye... Read More
I have been loyal to Banfield for years, even staying with them from relocating half a dozen times over the past 6 years. We even had to put our beloved dog to sleep with Banfield, Santa Cruz, last year. And, after years of paying ($$$!) 2 wellness plans it is unfortunate to give this particular Banfield a poor review.This is my reason why:- Took my dog to this location for gastro issues. He was examined and prescribed antibiotics. Of course, it was "strongly recommended" that he have a million other tests to rule out a zillion other gastro related issues. I declined those and, guess what? He was fine. I gave him his prescribed antibiotics and there were absolutely no other issues.Ok- I get it, they are pushed to "upsale" and I learn to say no, so this is not the real problem. My issue with them is this: as I was waiting to check out, I was informed by a staff member that they offer a 6 month vaccination to protect against heartworm. I asked if my dog could get that since we were there and he needed it. I was told that I would need to come back after his gastro issue was resolved- totally understand! I asked if I came back next week if they could waive the office fee (our wellness plan was not current). If they had told me, no- okay, that's your policy. I was indeed told that , "shouldn't be a problem." The next week, I called back to confirm that waived fee and to make an appointment. I was told they would, "have to check and get back to me." NO return call. Called back again and was put on hold for 20 minutes?! Eventually, someone came to the phone and told me the vet said she absolutely would not waive the fee. Some feedback/comments to the Banfield executives if you are reading this: -Advise your staff to return calls -Be consistent on what you tell customers -Advise staff not to put customers on hold for 20 mins-Know that because of this location, you lost a loyal family Read Less