I should have written a review long ago, but recent events make this important for me to do. I moved to Sparks from North Carolina 9 years ago, with two very large dogs. Dr. Bufkin was the first ve... Read More
I should have written a review long ago, but recent events make this important for me to do. I moved to Sparks from North Carolina 9 years ago, with two very large dogs. Dr. Bufkin was the first veterinarian they saw here. Although they've been seen by other veterinarians for specialty care or when Dr. Bufkin wasn't available, she has been their main care provider. From my experience, in dealing with two large dogs, it has been much less expensive and much more convenient to have her come to the house than to wrangle two dogs into clinics. Dr. Bufkin really focuses on coordinating vaccinations, physicals, things like treatment for ear infections, so that trips are minimized and your expenses are very reasonable. Dr. Bufkin has seen us through two tibial plateau leveling osteotomy surgeries, terrible allergies, and a variety of other health and ortho issues. She is conservative in the care she provides, always looking for the less complex approach to care rather than immediately wanting multiple blood tests, x-rays, etc. Then just before Thanksgiving I had to go out of state to be with a terminally ill family member. The Sunday after Thanksgiving friends caring for my 130 # 11.5 year old male called and said he was unable to get up, couldn't use his back legs, and was in pain. This was after 5 PM, but Dr. Bufkin came immediately, called me, and discussed my dog's prognosis. She euthanized him in my home, with my friends present, so even though I couldn't be here, I knew he was with people he knew and who loved him. She took him for cremation, and personally returned his ashes to me. Then, the Friday before Christmas, my 12 year old dog had something very similar happen, and once again, Dr. Bufkin came to my house and euthanized my dog at home. Even though I'm a health care person myself, Dr. Bufkin explained every step of what was going to be done, what would happen, and what to expect. Many people would have made the assumption I didn't need those explanations. Once again, she took my dog for cremation and will return her ashes to me. I truly don't believe you could find a more compassionate and skilled provider to care for your pets in your home. This has been a very difficult holiday season for me, and her support helped me get through it. I could not recommend her more highly. Read Less