Well, everyone, today is the day Lady should be able to leave the vet. At first, I didn't like the idea of her staying at the vet, but understood its necessity. I was expecting a very clinical appro... Read More
Well, everyone, today is the day Lady should be able to leave the vet. At first, I didn't like the idea of her staying at the vet, but understood its necessity. I was expecting a very clinical approach to the pet I care about. This is NOT the approach I want taken with an animal who is in their care, because the pet needs to be comfortable to heal efficiently. I have turned the corner on this thought process. Columbia River Veterinary Specialists in Vancouver, Washington has an amazing staff that show genuine care for the welfare and happiness of the pets they are charged with. Anyone who truly knows me, knows my pets are a part of the family, and as a result, it takes a lot to impress me where my pets are concerned. The doctors and vet techs are outstanding at CRVS. The young lady who did triage on Lady (Jennie) did so quickly and efficiently, then kept her in a room where the team could work with her between more serious cases, and literally ran through the lobby updating everyone on the status of their pets every few minutes. She was friendly and personable, and the concern for the pets was evident even on a night that was insanely busy for them. The vet techs and doctors kept us updated on Lady's condition and where we were in relation to the treatment plan, and made sure we knew we were welcome to come visit as our schedules allowed. They made sure we understood the labs that were performed and why. They invited dialogue and questions about her condition and care. Most importantly, it was obvious that they care about my pet. The assistant Lady had yesterday from approximately 1800-0100 was a bubbly young lady named Kate. I have been around animals all my life, and can read animals fairly well. I also have been around other "animal people", but this young lady amazed even me. She was able to bond with the animals and get them to do what she wanted them to do without laying her hands on them in many cases. She was equally approachable by the owners. She told us of Lady's behavior during her prior shift, and how she was able to get Lady to let someone take her temperature and work with her when Lady just wasn't "feeling it" ( Lady had grumbled and showed teeth to the person when they were going to open the door to her crate). She even laughed when I pretended like I was going to eat Lady's food Kate had put together for her to get Lady to try it - a trick I knew would get her to eat every bite. I understand why she wouldn't put herself in that position though, because some dogs will bite if you are too close to their food dish. Bottom line, great experience with a wonderful team! Jennie and Kate made it hard not to believe in this crew and its abilities. Anyone who needs emergency care for their pet in the Vancouver area would be well served to give Columbia River Veterinary Specialists a chance to win their trust. They earned mine!Read Less