I have had two experiences with the DEVC. The first time was this past summer. The pointed, and not very pleasant, vet highly suspected that our puppy had parvo but did not offer to do the $10.00 fecal test. Instead, she offered to do expensive x-rays and medication upward of $500.00. Our vet saw him the next day and fought long and hard to save our puppy's life. Sadly, we lost him early in the morning, less than 36 hours after going to DEVC. Those 36 hours could have made a difference.
I was appalled that the money seemed to take a higher priority than actually treating the correct problem. I swore then I would never be back.
Forward to now. Our new 12 week old puppy had a bad allergic reaction to his vaccinations. His poor face, eyes, ears, mouth, neck and shoulders all swelled up making it very hard for him to see or close his mouth. We had no choice but to make that dreaded trip to DEVC. The vet told us that is was highly unlikely, but given the fact that his sister had a seizure the previous day, minutes after the vaccination, we were highly suspect of this being related.
They took him back and started treatment before we even finished signing the paperwork. The vet was very nice and pleasant and did a great job treating our little man. At no time were any fees/estimates discussed. When they brought him out to us, we were slapped the sticker shock! The treatment consisted of three shots; 1 epi, $2.93, 1 cortizone, $2.93 and one benadryl, $2.93 and an office visit of $85.00. All this, was reasonable. The unreasonable part was the $28.00 each to administer the shots. Yes, that is correct $84.00 just to give 3 the shots. The grand total was $174.73
My husband and I were very upset that they did not discuss the cost before hand as they did during the first visit. When questioned as to why we were not talked to regarding this matter, we were told that they only talk to us when the fees are excessive. Frankly, that was excessive. We spent only $85.00 on four puppies getting vaccinations at our vet; he received 3 shots and the cost was more than double. When we explained we did not have the entire amount, we were asked if we could call a friend with a credit card to pay the remaining SMALL balance. No offer was made to let us pay the next day, even when we asked. Instead, my husband had to stay while I drove myself and the pup home, so I could raid my change jar for the remaining balance. I only wish I had paid them in pennies and not quarters.
Needless, to say, we will not be going back to EDVC nor do we recommend their services to anyone. They are all about fees and not necessarily the care of the animal. I would rather drive to Cincinnati.
by Anonymous
January 03, 2011
