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| - This is a very hard review to write, given the result. But the staff deserves this review; my time and praise.
Less than 5 days ago, our 9 year old cocker went from completely normal and happy at home to the throws of a complete neurological meltdown (more on that later), within seconds. It was after hours and we lived within miles of this hospital so we rushed her in. The staff, from the front desk- to techs -to vet (Jenna, Sarah, Dr. Burns - to name the names I was able to get while we were in crisis mode), were kind, respectful and seemed to appreciate the gravity of our situation, from the second we ran in the door. They immediately took Sweet Lily back and began treating her. They were consistent in advising us what was happening and put us in an exam room, to consult with Dr. Burns, very quickly.
Dr. Burns was quick to explain the possible causes for our dog's trauma. It should be noted there was nothing in her history to predict or prevent it. We believe it was a massive stroke, brain trauma or some such. Dr. Burns told us there were multiple potential causes, no drugs to completely stop it, tests would take days and she would be medicated but still enduring while we did tests. We cut our conversation with him very short when we realized they could not stabilize her and when Dr. Burns stated it was the worst he had seen. My husband and I made the heartbreaking decision to euthanize her, in a split second. Because she was suffering and the hospital had other critical patients in the back, they would bring her to us to euthanize her, privately, in the exam room. I asked Dr. Burns and Sarah to be sure to give her the first part of the cocktail (sedation) before they moved her. They did so immediately, brought her to us and we peacefully put our baby down. They were all sympathetic, respectful, kind... everything you could hope for in such a sad situation, especially when you must accept that there are other critical pets there in need.
They all then went above and beyond for us. We asked to bring our other dog back to see and sniff Lily, so he wouldn't wait and look for her for the rest of his life. To say our two dogs were attached is an understatement - they even slept like Yin and Yang. They kept the exam room private and closed and we returned with our dog to find our Lily laid gently on the floor, wrapped in a blanket, looking like the sleeping angel we knew and treasured. They didn't interrupt or bother us during this process and were the example of complete respect and privacy. This part was as hard for us as the euthanasia.
I conferred with our regular vet the next morning. He confirmed everything Dr. Burns had told us - and answered questions I did not have the time to ask Dr. Burns. Their input was exactly the same. A welcome second opinion, even after the fact. We were sure we had done the most selfless act, as fast as humanly possible. Even in my grief, I know that the kind and compassionate staff who treated Lily, did everything they could, other than proffer a miracle.
The entire experience was as kind and good as something so horrible can be. There wasn't one staff member who demonstrated anything other than the best attitude, respect and care. We are extremely grateful for their kindness to us, both toward the dog we lost and with our surviving dog. Oh and the nitty gritty of price (including cremation) was shockingly little. We know that to love dogs means emergencies, heartbreak and loss. We will hope not to have to go back - no one wants a pet in distress. But when occasion comes and we do, we will return with gratitude and respect for what we experienced last weekend.
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