I'll start by saying that I did so much work before deciding where to take Tipsy to see a cardiologist. I called. I asked questions. I researched. At first I was a little put off. I had called a few times and the receptionists there seemed aloof and didn't seem like they cared much to get any answers (I almost cancelled because of that). I would be driving over 3 hours from Chicago and wanted to feel like this is a good choice. I was between this and The University of Wisconsin-Madison. I had called them first and everyone there is so knowledgable. They gave me more information over the phone than my vets did in the years I've gone to them. I ultimately decided to take him here (mostly because of scheduling) but I am so glad I did.
I arrived on time and my appointment also started on time. I first met with the senior vet student. She wasnt very warm (usually vets are) but then the Cardiology Resident, Saki Kadotani made up for it! She is amazing. She is friendly. She explained everything throughly. I went in wanting an echocardiogram because thats what the vets and everyone had told me that he needed but Dr. Kadotani told me he needed an X-ray instead of that and explained exactly why. She drew me pictures to give me a better understanding and gave me a step by step and made me feel so at ease. She answered all my questions and was patient when I didn't understand something. The X-ray was over $100 cheaper than the echocardiogram and she said IF he needed it she will most definitely let me know but Xray would be the most beneficial right now and she was right. She adjusted his medication from the X-rays and told me I didn't need the echocardiogram just yet. Two of his old vets wanted to charge me over $400 for an echo. They truly wants whats best for your pet and not running up your bill (as we all know a lot of vets do).
I didn't actually see the Cardiologist but I was told they consulted with him for everything. A few days later I got an extremely detailed report from them and they even mailed me a CD with a copy of his X-rays. I needed them to call in a medication refill for him and it was done so quickly. My old vet would take DAYS claiming they never got anything and trying to blame me but they are the only vet that has ever had that much trouble calling in refills for medication. If I lived closer, I would make them my regular vet. When Tipsy needs a follow up, I will be happy to drive him another 3 hours back here! I couldn't recommend them enough.
Had to knock a star off. It seems like besides the direct doctor I was happy with, the staff isn't that great. It's hard to talk get a hold of anyone in cardiology you always have to leave a voicemail and then they have to call back and it turns into phone tag. Having to go through reception every single call back even if its returning phone calls is such a hassle. I left a detailed voicemail about what I needed and I missed a call back from the tech (Candace) and her voicemail asked exactly what I left a voicemail saying so one quick thing turns into hours long. Can be a little frustrating if you're not patient.