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| - Unfortunately since relocating to a bigger office a couple of years ago the fees have gone way up. For example, now they not only charge a fee for a blood test...to be expected...but they also charge a fee for actually withdrawing the blood from your animal! This is despite the fact you are already paying a consult fee. But worse, in my friend's case, unnecessary tests were performed, no doubt to increase the final bill. How do I know these tests weren't necessary?
My friend's cat is very old and for the past couple of years has had serious bowel issues that result in bad constipation. Dr Skinner performed the necessary tests a couple of years ago and determined nothing serious was wrong. The Dr advised that due to the cat's age, etc, that very little moisture was in his bowel and thus constipation would result. To figure this out many tests were performed to rule out cancer, kidney function issues, etc. When properly diagnosed a simple enema was given, stool softener pills prescribed and a lubricant to be given orally daily for the rest of the cat's life were prescribed. Very good examination and Dr Skinner was very gentle and explained why the tests were required and the results.
Approx. 8 months later, the cat became badly constipated again...back to Dr Skinner...another enema. And more stool softener prescribed. About six months later constipated again and another enema performed. Six months after that it happened again. BUT this time they decided to run a ton of tests to diagnose the constipation....the only issue he has ever been in for! These tests cost $800 plus. Did I mention the cat is old...19 years old. And that my friend is four times as old. Why in the world would you run tests like this on a cat in his last days? And why didn't he just get an enema to begin with...seeing as this has been a recurring problem and the symptoms were exactly the same as before and that this cat had no history of any issues but this one...ever. Quite frankly, I find this to be a disgusting way of getting more money. There is no doubt that dr Skinner is knowledgable but this is shady and basically means they can not be trusted to do what is not only best for your pet but also for the client who pays the fees. Basically taking advantage of a senior citizen on a limited income and putting a very old cat through the ringer.
Find another vet. And in the meantime you can always go the the Blue Cross Animal Hospital on Danforth, east of Broadview. Although it's very busy there, the rates are much lower than a private practice and the doctors are very good.
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