CAREFUL – VETS CAN STING

I called Fromus Veterinary Group this morning (25 August 2023) to ask if I could speak to a vet about the results of an ultrasound scan carried out on our greyhound Bandi. The receptionist I was speaking to told me that Rosie (who carried out the scan) would ring me back but I made the terrible mistake of saying to my wife whilst on the phone that Bandi looked bloated. The receptionist immediately picked up on this and said she needs to be seen – it could be internal bleeding. I thought it was nothing serious and likely related to an ongoing issue Bandi has had since early 2022. I insist Bandi does not need to come in and all that I am seeking is a call back from the vet. We end the telephone call. Shortly afterwards the receptionist rings me back and tells me that Bandi really should be seen. We feel we have no choice but to bring her in and Bandi underwent a short examination. The vet concludes the bloating is nothing serious – largely wind – and Bandi is good to go with us charged £106.56p. 

In response to a complaint made regarding the above, the Veterinary Group have said no emergency consultation fee was charged, overlooking the fact it was the practice that wanted to see the dog. They further add: ‘a client-veterinarian relationship is built on mutual trust and understanding’, and so are we expected to trust our practice no matter how they perform? Ultimately, and with not even a hint of an apology, their Clinical Director Elliot Smith has asked that I ‘seek the services of another veterinary practice’. It wouldn't happen in any other profession – vets, a law unto themselves.