What do you think about a vet who gets offensive when asking questions? - YorkieTalk.com Forums

Gina Hamblin · 08-11-2009, 05:52 PM

We took Finn to the vet and I was loaded with questions but our vet just shot me down. I don't do research for nothing. Some of you have allready been through exactly what we are dealing with and I believe your suggestions are worth hearing. I even got the feeling that he didn't care for us very much. I do understand (no matter how hard it is) that it takes 12 full weeks to determine the results from our Food Trial but...........my baby is miserable and their are a lot of medicines out there that can give him some relief. We did get a shot and it helped for 3 days only. He put Finn on Zyrtec, well as I tried to tell him we have done that allready but he just rolled his eyes.

I am going back to our country doc, he atleast lets me voice my concerns!

Have any of you had problem with vet thinking we are totally stupid? I was only trying to suggest a different kind of food, that didn't go over at all! Gina From Kentucky!

MaddiesMommie · 08-11-2009, 05:59 PM

I know exactly how you feel. I took Maddie to another vet b/c thier office carried the heart worm pill I wanted to start her on. When I started asking questions about foods, he ROLLED his eyes when I mentioned my beliefs.

I almost cried, out of anger. Here I was trying to seek a 'professional' opinion and was being taken as a joke. I didn't go back. Now I just order from PetMeds.

QuickSilver · 08-11-2009, 06:07 PM

I know doctors of all kinds get frustrated because people read so much off the web nowadays and a lot of times it is wrong. But they just need to deal with it, ha ha. I was seeing a physical therapist, who I actually liked a lot, but I came in one time and told him I had diagnosed myself with hip bursitis. He got kind of snide, but of course, when he examined me, what was it? HIP BURSITIS. Take THAT, Mr. Smarty Doc!

Rudys Mom · 08-11-2009, 06:07 PM

You should never have been treated like that by your vet. I'm sorry.

The vet practice I go to, there is one vet there that I don't like at all. The two times we've had him, he seemed to completely ignore me & talk to my husband. Even though I was the one asking him the questions.

I always ask for the 2 or 3 vets I like in that practice.

Hopefully there's another vet in the practice you go to or you can find another vet in your area. Good Luck.

cynsir · 08-11-2009, 06:14 PM

Been there, done that. That's why I have a new vet. My old vet didn't like my questioning her care of my baby Max. And you all know what happened with my sad story. Now I take my dogs to a vet that asks me if I have any questions or concerns. He just really wanted to know about how my English Cocker was doing, is she limping, having problems getting up stairs, problems with her diet. And then he asked if I had any questions. He took as much time as I needed.

If I were you, I'd look for another vet.

Patti · 08-11-2009, 06:29 PM

I had a vet at the ER hospital when I took Cali in for an emergency visit and I could tell from his attitude he didn't like small dogs and I could here him thinking well what do you expect when you buy a small dog. Unfortunately Cali had many visits to this er and one time when he was there I told them I would wait until the next doctor came on and why (she was due in 20 minutes and Cali was not going to suffer by waiting. This is the same vet who when I took Cali in last year because she ate the large bottom piece of a latex toy and was throwing up. He did xrays and said that I fed her too much her stomach was too full and she had spine problems. I said she hasn't eaten since the day before and she eats small meals. I decided to just take her home and watch her. Next morning she pooped out this large piece of latex, I couldn't believe she was able to pass it and was fine!! I feel with the money we spend on them and how much they mean to us the vets need to listen. My regular vet is great. I agree I would go back to your old vet. Also, Cali has severe itching and after blood tests (all negative for allergies and food elimination diet they put her on Atopica and she she has been great, so maybe look into that if nothing else works.

Nancy1999 · 08-11-2009, 06:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by QuickSilver

I know doctors of all kinds get frustrated because people read so much off the web nowadays and a lot of times it is wrong. But they just need to deal with it, ha ha. I was seeing a physical therapist, who I actually liked a lot, but I came in one time and told him I had diagnosed myself with hip bursitis. He got kind of snide, but of course, when he examined me, what was it? HIP BURSITIS. Take THAT, Mr. Smarty Doc!

Lol, that's really something to be able to diagnosis something like that, I'll bet the doctor was shocked when you were right.

I think vets probably get tired of arguing with someone who's read a couple sites, and thinks they are an expert, and so much information on the web is so wrong. Asking a question like, "I read this, what do you think?" lets them know that you are open to their thoughts. I think YT is one of the best places to get information, but even here, I've read some very poor advice written as fact. I think a doctor should try his best to control eye rolling, (I could never be a doctor), and if you don't feel like you can discuss your concerns with him, find another vet. You are still your dog's only advocate, and you are ultimately the one in charge of his health.

Arzel36 · 08-11-2009, 10:21 PM

Go to another vet, theres plenty of vet's out there.

QuickSilver · 08-11-2009, 10:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nancy1999

Lol, that's really something to be able to diagnosis something like that, I'll bet the doctor was shocked when you were right.

I think vets probably get tired of arguing with someone who's read a couple sites, and thinks they are an expert, and so much information on the web is so wrong. Asking a question like, "I read this, what do you think?" lets them know that you are open to their thoughts. I think YT is one of the best places to get information, but even here, I've read some very poor advice written as fact. I think a doctor should try his best to control eye rolling, (I could never be a doctor), and if you don't feel like you can discuss your concerns with him, find another vet. You are still your dog's only advocate, and you are ultimately the one in charge of his health.

Normally, I'm not one for diagnosing myself on the web, but I had this insane pain shooting down my left leg. I couldn't put any weight on it, I thought I'd broken it somehow. I looked up my symptoms for kicks, and shockingly, only two things came up: hip bursitis and arthritis. The first website I hit said bursitis can be caused by sitting on a hard surface for a long time, and I had just gone through a marathon programming session sitting on the floor. So that was a special case. If I'd typed in "stomach pains" or something, I'd sure it would be different.

Anyway, it's a different world now, it used to be that only doctors had specialized knowledge. I'm sure in many cases people come in with a very limited understanding and argue with their doctors, but that's just another skill docs will have to develop: eyes that move down and side to side, but not up.

Bottom line, your vet is a key partner in keeping your pet healthy, and you should trust and like them.

Ellie May · 08-12-2009, 04:04 AM

What do you think about a vet that gets offensive when asking questions?

I think they missed the part in vet school about how it is almost as much about the clients then it is the patients and they need to re-evaluate their career.

I can understand that vets don't necessarily have the time or patience to try to explain why something found online is wrong, but honestly a good vet would do their best to do so.

We went through four vets before we found the right one and one of the previous vets was like that (slightly). Not impressed and we don't see him anymore either... It's my dog's life we are talking about. Any vet of hers should be able to hold a conversation with me about what we are doing for her and why and what we can change to make her feel better.

And if a vet is unwilling to learn from their clients and thinks they know everything, that's a good indication that it's time to find a new one.

I research probably way too much and always have tons of questions and ideas. Ellie's vet takes massive amounts of time (for a vet that is) to work "with" us and answer questions because we are the ones that have to follow through at home and be comfortable with things.

About farm vets, some are great, but some are behind the times and safety is compromised with old anesthetic protocol, etc., so I'd be very careful about using an old time vet.

Wylie's Mom · 08-12-2009, 04:49 AM

I think a good vet welcomes questions, ideas, thoughts, and discussion.

I think a vet who becomes defensive or impatient with questions and patients is really sending you an unintended message about how insecure they are in their knowledge.

As a former nurse, I've always thought that the *most* important component of good health care for yourself, or your pet - is advocacy and involvement in your own health (or pets)....bc I think that propels you toward seeking the best outcome, even if it means you have to move on from certain practitioners.

BLowry · 08-12-2009, 04:55 AM

My opinion...you need to feel confident and comfortable with your vet. You should be able to ask ANY question without snide remarks or looks. The last vet I had (I had for YEARS!) was awesome...however...one of his staff was HORRIBLE! If I asked a question I would either be ignored or she would get very snappy with me....he has had many complaints about her but, she has been with him for over 25 yrs and he will not get rid of her. I actually worked for him several years ago. I changed when I got Lillie, 3 yrs ago. I am SO happy with my new vet, she is young and is up on on the newest procedures and really cares for the animals...her entire staff is like that. No question is looked upon as stupid. They NEVER get snappy...You can really see and feel the love they have for ever animal that comes in. I was a little apprehensive about changing but glad I did..Maybe it's time for you to make a change. You need to feel comfortable with asking ANY question without being looked at like you are bothering them..JMO

Sweet Apple · 08-12-2009, 05:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wylie's Mom

I think a good vet welcomes questions, ideas, thoughts, and discussion.

I think a vet who becomes defensive or impatient with questions and patients is really sending you an unintended message about how insecure they are in their knowledge.

As a former nurse, I've always thought that the *most* important component of good health care for yourself, or your pet - is advocacy and involvement in your own health (or pets)....bc I think that propels you toward seeking the best outcome, even if it means you have to move on from certain practitioners.

As a former nurse, I've always thought that the *most* important component of good health care for yourself, or your pet - is advocacy and involvement in your own health (or pets)....

My feelings, exactly...The first Vet I took Apple too, gave me a good dressing down for expressing my thoughts and wishes for MY pet...I like to gather as much information, as I can, and make informed decisions based on what feels right for myself and that of my pet...Needless to say, I found another vet, who gives me all the information I need, and, together, we decide on what's best for Apple...Bottom line, I'd just move on, 'till you are comfortable w/your health care provider for your little one...

yepp87 · 08-12-2009, 05:45 AM

Hey Gina,
I totally understand how you feel.. I have experienced what you have experienced from vets, doggy hotels, etc... I belive its that people nowadays know so much info from the media that vets get tired of hearing the same-story over and over again. Don't worry too much... If you have a burning question ill gladly help you out as much as I can..

ally173 · 08-12-2009, 05:49 AM

you should find another vet; one who's willing to listen to your concerns and that cares about your dog; obviously this vet is arrogant and he thinks he's right and doesn't want to be questioned; i only see one vet at the office and i refuse to see another vet covering there; i tell them always i am here to see Dr Kim and i only want to see her. they look at me like i am crazy; but i know whats best for my baby and dr kim cares and she's so nice.

08-11-2009, 05:52 PM	#1
Gina Hamblin Yorkie Talker Join Date: May 2009 Location: Williamsburg, Kentucky Posts: 21	What do you think about a vet who gets offensive when asking questions? We took Finn to the vet and I was loaded with questions but our vet just shot me down. I don't do research for nothing. Some of you have allready been through exactly what we are dealing with and I believe your suggestions are worth hearing. I even got the feeling that he didn't care for us very much. I do understand (no matter how hard it is) that it takes 12 full weeks to determine the results from our Food Trial but...........my baby is miserable and their are a lot of medicines out there that can give him some relief. We did get a shot and it helped for 3 days only. He put Finn on Zyrtec, well as I tried to tell him we have done that allready but he just rolled his eyes. I am going back to our country doc, he atleast lets me voice my concerns! Have any of you had problem with vet thinking we are totally stupid? I was only trying to suggest a different kind of food, that didn't go over at all! Gina From Kentucky! __________________ Thanks for your help, Everett and I are very grateful! Last edited by Gina Hamblin; 08-11-2009 at 05:54 PM. Reason: misspelled word

08-11-2009, 06:07 PM	#3
QuickSilver Thor's Human Donating Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: San Francisco, CA Posts: 5,929 Blog Entries: 31	I know doctors of all kinds get frustrated because people read so much off the web nowadays and a lot of times it is wrong. But they just need to deal with it, ha ha. I was seeing a physical therapist, who I actually liked a lot, but I came in one time and told him I had diagnosed myself with hip bursitis. He got kind of snide, but of course, when he examined me, what was it? HIP BURSITIS. Take THAT, Mr. Smarty Doc! __________________ If you love something, set it free. Unless it's an angry tiger.

08-11-2009, 06:07 PM	#4
Rudys Mom Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Lancaster, PA Posts: 4,327	You should never have been treated like that by your vet. I'm sorry. The vet practice I go to, there is one vet there that I don't like at all. The two times we've had him, he seemed to completely ignore me & talk to my husband. Even though I was the one asking him the questions. I always ask for the 2 or 3 vets I like in that practice. Hopefully there's another vet in the practice you go to or you can find another vet in your area. Good Luck. __________________ Rudy, Zoey & Buster's mom (Dawn) Rest In Peace my precious Gracie girl & Lucky buddie Dogster:http://www.dogster.com/dogs/382659 & http://www.dogster.com/dogs/497315

08-11-2009, 06:14 PM	#5
cynsir The 3 Musketeers Donating Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Cloquet, MN Posts: 738 Blog Entries: 1	Been there, done that. That's why I have a new vet. My old vet didn't like my questioning her care of my baby Max. And you all know what happened with my sad story. Now I take my dogs to a vet that asks me if I have any questions or concerns. He just really wanted to know about how my English Cocker was doing, is she limping, having problems getting up stairs, problems with her diet. And then he asked if I had any questions. He took as much time as I needed. If I were you, I'd look for another vet. __________________ Cindy and Misty and Mazie and Cassie Max (3/31/08 - 6/1/09)

08-11-2009, 06:29 PM	#6
Patti Donating YT 30K Club Member Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Illinois Posts: 35,509 Blog Entries: 6	I had a vet at the ER hospital when I took Cali in for an emergency visit and I could tell from his attitude he didn't like small dogs and I could here him thinking well what do you expect when you buy a small dog. Unfortunately Cali had many visits to this er and one time when he was there I told them I would wait until the next doctor came on and why (she was due in 20 minutes and Cali was not going to suffer by waiting. This is the same vet who when I took Cali in last year because she ate the large bottom piece of a latex toy and was throwing up. He did xrays and said that I fed her too much her stomach was too full and she had spine problems. I said she hasn't eaten since the day before and she eats small meals. I decided to just take her home and watch her. Next morning she pooped out this large piece of latex, I couldn't believe she was able to pass it and was fine!! I feel with the money we spend on them and how much they mean to us the vets need to listen. My regular vet is great. I agree I would go back to your old vet. Also, Cali has severe itching and after blood tests (all negative for allergies and food elimination diet they put her on Atopica and she she has been great, so maybe look into that if nothing else works. __________________ Cali Pixie Roxie : RIP Nikki; RIP Maya;RIP my sweet Dixie girl 1/17/08 http://callipuppyscastle.bravehost.com/index.html

08-11-2009, 05:59 PM	#2
MaddiesMommie LoveMy2 Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: East Tennessee Posts: 4,060	I know exactly how you feel. I took Maddie to another vet b/c thier office carried the heart worm pill I wanted to start her on. When I started asking questions about foods, he ROLLED his eyes when I mentioned my beliefs. I almost cried, out of anger. Here I was trying to seek a 'professional' opinion and was being taken as a joke. I didn't go back. Now I just order from PetMeds.

08-11-2009, 10:21 PM	#8
Arzel36 Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Maryland Posts: 2,218	Go to another vet, theres plenty of vet's out there. __________________ My goal in life is to be as good of a person as CoCoa B. already thinks I am.

08-12-2009, 04:04 AM	#10
Ellie May And Rylee Finnegan Donating Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Metro Detroit, MI Posts: 17,928	What do you think about a vet that gets offensive when asking questions? I think they missed the part in vet school about how it is almost as much about the clients then it is the patients and they need to re-evaluate their career. I can understand that vets don't necessarily have the time or patience to try to explain why something found online is wrong, but honestly a good vet would do their best to do so. We went through four vets before we found the right one and one of the previous vets was like that (slightly). Not impressed and we don't see him anymore either... It's my dog's life we are talking about. Any vet of hers should be able to hold a conversation with me about what we are doing for her and why and what we can change to make her feel better. And if a vet is unwilling to learn from their clients and thinks they know everything, that's a good indication that it's time to find a new one. I research probably way too much and always have tons of questions and ideas. Ellie's vet takes massive amounts of time (for a vet that is) to work "with" us and answer questions because we are the ones that have to follow through at home and be comfortable with things. About farm vets, some are great, but some are behind the times and safety is compromised with old anesthetic protocol, etc., so I'd be very careful about using an old time vet. __________________ Crystal, Ellie May (RIP), Rylee Finnegan, and Gracie Boo🐶

08-12-2009, 04:49 AM	#11
Wylie's Mom Furbutts = LOVE Donating Member Moderator Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Phoenix, AZ Posts: 35,889 Blog Entries: 2	I think a good vet welcomes questions, ideas, thoughts, and discussion. I think a vet who becomes defensive or impatient with questions and patients is really sending you an unintended message about how insecure they are in their knowledge. As a former nurse, I've always thought that the most important component of good health care for yourself, or your pet - is advocacy and involvement in your own health (or pets)....bc I think that propels you toward seeking the best outcome, even if it means you have to move on from certain practitioners. __________________ ~ A friend told me I was delusional. I nearly fell off my unicorn. ~ °¨¨¨°ºOº°¨¨¨° Ann \| Pfeiffer \| Marcel Verdel Purcell \| Wylie \| Artie °¨¨¨°ºOº°¨¨¨°

08-12-2009, 04:55 AM	#12
BLowry My furkids Donating Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Massachusetts Posts: 4,625 Blog Entries: 1	My opinion...you need to feel confident and comfortable with your vet. You should be able to ask ANY question without snide remarks or looks. The last vet I had (I had for YEARS!) was awesome...however...one of his staff was HORRIBLE! If I asked a question I would either be ignored or she would get very snappy with me....he has had many complaints about her but, she has been with him for over 25 yrs and he will not get rid of her. I actually worked for him several years ago. I changed when I got Lillie, 3 yrs ago. I am SO happy with my new vet, she is young and is up on on the newest procedures and really cares for the animals...her entire staff is like that. No question is looked upon as stupid. They NEVER get snappy...You can really see and feel the love they have for ever animal that comes in. I was a little apprehensive about changing but glad I did..Maybe it's time for you to make a change. You need to feel comfortable with asking ANY question without being looked at like you are bothering them..JMO __________________ Brenda Last edited by BLowry; 08-12-2009 at 04:57 AM.

08-12-2009, 05:45 AM	#14
yepp87 YorkieTalk Newbie! Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Auckland, New Zealand Posts: 5	Hey Gina, I totally understand how you feel.. I have experienced what you have experienced from vets, doggy hotels, etc... I belive its that people nowadays know so much info from the media that vets get tired of hearing the same-story over and over again. Don't worry too much... If you have a burning question ill gladly help you out as much as I can..

08-12-2009, 05:49 AM	#15
ally173 YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: cliffside park, nj, usa Posts: 1,170	you should find another vet; one who's willing to listen to your concerns and that cares about your dog; obviously this vet is arrogant and he thinks he's right and doesn't want to be questioned; i only see one vet at the office and i refuse to see another vet covering there; i tell them always i am here to see Dr Kim and i only want to see her. they look at me like i am crazy; but i know whats best for my baby and dr kim cares and she's so nice. __________________ Ava's mom