On August 3, at the recommendation of Dr. March of Harborside Animal Clinic (who I have come to find out is also VP of the subject Clinic!), my 10-week old puppy was admitted to FVRC for 24/7 care for parvovirus diagnosed as a result of the puppy's refusal to eat and lethargy.
Upon Shadow's admittance, FVRC provided me with an estimate for the costs involved with the proposed 24/7 care. This estimate reads, in part:
'The range of this estimate is from $2,280.00 to $2,682.75. This is only an estimate of charges. Depending on further evaluation and diagnostics, these fees may vary. We will make every effort to keep you informed of the current charges and will attempt to contact you if it appears the high range of this estimate will be exceeded.'
During the dog's care at FVRC, Iwas given periodic updates concerning the dog's progress. However, at no time did FVRC alert me or the rescue group that the 'high range' of estimate could be exceeded. On August 7, Dr. Breunig contacted me and informed me that Shadow would need to stay an additional three days and that the current balance of her bill was $5,000.00. She indicated that Shadow was having difficulty keeping food down and as a result, an esophageal tube had been stitched into her nose.
This was the first time anyone at FVRC had notified me or the rescue group that the bill would exceed the high range of the estimate provided.in addition, the head of the rescue group was told that FVRC would not release Shadow to me without payment of the entire balance.
Finally, after payment of the bill and intervention from the rescue organization from which the puppy was adopted, FVRC released the puppy to me.
Even though FVRC was given sufficient notice, at her release, Shadow's fur was matted in feces and she smelled horrible.
I immediately took the puppy to a second veterinarian in Ft. Lauderdale. On the way there, we stopped to give the puppy water - and she immediately drank like she was deprived! Isn't that what the tube was supposed to be for??? The new vet changed the anti-vomiting meds, and immediately removed the esophageal tube. It bears mentioning that this particular Veterinarian office frequently treats parvo dogs for less than $100 a day. Shortly after, the puppy responded by eating and drinking, and in less than 3 days, was well enough to go home. I have a letter from this vet regarding her condition and treatment. Her response was one of a dog that had been inappropriately treated.
It is clear the puppy was over-treated while in the care of FVRC to run up the bill.By its actions, FVRC materially and fraudulently misrepresented the cost of the services offered and, instead of honoring its estimate, perpetrated a 'bait and switch' scheme in order to receive additional fees.
I have tried in good faith to reach an agreement with FVRC. The rescue group tried to call them for 3 days while the puppy was in their care to talk about the bill, but was told no one was available to discuss it right now - each time! At NO time was I told the estimate had been exceeded. I finally was discussing it through the Better Business Bureau with the President and Director, Joshua Parra, though he called me a liar and insisted the vet in Ft. Lauderdale works with the rescue group, which is false. They do work with the Broward County Animal Shelter - not affiliated at all with the non-profit rescue group.
All the rescue group or I wanted on behalf of the rescue group is a fair bill. They save animals & here they get ripped off by these vets like this!
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