Animal Surgical Center of Michigan

Reviews 4

HO

Hope Thompson

Just had my first consultation here for my cat after an X-ray showed nodules on her lungs. After reading some very mixed reviews about Blue Pearl in Ann Arbor and getting a really great recommendation for Dr. Venema from my local vet, I decided to drive up to Flint from Ann Arbor. Even though I called late Friday afternoon, I was able to get an appointment for Monday morning. I loved that Dr. Venema and her technician both took their time evaluating my cat and talking me through different possibilities. They often asked me if I had any questions and I never once felt like they were rushing to get to another patient. After they ran another set of X-rays, Dr. Venema took me back to see them and explained everything she was seeing which led to her conclusions about my cats condition. Overall she is very direct, but compassionate: a great combination for any healthcare provider. I trusted her right away. Because I believe in transparency in all medical services (both for humans and animals) and that cost information should be made available before choosing a provider, heres what I paid: Examination/consultation: $100 3 X-rays and interpretation: $225 ($75 each) Heartworm antibody and antigen test: $65 Radiologist evaluation of X-rays: $100 The radiologist evaluation is normally unnecessary, but was recommended since my cat has some unusual stuff going on and Dr. Venema wanted to get a second opinion. All costs were shared and discussed with me in advance, something I truly appreciated. At first, they wanted to conduct an ultrasound (>$300), but once the X-rays came back, they decided that wasnt necessary and recommended another (cheaper) course of action. I had no idea what to expect in terms of cost when I went in, but I definitely think the price was fair and that they were truly trying to figure out what was wrong with my cat, not inflate the bill with extra tests. I also appreciated that they did several of the tests immediately, especially since I had driven an hour to get there. I was there almost 2 hours in total, which included check-in, an initial evaluation from both the technician and the vet, the X-rays and evaluation, explaining the X-rays to me, updating me about costs at multiple junctures, drawing blood, a final discussion, and check-out. I feel like everything was done quite efficiently, but I was also glad I had brought a book. Other aspects of the visit were fine: check-in and out were both above average, with not much time waiting in the lobby. Everything was clean and the staff was friendly. Highly recommend!

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AL

Allan Brouillet

Our 9 1/2 year old beagle, Harkin, was diagnosed with lymphoma five months ago. Living in Harbor Springs, MI, we were referred to a Grand Rapids clinic for treatment. However, all of our family lives in the Flint, MI area. We contacted Animal Surgical Center of Michigan (ASCM) and eventually spoke with Dr. Weedin. She provided an excellent explanation of the lymphoma treatment process employed at ASCM and ensured us that Harkins condition and comfort was of the utmost importance and would be evaluated throughout the process. We brought him to ASCM the following Wednesday where he was evaluated by Dr. Walshaw. With the top notch medical equipment available at ASCM Dr. Walshaw was able to start Harkins treatment that same day. Brenda and I noticed swelling reduction by the time we arrived back home four hours later. Four days after that we could not find any swelling, which was confirmed by our local vet, Dr. McDonald, six days after Harkins first treatment. All the staff we encountered at ASC during Harkins four months of treatment were professional, friendly and accommodating. We want to give special thanks to Dr. Weedin who kept us well informed of Harkins condition and progress. Harkin respected her caring attitude to him, as well as the care he received from staff that were with him during his treatments. We know this because each time we arrived at ASCM for another round of treatment he would howl as only he can, would walk in the front door on his own, go the weight scale, and then sit and wait for his treatment. We also want to thank Dr. Walshaw for his experience, skill, willingness to answer questions, and promptness in getting progress information back to us. Harkin has successfully completed his treatment and is in remission. Life for him is now a journey along the "bell curve" of remission statistics. Regardless, Brenda, Harkin, and I are all thankful for each additional day that we have to enjoy together. Thank you to ASCM for providing us with these days.

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HA

Harold Haftka

Our Boxer Venti had TPLO surgery on her right knee and then her left knee a few years ago. The staff and Dr. Dan were amazing , very sensitive and caring not just to Venti but equally to her very worried owners. She came out of both surgeries with full mobility...like a puppy again! These were both done prior to ASC moving into their new state-of-art facility. Two weeks ago Venti was back to ASC for another procedure...this time to remove a tumor from her middle ear! This ended up requiring a full ear ablation, removing her left ear canal to get the tumor out. Tricky surgery with lots of nerves in the area and potential post op problems that could result. Dr. Dan Degner was more than up to the task. He is truly a very gifted and caring surgeon. Not only did he avoid any nerve damage but he made a point to leave her ear flap and cartilage so that "cosmetically" as he put it, her ear would look normal and shed look like her old self. He and his staff called us every day to make sure she was recovering well at home. Best of all as soon as he got the pathology report he call me with the results...the tumor was benign not Cancer!! Just heal up from the surgery and problem solved!! Bandages came off after a week and as soon as they did...there was our 8-1/2 year old boxer once again acting like a puppy ! Were going for our two week follow up appointment in the morning. Other than growing some hair back...she should be good to go!! We cant wait for Dr Dan and all his staff to see how happy and well Venti is doing. Their skill and compassion for their patients AND their families is truly something special. If you have a beloved "family member" in need of surgical care...this is the only place to take them. Harold Haftka

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MI

Michael Finelli

I was referred to this center by my wonderful vet, Dr. Heidi Dirske in Indian River MI. I have so much respect for her, and trust in her, that I travel 500 miles round trip just to keep her as my vet for my pets. So when she said go see these surgeons which required a 250 mile round trip each time I had to go, I didnt question her. Dr. DeCamp did everything he promised. He made himself available via email 24/7 and always responded quickly. My pet had a few tough days after surgery and even though it was the weekend, Dr. Weeden was there for me day and night. For 3 days she kept in constant contact with me, offering suggestions, solutions and a great deal of comfort. My pet Bailey fell in love with Kate and she returned the affection. Even though Bailey could be a handful with her sore leg, Kate handled her with kindness and compassion as well as put up with Baileys very vocal communication. I cant think of anyone who is better suited for the job she does! The staff out front are friendly, helpful and dont know the definition of the word "problem". No matter what came their way, they kept smiling while working to find solutions. They always were accommodating to me. I had a long drive to make each time I came to visit and even when I arrived early, they would get us in as quickly as possible. I hope never have to use their services again because that would mean my pet was seriously injured. But I wouldnt consider going anywhere else if I needed their expertise. I highly recommend this surgical center and staff.

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