Union St Veterinary Hospital

Reviews 4

RO

Robert Noel

This complaint pertains to my first, as well as what will be my only, experience as a client to Dr. Hartmans Union Street Veterinary Hospital. The nature of the complaint is two-fold: 1) Customer Service: Never have I been treated in such a hostile and condescending manner during a service/business transaction from someone I have never had any previous affiliation with. Dr. Hartman was dismissive of certain issues pertaining to the pet until brought up again... At which point he became curt and condescending. At one point, while I was in the process of answering one question posed by Dr. Hartman in regard to my pet, he walked out of the room. Upon leaving the office I looked up to find him glaring at me as if I had done something wrong. My partner and I were so appalled by his conduct that neither of us really knew how to respond to the situation at the time, but talked about it at length afterward and agree that some action needs to be taken. I went back the next evening to confront him on the incident and he seemed mildly appalled yet equally dismissive going so far as to say such things as, "I dont need your advice or feedback, Ive been doing this for 40 years. You cant teach an old dog new tricks" and "My personality is certainly keeping me out of the poor house" (Insinuating that this was some dispute about economic background?). 2) Lack of Knowledge of the subject: It was evident throughout the physical examination that he had no clue how to treat the animal (a Guinea Pig). There was 0% diagnosis and Dr. Hartman even admitted that he did know what could be causing the symptoms. He then prescribed an eye drop solution that I have since been told is not at all what the animal needs and instead needs a cream (something that he was originally going to prescribe but never came back with because he changed his mind) --- Although a refund was offered for the prescription that I cannot use, my issue is primarily with the service and treatment of my partner and I, the lack of medical expertise pertaining to the subject, and complete lack of diagnosis, as well as general lack of professionalism.

---

A

A Private User

Let us share our horrific experience at the Union St Veterinary Hospital. We are the proud owners of two extremely fun loving and playful fur-kids. Like any other responsible parent, we researched and decided to intrust the care of our puppy to this particular vet clinic to be nurtured. When we walked in to the clinic we were initially impressed with the overall aesthetics of the establishment. Unfortunately, this was only an illusion. The staff was very condescending and curt, the vet was very impersonal. After surgery we noticed the stitch work was done very poorly and, there was blood around the incision. When we picked up our puppy the vet never said a word to us, never mentioning anything concerning the surgery, his over all after care, or well being. Not mention they failed to give us his pain medication. Which meant we had to return the next morning and deal with the extremely rude staff, reliving the whole ordeal again. I believe this vet has been in business for "30 years" not because of ethics or integrity but, because of the reasonable rates which attract a one-time customer. His evasive conduct created a uncomfortable and unwelcoming atmosphere. As a professional who is dealing with concerns of pet owners, he failed at his duty to provide comprehensive information and details that would put our minds at ease. As a consumer, I have a right to expect quality care. My expectations were not met and, I was frightfully disappointed. We know our puppy can be a barker when in unfamiliar surroundings, but I was surprised with the staffs reaction. Which seemed to be quite agitated and, turned into haste when rushing us with the discharge process. We were appalled by this behavior. We have a 4 year old springer spaniel as well and we were looking for a vet to attend to the care of our fur-kids. We are relatively new to the area (from a different state) but, we will never return here unless it is with picket signs. Sincerely, A one time costumer.

---

T

T Ecobelli

I worked with Doctor Hartman for over 13 years. I know what goes on "behind the scenes." In my 30 years of being a veterinary technician I have never met a more knowledgeable and caring veterinarian. Small, privately owned veterinary clinics are a dying breed. He needs to be supported.Try having a big corporate hospital work with you when your pet needs treatment and you dont have thousands of dollars to spend. Over the years Doctor Hartman has treated animals for the elderly and disabled keeping their pets healthy and their owners educated on how to care for them properly. Sure he doesnt dazzle you in the exam room with all sorts of small talk. He cares about the animals not putting on a show. He always does the most obvious treatments first rather than present you with an enormous estimate that covers every test known to veterinary medicine. The big corporations do that not for the best interest of your pet, but to cover themselves in case of a lawsuit. Once again, Doctor Hartman puts your animal first, not his pocketbook. I live in California now and work for another clinic. I have nothing to gain by this review. I just wanted to counter a negative review I saw someone wrote about a visit they made to see "Doc" with their guinea pig. Obviously the guy had a big chip on his shoulder and was fighting demons that have nothing to do with Doctor Hartman. Trust me. Your in good hands once you step through that door. Ive worked for many, many veterinarians. Hes one of the best.

---

AL

Al Peaston

We had our 10 month old Beagle fixed here and our experience was quite nice. The staff was not overly friendly but they were professional and seemed to be caring, Dr. Hartman seemed nice and we were very pleased with his work. I am sorry for those people had such a negative experience however, when younger and living in New York City I worked as a vet tech (vets assistant) for several years! The vet I worked for eccentric to say the least but he truly loved animals and so did everyone on staff. The animals were always great but I have to say that some of the owners stretched our patience to the limit. Not just because they were worried about their pets (which is completely understandable) but a few were very unreasonable. An example: a woman brought in her sick dog. It was a large breed and know for their aggressive nature. The policy was that large dogs would be muzzled during examinations to protect the vet and staff. She refused and left quite angry. We learned that the dog later died. We were all horrified (trust me when a beloved pet died or had to be euthanized the staff would go in the back and cry) but there was nothing we did wrong! Some people were just unreasonable. Im not accusing anyone here of that but I think people should know that sometimes the problem is the owner.

---

---