Last Updated on July 1, 2023 by Fumipets
Ayrshire Pet Owner Accuses Vet of Insensitive Remark Amid Financial Dispute
The Heart-Wrenching Saga of a Beloved Beagle
A grief-stricken pet owner, Amy Currie, alleges that her deceased beagle, Luna, was dishearteningly referred to as a ‘bag of shopping’ during a heated dispute over the final bill with an Ayrshire veterinary practice. Luna, a cherished family member, was put to sleep at Valley Veterinary Group in Kilmarnock, but the practice reportedly refused to release the body until the unsettled bill of £2,237.43 was paid in full.
From Pet Illness to Payment Controversy
Luna was hurried to the vets on May 20 after falling abruptly ill. The beagle’s health deteriorated, prompting repeated visits to the vet and a revealing scan that showed a foreign object lodged in her stomach. The only way to save Luna was a risky surgical intervention.
Currie recalls a distressing phone call from the veterinary surgeon. “She told me Luna’s injury was worse than we had hoped and shared the risks of continuing the surgery, which could have been more extensive and fraught with complications. When I asked what she would do if Luna were her dog, she recommended letting her go considering Luna’s age and post-operation complications. I agreed, and Luna was put to sleep,” Currie shared.
An Emotional Farewell Amid Financial Distress
Despite the heartache of losing Luna, Currie lauded the kindness and compassion of the surgeon and the receptionists at the practice. It was the practice manager, she claims, who lacked empathy during their conversations.
Following Luna’s passing on May 25, Currie wanted to cremate Luna but ran into a roadblock. She alleges that Valley Veterinary Group refused to release Luna’s body until the bill was settled. When Currie asked for a payment plan, she felt the manager tried to shame her and even compared Luna to a “bag of shopping.”
Seeking Resolution and Respect for Luna
In response to these allegations, a CVS Vets spokeswoman expressed their regret for any further upset caused to Currie due to the requests for payment. They stated an investigation has been launched into the shortcomings of their service and assured that they would learn from this incident.
Original story reported by Daily Record
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/ayrshire/pet-owner-says-dog-referred-30342416
