How 1st Pet Became Pugsley’s Safe Haven
Ashley Rush found 1st Pet in a moment of urgency. Her 3-month old puppy, Pugsley, an XL American Bully, had torn his toenail and their regular vet couldn’t fit Pugsley in their schedule. Instead, they referred Ashley and Pugsley to 1st Pet’s emergency department.
“My first impression was that the staff was incredibly quick and thorough,” Ashley said.
She noted that 1st Pet got her and Pugsley into an exam room quickly, the tech came to take his vitals soon after that, and then emergency room veterinarian quickly arrived.
“I’m panicking because my dog is bleeding profusely and they needed to do a partial sedation to examine his toenail,” said Ashley. “Everyone was very kind and understanding. They talked me through everything they were doing, and they made me feel at ease.”
One Clinic for All of Your Pet’s Medical & Behavioral Needs
“Once Pugsley began showing signs of reactivity, I knew we would keep going to 1st Pet because of how wonderful they are with him,” Ashley said. “Once he gets comfortable, he’s a total sweetie. I joke that I don’t need a weighted blanket – I have Pugsley!”
A Variety of Options to Help You And Your Pet Feel At Ease
1st Pet’s waiting room is usually quiet and calm, which makes Ashley feel better about bringing in Pugsley, since he generally doesn’t do well with other dogs. Before his visit, Pugsley takes Gabapentin and Trazodone, and wears a muzzle as an extra precaution.
“Dr. DeAnda and her tech are just amazingly patient with him,” says Ashley. “They give me the confidence that they know what they’re doing, and they act confidently, which helps him feel confident and puts him at ease.”
Ashley loves that the 1st Pet staff empowers her to make the best decisions for her pet. They suggested putting him on an anxiety medication, but since Pugsley is already on allergy medication, Ashley wasn’t sure about the additional cost of another prescription to their routine.
“They gave me all of the information and encouraged me to research the medication, but didn’t push it on me,” said Ashley. “They said, ‘Ultimately it’s your decision,’ which I appreciated.”
Ashley opted to enroll Pugsley in behavioral training with Tiana, and he’s been responding very well. And Ashley is learning right alongside him – Tiana has been helping her identify Pugsley’s triggers, and learn how she can distract him and ease his anxiety.
1st Pet Provides Great Client Experiences, from First Call to Follow Up
Ashley likes to ask her vet lots of questions, and the 1st Pet staff never misses a beat. She appreciates that they really listen to her, thoroughly answer every question, and that someone calls to check in on Pugsley after each visit.
“They always follow up, and I love it so much,” Ashley said. “I haven’t gone to a single appointment where someone doesn’t check in to see how he’s doing, if I have any concerns, or if we need anything else. I’ve never had that kind of follow up with any other vet.”
