My dogs life was cut short
Following the untimely death of my 10-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, Baba, after his care at MyVet Lucan, I am writing this review to express my deep regret at ever bringing him there.
Baba had been diagnosed by my own vet with diabetes, a related urinary tract infection, and signs of pancreatitis and mild hepatitis. My vet strongly recommended MyVet Lucan for “the best care possible”. I specifically asked whether Baba’s diagnosis was a death sentence and was told it was not.
During the first night and day, Baba appeared to respond very well. I received reassuring updates saying he had eaten, was in good form and was a happy little dog. I genuinely believed he was going to be okay.
On the third day, I was asked to come in because he would not eat for the staff. When I arrived, I was shocked to find a completely different dog. Baba was distressed, crying and walking into the wall. I could not understand what had happened since the positive update the previous day.
I was left alone with him for over an hour before seeing a vet. When she eventually came in, the consultation felt rushed because she said she had to attend an emergency. I repeatedly asked what had changed and why Baba appeared to be in pain and neurologically affected. I was told he had been given a strong opioid.
After Baba ate for me, I asked why nobody was present to administer his insulin. Despite his condition, I left him there because I still believed he was receiving specialist care. I emailed the practice that evening outlining my concerns and received no reply.
The following morning, I received a generic text saying he had been stable overnight. I waited for a promised call that never came. After repeatedly trying to contact the practice for hours, I eventually got through at approximately 2.30 pm.
I was told Baba might have a brain tumour and that a CT scan would cost approximately €1,500. When I asked what opioid he had received, I was told it was methadone.
I was extremely concerned that a 6 kg Yorkshire Terrier with diabetes, pancreatitis and liver concerns had been given methadone, particularly because his severe change in behaviour appeared after it was administered. Instead of receiving a clear explanation of the medication, its risks and whether it could have contributed to his condition, I felt the focus moved immediately to a possible brain tumour.
When I asked what my other options were, I was told euthanasia was an option.
I immediately drove to Lucan and removed Baba from their care. Again, the vet said she was in a hurry to attend another emergency. I was left wondering why my own dog’s dramatic deterioration was not being treated with the same urgency. I also had to ask for his medication and felt I might otherwise have been allowed to leave without it.
I brought Baba to another veterinary hospital, where he received intensive treatment and every effort was made to save him. After reviewing his blood results, I was informed that he had gone into liver failure and that there was no realistic hope of recovery. I strongly believe this could account for the neurological signs I had witnessed. Sadly, I had to let my boy go four days later.
I am devastated and left with serious unanswered questions about Baba’s treatment, the lack of communication, the failure to respond to my concerns and his dramatic deterioration while under their care.
Baba was not simply a pet. He was a rescue, my family and my constant companion for almost ten years. I trusted this practice with his life and deeply regret that decision.
In my experience, the focus appeared to be on increasingly expensive investigations rather than clear communication and compassionate, accountable care. I would strongly recommend seeking a second opinion before placing a seriously ill animal in the care of MyVet Lucan.
I would not recommend this practice. The reception staff and nurses I met were kind and compassionate, and I appreciated them during an extremely distressing time.