I brought my cat to see Dr. Havens in early 2009 after she developed vestibular syndrome, and weight loss. He gave her a shot (for the vestibular syndrome) KNOWN to cause hypoglycemia, and when I brought her back in for a follow up, and continued weight loss, he did routine (non diagnositc) bloodwork, and diagnosed her as being diabetic. He had me buy Prescription food from him, and change her diet. She continued to lose weight, as I took her in AGAIN, but still stuck with the diabetic diagnosis. Finally, after she CONTINUED to lose weight, I asked to see Dr. Johnson, who told me (in person during a visit) she was NOT diabetic, but rather she had hyperthyroidism, and he began treating her for that. When she STILL didn't get better, and was a mere 4lbs, I took her to another Veterinarian who determined by extensive blood work, ultrasounds, and other tests NOT performed or EVEN OFFERED by Parkside, that she had colon Cancer. She lost her battle on August 10, 2009.

It wasn't until now I've been strong enough, and rational enough to talk/write about it. She may have not lived a "normal" life span anyways --I will never know, but being diagnosed correctly in the VERY beginning, she may have had more time, OR may have been cured. But NEITHER doctors were willing to take the time, or refer me to someone who knew more. They simply did as little as they could, while charging me their outrageous prices! I would have sold my belongings to save my precious baby, but I TRUSTED them and they let me (and Sophie) down in the worst way. I want them to be aware of this, and learn from it. I also want others using them to be aware of their lack of time (since there are only 2 of them) in dedicating total attention to very sick animals. Your furry babies lives are at risk. Just because they are DVM's does NOT mean, they are good. Do your homework, and trust your instincts.