We started going to Haywood Animal Hospital for the Loyal STAY study. We switched there permanently after River was diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy, at which point she had to exit the study. From the moment I walked in the door for the first time, the reception staff were friendly, welcoming, and efficient. Our first appointment was with Dr. Shoemake and vet tech Alexandria. I was astounded by both of their compassion, empathy, knowledge, and immediate love shown to my Airedale Terrier, River. Alexandria was friendly and personable, as was Dr. Shoemake. Just before River's DM diagnosis, her old vet told me I should start thinking of euthanizing her because she couldn't stand up without help and questioned her quality of life. We went to a STAY appointment with Dr. Shoemake and Erica was the vet tech. Erica was warm, kind, friendly, and knowledgable. I literally started crying when Dr. Shoemake said, "absolutely not, she's not ready and can still have a great quality of life." I asked Dr. Shoemake if I could give her a hug and she gave me a great big hug. I have never been so relieved in my life. Dr. Shoemake even arranged for a wheelchair for River as I am disabled and couldn't afford one. Ultimately, River's neurologist said not to use a wheelchair because she would give up quicker and we used a Help Em Up Harness instead, but the gesture was so incredibly appreciated and unprecedented in my over 30 years of having dogs. Dr. Shoemake, Dr. Wilfert, Alexandria, Erica, and Andrea made it evident at each and every appointment that they cared deeply about River and her wellbeing and also about me and mine. They even made a note in my chart, per my request, that my emergency contact was to be notified in the event I was receiving the news that River needed to be euthanized. Autumn at the front desk was always more than kind and helpful. I have nothing but great things to say about Haywood Animal Hospital and if I ever have a dog again (losing this one nearly killed me), I will not hesitate to return. I know I'm leaving out employees' names and I feel terrible that I don't know them all, but if you want competent and compassionate care, Haywood Animal Hospital is the place to go!!!
Catherine
