I took my almost 7 year old chocolate Lab to see Dr. Richardson because he seemed very ill. Dr.Richardson did x rays and blood work and could not tell me exactly what was wrong. I was told he may need to go to ER but it was not made to seem like a matter of life and death. He was given antibiotics and fluids. I was told someone would call to check his condition the next day. Never did Dr. Richardson make his condition seem like it was going to kill him in hours. I took him home and 7 hours later he was dead. He died of toxic shock from his stomach twisting and finally bursting. He suffered a tremendous amount before taking final breath. No one from Suburban Clinic ever called to check on him. After consulting with several Vets they concluded an experienced Vet should have noticed his symptoms along with the blood work and x rays was more than likely a severe/critical stomach disorder called "Bloat" or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus. My dog displayed nearly every symptom of bloat, which I had never heard of until after he died. Thanks to Google I did not have to wonder why my dog died so suddenly. I was glad to know how he died but not how I had to figure out on my own. This kills dogs within 2 or 3 days. I told her it had almost been 40 hours since I noticed his symptoms and told Dr. Richardson that it seemed like his chest was expanding. This disorder acts very rapidly. On Sunday I was playing with him and he was dead on Tuesday. 2 days. It would have been to late to save him at that point, but I should not have been given the advice to take him home. I should have taken him to be put down instead of witnessing his death and pain beyond anything I could imagine.
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