We moved to Lompoc from Northern California almost six years ago with our four dogs. We asked around and ended up trying a vet, with a big new beautiful facility. I quickly realized you can not judge a book by its cover.
Our first visit confirmed we made the right choice by transferring to Dr. Harris. We have a large German Shepherd, two large mutts and a chihuahua. Most of our visits have only been for routine vacs and exams but earlier this month Nico, our German Shepherd had to have surgery on one of his ears because of a broken blood vessel. During his check up while taking his vitals Dr. Harris became concerned about his heart rate. He checked it four times and ordered some tests. The results of the test were a rare diagnosis for his breed cardiomyopathy. The signs of cardiomyopathy in dogs are not very apparent. Additionally, I did not relay some of the few symptoms Nico had been experiencing because I thought it was a sign of his age 91/2 years.
Dr, Harris ordered several diagnostic tests and consulted with a cardiologist after Nico's electrocardiogram. He developed a medical treatment plan and medications for Nico that have been nothing short of a miracle. I was afraid that we only had a few days left with our beautiful baby shepherd now I feel we will have at least several months. He has started eating, breathing easier, wanting to play and meets me at the door when I get home from work.
Dr. Harris is great about offering information about options and cost associated with our options. We are lucky enough to be able to afford all the medicine Nico needs and the results have been awesome.
Dr. Harris is very careful to explain there is no cure, but the quality of life for Nico is much better on the medicine. Dr. Harris continues to monitor him and is very supportive and sensitive to our feelings for beloved ""puppy"", as Dr. Harris refers to him.
I have had some good Vets in the past but as I said earlier Dr. Harris is the BEST!
more