ENCINITAS, Calif. (KGTV) - A dog owner is sharing her story after she says a neutering procedure turned into a month-long nightmare.
On the morning of February 21st, Brigitte Yvon dropped off 2-year-old Yellow Lab Davie at her veterinarian in Encinitas to be neutered. Hours later, she got a call saying everything went well and she picked up her dog early that afternoon. For the next nine days, Yvon tended to him. Davie kept whimpering and trying to get at his back, but Yvon thought it was part of the recovery from the neutering. Yvon then noticed something on Davie's back.
"Fur was matted. Skin was raw and bleeding in places," said Yvon.
She used a clipper and found more of the same under the fur. She took him to another vet, who shaved his back to reveal third-degree burns across his back.
"They told me to prepare for what I was about to see. I was horrified and devastated," said Yvon.
Yvon brought photos to the original veterinarian.
"He did apologize and admit responsibility," said Yvon.
She says he didn't go into detail, but pointed to saline bags used to warm up and regulate body temperature during and after the procedure. Yvon says he agreed to pay for treatment. Yvon says the veterinarian has since filed a claim with his insurer.
For Davie, the treatment has included surgery and several rounds of antibiotics. For Yvon, there have been plenty of sleepless nights. She has this message for other pet owners: Ask questions and educate yourself on the most basic of procedures.
Yvon asked us not use the name of the vet, because her only goal is to increase awareness of the risks. Experts suggest asking your veterinarian how they warm up animals when anesthesia is used. Devices like warming blankets with temperature alarms are considered safer.
The veterinarian who performed the procedure issued the following statement:
"While I would like to respond with an accurate account of what transpired, it is my professional responsibility to respect client confidentiality. When this client called with a concern I responded immediately. I worked with her to identify how to move forward with his healing. We provided treatment for the wound and care for the pet and consulted with specialists and offered the best options, and the client was not charged. We understand that pets are part of the family. We want to make sure that our clients receive the highest level of care available. We are truly glad to hear that Davie is doing well and expected to have a full recovery and hope he has a long and happy life."
