I have been taking my pets to Dr. Dikes' clinic since 1998. For many years I trusted Dr. Dikes and the staff with my pets' care. Unfortunately, since the clinic changed ownership and new veterinarians joined the practice, my experience has changed dramatically.
I have recently interacted with Dr. Nicole Robles and Dr. Rachel McDaniel, and based on my personal experience, I do not recommend seeing either of them.
I took my dog Roman to see Dr. Nicole Nobles for medication refills and a skin problem. What I expected to be a routine visit turned into what I felt was an attempt to create a bill of nearly $500. During the appointment, I felt I was treated as though I were asking for a favor instead of being a client who has trusted this clinic for almost 30 years.
I explained that I did not want Roman placed on a newly introduced medication because I prefer medications that have already proven safe and effective for my pets. Despite my concerns, I felt pressured to consider the new medication instead of continuing the treatment that I know works well for Roman.
For Roman's ear infection, I specifically requested Posatex because it has worked for him in the past. Instead, I was offered a different medication that I was told was less expensive. My concern was never about the cost. I wanted the medication that I know has worked safely for my dog. When I insisted on Posatex, I was told the clinic did not have it available.
I also believe my pets have been unfairly labeled as dangerous, despite this clinic having cared for them for many years without these concerns being raised.
I recently received a voicemail from Dr. Rachel McDaniel, whom I have never met, regarding my pets' care. My dogs are seniors with multiple medical conditions, and I believe their individual needs should be considered rather than applying the same approach to every patient.
One example is my dog Maxina. After she suffered a stroke, I brought her to this clinic and was told there was nothing that could be done except manage the condition. I sought a second opinion from another veterinarian, and Maxina recovered her mobility. That experience confirmed for me the importance of seeking another opinion when I feel my concerns are not being addressed.
Today, when I tried to pick up Roman's regular monthly medication, I was informed that it would be his last refill unless I brought my dogs in for their annual vaccinations. In my opinion, vaccination decisions should take into account a pet's age, health, and medical history, and owners should be able to discuss those decisions with their veterinarian without feeling pressured.
After being a loyal client since 1998, I no longer feel that my knowledge of my own pets or my concerns are respected. I feel that I am expected to simply accept every recommendation without meaningful discussion. My experience has been that customer care has declined since the clinic became part of a larger corporation, and I believe the focus has shifted away from the personal relationship that once existed between the veterinarians and their clients.
For these reasons, I can no longer recommend this clinic, especially based on my experiences with Dr. Nicole Nobles and Dr. Rachel McDaniel.
We absolutely love this clinic. Dr.McDaniel and the rest of the staff are so awesome to work with. I’m new in town from AZ and was unsure if we’d find a vet that we really liked. Thankfully we found Dykes Veterinary Clinic. I would definitely recommend taking any of your beloved pets to them for any of their needs.
