Banfield Pet Hospital Banfield False Cancer Diagnosis Portland Oregon

In February 2013, I took my 10 year old Toy Fox Terrier in for dental cleaning. I also pointed out a small growth on my dog that I was curious about. I had it biopsied and was told that I would be called with the results. Before leaving, I was pressured into purchasing their Optimum Wellness Plan. I was made to believe that this would save us money for my dog's dental cleaning (which ended up costing $800 anyway!) and should anything happen down the road. A short time later, I was called and told that the biopsy revealed my dog had a mast cell tumor (cancer). I was told to give him half a Benadryl twice a day and that the only cure was a surgery costing $900. As you can imagine, my husband and I were devastated. We contemplated the surgery and were giving my 11 lb dog Benadryl as instructed. He became lethargic and sick from the Benadryl so a family member suggested I get a second opinion before spending that kind of money on a surgery.

We went for a second opinion and found that the same “mast cell tumor” that was diagnosed at Banfield was, in fact, a wart! As you can imagine, we were elated, but also outraged that we had been put through so much heartache and discomfort because of a misdiagnosis. We wondered if the misdiagnosis was a scam to get more money out of us? Could it be possible that Banfield was trying to diagnose a wart as something it was not so that they could perform an unnecessary surgery costing us profound heartache and financial loss? The staff was insensitive about the diagnosis and were not looking out for the best interest of my pet or family. They have never called to check on the dog or what we decided to do with him but they do call about trying to collect money... I find them very unethical.

I've tried contacting them multiple times and have never received a call back to discuss my claim. Everyone should be warned about them.