I recently had to change vets because the one I had been going to was invited to the vet school in Georgia to do a specialist residency? Or something like that. Anyway, he was probably one of the smartest people I ever knew. I HATE changing vets.
Anyway, I ended up going to my neighbor 2 doors down the block. She has an office not too far away, on the edge of a lower income part of town, so she sees a lot of folks who can only give their pets very basic medical care, if that. She also sees folks who really care for their pets well. But this is the first vet clinic I have been to where you hear people actively complain to the vet or receptionist how much care costs. This is not an expensive clinic.
Anyway, I needed a vet after mine left and went to her. At first she was very hesitant and would ask if it was OK to do bloodwork and I would say Yes! Do bloodwork! Do whatever you need to do! I really had to push her to do stuff at first. I finally explained to her that I expect my animal's medical care to be AT LEAST as good as mine. If she felt that anything at all would be of help she needed to speak up. Anyway, she finally got the message and we have a really good working relationship, now. She figured out that mostly I know what I'm talking about, I read up on stuff, I research, and if I don't know I'll ask. She figured out if she didn't know she needed to contact and ask someone who did. I think she finds me a refreshing client. I used to be there weekly with my recently deceased dog and she took really, really good care of her.
I'm sorry you find your practice stressful, but I can really empathise. The way some people keep their pets is very discouraging and sad.
And, like you said, on a happier note I have 11 of Mrs. Chickendad's BLRW viening! Hurray!
Beaming good hatching thoughts your way, dak!
Do you show chickens or you really like cochins?
