Success stories...
Thank You for everything!!!"
Note: For the sake of honesty, there are also some sad stories at the bottom of the page.
Allentown, PA (mobile surgery): Parker, a 7 year old male Dalmatian had surgery to relieve a urinary obstruction. He couldn’t urinate because bladder stones blocked his urethra. So he had both bladder (cystotomy) and urethra (urethrostomy) surgery. His owner SB writes: “Parker is doing great! Back to normal, peeing well, playing with our grandkids. I hope you will keep your newsletter its so informative for all of us pet owners. We are so lucky, thank you sooo much.” “Dr Zeltzman, It has been a year since Uber had back surgery. We just wanted to write and say thank you for your great work. He is doing wonderful and is back to his old self.” “Dr. Zeltzman, I would like to inform you that since you performed laryngeal paralysis surgery (“Tie back”), Bailee has been doing great. It has been almost 3 months and we have seen a much improved pet. Bailee was a very sick dog at the time we took him to the emergency hospital and we really were nervous that he may not make it. We are thankful that we chose you for the surgery. Once again thank you for your service to Bailee and all the pets that you come in contact with.” I usually don’t post comments from my referring vets… but this is a happy exception. Jia, a 12 year old Shih Tzu, was paralyzed in the back legs. An MRI confirmed the suspicion of a slipped disc (L1-L2). We performed surgery at her family vet's hospital, and she started walking a few days later. Her family vet, Dr. J, writes: “Hi Dr. Zeltzman, Jia went home yesterday with her grateful owners. They cried tears of joy when they saw Jia walking. You have made a believer out of me! Thanks for sharing your talents with us!” Kane is an 11 years old Akita/Shepherd mix who had surgery to treat anal sac carcinoma (cancer) almost 2 years ago. However this is typically an aggressive disease. His owner LW writes: “Hi Dr Zeltman, Just wanted to let you know that Kane will be walking in the “Bark For Life” Cancer Society event this Saturday 06/12/2010. It is taking place in Schnecksville, PA. I will let you know how he does. Thank you again for giving Kane a second chance at life. You are an amazing surgeon. Kane is living proof of that! He is living each day to the fullest and loving every minute of it.” Snoopy, an 8 month old Beagle, had bad knees. Both needed surgery (one after the other). His owner, EH, writes: “ George, an 8 year old Corgi, had won numerous awards during his life as the top show dog of the universe. Unfortunately, he became paralyzed while in Poland. Long story short, he eventually was flown back to PA and had an MRI at Animal Scan in Easton. It showed a slipped disc in his back (between T12 and T13). We did surgery on George, and he eventually recovered very nicely. His owner KS writes: "I just wanted to share this photo with you. Your former patient, George, attended the 2010 Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America National Specialty, just 20 months post-surgery. He was found worthy of an Award of Merit, over some of the top winning Cardigans Welsh Corgi's in the country. Thank you for everything you have done to make this possible!" Zoe, an 11 month Old English Sheepdog, had a very bizarre mass on her right back leg. Her whole leg was bright red! However, her biopsy revealed a “classic” osteosarcoma, or bone cancer. Her leg was amputated, and then she received chemo. Eight months later, Zoe was still doing well, but a mass on her belly started to impair movement of her left back leg. So it was removed. The biopsy revealed… a benign fatty tumor.
Uber, a 3 year old Doxie, has a slipped disc (between T12 and T13). He had surgery to remove it. His owner KK writes:
Bailee, an 11 year old Lab was having difficulty breathing because of laryngeal paralysis. His owner, DR sent this very nice update:
Against all odds, 18 months after the amputation, Zoe’s owner, RR, writes this very nice message – proof yet again than dogs can do very well on 3 legs:
“Hi Dr. Zeltzman,
It has been 18 months since you diagnosed Zoe with osteosarcoma and amputated her right hind leg. Zoe is still going strong. We are planning on celebrating her 13th birthday on June 1st. Who would have thought she'd still be here after all she's gone through!
The mass on her belly has not come back. She is doing great. Every day with Zoe is a bonus.
Even though we met under some pretty stressful circumstances, and you had to give us a devastating diagnosis, we really appreciated you getting Zoe thru some pretty tough times. I wouldn't do it any differently, if I had to do it again!
I'm hoping that when it is her time to go, I'll be able to handle it a little better, just knowing that I did everything I could to keep her comfortable and happy. She's one amazing dog.
Can't thank you enough....”
Fuzzy Butt was a young cat who was attacked by a large dog. The top of her tibia (shin bone) was shattered. It was fixed with a stainless steel “T-plate”, a pin and a wire near
“Dear Dr. Zeltzman,
It has been many years since you saved our kitty Fuzzy Butt’s leg, but we have never forgotten you. I think the year was 2001 in Illinois. You were at Surgical Referral Service in Buffalo Grove, IL. Our cat got bitten by a very large dog and her leg was badly broken. It took 3 surgeries and 11 months but you saved her leg. You told me “she came in with 4 legs, she is going out with 4 legs”. You never gave up on her.
I just wanted to tell you that she is doing great. We have moved out to Phoenix Arizona 4 years ago. (…) While waiting at her new vet, I was reading a magazine about pets, “Tails” and there is a column called Furry Forum and someone asked a question and you answered it. When I saw the name Dr. Phil Zeltzman, I thought it has to be my Dr. Zeltzman so I looked up your web site and sure enough it was you. I hope all is going well for you and I just wanted to thank you again for all you did for Fuzzy Butt and to let you know we think of you often. I don’t even know if you will remember us after all these years as I am sure hers was not the only leg you have saved in your life!
Needless to say she is not fond of Doctors, although if she could talk I am sure she would say you are her hero! I know you are mine, I can't thank you enough for what you did for her.
Thank you again.”
Buddy, an 8 1/2 year old Golden, had a nasty tumor (Acanthomatous epulis) on the back of her lower jaw. Part of that jaw was removed (mandibulectomy). Six months later, her owner LR writes:
“You saved our “big Baby”: Buddy’s 9th birthday is next week and she is healthy and happy!”
Jake, a 5 year old Great Dane, has a torn ACL in the knee, which was stabilized with a TPLO. His owners JK & RK write:
“Dear Dr. Zeltzman:
We were very disappointed to find that you were no longer at Valley Central when it was time for us to schedule the 8-week appointment for final X-rays and examination on our Great Dane after his TPLO surgery. You may recall that we had decided to come to you after doing a lot of research on your qualifications; and you had convinced us (particularly me) that the procedure you used was superior to the others about which I had read.
I am very happy to report that Jake is now doing as well as he was before the injury, and we are very grateful for your surgical skill and your persuasive personality (((note: JK assured me that this is a compliment!))).
I realize that there is still a risk to Jake's other leg and hope that, heaven forbid, should that leg sustain injury, you will once again be available.
Thank you so very much for giving us back our best buddy!”
Chubby is a very unlucky 13 year old kitty who had a strange tumor of the top of her skull. It turned out to be a fibrosarcoma (based on a biopsy). Her owner KF writes:
“Dr. Zeltzman,
I really enjoy your newsletters and will continue to subscribe in the future.
Just wanted to give you an update on Chubby. I first found a lump on her head on Christmas Eve. My family vet referred me to you. You did a biopsy and found an aggressive form of cancer. We decided it was best not to do surgery. She is 13+ years of age.
Can you be my primary care doctor? Just kidding. The options and explanations you provided for Chubby’s care were excellent and helped us make our decision.
I just wanted to thank you and hope you will stay in the Lehigh Valley. I have told all my family and friends about your excellent care.
Unfortunately, as you predicted, Chubby isn’t doing very well. She has now become disoriented. We have moved her into a room where she has all her needs met. Food, water, litter and a comfortable bed on the floor. She never liked to be held much but she is constantly around my feet and loves to be cuddled now.
I did print off your quality of life screen as you recommended. She will be going to kitty heaven very soon. Thank you so much for everything.
We will be giving a new kitten a wonderful life once we adopt her from a local shelter. Hope her older sister, Peaches, enjoys her as well.
Thank you.”
Gettysburg, a 13 year Husky, is truly a fighter, as his owner JR explains.
“Dr. Zeltzman,
You operated on our Siberian Husky Gettysburg twice, once when he was 11 years old for a TPLO and again last July when he was 12.5 years old for bloat (GDV) I wanted to let you know he is doing well for a now 13 year old dog and we are very grateful for your compassionate care and guidance throughout the surgical and recovery process.
I am not sure any of us believed he would survive the GDV but he proved us all wrong. I was saddened to hear you are no longer at Valley Central Referral. I don't know what we will do in the future without your skills. I hope you will remain in the area and let us know where we could seek treatment with you for the serious health issues at which you excel. Our family is grateful for the two years you extended our dogs life so far and we look forward to many good days yet to come. You have our sincere gratitude.”
Snoopy was an 8 month Beagle with 2 bad knees. He had surgery twice to stabilize dislocated kneecaps (lateral patellar luxations).
His owner EH writes:
“You performed double Lateral Luxating Patella Surgery on our beagle puppy Snoopy last year.
We were going to wait until after his recovery to stop by and personally thank you for giving our baby back his God givin right to walk pain free. He is doing very well. He seems happier and LOVES going for walks again! I swear he even smiles now!
The confinement was VERY hard to stomach. Especially when he kept crying and even after he tore through our wall to wall carpeting... But, it is worth every minute of it when we see him enjoying his walks and play time again!
We are lucky to have had this experience. We were going to take his brother home that day at the beagle rescue. But decided to take Snoopy instead for some reason. We feel that had anyone else adopted Snoopy, they might not have given him the care he needed. We are so blessed to have added him to our family. We do not have any children - Snoopy fills that little void in our lives.
So, Dr. Zeltzman, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you.”
Whitehall, PA:
Buttercup, a 10 year old Golden, had laryngeal paralysis, a condition of the throat that causes serious difficulty breathing. Three months after surgery, her owner JN writes:
"Dear Dr. Zeltzman: I wanted to thank you again for performing the larynx surgery on Buttercup. My husband and I are so deeply grateful and thankful for your expertise, insight and surgical skills and being able to correct Buttercup's condition.
Buttercup is a NEW dog! She can breathe, and normally. She is 10 and a half years old but has renewed energy and stamina. Having lost some weight, she is back in her dog-walking mood.
We continue to watch her closely, and always will, but now we can look forward to taking her camping and on vacations.
Most sincerely and thankfully yours."
Recchi, an 8 year old Sheltie, had a large mass on his left cheek that encompassed both jaws. Despite the odds of cancer and the difficulty of the surgery, the mass and part of the jaw were removed... and it turned out to be benign (osteochondroma)!
His owner PS writes: "Dear Dr. Zeltzman and Team: We want you to know how appreciative we are of all that you do and have done for us and Recchi. It was a relief to work with a doctor who was straightforward with us, and helped us to understand what may happen.
Recchi is healing well and has even started to play ball. It is awesome to have him doing so well. I would also like to say that, as nervous as I was, everytime I spoke with a team member I felt that I was being listened to and cared for as much as Recchi.
Thank you for the check up calls and the post surgery calls, they meant a lot. So again, thank you Dr.
Cindy, a 5 year old Shih Tzu, had multiple fractures in her pelvis and “bilateral sacro-iliac luxations (dislocations)” after being hit by a car. After surgery, her owners B. & R. S. write:
“Where do we begin to thank you for your compassion, care, love and support? You have an outstanding facility, I would recommend you highly. Thank you so very much for taking excellent care of our baby Cindy. You gave us a great gift!”
Ebony is an 11 year old kitty with a rare kidney condition called “peri-renal pseudo-cysts.” He also had a mass in the liver which amazingly turned out to be benign! Almost 2 months after surgery, his owner JS writes:
“Dr. Zeltzman: A few weeks ago you did surgery on my cat, Ebony. You removed the sacs around his kidneys that were filled with fluid and also a liver mass. I was just writing to let you know how he is doing. My almost 12 year old diabetic cat is running around my house like a young cat. He is doing wonderful and I thank you and your staff so very much.”
Zoe is an 11 year old Old English Sheepdog who had an amputation of her right back leg because of bone cancer (osteosarcoma) in her tibia (shin bone). She also received chemotherapy. Exactly 1 year later, her owner RR sent this very nice anniversary note:
"We just wanted to say Hi and let you know that Zoe is doing GREAT. It now has been one year since Zoe's surgery! Not a day goes by that we don't think of all of you and how grateful we are that you were able to give us another year with Zoe. She's simply amazing, and so are you."
Kane is a 10 years old Akita/Shepherd mix who had surgery to treat anal sac carcinoma (cancer) 1 year ago. His owner LW writes:
Hi Dr Zeltman,
(…) Kane (participated) in the American Cancer Society Bark for Life relay on Saturday Sept 19, 2009 (at Ontelaunee Park in New Tripoli, PA).
It was just about a year to the day that you performed his surgery for anal sac cancer. (…)
Kane and another dog that goes to Valley Central, Conrad, led the cancer survivor dogs in the first lap at the relay. They walked while the theme from Rocky played and they both looked so proud to be walking together.
I was so proud of Kane. He is a one year cancer survivor. They gave him a 2009 survivor pin and bandana to wear.
It truly brought me to tears walking him in that relay. I am so lucky to have him. I wanted to thank you and let you know how grateful I am to you and everyone at Valley Central for giving Kane a second chance at life. He is loving life and enjoying everyday. The cancer society organizers told me he might even be in their 2010 calendar.(…)
Thank you so much for believing in Kane and giving him a second chance. I hope he will be walking in next year's Bark for Life relay.
Thank you again”
Skipper is an 11 month old Sheltie whose thigh bone fracture was repaired with 2 pins. He healed nicely after 2 months. His owner RT writes:
”To Dr Zeltzman and all the staff at Valley Central,
Thank you for your kindness towards Skipper and our family. You are very special people. It is refreshing to meet such a caring group of people. No one was ever bothered by my phone calls and you were all so patient with me. Thank you. I could tell you treated Skipper with love.
Skipper is doing well. He uses his leg all of the time and bears full weight on his foot. He does well with his walks. We allow him to play for short periods of time. He still limps at times but usually this lasts only for a few minutes. (…) We are very careful about jumping and rearranged furniture and close doors to prevent any more fractures as Skipper is still a playful puppy.
Thank you again.”
Harley is a 6 year old who thought it would be a good idea to run away from the yard… She was hit by a car and shattered her left femur (thigh bone). After 2 extensive surgeries, physical therapy and acupuncture, her owner RS writes:
“Dear Dr Zeltzman,
(...) Harley has improved tremendously. While there are days when she still prefers to use only the three legs, she now can use all four to walk and run. I have seen her use all four going down the steps, just one time, but still. Her range of motion has improved unbelievably. Sometimes I think it is not a question of can she use the leg more, but if she wants to use the leg more. After her acupuncture, the leg muscles are much looser and she is so relaxed. She is now only getting this treatment once a month. She occasionally still swings the leg to walk, but that is becoming less often the case. I am happy with her progress and thank you, Beth, and Dr. D. for her amazing recovery.”
Jake is a 6 year old
“The two action shots are of Jake playing and running in the yard with his "little brother" Ace. He is doing wonderfully.”
Newman is an 18 month old Bulldog who had chewed a rubber toy and swallowed part of it. We removed it, along with a piece of his small intestine. And we also did a nose job (stenotic nares), shortened his soft palate and trimmed his everted laryngeal saccules. This improved his breathing (brachycephalic syndrome). His owners, GH and DH, write:
“ Dr. Zeltzman and staff, Words cannot express how grateful we are that you saved our baby Newman! You had so much patience and love, we truly appreciate it!
Love, the H Family.
Molly is a 2 month old kitty who was rescued and adopted by a Good Samaritan. She had broken her femur (thigh bone) two weeks prior. The fracture had to be “rebroken” and pinned. Her owner MG writes for her two other cats:
“Dear Dr. Zeltzman, Thank you for taking such good care of our new little sister Molly. You are the BEST! Paris and Gavin”
Parker is a 7 year old Dalmatian, who had bladder and urethral stones. He had a cystotomy (bladder surgery) and urethrostomy (a permanent opening in the urethra). His 8 year old owner writes:
“Dear Vet, Thank you soooooo much for helping my puppy get better. I had wanted 2 be a vet, since I was 3. It has been very ruff times since Parker had surgery. I could not play with him. When you came along I was soooooo happy. You have taken such good care of my puppy! I am very pleased. I am now 8, and one of my dreams came true today!! Visiting a vet/animal hospital!!
Love, Parker’s best friend, and Mom, MB.”
Nikki is a 10 year old Chow who had her left anal sac removed because of cancer (adenocarcinoma). 11 months after surgery, her owner RG writes:
“
Molly is a 3 year old Labrador mix who had a TPLO to address a tear or of her ACL. Her owner CD typed (on a typewriter!):
“Dear Dr. Zeltzman, I wanted to tell you what a great wonderful job you have done on my Molly. Each time I look at her being so happy, I do think of you with so much thanks in my heart.
(…) It is wonderful to have my Molly back, to feel her cold nose on my face. You know Molly is my life. Many thanks from Molly and myself, and to all the staff members!!!!”
Long story short, after biopsies, several surgeries and a tracheostomy,
DP writes:
"Dr Zeltzman and staff: I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your help and professionalism.
White Paws is a 4 year old male kitty who was "blocked," ie he couldn't urinate. After a perineal urethrostomy (P/U) procedure, he recovered well. His owner RP writes:
"Hello Dr, Zeltzman, I want to say thank you for saving White Paws life. He is doing extremely well. You and your team have gone out of their way to work with our difficult situation. Most of the time, my contact was Kris. She was exceptional. Please say hello to her and thanks. (...)"
Bernadette is a 4 year old Swiss Moutain Dog mix who had amputation after a tendon sheath tumor was found in her ankle area. Almost 3 months after surgery, her owner GCP writes:
“She has adjusted well to having only 3 legs. She has returned to playing with the soccer ball and doing flights of stairs well, jumping on the furniture. She’s almost back to normal except for giving hugs.
Thank you so much Dr. Zeltzman and staff for the kindness, concern and care she received while going through surgery and recovery. Thanks again.”
Blayze is a 10 year old German Shepherd who had surgery to remove his cancerous left anal sac (called adenocarcinoma). We also placed some cisplatin (chemo) impregnated beads. Four months after surgery, his owner writes:
“Hi Dr. Zeltzman!
(…) I'm very happy with all that you've done in order to try and help my boy. You're helpful, kind, caring, compassionate, and you are an excellent surgeon!! I'd recommend you to anyone in an instant. I'm keeping the faith that Blayze's cancer won't re-appear.
I read your newsletter regularly and I find a lot of helpful information there. As they say, something good can always come out of a bad situation. Thanks again Dr. Zeltzman! AM”
Chloe is a 1 year old female Lab who was rescued by the Hillside SPCA in
Her incontinence resolved after surgery and she has quickly found a family to live with. B, from the SPCA, wrote this very emotional letter:
"Dear Wonderful Employees of Valley Central Referral,
There are no words to ever thank you enough for your wonderful, tremendous gift in helping us get Chloe better so she could have another chance at life. You have accomplished this. She was adopted to a wonderful home! We were so thrilled. Without your help, no one would have wanted her (with her incontinence).
I started a fund when my son Joe died. He loved animals so much! It is only used for spays, neuters and emergency cases. Without "Joe's fund", I couldn't have helped her and so many other animals that needed special care due to abuse & neglect. We will never forget the kindness you have shown us and our buddies. You are wonderful people and making such a difference in so many lives.
With great gratitude and love, B"
Through her owner BT, Maisey writes: "Dr. Zeltzman, Thank you so much for saving my life and restoring my "kitten-hood" again. Thanks to you and your expert skills and compassion, I feel wonderful again. Sometimes, I even play with my catnip toys at midnight! You are my hero! I hope to visit you soon."
Later she writes again, along with a beautiful framed painting: "Thank you again for saving my life! Thanks to you and your compassion and skills, I have never felt better in my life."
Bailey is a 10 year old Sheltie. The biopsy of swelling under his right eye revealed nasal cancer (carcinoma). An MRI showed what it was starting to go into the brain, so further surgery was not offered. His owner writes:
“Dear Dr. Zeltzman,
Thank you for addressing the issue of cancer in your last newsletter. Bailey is doing OK - he's such a good boy - but I have noticed that his nose is becoming congested again and I am watching him carefully. I have downloaded the Quality of Life scale and will refer to it when it becomes necessary.
Thank you for the excellent care you have given him, and for your prompt and honest update on his condition following both the biopsy and the MRI. I appreciate the frank, yet caring, way you delivered the awful news to me and I also appreciate the information in this newsletter.”
Roisin is a 4 year old Wolfhound who unfortunately had a tear in her vulva during an attempt at making babies. We did surgery to repair the damage. Two months after surgery, her owner MES writes:
"Dear Dr. Zeltzman and staff: My family and I thank you very much! You are the best! Roisin is much better. Upon ultrasound, she is not in whelp."
Bob is a 1 year old kitty who needed emergency belly surgery after eating something he shouldn’t have (guess what?)… Three weeks after surgery, his owner writes:
“
Aries is a 3 year old Pom Pom mix who was rescued by JP, one of our ER nurses. After his neuter, she sent this very funny card: “Thank you so much for taking the time to neuter Aries. You are greatly appreciated. And if I could, it would probably involve some sort of bowing or foot kissing. But I don’t do that.”
Well, JP, your card it more than enough for me!
Precious is a 1 year old kitty with a mass along the tongue. It was removed and turned out to be benign (ulcerative glossitis). Her owner PT writes: “We can not express how grateful we are for all of you taking care of Precious. She is doing wonderful, and getting better day by day. Thank you again for everything everyone has done for her.”
(...) I want to let you know that from the minute I called to make the appointment for Precious your staff treated us with the utmost respect. Everytime I called to even check on her, I received up to date info on her and spoke to the person who was with her. I know most people would think we were nuts for putting so much into her, being she came from the garden in July. But thank you again for putting our minds at ease, and for everything you and your staff did for her. If it was not for great people like yourself and your staff, she would not be a part of our family today. She is doing wonderful and getting to be a little kitten like she should be. Her days are spent watching birds and the fish in the koi pond. Words just can not express how grateful we are."
Then later she writes again!
"Dr. Zeltzman & Staff,
I really felt at that time that she was in the best hands she could have possibly been in.
She has been through a lot and there's a reason for everything. I am so glad that she came through this ordeal okay and hopefully from here on out she will be fine.
And another update!
"Dr. Zeltzman, Just thought I would give an update on Precious. It has been a year that we found her. (...) She is now 10.5 lbs. and being a little terror. Thanks again for being part of helping her make her 1st birthday. And hopefully we will have many many more for come. Thanks again to you and your staff for everything".
Jake, a 6 year old black Lab, had a TPLO to address a torn ACL in his left knee. Nine months later, WM, his owner, writes:
“Jake is doing fantastically well, nearly 100% recovery. Just wanted to say thank you again.”
Rusty is a 4 year old poodle who was completely paralyzed in the back legs because of a slipped disc. One year later, his owner KB writes: “Hi Dr. Zeltzman, Tomorrow is a year since Rusty's surgery and he if FANTASTIC! (…) He can out walk his mom on any day! The good news is Rusty is doing so well and those 2 very long months of postop recovery were worth every second to have our little angel back and walking! Thank You again for everything! Rusty's very happy mom!” Paulie is a cute 3 month old Pomeranian mix, who presented (and was born) with a double congenital hernia. The first one was a very large umbilical hernia. The other one is a strange condition called a peritoneo-pericardial diaphragmatic hernia (PPDH), which contained part of his liver.
After surgery, his owner SP writes: "Thank you so much for saving our Paulie's life. We are so grateful there is a wonderful doctor like Dr. Zeltzman to help us. Keep up the good work!"
Alfredo is a 6 year old American Bulldog mix who needed a TPLO to address a tear of the ACL in his right knee. Six months after surgery, his owner, SM, writes:
"Alfredo is doing great! I'd say he's back to 100% by now. We were hiking in the Wissahickon Gorge (near Philadelphia) - our first time back. His gait looked as before the tear.
(...) I've been enjoying your newsletter by the way! All the best. Thanks again!"
Layla was a 6 month old female Lab, who was treated at the AEC after jumping out of the car window after she opened the (electric) window with her paw! The end result? A really, really bad fracture of her left tibia (shin bone). About 6 months later, her owner, PS, spontaneously writes:
“Dr. Zeltzman,
I just wanted to let you know that Layla is doing very well! The events of the day on which Layla decided to jump/fall out of the car window at the very young puppy age of 6 months while I was driving, play over and over in my head. I have never been so scared in my life. I couldn't have imagined losing her!!!
Layla just turned 1. She has fully recovered and moves around as if her leg didn't have 12 screws, 3 wires and a big steel plate holding it together!
(…) I can't tell you enough how thankful I am that you were able to take care of Layla. People like you and your staff make this world a better place. Thank you!!"
Sasha, a 13 year old female kitty, has cancer (carcinoma) in both salivary glands. Despite surgery and the use of cisplatin-beads, the cancer has come back. Despite this, Sasha’s owner, ND, writes:
“Dr Zeltzman,
I just thought I would send you an update on Sasha's progress. Although she is not perfect, you have enabled me to enjoy her company for many more months than I thought possible. Her cancer troubles started over a year ago, and without your expert intervention, I doubt that she would have survived for more than a few months. (…)
Anyway, I know she is happier here in the sunshine in the Florida Keys, than being stuck inside our home in PA.
Once again, thank you for giving me more time with Sasha.”
George is a 6 year old Corgi who won numerous awards during his life as the top show dog of the universe.
Unfortunately, he became paralyzed while in Poland. Long story short, he eventually was flown back to PA and had an MRI at Animal Scan in Easton. It showed a slipped disc in his back (between T12 and T13). We did surgery on George, and he eventually recovered very nicely.
His owner, KS, dedicated a whole web page to George’s adventure, where she kindly writes:
“There are an amazing amount of people we need to thank.
First and foremost, we want to thank Dr. Phil Zeltzman, Valley Central Referral Center, for dropping everything on a busy Wednesday to perform the surgery on George. Dr. Zeltzman could not have been more supportive, and we hope he realizes how much we appreciate it!”
Read the whole story for yourself at:
http://xtaceecwc.com/catalog_3.html
April is a sweet 8 year old Dobbie who had an intestinal blockage due to foreign bodies: a peanut butter cracker wrapper, foil and straw! In addition, this is very likely what caused her to bloat the night before. Her owners DH and TH write:
“Hello Dr. Zeltzman, (…) April is doing great! (…) She is happy and full of energy. If it wasn't for the large plastic collar she is wearing, and being a menace in the house with, you wouldn't know anything happened to her a week ago. Thank you for everything you did for April.”
Nikita is an 11 year old Husky who had a mysterious condition called a spontaneous pneumothorax (free air in the chest). She was treated with chest tubes. It recurred. So she had surgery (lung lobe removal and chemical + mechanical pleurodesis). Four months after surgery, AG, her owner, writes:
"Hi Dr. Zeltzman, Not a day goes by that we don't think about you and your staff. We're grateful for the care you gave Nikita in her 2 visits to your hospital.
One of the techs shared her lunch (chicken) with Nikita (...). We also remember the techs who hand fed her cat food!
Nikita is doing well. Sometimes, we worry about her breathing, but at night her breaths are normal. She is VERY rowdy so we know she is feeling good.
Thank you so much for all you and your staff have done to carefor Nikita, and for the time we get to spend with her going forward."
Jack is a 2 year old Lab who was run over... by a garbage truck. Both front legs were severely injured: left radius and ulna fractures with a skin laceration, and a HUGE degloving injury in the right front leg, in addition to a dislocated right wrist. I was very concerned that he would lose the right front leg... but he recovered very well.
Three months postop, his owner writes:
"Dear Dr. Zeltzman and friends: I cannot thank you enough for what you have done for me. I am coming along very well. (...) I really want to go out on my own and play with my friends, but my parents won't allow me just yet. (...) My humans play with me and walk me all the time but it's just not the same.
Once again thank you from the bottom of my little doggy heart. You are all wonderful and caring."
Ellie is a 10 year old Greyhound who had a slipped disc in her neck (between C6 and C7). Surgery quickly relieved her pain. Her owner MS writes:
"Words cannot describe our gratitude for what you have done for us. Every day we have Ellie we owe to you and your staff."
5 months after surgery, MS writes: “(…) Her life is basically normal and she can do pretty much anything she used to. About the only thing we have cut out is her riding in my truck. The height is too much for her to jump in and particularly out of. She can physically do it, but I think she pays a price afterwards. I tried a ramp, but she didn’t think too much of that idea... It’s OK, in the big scheme of things, it’s a non-issue. We’re just happy to have her.” Preston is a 2 year old rescued Greyhound who broke his left front leg (radius bone). It was repaired with a plate and screws. Then he decided to chew his leg... So we did multiple bandage changes...
His guardian angel, CG, sent a card with a quote from Helen Keller: "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart".
And a note: "Thank you for all you do for Preston!"
http://www.getwellpreston.blogspot.com/
"Thanks to you, I can do "Special deliveries" again. Thank you for making me whole!"
We treated two dogs in the same family, Keiser and Khazak. SG recalls:
“Dear Dr. Zeltzman,
A Merry Christmas to you from Keiser and Khazak!
You operated on Keiser for rib chondrosarcoma this past spring. He's a 5 year-old Blue Heeler - well, he was a 5 year-old dog. Thanks to your surgical expertise, we celebrated his 6th birthday in November.
Also hello from Khazak. He's a shepherd mix who came for a consultation in July. He has bladder transitional cell carcinoma. You were very compassionate and helpful, explaining much about the disease and what you could do to help. We opted for the UGELAB technique (Ultrasound Guided Endoscopic Laser Ablation). Khazak is now doing well, too. We celebrated his 8th birthday in October. I am lucky to have my pups here for the holidays, and I thank you for helping to make that possible!”
Abby, a 9 year old Lab, had a very unusual weakness in her Achilles tendon. We eventually discovered that it was due to a lazy thyroid. JS simply writes:
"Thank you for such wonderful care of our Abby."
Jazmine is an 11 year old Keeshond who had both a benign liver tumor (adenoma) and a cancerous intestinal tumor (adenocarcinoma) removed.
KS kindly writes for Jazmine: “Just a note to let you know I am doing very well at this time, back to my old spinning, happy self. My appetite is good and my fur is once again growing back. Thank you again for all your help.”
Scully, a 9 year old female Lab mix, had a mass removed on her right lower lip. Luckily, the biopsy came back benign. KB writes: “Dr Zeltzman, Thank you so much for your generosity and your quality care. We are very appreciative.”
Benny Gillen was a very cute 4 month old Sheltie with a fracture of the radius (the main bone in the forearm) which healed very quickly with a splint (no surgery). He wrote a note:
"You healed me so good in the remarkable time of 2 weeks. My mommy and Daddy followed the rehab instructions to a T. Please thank your technician staff for being so lovely and caring. (...) I love that I can finally catch a ball. Thank you so much for healing me."
Shadow is a 7 year old female GSD with perianal fistulas, a frustrating condition of the anus.
We took care of Shadow several times after the beginning of her treatment. JW ended up sending some very nice flowers along with this note:
"Thank you so much for everything you have done for Shadow. We really appreciate your help to keep our little girl longer than I have ever thought when this all started. Shadow thanks you all!"
A very unusual story unfolded recently. Chloe, a 3 year old Jack Russell Terrier, was attacked by another dog. In these cases, we typically see the victim and the owner. But this time, the owner of the “attacker” actually brought Chloe to our clinic! She felt so sorry, that she offered to pay for Chloe’s care. Of course it was the right thing to do, but hardly anybody has the courtesy and honesty to do that!
Chloe had a tracheostomy (a tube placed in the wind pipe or trachea) to allow healing of her damaged trachea. She eventually healed very well.
A few weeks later, a nice card arrived, written by HP, the “attacker’s” owner!!!
“Dear Dr Zeltzman, (…) Everything has been wonderful. Chloe continued to heal beautifully. (…) Thank you for your extra-ordinary care of this little dog. We appreciate your fine work.”
So I have to say, hats off to you HP! I sincerely appreciated your consideration & fairness with Chloe and her owner. And your nice card is just the icing on the cake!
Gator is a 7 year old male Lab who had bone cancer (osteosarcoma) in his right humerus, the bone if the arm. That right front leg was amputated. His owner, DB, writes a few weeks after surgery:
"Hi Dr. Zeltzman,
I just thought I'd give you an update. Gator is doing GREAT!! Other than getting tired quicker, he's the same boy we had before surgery. But now he's out of pain.
Thank you for everything. It really is great having our happy crazy boy back.”
Emmie was a 2 year old Yorkie when she came to our clinic with an old, poorly healed left front leg fracture (radius & ulna) which required a plate, some screws and a bone graft. Two years later, her owner, MP, writes:
“Hi Dr. Zeltzman,
Emmie is doing great! Thank goodness she found you (…). You would never think she had a broken leg and I only can imagine how tedious that surgery must have been. She is good as new! You might recall that she was a wimp and would only walk on 3 legs for quite some time. Now, she is great with all 4!
Thanks again and I do look forward to receiving your newsletter!”
Belle is a 5 year old Lab mix who had dislocated knee caps (medial patella luxations). After surgery on both knees, her owner LF writes:
“Hi Dr. Zeltzman,
I just wanted to update you on Belle's progress after her surgery. You operated on her both knees for medial patella luxation. Since the 2nd knee was done, she continues to progress well, regaining incredible mobility. She is like a new dog, and she seems a lot happier so I know she must be feeling much better. She has been swimming almost every day. When she plays too hard she may limp a few hours after but she bounces back fully by the following day.
I'm happy that she is so happy. We thank you so much for your expertise, good care & dedication to your patients.”
Dakota, a 10 year old kitty, was severely constipated because of a condition called megacolon. Her owner, a wonderful referring veterinarian, ES, writes after surgery:
“Thank you all for taking such good care of my girl Dakota. My husband and I really appreciate all that you’ve done. She is happy to be free of her confinement and her E-collar! Dakota is doing very well.”
Herbie is a 16 year old male kitty who was "blocked." He couldn't pee because of some stones in his urethra, as well as in his bladder. So he had double surgery: a "P/U" (Perineal Urethrostomy) and bladder surgery. UPDATE: 8 months later, Herbie is still doing great, and KS sent another sweet note saying: “Thank you for giving me more time with him!" Honey was a 12 year old (blind) Labrador who was affected by laryngeal paralysis. Almost 1 year later, her owner JS writes:
Not all pet owners would be willing to do surgery on a 16 year old pet. Herbie's owner did. KS writes:
"Dr. Zeltzman, I just wanted to say Thank You.
Herbie (...) is doing wonderful. Thanks to you, my boy is now happy & healthy (knock on wood).
I must admit that when he first came home, I was devastated & wondered if I had made the right decision. He's 16 years old and the last thing I wanted to do was make him suffer because I'm too selfish to let him go. I really thought we wouldn't get through it. We were BOTH so sad...he was so mopey being stuck in the playpen with that cone on his head for such a long period of time and I was so sad watching him....I was more of a wreck than he was!
But, I'm happy to report that he is back to being the "man" of the house and seems quite happy and content. He's playful & running around like a maniac.
He's the love of my life and you saved him....I can't thank you enough! May you get a wonderful blessing for every animal you save, because you don't even KNOW how much your work affects those of us that love our pets so much!
Thank you Thank you Thank you!!!!"
“Dr. Zeltzman: Just a quick note to let you know about Honey, who had laryngeal paralysis surgery. You fixed her up almost a year ago now, and she is DOING GREAT, happy, lively, breathing very well, and with no problems eating either. She now survives her sister and Mum, who just recently passed away . THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOOO MUCH for a GREAT JOB on helping her reach her 13th birthday.”
Rusty is a 3 year old poodle who was completely paralyzed in the back legs because of a slipped disc. Two weeks later, at suture removal, Rusty is walking! His owners, KB & BB write:
"Dear Dr. Zeltzman, Thank You so much for taking such good care of our baby, Rusty. I know it has only been 2 weeks since his surgery and he just got his staples out today, but he is doing so well and we are so thrilled. (...) I am so glad we brought him to you right away and that you were able to take care of him immediately. We know that timing is everything with these kinds of injuries. We will always be extremely grateful to you.
Thanks again, Mom and Dad."
After the final recheck at two months postop, KB writes again:
"Hi Dr. Zeltzman, Rusty is getting around like nothing ever was wrong with him. (...) I cried because I am so happy he is so good. My baby went from being completely paralyzed in the back legs to almost completely back to normal. I can never thank you enough for that.
Thank you again for everything. Rusty's very relieved Mom"
Copper, a 7 year old Doxie, had a slipped disc in his neck (C2-C3). He had a difficult recovery, but eventually recovered 100%. His owner, SS, wrote a very long and very touching letter, -summarized below:
“This is one of the greatest stories of my life. (…) Copper has been there for me through some really tough times in my life. (…) So when Copper (had a sore neck), I was there for him. I researched some surgeons. This is when I decided on Valley Central in Whitehall, PA. Dr. Zeltzman was the hands I wanted to leave Copper in.
(…) During our consultation, Dr. Zeltzman explained everything to me, -good and bad outcomes-, but he made me feel I was going to do the right thing.
(…) The next day, Copper had surgery to remove a disc in his neck. (…) The nurses were great and very informative every time I called or visited Copper during his stay at the hospital. I can’t thank all the nurses enough. I feel they are the greatest bunch of caregivers in the world. They truly love their jobs and you can tell by seeing them interact with the pets.
(…) Two days after coming back home, Copper was trying to stand for a few minutes at a time. Everyday, I saw a great improvement.
(…) I kept faith in Dr. Zeltzmans work and Copper’s strength to bounce back to health
Guess what - I now have my old boy back and he’s running and playing tag with his little 4 year.old brother Tod, a black and silver dachshund.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for having compassion for our 4 legged family member. I appreciate everything you and the staff at Valley Central have done for Copper. To see Copper today only 2 months after surgery, you would not believe he ever had surgery, except for the patches of missing hair were the pain patches were placed.
I will always have you Dr. Zeltzman and the staff to be thankful for. (…) I would also like to say that I will recommend you, Dr. Zeltzman, and your staff, to everyone I know
You all are the greatest, most caring people I know. Thanks again.” Logan, an athletic 5 year old English Setter, was seen at the AEC for an ACL tear. We performed a TPLO to stabilize his right knee. CD writes: "Dr. Zeltzman, Thank you very much for the great care you have given
ONE YEAR LATER, SS WRITES:
"Just wanted to say thanks to everyone at Valley Central
Vinyard, a 3 month old Rottie, was one cute but very painful puppy when he arrived at the AEC. He fractured both his elbows and his right forearm (radius and ulna). KP writes: "Dr. Zeltzman: We want to thank you all from the very bottom of our hearts. Several weeks ago, we brought in Vinyard and we weren’t sure what would happen to him. The staff did an excellent job nursing him back to health. Dr. Zeltzman and his staff (...) gave us a second chance. Thanks for your kindness and professionalism in taking care of our boy Vinyard (...)."
Missy, a 5 year old female Doxie, was almost paralyzed in the back legs. Seven months later, GL writes:
Dear Dr Zeltzman, On April 26, 2007, we brought our mini-Dachshund Missy to your facility. Missy was in very bad shape and was in terrible pain. She could hardly walk. On April 27, you performed back surgery on our precious pet. When we visited her after surgery, I cried my eyes out as I didn’t know whether or not I had made the right decision. She was paralyzed temporarily from the waist down.
Well, after 8 weeks of rest and rehabilitation, Missy was a new dog! She got het legs back! It is now 7 months since her surgery and she is growing stronger every day. She literally hops, runs and play more than ever. (…) She is almost completely back to normal. She seems to be happy.
(…) Our family wants to thank all of you for your expertise and compassion toward your patients and their families. If it weren’t for all of you, and especially you, Dr. Zeltzman, I doubt we would still have Missy. Thank you for saving her life!"
Eljay, an incredibly cute 3 month old French Bulldog, needed his nostrils enlarged, a common problem in this breed. JC writes: "Dr. Zeltzman, Thank you so much! I'm sure Eljay will be a much happier puppy now that he can breathe!"
Tucker is an 11 year old Rhodesian Ridgeback who was thought to have a large cancerous mass in his spleen. We removed his spleen... and it turned out to be benign! SG writes:
"Dr. Zeltzman, I just wanted to thank you again. You operated on Tucker, about a month ago (...). He is doing wonderful. He has more energy, his coat is glossy and his appetite is ravenous. I am watching his weight very carefully, trying to keep him at a svelte 85#.
I am really enjoying your newsletter. (...) Thank you again for your help and compassion. Your staff at Valley Central was wonderful to Tucker and me when we were coming in."
Abby, an 8 year-old Labrador, had issues with her Achiles tendons. She is one in a million, as it turns out that her problems were due to a lazy thyroid. JS writes: "Dr. Zeltzman, We are very grateful for the tremendous care that you gave our Abby. We are blessed that you were her doctor and saved us a great deal of time not having to drive to Philadelphia. Abby's legs are greatly improving. She is walking more like a canine everyday. Her thyroid meds have totally changed her attitude. She is like a puppy again.
Thank you for not giving up until you found the cause of her leg issues.
PS: Abby will always remember you singing Happy Birthday in French and English!"
Sheena, an 11 year old kitty, had gallbladder disease. We performed a "cholecystoduodenostomy", a fancy word describing the creation of an gallbladder-to-intestine connection.
HR writes: "Dr. Ron, Dr. Zeltzman and the awesome vet techs who are taking care of my baby (Sandy, Rebecca, Brenda, Stacey, Jessica -- if I missed anyone I'm sorry...) THANK YOU ALL SOOO MUCH! You are all beautiful people and do great work. I feel greatly at ease that Sheena is in a well-cared for place with wonderful people."
Beauty, an 11 year old female Husky, had her left adrenal gland removed. The tumor ended up being benign!
AR writes: "Thank you for everything. Your thoughtfulness brightened my day! Thank you for all you have done to get Beauty well again. I greatly appreciate the great care you gave Beauty and would highly recommend your services to all my friends."
Mocha, a 9 year old chocolate Lab, had a walnut-sized mass under her tail. Her owner, JB, was concerned that the mass could be cancerous and that Mocha may need a tail amputation. Instead, we removed the mass and sent it to the lab - luckily, it came back as a benign tumor.
JB writes: "(...) You and your staff were extremely professional, courteous and most of all caring. I was truly impressed with everything, but most of all the excellent job that you did on Mocha's tail. I cannot thank you enough for your caring nature (...)".
Chopper, a 13 1/2 year old Bulldog, was presented with a severe case of laryngeal paralysis. MS, his owner, really thought it was time to say goodbye. However, 4 months after we did surgery, MS wrote a long and very touching letter:
"(.....) In walks Dr. Zeltzman. He introduces himself to all of us and proceeds to explain Chopper's condition and the surgery that can be performed. My first question was "Is Chopper too old for this surgery?" Dr. Zeltzman answered "Age is not a disease". That's all it took for me.
On Friday, April 27th, 2007, Chopper had surgery, and on Saturday April 28th, I picked up my best friend and brought him home.
Yesterday, Chopper and I returned to the cemetery for our first walk since his surgery. Chopper got out of the car and ran like a puppy again. (...) I want to thank all of you for giving me back my best friend. Chopper is 13 1/2 years old. Who knows how long he will be with me, but as Dr. Zeltzman said, "Age is not a disease". Whether Chopper is with me another year or another 5 years, I will cherish every moment we have now, thanks to all of you.
(...) If you are wondering about the cost, or whether your pet is just too old, I am telling you this, you are among miracle workers and people who care. Dr. Zeltzman , you are truly a super hero in my book, thank you again from the bottom of my heart. I am sure Chopper feels the same.
We are going for a walk now".
He is actually swimming. He uses his tail (rudder) a lot more for balance, but he is doing great.
Kiki, a 4 year old female kitty, had fractures of all toes in her back foot. The fractures were repaired with some pins. KM writes: "I would like to thank Dr. Zeltzman and VCVRC for your time and patience with Kiki. I know she did not particularly care for everyone's help, but I sure did, I just couldn't see here not using her leg for the rest of her life. She is back to herself, running up and down the stairs with Oreo and Kallie, her brother and sister. Jumping and laying in windows and jumping on my dresser, getting in trouble. Before she broke her leg she would run into the bathroom jump up on the sink and wait for me to turn the water on - well she is also back to her routine. Thank you everyone for your kindness."
5 months after surgery, KM reports: "Kiki is doing really well. Running around like a nut, only favors her paw when she gets up. Once she is up and walking around, she is fine. She also doesn't like when I don't pay attention to her. If I am reading, she will knock the book out of my hand. I feel in my heart I did the right thing. I am glad you were the surgeon.
I can't thank you enough for all your help. Thank you, thank you, thank you, KM"
Tucker is a 9 year old Lab who had a TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) on his back leg to address an ACL tear.
TA (a great cookie maker by the way) writes: "Just wanted to say a huge thank you (...). It was so comforting to know that Tucker didn't have to hobble around in pain any longer. Your kindness and compassion were very much appreciated."
A few months later, KW writes:
"Hi Dr. Zeltzman, Tucker is doing fabulous on his mobility after the TPLO surgery this summer. It is really miraculous. Thank you again! He is like a new dog. He wants to play again, he enjoys his walks, and he is loving life. Last week I took him for his check-up (and weight control). I was so excited, when Dr. L. looked at his weight and said " I don't think he should lose any more!" Never thought I would hear that!
(...) I have recommended you to anyone that will listen. Thank you again for the wonderful care, the kindness, and the compassion. You can't always find that in this busy world."
Ekko is a very cute 4 month old German Shepherd puppy who came to our hospital with vomiting, diarrhea and anorexia. He was thought of having a foreign body in his intestine. While we did not find one, we found some abnormal intestine and performed a prophylactic gastropexy (to prevent the twisting part of the "bloat" or GDV condition). He left our hospital happy, eating, with no vomiting and diarrhea, looking like nothing ever happened! PL writes:
"Hello Dr. Zeltzman, (...) Thank you for saving our Ekko. You are professional and very well spoken. You not only are an excellent surgeon, you treat people like people. I have been to too many doctors who talk down to you and make you feel as if you are not worthy of their time. (...) I wish you well in all you do and pray you keep your excellent bed side manner along with your incredible surgical skills and knowledge. It was a pleasure meeting you.
No disrespect intended but I hope I don't have to see you again :-)"
Fritz, an 8 year old Maltese, was thought to have a tumor in his adrenal gland. The gland was removed and turned out to be benign. His owner, DF, translated for him: "Thank you a thousand times for taking care of me! I was a very sick boy! You saved my life, and I think my Mom's too. She was so upset and thought she would lose me. You put the sparkle back in my eyes. I am so glad for the doctors and the staff at Valley Central."
Tucker, a 10 year old Shepherd, had a TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) on his back leg to address an ACL tear. KW simply writes: "Thanks for taking such good care of Tucker. We all appreciate it so much."
Bashia is an amazing 12 year old Pekinese, - a true fighter. After cancer in his spleen, he had a different type of lung cancer, which we removed recently. AG simply writes: "Thank you for the wonderful job you did on Bashia!"
Coda, a 7 year old Newfie, had a TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) on her back leg to address an ACL tear. Two months later, NF writes: "(...) Thank you for taking care of Coda with the TPLO surgery. Hopefully, we will be swimming in the not too distant future. It would have been very difficult for me to travel far from the Lehigh Valley to have her treated, so for whatever reason brought you to practice here, I am grateful. You are a professional, caring person, who doesn't pull any punches and I appreciate that! (...)"
Dazzle, a 5 year old Cocker, had a condition where one kidney became full of urine (hydronephrosis). That kidney had to be removed (nephrectomy). EH writes: "We are happy to report that Dazzle is doing well. She bounced back from her surgery and month-long confinement with ease, and now seems to be back to her old self. Thank you so much for saving her life. We can’t really express how much it means to us. Your calm and straightforward manner was a great comfort to us at a very stressful time. We also applaud the professionalism of the entire staff, please give them a big thank you for us. Hopefully Dazzle has a long, happy life ahead of her. She is certainly the most pampered dog we know!"
Maygan, an 8 year old Labrador mix, had a very large tumor in her groin area. Sweet little JR writes: "There are many surgeons around, but do you know what makes you special? It’s the excellence as a surgeon and the huge compassion that make you the best there is." Luckily, the mass turned out to be a benign fatty tumor (lipoma).
Lucy, an 8 month old Golden Retriever, had an old hip dislocation (chronic hip luxation) that required a femoral head ostectomy ("FHO"). SB writes for her: "Thanks for all the TLC and kindness you’ve shown. Thank you for fixing my leg. Now I can run with my big sister and brother."
Jag, a 1 year old Rottie, had cut the tendons of his front paw. VM writes: "I wish to thank you for the kind and professional service you provided for Jag. I really appreciate all your did for her."
Cincinnati, OH:
Timber was an 8 year old Labrador who had laryngeal paralysis. We did surgery to fix her condition. Two years later, her owner RB writes: Zeus, a very cute 4 year old male Doxie, just went to "doggie heaven". I met Zeus when he was just few weeks old, -the cuttest furball that would fit in your hand-, with basically no anus and a malformed penis. After extensive reconstructive surgery and an unusual amount of TLC by his incredibly dedicated owners, Zeus became kind of a star at the clinic, and overall a happy, functional pet. He recently got into complications (pancreatitis, kidney failure...) and was sadly but humanely enthanized. On July 29, 2007, I received the following incredible email. I usually summarize thank you cards and letters, but I feel that this one deserves no cuts!
“Dr. Zeltzman, I have long awaited in finding where you disappeared to, so that I could thank you for the wonderful job you did on Timber in May of 2006. She has done very well.”
SK writes: "We can't thank you enough for everything you did for Zeus and us. While we miss him terribly (...), we continue to count all the wonderful days we had with our loving dog. (...) Your expertise and caring hands gave us our greatest gift, and words can't express our gratitude to you. You are a special and gifted person."
I will always remember Zeus as being a fighter that definitely beat the odds. We all could learn a lot from Zeus!
"Dr. Zeltzman,
I was happy to find your e-mail address through the internet. I have wanted to tell you how wonderful Autumn, our yellow lab, has done from the TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) that you performed April, 2006 and to thank you.
Autumn's right knee was in very bad shape. Dr. KP had told us to be prepared that she might only be with us about 6 months. He later referred us to you and we are very thankful for his referral. We were impressed not only with the high quality of surgery and care, but also that you were in continuous communication with us and Dr. KP throughout the surgery and recuperation. We were so determined that this surgery would be successful that we followed your instructions exactly.
She can run (although we limit that activity), walks up and down stairs with all 4 legs moving in progression, gets up from a sitting or lying position with ease, and appears to move better than she had in years. We think this knee had been an ongoing problem for her for many years. And she has gone from 87 lbs to 70 lbs on a diet of half R/D, half J/D. She remains on a joint medication. On her check ups, Dr. KP is always amazed at how good she is doing and how well the knee moves (and at her weight loss which has contributed to her well being).
Although you were not in Cincinnati at her last checkup, we had wanted to let you know how much we appreciate all you did for Autumn, who means so much to us. We talk about how fortunate we were that you were in Cincinnati when Autumn needed her surgery.
We hope all is going well in your new practice. Although our area is definitely at a loss with your relocation, we hope that your skill and expertise will continue to help small animals for many years to come.
With deepest appreciation,
DR
Middletown, Ohio"
Abbee, a sweet 9 year old female Sheltie, had a shoulder luxation (dislocation). The surgery was a big challenge because her owner, TMC, made it clear that her passion was agility, and Abbee was not willing to give it up because of a silly shoulder injury!
Years later, TMC writes: “I took Abbee to another orthopedic vet due to her arthritis. He commented that her surgery was well done. Abbee is back running in agility again. She gets so excited, I can hardly keep up with her. Just thought you would like to know how well she is doing. She is now 11 years old. She has earned several first place blue ribbons. Thank you again for the good job. We love Abbee so much, and to see her run and be happy means so much to us.”
Derby, a male Doxie, came in paralyzed in the back legs because of a slipped disc. Years later, NM writes: “We appreciate so much what you did for Derby. (...) After a recent fall, we took him to an animal chiropractor. (...) Now, he outlasts our younger and larger dog, Frodo (an energetic wire-haired Doxie) on long walks. (...) He would never have been able to get back to where he is now without your expert and compassionate help.”
Galiana, a 6 month old Brazilian Mastiff, had a bad fracture of the humerus in the arm. Her owners BC and EC write: "Thank you so much for being so patient and taking such good care of Gali. This has been a struggle for us, and you have definitely made it easier. Thank you."
Bonnie and Clyde were two characters. We treated Bonnie, a 14 year old Maltese, for an upper airway condition (everted laryngeal saccules) and Clyde, a 13 year old Maltese, for bladder stones. GA writes: "Thank you so much for the compassion you have shown in caring for Bonnie and Clyde."
Bear, a 7 year old Rottie, had his spleen removed for a benign condition (nodular lymphoid hyperplasia). Seven months later, JD writes: "I want to thank you for the wonderful job you did on Bear’s surgery. He had an uncomplicated recovery (...). I appreciate not only your skills as a surgeon, but also your genuine concern for Bear’s well being."
Trooper, a 3 month old German Shepherd, didn’t start life in a happy way. He came to us with multiple fractures (left tibia, left femur, left ilium, right ilium and left elbow luxation). Ms. A writes: "Thank you so much for everything you have done for Trooper. You played a very big part in saving his life. We can’t thank you enough!"
Gretchen, an 11 year old Doxie, had a slipped disc in her neck. BH writes: "We appreciate the professionalism and care you have shown to Gretchen. Also thanks for being patient with us as we made our decision and deluged you with phone calls."
Sassy W, a 12 year old Golden Retriever, after her liver cancer surgery (hepatocellular carcinoma) writes herself 1 year later: "I just wanted to let you know that I am doing fine! I am eating well and driving my Mom crazy again. She says I owe it all to you. The last recheck ultrasound shows no trace of cancer. I am not sure what that means, but I get to pester my Mom for a lot longer. Thanks again for taking such good care of me."
Shadow, a 2 year old Skipperke, had a leak between sutures in his intestines after surgery had been done "elsewhere". MC writes: "I cannot adequately express my gratitude to you for saving Shadow’s life. He is fully back to normal (...). Thanks to your skilled care, but especially to your compassionate, dedicated concern for both of us, the way you stayed on top of his care after surgery, was the difference for him."
Shiloh (aka Cujo), a 5 year old lab mix, had ACL tears 2 years apart. We performed a TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) on each leg. DC writes: "It takes a very patient person to work with Shiloh. You never got mad at her or myself." And Shiloh simply writes: "Thank you for taking excellent care of my legs."
Lou - I will always remember Lou. She had a huge cancerous mass attached to her thoracic vena cava, -a large, vital blood vessel in her chest. Against all odds, we removed the mass, and Lou lived for a long while. Later, I met Wilson, a 2 year old Beagle with hip dysplasia. JM writes: "Thanks so much with helping our animals and ourselves. You have a true blessing with dogs!"
Max, a 2 year old cat, had a penis surgery to help him pee (P/U, or perineal urethrostomy) done "elsewhere". He came to us with large, urine-soaked wounds on his belly, and no way to urinate. After one surgery to help him pee (prepubic urethrostomy), weeks of wound management, and two major reconstructive surgeries to repair the wounds, he recovered well.
DD writes: "Thank you so much for your generosity of care, support & time (especially your willingness to stay late on a Friday night) in the treatment of my much loved cat, Max. His wounds are continuing to heal (...)."
A year later, DD surprises us with an update: "Max celebrated a year of being a healthy and happy little guy. And that has to be a least 90% due to you, the miracle worker (...). He continues to be the coolest cat I have ever had (...). Again, thank you so very much for all the skill, patience, compassion, kindness and generosity that you extended to both of us. I am so grateful that you were there to work miracles."
Rags, an 11 year old Airedale, had liver cancer (fibrosarcoma). Six months after surgery, his owner SC writes: "Just a note of many thanks for your great surgical skills. Chemo has been successful. His hair is growing back and looking good (...). Thanks for your phone calls to check on Rags - they were much appreciated."
Ripley, a 4 year old Doxie, had a slipped disc in her neck. CH writes: "Thank you so much for helping Ripley get back to her old self. The surgery made a huge difference. She is back to driving us crazy with her ball."
Millie, a 12 year old Gordon Setter, had a cancerous lung tumor removed. GL writes: "Millie is doing great and will travel with us to Colorado. Thanks again for the wonderful care Millie received at your hospital."
Big Bunny was quite a case! This 2 year Flemish Giant rabbit needed his right back leg amputated because of a very severe wound that wouldn’t heal after getting caught in a recliner! JJ writes: "Thank you for the marvelous and heartfelt care you have given to Big Bunny. As a result of your exemplary care, she is happy and has adjusted well to her life after surgery."
Sami, a 1 year old Miniature Pinscher, was "kinda stepped on", and had a fracture in her pelvis (ilial fracture) that was repaired with a plate and some screws. MF writes: "Thanks to you. Sami is very healthy. She can do anything. Sami is the most lovable little dog. Thanks for your expertise!"
Jesse, a 10 year old Golden Retriever, had a liver tumor the size of a pineapple. It turned out to be benign! JW writes: "I know this was a very serious surgery and we were very grateful having you as our doctor. Thank you for taking such good care of our baby. You all are very special people who help our best friends in life. I am grateful for every day we have a healthy Jesse."
Jackson, a 4 year old Border Collie, had a slipped disc in his back. EC writes: "Jackson is doing great, with little or no telltale sign of his disc surgery. His beautiful silk hair is growing back nicely and his energy level has returned to Border Collie normal. Thank you for all the services and wonderful care you provided Jackson, and the support during his long recovery period."
Gus N., a crazy 3 year old Labrador, had a rare injury: he fractured his kneecap (patella). He writes after his recovery: "My Mom
and Dad told me that you are a very caring doctor. I just wanted to say thank you for fixing my shattered patella (...). Thank you for knowing where to put all the wires and pins."
And later, MN writes: "At this Thanksgiving time, we wanted to let you know how grateful our family is to you for giving our Gus his life back. He can run as fast and jump as high as before his injury. A person could never tell he had such a bad accident (...). We want you to know how much we appreciate everything you did to give him a total recovery. He is so happy."
Milton, a 4 year old Rottie, had a TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) for his ACL tear. KC writes: "Milton and I want to express our sincere gratitude for your help repairing his right ACL. He acts as though he never underwent major surgery and the most difficult thing is just keeping him still! This has been a very positive experience for both of us and I have no doubt he will be better than new after he heals. Thank you for all your outstanding care and expertise."
Teddy, a 5 year old Doxie, had a slipped disc in his neck. AB writes: "We want to thank you for taking such good care of Teddy. It was nice to know he was in such good hands."
Peggy S., a 2 year old Australian Shepherd, had a condition where one kidney became full of urine (hydronephrosis). That kidney had to be removed (nephrectomy). She writes: "Thanks so much for taking such good care of me. I am doing very well. I am ready to run and play."
Amos, a 3 year old Beagle, had a slipped disc in his neck. BC writes: "More thanks than I can even count for restoring my best pal to complete health. It seems miraculous that a little dog so filled with pain could be so well again."
Quake, a 5 year old Shar Pei, had a slipped disc in his back. PN writes: "With true appreciation for your warmth and thoughtfulness. Thank you for your caring of our family member, Quake. He is doing well."
Bebe B., a 12 year old Poodle, had both kneecaps that were lose (luxating patellas). She writes: "Thank you for fixing my leg. I am now able to go up and down all the steps. I run and chase the birds out of my backyard (...). I feel back to normal. Again, thank you for taking care of me and making me well. Signed: your Poodle pal."
Bailey, a 6 year old Jack Russell Terrier, had a large open wound on her ankle, which was dislocated. MJY writes: "Thank you so much for the excellent job you did on Bailey. She is doing fine and getting back to her old self. She is getting motion back in her leg and has complete use of it (...)."
Isis, an 8 year old Rottie, had cancer in her spleen and liver (histiocytic sarcoma). SW writes: "Thank you for all of your kindness and concern during Isis’ illness. I am most impressed with the level of care that she received while in your care. She continues to improve and is healing well."
Ruby, a 10 year old Dobie, had a slipped disc in her neck. LS writes: "Ruby is doing great! She’s running, playing and is a happy dog again. I appreciated your patience with me and the fantastic care she received (...)."
Champ, a 12 year old Labrador mix, had cancer (osteosarcoma) in his hip bone. His right back leg was amputated, then he had chemotherapy. LD writes: "We would like to express our gratitude for the care you gave to our "boy" Champ. This type of experience is difficult enough without having to worry about what kind of care he’ll receive. We deeply appreciated your kindness and compassion and we know full well he would not have received better care anywhere."
And a few months later: "Champ is doing very well, he is eating well, and he is getting along on 3 legs just fine. We take a walk every day, and sometimes I take him to this park that is close by. There is a lake there and he loves to swim after the ball. We are soon to get the 3rd and final chemo treatment. He tolerates them well. So all is good for now."
Sassy, a 3 year old Maltese, had a liver shunt. SF simply writes: "Your kindness has been appreciated."
Buddy, a 10 year old Collie, had a condition called immune-mediated poly-arthritis, a condition where his immune system attacks his joints. SW writes: "(...) After 7 months of pain, it looks like you were correct and we are seeing some improvement. We want you to know we respect your honesty and integrity. You are a gift to animal owners!"
Cricket, a cute 8 month old kitten, had a dislocation (luxation) of the L hip, and multiple fractures at both ends of his thigh bone. HA writes: "Thank you so much for the wonderful job you did on Cricket. I know it was a difficult surgery and I really appreciate you doing it. I am especially grateful to you for working him into your schedule. He is doing very well (...). Thank you again for your kindness to me and your skill with Cricket."
George, a 7 year old cat, had a penis surgery to help him pee (P/U, or perineal urethrostomy). RM writes: "Thank you so much for the successful operation you performed. He is recovering very nicely (...). The entire experience was very kind and empathetic."
Later, RM writes: "Thank you again for fixing my big boy. He has a new lease on life (...)."
Paloma Q., an 11 year old German Shepherd, had cancer near her heart (atrial hemangiosarcoma). She writes: "Thank you very much for all your excellent care. I’d like to tell you I am doing very well and playing again."
Greta, a 6 month old Beagle, broke her shin bone (tibia). It was fixed with a cast. PW writes: "About 2 years ago, my 6 month old puppy broke her leg in 2 places. We decided not to do surgery, but to keep her in a splint (...). She had at least 15 splint changes. I thought you’d like to know how beautifully she healed (...). We now live in Chicago but I want you to know how terrific she is and what a wonderful job you did. I sincerely thank you."
Cody, a 6 year old Sheltie, broke his forearm (radius and ulna bones) after being... attacked by a pot-bellied pig! BT writes: "We appreciated the surgery and wonderful care you gave Cody when he was injured." What a story!
Sooty, a 4 year old English Spaniel, had severe hip dysplasia and pain that required a femoral head ostectomy ("FHO"). RB writes: "Thank you so much for taking such good care of Sooty during his FHO surgery. We greatly appreciate your patience, caring and professionalism".
4 months later, RB surprises us with a postcard from vacation! "Sooty’s FHO update: week 16, Sooty on vacation in the Smoky Mountains this weekend. FHO hip is doing very well. Swimming in the Little River 3 times a day... up and down a spiral staircase. Thanks for everything!"
Sprout, a 13 year old cat who looks like 3, was affected by a fibrosarcoma between his shoulder blades, a horrible cancerous tumor. He needed a pretty invasive surgery. BA writes: "(...) We are so grateful to you and your amazing skill as a surgeon. He’s doing great. Dr. H (an oncologist) doesn’t feel he needs any chemo based on the results of his biopsy. She just suggests a recheck every 3 months. Sprout’s hair is growing back a little more each day!"
A year later, BA writes: "Happy Anniversary! It’s been a year since Sprout’s cancer surgery (...). He’s doing great (...). He’s just a happy, healthy cat (...). I truly believe if it wasn’t for your skill as a surgeon combined with your obvious love of what you do, this story might not have had a happy ending. We will forever be grateful to you! (...)" Enclosed is a picture of a Garfield-looking kitty sleeping on the stove!!!
Mac Cavity, a 14 year old cat, had a double whammy. He had a penis surgery to help him pee (P/U, or perineal urethrostomy) done "elsewhere". He came to us unable to pee, and also with a hyperactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). So we redid his P/U and removed his thyroid. PF writes: " (...) When we came to your clinic, we had no hope for our boy (...). Mac is streaming nicely. We are so grateful for your professionalism and attention to detail."
I also have to comment on the card. It says: "Thanks from the bottom of my butt. It’s a lot bigger than my heart!"
Bob, a 13 year old Labrador, had laryngeal paralysis, which made his breathing difficult. JW writes: "Bob wanted me to write that he is doing great (...). His appetite is good, he likes to play, he loves to go on walks (...). Thank you."
Rosie, an 11 year old Shih Tzu was not very lucky, besides having a great owner! She first had surgery for a slipped disc in her neck. One month later, she needed surgery for a slipped disc in her back. This is very unusual. AE writes: "My deepest thanks to you for your 2 surgeries on Rosie and for your excellent care of her. She is getting better, day by day (...)."
Simon Potter, a 5 year old Rottie, had 2 TPLOs (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy) 5 months apart. Two years later, Ms. F kindly remembers us and translates: "It has been almost 2 years since you fixed both my knees. I am doing great, no problems at all. You should see me chase those rabbits. Of course I don’t touch them (...)"
Buffalo Grove, IL:
Ziggy, a miniature Schnauzer, ate some bones. Several pieces couldn’t make it through his intestines. He simply writes: "Thank you for saving my life." His owner, DM writes: "How can we thank you enough for saving Ziggy’s life? Your team showed so much care and concern that we will always appreciate! He means so much to us!"
SN writes: "Thanks for your care, compassion and great medical services!"
Lobo, a 6 year old American Eskimo, had severe inflammation in his nose (chronic rhinitis). He had a CAT scan, then nose surgery. Ms. L writes: "Dr Zeltzman, you touched our hearts with your concerned, loving heart. Thanks for helping me transport Lobo from Dr. B’s. I’m sure the doggies in France miss a vet like you. Keep up the wonderful work."
Ms. R writes: "You did a great operation. The stitches look fine."
Leo, a 14 year old cat, had a dislocation in his back (T8-T9 subluxation). TI writes: "Dr Zeltzman, Thank you so much! I just wanted to drop you a note and thank you again for all the time spent with me and Leo. You and the staff were very thorough. I felt Leo was in good hands."
SB writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, (...) We were very satisfied with your bedside manner, you have been very helpful through all this, describing the surgery and postop care. It has been very trying and traumatic for us, and your advice and suggestions have been valuable (...)."
Snow, a 10 year old Maltese, had a slipped disc in his neck. BM writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, Thank you so much for taking such wonderful care of Snow before, during and after his surgery. Your kindness was very much appreciated."
Lively, an 8 year old cat, had a rare injury in a cat: a tear in his ACL. "Dear Dr Zeltzman, Thank you for taking such good care of Lively (...). The leg looks great, you can’t even see the incision anymore (...). Thank you very much for everything!"
General... I will always remember General, the 6 year old German Shepherd with a distended colon (megacolon). For various reasons, his case was one of my biggest challenges. DR writes: "Our words could never express the gratitude and appreciation for your efforts and accomplishments regarding our dog General."
Many years later, DR writes: "On this day, 6-26-08, General is now 14 years old and doing well. We continue to be grateful for your efforts to save our dog many years ago."
Chooch, a 10 year old Lab, had a slipped disc in his back. GB writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, We wanted to thank you for taking such good care of Chooch. Our words cannot express our respect and appreciation for what you do."
JM, a young MD, wrote to my boss!!! Wickett had a type of hernia near the anus called perineal hernia.
"(...) I am also writing a letter of praise for Dr Zeltzman, your surgical resident (...). He did a wonderful job in explaining the problems faced, and he had an excellent bedside manner. I was impressed with Dr Zeltzman’s professionalism and maturity. He worked hard to make sure I felt comfortable with our plan and outcomes (...). Wickett had a couple minor complications from the surgery, and Dr Zeltzman addressed them very well. I hope that my expression of gratitude for his excellent performance becomes a part of his permanent record (...)."
Ellie, a 4 year old Cocker, had a slipped disc in her back. TL writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, Thank you for operating on our dog, Ellie, and saving her. You are a wonderful doctor and have a great concern for the owners of their pets, too.
Noodles, a 6 weeks old kitten, wasn’t very lucky: he had fractures in his left thigh bone (femur), left shin bone (tibia) and right femur. SO writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, I wanted to thank you for everything you did for my little kitten Noodles. Because of you, he will live a long, healthy life. It is obvious that you are a very skilled and dedicated professional (...). I was truly blessed to have you as my surgeon (...)."
Corky, a 6 year old Maltese, had a slipped disc in his back. KA writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, I would like to thank you for all of your time and hard work with Corky. We had doubts that he would have such a successful recovery, but thanks to your expertise, he is nearly back to himself. Your passion and dedication toward your profession is clearly visible and we like to thank you for the extra time and effort you have shown us, through numerous phone calls and your sincere concern for his progress. It is quite obvious that your heart is really with your work, patients and clients (...)."
Then KA sent a letter to my boss!!! "(...) I live in Milwaukee, WI, and traveled to Illinois the day my dog hurt his back. I arrived after 10 pm and Dr Phil Zeltzman assessed Corky and immediately took him in for surgery. He called following surgery to let us know how it went and followed up numerous times with phone calls while Corky was a patient, and several times after we brought him home. I feel he went above his call of duty and should be recognized for his long hours (seems as if he never leaves there, as every time I called he was there, day and night), compassion for his patients and clients, and on-going dedication toward his profession. It is quite obvious that his heart is really in his work and I appreciate that (...). The night I left him there for surgery, I felt good driving back to Milwaukee knowing he was in a good place and the best of hands with Dr Zeltzman (...). Thank you for taking care of Corky, and providing us with the best doctor that I have encountered."
I fell in love with Misalis, an abandoned 2 month old kitten I almost adopted. Her front paw and her tail were basically crushed. After daily wound management for several weeks, she was ready for adoption. CM writes: "Hi Dr Zeltzman, Just wanted to let you know how little Misalis is doing. She’s a very active, playful little kitten. Her leg is used by her as if nothing had ever been wrong with it. You did a wonderful thing for her. Thanks again."
Heidi, a 6 year old Doxie, had a slipped disc in her back. KB writes: "Dr Zeltzman, (...) In her 2nd week, she is really doing very well. We brought a 3 legged dog home, now she has become a 4 legged, walking dog, aided of course by her sling. (...) She is moving in her cage when we ask her to come out to exercise (...). We are truly thankful for your surgical skills."
Sophie, a 6 year old Portugese Water Dog, had a diaphragmatic hernia, which means organs from her belly were inside her chest. PJ writes: "Thank you for bringing Sophie back to us (...). She is the light of our life."
Samson, a 7 year old Doxie, had a slipped disc in her neck. EM writes: "Thank you so much for what you did, you made Samson feel better. I am thankful that there are doctors like you, that are here to help poor defenseless animals. You are greatly appreciated."
Athens, GA:
MR: "Thanks Dr Zeltzman for everything you’ve done for our baby Schubert".
KT: "Dr Zeltzman, thank you for the continuing care of Emmy".
WE: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, thank you for all your tireless, loving care of Ouzo. Our heartfelt thanks and tail wags!".
RZ: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, thank you so much for all the care you gave to Maxi. We are very grateful to you. If you ever come to Charleston, SC, please give us a call!"
JO: "Thank you for giving Tess a second chance in life. It’s really special to know there are caring people who want to help in today’s world."
Sad Stories:
Unfortunately, we can’t save every patient’s life and all stories don’t end in a happy way. We deal with cancer, conditions and diseases that can be fatal. Our job is still to provide the best care we can to improve quality of life for our furry patients. The following words are a tribute to the courage of our patients and their owner’s dedication. Warning: some of these cards are very emotional. You have been warned! Timber, a black Lab, had surgery (a tie back) for laryngeal paralysis in 2006. She just passed away, 4 years after surgery. Her owner, RB, writes: “Timber has gone to the (rainbow) bridge today. She lived a good long life after her surgery. She fought to the end and went peacefully this morning. Again I want to thank you so much..... These are 4 great years I would not have had without your expertise.” Bailey, a 12 year old Sheltie, had a cancerous tumor in his nose (Nasal carcinoma or nasal adenocarcinoma). His owner JG writes: Zowie, a 9 year old Rottie, had two TPLO surgeries in 2008 after she tore both her ACLs. She just passed away (3-2010) after being diagnosed with cancer. Her owner AM writes: “She developed masses on her chest and all through her stomach. The vet said the lungs, liver and spleen were involved. She was a great friend and companion and will be sorely missed. Thank you for taking care of her and I wish she would have had longer to enjoy the new knees that you gave her.” Bernadette, a 4 year old Bernese Mountain Dog, had a very invasive tendon sheath tumor on her ankle, -a notoriously difficult area to remove tumors. It was first removed. When it came back, the owner (wisely) elected amputation. Her owner, GCP, writes: “(…) You performed two surgeries on her rear leg, first to remove a cancerous tumor, then you had to amputate that leg last year. Well anyway I had her put to sleep on Feb 18 due to very severe seizure activity that left Bernadette in a type of comatose state. I believe the cancer went to her brain causing the seizures. Bernadette had a good year of life and adapted well and she enjoyed giving my 5 month old grand daughter much attention and love. Whitehall, PA: Lucy, an 11 year old Cocker, had a ruptured mucocele, a serious condition where dehydrated bile fills the gallabladder. We performed surgery, but she unfortunately passed out the next morning. Of course I called LG, Lucy’s owner. She writes: “Thank you for calling today it meant a lot. When I rescued her 4 yrs ago she never left my side… she was my shadow. She was badly abused living in a dark basement for nearly 7 yrs and almost starved to death when I found her tied to a basement steam pipe with a 2 ft rope. She was so happy for the time I had her. I know Lucy had the best care and surgeon she could have had last night. She is deeply missed.” Leia was a sweet 12 year old Jack Russell who had been vomiting and losing weight. Belly surgery revealed a mass in the small intestine and enlarged (mesenteric) lymph nodes. Once we received the biopsy results, which revealed cancer (lymphoma) of the small intestine, lymph node and liver, the owners elected euthanasia. Her owner BT writes: “ Tate was a 3 year old male intact Great Dane who had a huge cyst on his prostate (periprostatic cyst). Surgery was uneventful, but he developed some horrible heart complications postop. He eventually passed away. His owner CS writes: “Dr Zeltzman and staff, We are completely devastated and hurting over the loss of our very treasured Tate. Over our 33 years of breeding and showing Great Danes, we have experienced many wonderful individual dogs, but only a small few deeply imbed their personalities into our hearts. Tate was one of those, and in fact was very unique in his true affection for all living things (…). I know many wonderful animals have passed through your doors and some you have been able to help, some others you have not, like Tate. I’m fairly certain the losses probably weigh heavy on your minds too (…). I did want to tell you that, surgically speaking, we did feel we had him in the best hands and that the staff there was very caring and genuine. We’ll never know whether any one of us could have done any of it any differently to allow Tate to still be here with us (…). Thank you, nonetheless, for your surgical efforts and for providing a very caring and sensitive staff.” O'Neil was a 14 year old Lab who had laryngeal paralysis. He was doing great 2 weeks after surgery, at suture removal. But he developed aspiration pneumonia after 3 weeks. His owners elected euthanasia. Still, his owner KM writes: “Dear Dr. Zeltzman, Honey was a 14.5 year old Her owner JWS writes a sad note 2 years after surgery, a “tie back” procedure. “Dr. Zeltzman: I am sending you this note to let you and your staff know that our Yellow Lab Honey lived for more than 2 years after her operation for Laryngeal Paralysis. She made it to 14 1/2 years. (…) I was sent to you by QVC when Honey couldn't breathe and they said the tie back would help. Well, it did help, and we were able to enjoy 2 more years with our Lab. We had to put her to sleep on Thursday July 16th 2009 because she stopped eating and drinking and her rear legs couldn't hold her up any longer. We never had any problems from the tie back surgery, she always ate good, and I monitored her water intake to small amounts. Thank you so much for your expert care and love for animals. Over 1 year ago, we did a double surgery on a 16 year old kitty who couldn't pee. He was "blocked." Herbie had "P/U" surgery (perineal urethrostomy) to allow him to pee, and bladder surgery to remove some stones. Now, I haven't met many pet owners who would be willing to do surgery on a 16 year old kitty. But KS did, without hesitation. Her owner, NDA, writes in several emails: “Dear Dr Zeltzman: Sasha’s cancer troubles started over a year ago, and without your expert intervention, I doubt that she would have survived for more than a few months. After a tremendous amount of painful deliberation, I had to accept the fact that she was not going to get any better. I kept fooling myself because she was still eating, using the litter box and walking around, although very slowly. More lumps were forming on her neck, almost daily, and they were really bothering her. Her left eye was also affected by the cancer. (…) You have enabled me to enjoy her company for many more months than I thought possible. Thank you SO much for the extra time you gave me with my little girl. To me, it was invaluable. (...) Thank you again.” Helen’s owner, MR, writes: “(…) Helen’s ashes are now back home and each day gets a little easier. We laugh about her quirks and the great times/memories of hiking at the State Park near our home. Her sister Lucy is a little lost and I now get to play a little bit more. Kasper was a 10 year old Lab who had TPLO surgery to repair an ACL tear. Just as we got done with the rehab, a very invasive cancerous mass was found in his belly... LK writes: This 16 year old Lab had a cancerous tumor on a rib, which was removed. Then he had chemo. Then things got worse, as the cancer spread... I want to thank you for everything you did to help us. I don't know where we would have been without you and Dr. Ron. The extra time I had with Duke is priceless. I'm glad there are talented, caring people like you who do the magic that you do to help our pets. I really can't tell you how much it means to me - words don't do it - but I hope you can hear it from my heart. Just like I'll never forget Duke, I'll never forget you and Dr. Ron." Thank you again. Sincerely, DB & BB” After she passed away, over 2 months after surgery, her owner, MS writes: “Dear Dr. Zeltzman, We wanted to thank you for all that you have done for Sadie. She did well for the first few weeks after being discharged from the hospital. We were excited because she was urinating more like she had been before the cancer and she was able to go longer periods of time between bathroom runs. (…) On September 2, 2008, we received a phone call while we were away that Sadie Lee had passed away in her sleep. I’m glad that she was able to pass away peacefully, but saddened because we weren’t able to say our last goodbyes to her. (…) So, G and I wanted to thank you for all of your efforts in trying to give us a little more time together. Sadie is now in a far better place and no longer suffering, which is the most important thing.
Patches, an 11 year old male kitty, had a bad disease called chylothorax. He did pretty well after surgery, and mysteriously died shortly thereafter. That was a heart-breaking story. However, his owner CA writes: You thanked me for giving Patches every chance to pull through his illness, but it was you who gave him a second chance and every moment he lived was a blessing.” Abby, was a 7 year old Doberman, who had her spleen removed because of cancer (as we found out later, a disease similar to lymphoma). Unfortunately, she died suddenly at home, seemingly because of a “clot” that moved to her lungs. Her owners, DL and CL, write: The Painful But Right Decision, by PG. My kitty Jackie was on the operating room table when I received a call from Dr. Zeltzman, telling me that the tumor she had was so extensive that he did not feel he could remove it all. Compassionately, he gave me my options: #1 - He could wake her up from surgery and let her live out what would be the rest of her life. The tumor however would eventually cause her significant pain. #2 - Put her to sleep now while she was still under anesthesia. He told me I could think about it for a bit and call him back with my decision. PK writes: “Dear Dr. Zeltzman and staff, My husband and I thank you for all you did for Taffy, our beloved puppy. She surely lived up to the saying “Man’s best friend.” I admire you all for doing something I know I could not do. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Love, PK.” Zeke, a 5 year old Rottie, had an MRI that showed 2 tumors in his spine. His owner wisely elected euthanasia. KT writes: Max, a 13 year old white German Shepherd, had a severe condition of the stomach called "bloat" or gastric dilatation volvulus. Despite a long fight, he unfortunately died. Still, DM writes: "I wanted to thank you for your efforts in trying to save Max. I know you did everything you could and for that I am truly grateful. Words cannot express how much your phone calls meant to me after his passing. It shows how much you really care." Bailey, an 8 year old Blue Tick Hound, had rectal cancer (carcinoma). Ms. C writes: "Thank you for your compassion and caring attitude. It is rare in this world".
“I wanted to thank you for the care you gave Bailey and the concern and patience you extended to me during that time.
Bailey lived a year past his expectancy and it wasn't until the last day or two of his life that he showed us he was ready to go.
Unbelievably, my prayers were answered and my little friend died in his sleep the evening of 2/27/2010. We knew that we would have to make a difficult decision - in his best interest - the next day. I thank St. Francis that we were spared that task. We buried him in the yard by the bird feeders, his favorite place. Thanks again.”
So thank you for extending her life for a little while, she was special to me.
(…) I enjoy your weekly newsletters very informative
Thanks again”
Her owner JH writes: "Thank you all for the loving care you gave our baby, Princess Leia, while she was hospitalized at the clinic. Knowing she was in good hands meant so much to us."
Maisey, a 10 year old kitty, had a rare kidney condition called “peri-renal pseudo-cysts.”
I just finished reading your newsletter. I showed it to my husband, Mez, and we both started crying, happy and sad tears seeing O'Neill's name and reading the poem, "It's Just a Dog". People who don't have animals really can't begin to understand the depth of what joy and unconditional love they give everyday of their short lives. We had O'Neill for 14 wonderful years and have so many wonderful memories. The article about pets mourning was so very helpful also. We have Torre, a 8 year old yellow lab who misses her brother very much. Thank you, I will definitely give her much more attention knowing she really needs it now and not focus so much on missing our O'Neill.
Dr. Zeltzman, thank you for giving me "hope" for a little while longer. He fought so hard to live....we miss him so much.
I have shared your newsletter with some of my animal lover friends via email. I am grateful you are here in PA practicing and loving animals as you do.”
From the bottom of our hearts, thanks again for everything you and your staff did to help Honey, after your care she was a happy puppy again."
A year later, we received a sad note from KS:
"Hello Dr Zeltzman,
A year ago this past April, you saved my baby's life by performing PU and Bladder Surgery on him. He had been doing fabulously since then...I cannot thank you enough for giving me more time with him.
I'm devastated to tell you that my Herbie suffered a stroke on Saturday (June 20th) and I made the most difficult decision of my life.
I had my best friend and the love of my life put to sleep. I just could not justify putting my 17 year old boy through any more trauma in his life. I only wanted to make his life better."
Well, KS, you obviously did. You gave Herbie another year of happiness (I know for a fact that he was spoiled the whole time!). And I think that your decision, however difficult it was, was the humane thing to do.
Sasha was a 13 year old female kitty with salivary gland cancer (carcinoma) on both sides of her face. Despite several surgeries and the use of “cisplatin-impregnated beads”, the cancer came back and Sasha was eventually put to sleep.
Helen was a 9 year old Lab. She had liver cancer (hemangiosarcoma) that had spread to her spleen & belly. She fought bravely, as well as her incredibly dedicated owners. Unfortunately, they humanely elected ?euthanasia shortly after surgery.
I owe both you and your staff a debt of gratitude for providing both great care and compassion during a very difficult time. Thank you.”
Gator, a 7 year old Lab, had bone cancer (osteosarcoma) in the front leg. He was amputated and recovered so well, that he was able to swim (with and without a life jacket!). And then the cancer spread to his lungs. In spite of it, his owner DS writes: "We had almost 6 glorious months we wouldn't have had (without the amputation)."
"Thank you for taking care of my beloved Kasper these last several weeks. He was a beautiful and loving pet. The TPLO was a success and I was looking forward to playing ball with Kasper. He loved playing ball.
The unfortunate discovery of the large internal mass was devastating.
(...) The enclosed collage of Kasper was done to show the love he brought into my life."
Duke was a very special patient with a very special owner.
LS writes: "I let Duke go just before Thanksgiving. It was the hardest decision I have ever made in my entire life and I agonized for days over it. It hurts so bad and I miss him more than I can say in words. I'll never be the same after all this.
Muddy, an 8 year old male Lab, had laryngeal paralysis surgery. He did great initially, and had some strange spinal issues 1 week later. He was unfortunately euthanized. In spite of this tragedy, DB, his owner writes:
“Dr. Zeltzman,
We would like to thank you and your staff for the excellent surgical and emergency care you provided to Muddy. It was unfortunate that his successful operation and several days of encouraging recovery were to be followed by a complication that could not have been foreseen.
He was a gentleman of a dog and a wonderful addition to our family. Great dogs never live long enough.
Sadie Lee was an 11 year old female Australian Shepherd, who had bladder cancer (transitional cell carcinoma or TCC). She had surgery to remove a big part of her bladder, but the disease progressed…
Again, we appreciate all that you did for Sadie, and we do understand this was a no-win situation with the type of cancer she had.”
Jake was a 4 year old Labrador with a very nasty femur (thigh bone) fracture, as well as a pneumothorax (free air in the chest). Surgery went well, but he had a very sad ending. He became aggressive with his owners and had to be euthanized. Still, S and KS write:
“Dr. Zeltzman:
My family wanted to thank you again for all that you did to help Jake. As you can imagine, this was a pretty traumatic experience for all of us. It was very comforting to have such a skilled team of doctors and nurses doing the best job possible to not only save him but to try to get him back to his old self.
While the end result for Jake was not what any of us wanted, we get a good amount of comfort knowing that everyone involved did all they could for him. He couldn’t have asked for a better chance than he was given.
Thank you again for your generosity and for all the help you provided Jake.
Please pass this along to all of the nurses who worked with Jake, you truly have a wonderful group of assistants. Thank them for being so kind not only to Jake, but also my family while we visited him.”
“I received your card (…). Many thanks for you and your staff for taking the time to sign a card and remember us this way (…).
Cookie, a 1 year old female Boston terrier, had abdominal surgery that revealed a terrible condition called intestinal (or mesenteric) volvulus: 90% of her small intestine had twisted onto itself, which is a deadly finding. The owners, VL and ML, where called during the surgery, and reluctantly elected the only reasonable choice: euthanasia. Later, they write:
“Dear Dr. Zeltzman and staff: Thank you so much for the lovely card expressing your heartfelt sympathy over the loss of our sweet, little cookie. It is sincerely appreciated.
We can only say that your care of cookie was phenomenal, - from the young women at the reception to your phone call about her diagnosis. We know that if anyone could have saved her, it would have been you and your staff.
Cookies’ ashes now sit on our mantle in the beautiful box with her name on it. (…) Cookie has come home in style. Thanks for everything.”
“Dear Dr. Zeltzman: First, let me express our thanks and gratitude for all you did for my (…) Doberman Abby. Both you and your staff were courteous, helpful and very loving toward Abby from the time we brought her there for the first consultation, until we picked her up after her surgery.
I want to thank you for getting back to me on Tuesday. You definitely gave me some peace of mind as to what might have happened to Abby. It certainly made me feel that it was not something we did or did not do for her.
Finally, your sympathy card meant so much to both of us. It truly showed how dedicated you are to your patients.”
Jackie was a 7 year old kitty with a large tumor in her belly, believed to be a fibrosarcoma. The tumor turned out to be so large, that is was unfortunately inoperable. We called her owner in the middle of the surgery…
PG writes: “Dr. Zeltzman, It has been one week since your call to me from the OR saying that Jackie’s tumor was larger than we originally thought. (…) Unable to reach my husband with this terrible news, you helped me reach the decision to put her to sleep, while still under anesthesia. Without your kind words and understanding, I don't know that it could have made the right decision.
I miss her so much! She was such an important part of my life. (…) Jackie was and always will be close to me, and in my heart.
Thank you for helping me to do the compassionate thing for my kitty. Also thank you for your card, it meant a lot. Sincerely, PG.”
A few weeks later, PG wrote this touching text about Jackie:
On March 26th 2008, I was faced with a very difficult decision.
I tried my husband at work, but was unable to reach him. I kept thinking about Jackie and that she was so young, only 7 years old. I thought about how she came to be my kitty. She had been a stray/feral cat. She was one of the numerous stray cats in the area where I lived. I was in the process of performing a technique called TNR (Trap-Neuter-Release), to help with the cat overpopulation. When I met Jackie though, I could not do the Release part- she was so special, I kept her as my own. She taught me that every animal, if given the chance and shown love, could make a beloved friend. Finally, I also thought about that wherever I was, she wanted to be. She was my side-kick.
With Jackie still on the table, I called Dr. Zeltzman back. He talked me through my options, not making the decision for me, but helping me make the right decision. After my conversation with him, I decided to have Jackie put to sleep then, while still under anesthesia. My deciding thought: I did not want Jackie to suffer!
It has been two months since that day. I miss her so very much! The hardest part for me was that I did not get to say goodbye to her. But in my heart, I know I made the painful but right decision for Jackie. I take great comfort in that.
I hope as you read this you are never faced with this decision. However, if you are I hope my story will help you. After all, if you love your animals as I do it is not about what is best for us- is it?
Taffy was a 10 year old female Cocker with spleen cancer which had spread to her liver. She was humanely euthanized on the surgery table at the AEC.
Mindy was a 10 year old female Bichon with lung cancer, which had spread to all of her lungs. We did surgery to get a lung biopsy, but she took a turn for the worst the day after surgery and was humanely euthanized.
CR writes: “Dear Dr. Zeltzman, Thank you for the beautiful card, and for sharing your feelings with me. (…) I did not know she was so ill for so long. Whenever I would be sad and cry, Mindy would lick away my tears and always made me feel better. This time, she was not here. This time, my heart was crying for her. She gave me so much love and happiness she’ll always be in my heart.
I want to thank you and your staff for doing everything to make Mindy comfortable. I couldn’t be there to say goodbye. My heart hurts so very bad. (…)
I admire you for helping our furry friends. You are quite a special person.”
“Dr. Zeltzman, I tried “phoning in” a thank you, but couldn’t relay the message. Your sympathy card meant so very much to me. I wish you would have met Zeke earlier.
(…) We’ll have to get two more to match the love that Zeke gave.
I know in my heart we did the best we could for Zeke, but I still regret not finding out sooner. He just never showed any pain until the end. Thank you again.”
Princess was a 7 year old Cocker with a slipped disc in her neck. We did surgery to remove he disc, and she recovered well initially. She unfortunately developed some bizarre complications that we attributed to the "fulminant" form of myasthenia gravis, a disease of the muscles, including megaesophagus and extreme muscle weakness. She sadly passed away at the emergency clinic.
SR writes: "Thanks to everyone at Valley Central. Princess was never alone. I appreciate everything you did for her. She was one in a million. I had a very hard time accepting that she was gone. Every day gets better. Thanks to Phil Zeltzman her surgery was a success. I believe that for some reason she developed myasthenia gravis after the surgery. Thanks again for everything you did for Princess. She will be missed. Love. SR & KR"
Marley was a very patient and sweet 12 year old female Rottie mix. She had a large tumor on her belly, called a mast cell tumor. We were able to "get it all" (according to the lab who read the biopsy), but the cancer quickly spread. She fought as much as she could, then her owners elected (wisely in my opinion) to have her euthanized. AE writes this incredible letter:
"Dear Dr. Zeltzman,
My heartfelt gratitude for all you and your staff gave of your healing powers to our Marley. She was loved by many, and your kindness and compassion towards her means so much to us, at this unique time of losing a loved one. May your generous and loving gestures be returned to you three fold. With most sincere appreciation and respect, AE."
Vinny was an 11 year-old kitty with tumors throughout her belly (intestine, liver, pancreas). Her owner elected euthanasia. After she received a condolence card from us, LK writes: "I want to thank you for sending the card and note. I have had cats for 27 years. This is the first time a vet clinic ever does anything like that. I want to command you for calling me (...).
I am enclosing a picture of Vinny from a healthy time. She was an unusual feline as she had a sense of humor. (...) I know you tried very hard to return our Vinny to us. I appreciate the efforts of the staff very much."
CC was a very sweet 14 year old Lab mix. We removed a cancerous tumor, called a nerve sheath tumor, from her back leg. It was about the size of her head. Unfortunately, we later found more evidence of cancer in her belly (probably of a different nature). Her owners came all the way from Arkansas!
DL writes: "We would like to thank Dr. Zeltzman and Dr. Carter for their care of CC. She made the trip home, but this past Saturday we had to let her go. It was a very sad day for us. Your staff and employees were excellent, thank you again."
Brinks was an amazing 7 year old Greyhound, with the personality of a loving Golden. After a long struggle to heal an infected fracture, he eventually was put to sleep (it’s a long story...). This is a very short excerpt of what JH writes: "(...) Your staff is wonderful (...). You all seemed to really care for him - not just another dog. Dr. Zeltzman and your associates were wonderful. I know you went beyond what you had to, to care for Brinks. Dr. Zeltzman, one thing I hope you keep for the rest of your years in practice is your compassion, not just for the animal, but also their owner.
Your care for Brinks was exceptional and I appreciate all the time and research calls you made for him. What made me glad through this whole process was the time you took to talk to me, the personal phone calls to check on Brinks, all the times you came to the waiting room to talk to us personally (...). I do not think all vets would do that. Please continue to give all your pets and their owners that personal attention (...).
Thanks again to all of you, you will all be remembered for a long time. Stay compassionate."
Cincinnati, OH:
Bristol, a male Collie-Aussie mix, had a rare condition called chylothorax (a milky fluid accumulated in his chest). We addressed this condition in 2 ways: We placed a "shunt" to lead the fluid from the chest into the belly, and performed an "omentalization".
Three years later, TB writes a very emotional email: "I wanted to let you know that after weighing the options, we decided to have Bristol put to sleep. (...) The last 3 years had been simply wonderful. We learned to treasure each trip to the park, each noisy greeting we received when returning home, and each adventure he had chasing cats out of the yard. (...) He had a great impact on many of those that he met, and he has melted many peoples hearts along his journey. Friends, neighbors and relatives are grieving along with us as we begin to move forward as they know just how important and special he was to us as well as them. We cannot begin to thank you enough for the added years we have had with him. We had no idea what amount of time we would have with him and the 3 years were much more than we actually expected. Even though I had not kept in contact with you, there were very few days that passed that I didn't find myself saying a little thank you to all those involved in helping him, but especially to you. Bristol was not just a dog, but a true member of our family that will never be forgotten. Thank you so much for all you have done."
Brenda, a 14 year old cat, had cancer at the junction of her small and large intestine. She had surgery, but did not recover well. Her owners, PM & LM, write: "We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation for your assistance with Brenda. We are grateful for your candid assessment as well as for working her into your surgical schedule on such short notice. We were encouraged by the genuine concern that you showed. Two weeks after the surgery, Brenda was improving and eating. Unfortunately, her food intake eventually dropped off (...) She lost weight despite our efforts. Her weight was just under 3.5 lbs. (...) We knew it was time to let her go (...) We appreciate your efforts to save her. We thank you for your kindness."
Rags, an 11 year old Airedale, had liver cancer (fibrosarcoma). He lived 10 months after surgery. His owner SC writes: "It is with a truly sad and broken heart that I tell you that we lost Rags. He had been doing so well. The follow up X-rays and ultrasound showed that he was cancer free (...). During the past week, he became really weak (...). We put him to sleep the following Wednesday. He fought a good battle though. We loved him so much, and he gave us so much love. Thanks for the care and concern you had for him."
Pirate, a 10 year old Golden Retriever, had a tumor on a rib. He was eventually euthanized. LD writes: "I can’t believe it has been 6 months since I lost Pirate (...). You were so very kind and compassionate. The extra time you allowed with him was so very needed. Thank you for noting that he will be waiting for me at the end of the rainbow bridge."
Sidney, a 15 year old cat had a benign thyroid tumor but severe heart disease. He died the day after surgery. JF writes: "Thank you for your efforts to correct Sidney’s condition and your understanding of our grief (...). Your sensitivity will always be remembered."
Allie, a 1 year old Ferret, died after a mysterious illness affecting her eye. The H’s wrote: "The card you all signed meant a lot. Allie wasn’t around with us as long as I had hoped, but she really warmed our hearts. Thank you for your care and support."
Homer, a 13 year old Beagle, had spleen cancer (fibrohistiocytic nodules). His spleen was removed. He unfortunately died later. MP writes: "Thank you for your kind care of Homer. Although I miss him very much, it is comforting for me to know that he received the best medical care possible. Thanks for everything that you did for Homer and for me."
Lambchop, a 2 month old kitten, didn’t have a very good start in life. He was very sick, weak and unable to poop. His colon became distended (megacolon). He never really ate well after surgery, and despite intensive care at the hospital and at home, he unfortunately died 2 weeks after surgery. Despite this, ML writes: "Thank you so much for trying to save my baby, Lambchop. I am very impressed by not only your abilities as a surgeon but for the compassion and concern that your showed toward both me and Lambchop (...)."
Millie, a 12 year old Gordon Setter, had a cancerous lung tumor removed. She did great. 18 months later, poor Millie had a cancerous mass on her lip and difficulty breathing (laryngeal paralysis). The owners elected chemo after surgery. Five weeks later, GL writes: "(...) We put Millie down (...). She seemed to have mostly good days (...) We did not want to let her go, but knew in our hearts that it was the right decision. We thank you for all your kindness and concern during her illness and surgeries."
Buffalo Grove, IL:
Sula, an old kitty with skin cancer (cutaneous lymphoma), was eventually put to sleep. AR writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, Thank you so much for your thoughtful note, and more importantly, for your attentiveness and concern while Sula was in your care. As you know, it was very rough for her at the end, and your compassion made it possible for me to continue to care for her."
Casey, a 12 year old paralyzed Springer Spaniel with a mysterious spinal disease (his myelogram was normal), was eventually put to sleep. KS writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, Thank you for all your help with Casey. You were unlike any doctor that I ever met, and I know you did everything you could. This is a hard time, but I will always be thankful for your sincerity and help."
Athens, GA:
BD writes: "Dear Dr Zeltzman, E and I wanted to thank you for your call, your concern and caring for our Lab, Jake, after he was diagnosed with cancer at UGA in December 1996. Jake died naturally on Jan. 25th here at home, and he had a great, long farewell from family and friends during the last weeks of his life. Your phone call expressing concern in December was so thoughtful. I hope you will always maintain such concern throughout your career. It means so much."
ML writes: "Dr Zeltzman, my husband and I wanted to express our appreciation for your very caring attitude and assistance. Sydney the cat was part of our family, and her death hurts. Still, you and the folks at UGA were absolutely super. Knowing what we know now, the result was probably for the best - at least she wasn’t in pain".
Last but not least, BD (not the same BD as above!) sent this letter to the Dean of the UGA Vet School!
"Dear Dean Anderson:
My husband and I wanted to take time to commend your staff on their care and support during the illness of our family pet, Bailey. We had to bring her there on an emergency basis over the Christmas holidays, and after finding out that she had a mast cell cancer, we had to put her to sleep.
Bailey had been my companion for over 10 years and it was one of the hardest things I had ever had to go through, but knowing the dedication and compassion of your staff made it much easier.
Our case was handled in the beginning by Dr Phil Zeltzman and RP (a student). They were very professional and caring. I couldn’t help but think of the stark contrast between their helpful attitudes and those of ER doctors (...). I truly felt that even though it was hard to leave her there, that we had given her the best care possible and the best chance (...).
After we made the decision to put her to sleep, we got a call from Dr Zeltzman (...).
I can only say that if I am ever ill, I hope that someone will refer me to Dr Zeltzman and the UGA Vet School. Words cannot express how much we appreciated your staff, their dedication and compassion during this time of loss".
This is the nicest compliment I could ever receive from a client.
