Table of Contents
In a heartbreaking tale that has captured the hearts of many, a couple from Long Island is on a quest for justice for their cherished dog, Bo. They allege that he was subjected to negligent care at a local veterinary hospital, and their story reveals a troubling sequence of events that began with a recommendation for an expensive elective surgery and ended in tragedy.
This raises crucial questions about the standards of care in veterinary practices and the ethical responsibilities in animal healthcare.
The promise of extended life through surgery
Karen and Dave Freed, the distraught couple at the center of this ordeal, were initially filled with hope when they were advised to consider a $15,000 elective hip surgery for their 10-year-old Newfoundland, Bo.
This recommendation came from Long Island Veterinary Specialists (LIVS) in Plainview, a facility known as one of the largest of its kind in the area. They were led to believe this surgery would not only improve Bo’s quality of life but might also extend his years with them.
However, their optimism soon spiraled into despair. Before the surgery, Bo underwent X-rays that, unbeknownst to the Freeds, revealed serious health issues, including early-stage pneumonia and signs of a potentially collapsed lung. Shockingly, the veterinary team encouraged the couple to move forward with the surgery, withholding critical findings that could have impacted their decision.
After the operation, the couple received the unsettling news that Bo had developed a mild case of pneumonia—a diagnosis that contradicted the reassurances they’d received prior to the procedure. Karen, overwhelmed with anguish, shared how the hospital repeatedly assured them of Bo’s stable condition, while in reality, he was in significant distress.
Allegations of neglect and misinformation
The Freeds’ experience took a darker turn when they claimed that during Bo’s six-day hospitalization, they were granted only ten minutes to see him. They were led to believe he was under constant monitoring and care, including daily X-rays and ultrasounds.
However, an internal admission later revealed the facility didn’t even have an ultrasound machine, and no post-surgical X-rays were performed.
During their brief visits, the couple’s observations were devastating. They found Bo lying on a concrete floor, blood pooling from his mouth, and discovered he was dehydrated despite being on IV fluids. This neglect raised serious concerns about the veterinary care Bo was receiving. It led the Freeds to suspect that the clinic was concealing the true condition of their beloved dog while continuing to charge exorbitant fees for his care.
According to the guidelines from the American Animal Hospital Association, performing surgery on a dog with pre-existing lung issues carries significant risks, including severe complications and even fatal outcomes. The Freeds’ allegations suggest a troubling case of veterinary malpractice, as withholding critical information from pet owners while advocating for elective surgeries is widely regarded as unethical.
Seeking justice and accountability
In the wake of their devastating loss, the Freeds are demanding an independent review of Bo’s case by a veterinarian unaffiliated with LIVS. The findings pointed to subpar treatment that failed to meet acceptable veterinary care standards, deepening their grief and anger. They are now preparing to take legal action against the clinic, with plans to donate any potential compensation to charity.
The situation surrounding LIVS has raised eyebrows beyond the Freeds’ case, as reports have emerged of past allegations of negligence and malpractice against the veterinary surgeon who performed Bo’s procedure. These claims suggest a troubling pattern prioritizing profit over patient care, echoed by former employees who have described a toxic culture within the clinic.
As the Freeds navigate their painful journey toward justice, their story highlights the critical importance of transparency and ethical practices in veterinary medicine. It serves as a poignant reminder for all pet owners to remain vigilant in ensuring the best care for their furry friends.
