I have avoided writing this review for years because the experience is still painful to think about, but I feel it’s important to share.
Years ago, my dog was diagnosed with a heart murmur by Dr. Corinne Lemay. As many pet owners know, a murmur can be an early warning sign of heart disease, and early referral to a cardiologist can make a meaningful difference. Unfortunately, Dr. Lemay never recommended a cardiology referral at that stage. Instead, we waited until my dog was already in heart failure before a referral was finally made; long after she could have been evaluated for early-intervention medications that might have helped delay the progression.
Throughout the months that followed, I felt dismissed when I asked questions or expressed concerns. Any time I asked something heart-related, I was met with, “I’m not a vet cardiologist, so I cannot answer your heart questions,” delivered in a tone that made me reluctant to ask anything further. Because of that, during appointments I only brought up issues unrelated to her heart; not because I was in denial, but because I was trying to respect the boundaries she set.
One appointment stands out clearly: I brought my dog in because I suspected an upper respiratory issue (she was later diagnosed with asthma). Dr. Lemay looked at me and said, “You know what I think? I think you’re in denial that your dog is in heart failure.” It was one of the most hurtful comments I have ever heard from a veterinarian.
I was not in denial, I was living in constant panic, managing an exhaustive medication regimen (Flovent inhaler, Hydrocodone, Prednisone, nausea meds, Torsemide, Sildenafil, Spironolactone, Benazepril, Vetmedin, vitamins, and more), monitoring her symptoms 24/7, and doing everything in my power to keep her comfortable. I rarely slept. I never left her alone. I even risked my job once by bringing her to work because I refused to let her struggle without me. The suggestion that I was somehow ignoring her condition was not only inaccurate, it was cruel.
That comment, combined with the lack of early referral and the overall dismissiveness, was the moment I knew I could no longer bring my dog back to Manchester Animal Hospital. I needed compassionate, proactive care, and unfortunately, I did not receive that here.
I wish I could write a different review. I wish this experience had been supportive, collaborative, and respectful. But it wasn’t, and sharing this is the only way I can help other pet owners advocate for their companions.
For almost 6 years Dr. Lemay and her entire staff have taken amazing care of both of my kitties, Lacey and Finnegan. My furbabies were healthy their entire lives until 2020 when they both started developing health conditions. I had just moved to this area from a nearby city. My mobile vet didn't come here so I had to find someone new. Unfortunately both of my kitties got sick right as covid was happening. After several ER visits and a new mobile vet that discovered a heart condition in my Lacey, I decided it was time for us to have a brick and mortar vet. Thank goodness for this clinic who took us in and have over the years done so much for my babies, I can't list it all here. Through countless emergencies, lots of serious health conditions and many, MANY good reports in between, this practice kept my babies going with great quality of life. I lost Lacey two years ago this month and I just lost Finney a few weeks ago. With each loss, I received beautiful cards signed by everyone there. For 17 years those babies were my everything. I'm so heartbroken, it feels unbearable at times. But Dr. Lemay and her staff, they helped us through so much. My babies lived longer, were happy and well cared for not only because of their care, but because they gave me the tools I needed to take better care of them here at home for those 6 years. I don't have words to express my gratitude. I will never forget what you did for us and for your friendship. Thank you.
They kicked my dog out of the clinic because they had a wait-list and he was just up for his senior exam and dental surgery. My dog is blind and small non aggressive and just a delight delicate little thing who never barks bites nips anything. They sucked my bank account dry and had the nerve to drop him as a patient because he needed a kennel cough vaccine before going to Russia with him in a few days before the flight aand they couldn't fit him in. I left a bad review and he magically was no longer a patient. Screw this place. They said it was a need based clinic and other animals on the wait-list needed to be seen. He had a surgery scheduled for Christ's sake. Wait-list my ass.
We’ve been bringing our dog to Manchester Animal Hospital for years, and they’ve always taken such great care of him. The staff is kind, patient, and you can tell they truly love animals. Whether it’s a routine visit or something unexpected, they always make sure we understand everything and that our pup is comfortable. We’re so grateful to have a team we can trust with his care!
