Purdue University Equine Hospital

For local residents in West Lafayette, Indiana, searching under the category "Pet Hospital," the Purdue University Equine Hospital, situated within the David & Bonnie Brunner Equine Hospital at 625 Harrison St Entrance E, provides specialized veterinary care with a notable offering of 24/7 emergency services. The available customer reviews present a dichotomy of experiences, with one highlighting exceptional emergency care for a non-equine pet and reasonable pricing, while the other reports severe issues with customer service, communication delays, high costs, and concerns about the level of care provided by students. Therefore, an objective introduction must acknowledge both the potential for outstanding emergency treatment and the reported significant shortcomings in customer service and oversight.

One customer shared a positive and detailed account of their experience with an unusual emergency: "We took our pet pygmy goat here after an accident that occurred on a Sunday (they are open 24/7). He had been hit by my stepdaughter backing out in the driveway. Dr Haig and her team came out the back door, covid masks on (under covid rules, you can't go inside), and looking like a full MASH unit (at least six vet people met me in the parking lot)! Ollie proceeded to get outstanding care for the next two days and he is now back on his feet. The bill ($450) was still reasonable considering the time and date of the emergency. Highly recommended and thanks to Dr Haig and her team of outstanding, caring professionals!" This review provides valuable information about the hospital's 24/7 availability, their responsiveness in an emergency situation (even for a non-equine animal), the apparent professionalism and care of Dr. Haig and her team, and the perceived reasonableness of the cost for emergency treatment. The description of a large team ("at least six vet people") responding quickly suggests a well-staffed and prepared emergency service. The positive outcome for the pet pygmy goat, Ollie, and the reviewer's strong recommendation underscore a positive experience with the medical care provided in this specific instance.

Conversely, another reviewer recounts a deeply negative experience: "Incredibly rude and cold customer service. My horse was in critical condition and it took hours and hours before I could get a hold of anyone. When being made aware of any problems they will always tell you “they’re Purdue students and don’t know better” but still think it’s okay to charge outrageous prices. My friend’s horse was a patient and they left their halter on so tight it left a sore on his face and they again said “oh they’re just students”. As a Purdue grad, I will never bring ANY animal to Purdue ever again." This review raises serious concerns about the customer service and the quality of care oversight at the hospital. The allegations of "incredibly rude and cold customer service" and significant delays in communication ("hours and hours before I could get a hold of anyone" for a critically ill horse) are alarming. The recurring explanation of errors or shortcomings as being due to staff being "Purdue students and don’t know better," coupled with complaints about "outrageous prices," suggests a potential disconnect between the cost of care and the perceived level of expertise or oversight. The specific incident of a friend's horse developing a facial sore due to an overtight halter, again attributed to student error, raises concerns about basic animal husbandry and the level of supervision. The reviewer's strong condemnation and vow to never return, despite being a Purdue graduate, underscores the severity of their negative experience.

Based on these contrasting reviews, the environment of Purdue University Equine Hospital appears to be equipped for emergency and specialized care, potentially with a large and responsive team available 24/7. However, the negative review suggests potential issues with communication responsiveness and the overall client interaction experience. The reliance on students for care, while part of a teaching hospital setting, raises questions about the level of supervision and the potential for errors impacting patient well-being. The cleanliness and organization of the facility are not directly addressed in these reviews.

As a "Pet Hospital" specializing in equine care (and apparently willing to treat other large animals in emergencies), Purdue University Equine Hospital likely offers a wide range of veterinary services tailored to large animals, particularly horses. These could include emergency care (as highlighted in the pygmy goat incident), routine health examinations, vaccinations, lameness evaluations, diagnostic imaging (such as X-rays and ultrasound), surgical procedures, and specialized treatments for equine-specific conditions. The involvement of Purdue veterinary students suggests that it is a teaching hospital, which may offer access to cutting-edge knowledge and techniques but also implies that care may be delivered by individuals still in training. The pricing structure appears to be a point of contention for at least one customer, who described it as "outrageous." Potential clients should inquire about the costs of services upfront.

The key features of Purdue University Equine Hospital include its 24/7 emergency service availability, a potentially large and responsive team for emergencies, and its role as a teaching hospital involving Purdue veterinary students. However, potential drawbacks highlighted in a review include rude and cold customer service, significant communication delays, concerns about high prices, and allegations of errors and neglect attributed to student inexperience. The fact that it is associated with a major university may suggest access to advanced veterinary knowledge and resources, but the reliance on students necessitates careful consideration of the level of supervision and potential for mistakes.

No specific promotional information is mentioned in either of the provided reviews. University-affiliated veterinary hospitals may occasionally offer discounts for certain procedures or participate in research studies that offer reduced-cost care for enrolled animals. Local residents in West Lafayette, IN, who are interested in learning more about the specific services offered by Purdue University Equine Hospital, their emergency protocols, appointment procedures, pricing structure, and any potential programs or discounts, are strongly encouraged to contact them directly at (765) 494-8548.

In conclusion, for local residents in West Lafayette, Indiana, searching for a "Pet Hospital" specializing in equine care with 24/7 emergency services, Purdue University Equine Hospital offers a critical resource. While one customer reported positive emergency care for a non-equine pet at a reasonable cost, another detailed significant issues with customer service, communication, pricing, and the level of care oversight involving veterinary students. Potential clients should weigh these contrasting experiences and carefully inquire about service protocols, pricing, and the level of supervision provided to students involved in their animal's care before making a decision. The 24/7 emergency availability may be a crucial factor for urgent situations, but it is essential to be aware of the reported potential downsides in other aspects of their service.