Granby Veterinary Clinic
“It has taken me 6 months to write this review. I would start and then put it down and pick it up again later, only to discard it. It just made me so sad. But then I began to consider it another way.
Long story short, my Great Pyrenees/Golden mix Django, begin to exhibit signs of Degenerative Myelopathy. Basically, it's ALS in dogs and it came on very quickly and intensely. Within the span of maybe a week. Now, my good boy was 14+ years of age and so I understand that he had lived a full, rich life, one not wanting for anything, filled with loving people and grand adventures and lazy days.
I happen to live next door to Granby Veterinary Clinic. I had called when I first moved here over a year ago to ask about veterinary care for Django. They were super friendly but let me know that they were not taking new patients. I was disappointed, but understood.
Fast forward to 6 months ago: my pup is really not doing well and I am kind of freaking out. It was a snowy morning and we braved the cold and wind for his morning constitution. His legs completely failed him and he fell in the snow into a bush, unable to stand up. 😭 The fear I saw in his eyes made me know that the end was coming - and soon. I panicked a little (ok, maybe a lot), gathered myself, and ran to the vet - which wasn't even officially opened yet.
I didn't bang on the door, but I knocked in what I hoped was a gentle but firm manner. The assistant answered the door. I wish I could remember her name because she was absolutely lovely. She immediately went to get the doctor. I did not have an appointment, I knew they were not taking new patients, but I also knew that my beloved companion needed help.
Doc Sue did not hesitate. She immediately came outside with me, headed straight towards Django, and gave him some field tests. It was very clear at that point what needed to happen. She did not mince words, but she saw the fear and sadness on both our faces (I think) and she told me what I needed to know in such a kind, compassionate way.
It took all three of us to get him up, with a towel as sort of a pulley. We got him in her office, laid him down on the floor where I laid with him, and she explained to both of us what was getting ready to happen. She was so calming and so affirming. She listened to me, she understood the importance of the moment, the weight of it.
While she administered the medication, she spoke softly to both me and Django. She allowed me the time and space and presence to give last rites and tell him what a difference he had made in my life.
They did not rush me, they were not concerned about the money right away, and I am so thankful for their empathy and love for both me and Django in that moment. It warmed my heart immensely that I interrupted their day completely, and they took us in anyway.
As a clergy person, I know it takes a special vocation to care for God's creation. I don't know if they're accepting new clientele now, but I know when I am ready for another companion, I definitely know who I want taking care of my family with fur, and that I will definitely go next door, knock gently, and ask!!
Thank you all so much. It was a day I will never forget; but now it's one I don't look on so much with sadness as I do gratitude. Not only for the peace and comfort you gave Django, but also that it was shared so openly with me. 🩷”
