Mountain West Veterinary Specialists

Our family recently had to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize our 15-year-old dog. Shortly before he passed, he bit a family member and we were informed that rabies testing would be required. My issue is not that the hospital followed the law. If rabies testing was required, then it was required. My issue is that no one clearly explained what that actually meant. We were left with the understanding that a sample of brain tissue would be collected. At no point were we told that our dog's head would be removed for testing or that we would not receive all of his remains back with his cremation. We learned that afterward. To make matters more confusing, we were offered and charged for a nose print at the time arrangements were made. Weeks later, we were informed that it could not be completed because our dog's head had been sent for rabies testing. We were also told that memorial items such as nose prints are completed by the cremation provider, not the hospital. This left us questioning why the option was offered and sold to us in the first place if rabies testing would affect the cremation provider's ability to complete it. Compassionate care is not about avoiding difficult conversations. It is about ensuring families receive clear, honest information so they understand what is happening and are not blindsided later. Nothing would have changed the outcome. We were never asking for a different outcome. We simply deserved to know what was going to happen before saying goodbye to our dog. Being told that rabies testing is required is very different from being told that your dog's head would be removed for testing, that you may not receive all of their remains back, and that certain memorial items may no longer be possible. Learning these details weeks later added unnecessary pain to an already devastating loss. My hope is that this hospital reviews its communication practices so that future families are fully informed about the rabies testing process and how it may affect their pet's remains and memorial arrangements.

Dr. Simmons and Kristen were great, very informative, and transparent. The staff were great and we were pleased to have our fur baby back home and feeling better. No more kong balls in our home!!

If I could give Mountain West more stars, I would. we recently worked with Dr. Ryan who is an absolute genius at his work. He really took the time and energy to go the extra mile with the very big surgery my Mini Aussie underwent. His transparency, and follow up was reassuring and appreciated during the process. We have also worked with Dr. Bruce, and Dr. Simmon who were both absolutely amazing. I am very impressed by their attention to detail and deep care with their work, it shows in their practice and staff. I trust them with any situation and recommend them highly. The staff was kind—they even remembered my dog and greeted him as a friend, which I really love. Thank you, Mountain West!

My husband and I are SO impressed with these guys! Our poor dog Bandit got attacked at the dog park and was left with a deep, open gash on his neck :( I work in the dog world and know how expensive things can be… but these guys were amazing! They had to do an overnight stay (as Bandit wasn’t the most urgent case) but they explained everything to us on what they were going to do and a rough estimate on when he’d be done. They were very communicative which is so appreciated in a stressful situation. You can call them anytime for updates or questions which is also really appreciated! Everything went super smoothly, the Vet did an AMAZING job repairing the wound! Normally Bandit is very weary about places he goes, but when we went back to get the staples removed, he wasn’t scared or anything which was so relieving to me. They got us in and out for removal and Bandit was a happy guy! I was expecting a high bill given he had to go under anesthesia, and do the overnight stay but we walked out paying less than 500$ for everything with medications included. The staff is so friendly and welcoming. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a Vet who genuinely cares about their patients and doesn’t cost and arm and a leg :)

Dr Ryan has done three surgeries on my husky - he's amazing. He spends a lot of time explaining the operation, the recovery and answering your questions. And, text you consistently to keep you updated. I'd strongly recommend visiting with Dr Ryan before you have anyone operate on your pup. The staff is truly first rate and care deeply. Trust me. I drive 50 min each way from park city due to the professionalism, expertise and trust!