I have had a wellness plan with Banfield for many years about 16 years with one pet, and now almost two and a half years with my current pet. Over the years, I have visited different Banfield locations, and most of my experiences have been very positive. The Banfield location on University Parkway, for example, has always been wonderful, friendly, and professional.
Unfortunately, my experience at the Tamiami Trail location in Sarasota has been very different because of one staff member, Beth. My interaction with her today was very uncomfortable, and this was not the first time. I believe this was at least the third time I felt this way with her, but I had never said anything before.
Beth’s manner of speaking comes across as cold, unfriendly, and dismissive. She does not greet clients warmly, smile, or make you feel comfortable. During today’s visit, she asked whether my dog was still taking Simparica Trio. I explained that I stopped giving it to him because he began having seizures while taking it, and after I stopped the medication, the seizures stopped. I also mentioned that seizures are listed as a possible side effect in the medication’s advertising.
Instead of responding with concern or understanding, I felt dismissed and judged. Her facial expressions and tone made me feel as if my concerns as a pet owner were not being respected.
Later, I calmly tried to explain to Beth how her attitude and tone made me feel. Rather than acknowledging my concern or saying something simple like, “I’m sorry I made you feel that way” or “That was not my intention,” she became defensive. She raised her voice at me and repeatedly told me I was being rude.
I want to be very clear: I was not being rude. I have always believed in treating people the way I want to be treated. I consider myself a friendly person, and I make a real effort to treat others with kindness and respect. Customer service matters to me, and I know there is a respectful way to speak to people, even in difficult conversations.
I was simply expressing how I felt and as the owner of my dog. Beth was the one who raised her voice and spoke to me in a rude manner. When she continued saying I was being rude, I told her that I was not being rude she was simply not used to someone telling her how they feel about the way she treats them.
After this experience, I looked at other reviews and noticed that I am not the only person who has complained about Beth’s attitude. Another review also mentioned that she was rude. That makes me believe this may not be an isolated situation.
I truly hope management has a serious conversation with Beth and addresses the way she communicates with clients. I do not know whether this will actually happen or whether this type of feedback matters to management, but I sincerely hope it does. Clients should feel respected and heard, especially when they are discussing concerns about their pet’s health.
I expect respectful and professional communication in a veterinary setting. Staff may disagree or have a different professional opinion, but there is a proper way to speak to clients. Pet owners should not be made to feel judged, guilty, or uncomfortable.
I hope Banfield takes this seriously. Compassion, professionalism, and respectful communication should be expected from every staff member. One person’s attitude can negatively affect the entire experience.