Insider Pages Reviews for Animal Medical Ctr Southern Ca

5 Stars: Schulman walks on water (by Oksana M.)

Oksana M. — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 22:17:00 GMT

Schulman is one of the few Board Certified Orthopedic Veterinary Surgeons in the US. DVMs from around the world fly in to intern & watch Alan do surgery, some of which (gastric torsion stomach tacks & one kind of hip replacement) he INVENTED. Schulman, literally, wrote the textbook. He has saved 2 of my dogs from death 3 times (gastric torsion surgery on a 13 y o Dobie, sepsis on the same dog after an attack by an Akita & lung cancer surgery on a 10 y o Borzoi w/ post-op hypothermia).

Your dog will be monitored post-operatively 24/7, there is always a Vet Tech of DVM & they use cardiac & BP monitors. Schulman was using Propofol anesthesia when it was only approved for equines, as it's the safest anesthetic for sighthounds, Boxers & collies. He was also giving Adequan shots for arthritic pain (a nutriceutical) 12 years ago, when many DVMs still don't know about it.

My husband worked there as a Vet Tech for 4 year before passing his state boards to specialize & yes, Alan is arrogant, he's a SURGEON!

If your dog needs a high risk surgery, is elderly or has orthopedic problems, this is the genius that you can trust to care for your dog. IMO, Schulman walks on water. He has a wonderful bedside manner. They're not cheap, but neither is AMC over-priced. You get what you pay for...there's a reason that Schwartzenegger brings his golden retrievers here... He wants the best.

Only an unprofessional, jealous DVM would tell a prospective client that that his deceased pet could have been 'saved'. Talk is cheap, lies are free.

1 Stars: The worst vet ever (by susan d.)

susan d. — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 03:47:00 GMT

I called Shulman's office to make an appt. I ask specifically if he had an endoscope to scope my dogs nose, they said yes. I made my appt. and went to meet him. However, once I got to his office he tells me that he does not have an endoscope and that it would necessary to perform surgery. He spent a lot time talking about the surgical procedure that would need to performed. A surgery that would require cutting my dogs nose in half to see her sinuses and as he is discussing this procedure he is constantly looking at his picture of himself clad in a hockey suit that was hanging on the wall. No doubt dreaming of being a hockey player. He was very unprofessional. I paid him for his bazaar visit and left How does a guy like this get a license to be a vet is unbelievable. Beware everyone.

5 Stars: Great Hospital...Priceless Vets! (by Suni A.)

Suni A. — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:01:00 GMT

Wow, I'm really surprised to read these reviews. It makes me wonder why people are saying they are expensive. Trust me, I've been to over 6 hospitals in the area and they are the most cost effective (especially if you go to the other hospitals on Sepulveda). The staff is wonderful and I always leave my visit happy! In terms of Dr. Schulman, I don't think the foundations that go to Animal Medical Center would go to an over-priced facility. If he is really in the business for the money, the last thing he would want are numerous foundations at his door step. My bills haven't been cheap but owning a pet is a luxury not a right.Hope you find a hospital that is as good to you as you are to them.

1 Stars: Most Evil and Abusive Vet in History (by mandy m.)

mandy m. — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:41:00 GMT

I'm glad the person who thinks this is all a joke!! The REAL JOKE is Alan Schulman! He lies about how much a procedure will cost and when you confront him with what was originally stated he becomes hostel. This man should be put in with Manson in prison. He has stated my Dog has an illness, when in fact he does not.I consulted another Vet who is wonderful and assured me he does not have Cancer. All this idiot wants is you dollar bill. Be for warned.Please, do not go to this faculty.

5 Stars: Love this practice! (by Tera A.)

Tera A. — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 22:18:00 GMT

I have a pug who is in routinely for random growth removal. Dr. Schulman is always accommodating and has given my dog a number of successful surgeries. He is a great doctor, his staff is friendly and caring. I could not be any happier with everyone there!

5 Stars: AWESOME CARE WITH DR.SCHULMAN (by Stephanie D.)

Stephanie D. — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 23:49:00 GMT

After trying a few vet hospitals in the area with our new puppy, we have finally found our home. At first not thrilled at having to wait for fifteen minutes in the waiting area for our appointment, we eventually realized why his hospital is packed full of clients waiting to see him. His knowledge base regarding animals and their care is amazing. His bedside manner was exemplary as he sat on the floor at eye level with our pet and took the time to explain things to us that had not been previously mentioned at other hospitals .The technicians and staff were also very patient and understanding. We are thrilled with this hospital.

1 Stars: Good Parking. But they may kill your pet. (by animal l.)

animal l. — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 06:02:00 GMT

It would take 10 pages to explain my experiences here from beginning to end. But, I can tell you that because of the gross negligence of Dr. Schulman my pet died. Ive talked to other vets as well as a couple lawyers and they all said I could easily sue and win. I decided not to though, it wouldnt really make a difference in the end and would mean having to re-live the horrible experience many times over. Im glad for this forum because maybe I can save someone the pain that I went through. The hospital itself has been growing exponentially for years, as has Dr. Schulmans ego and recklessness. He is not the nice guy he pretends to be in the examining room. He speaks in a demeaning way to his staff and insults clients when behind closed doors. I know people that have worked there in the past and I've heard him myself. Schulman is a highly respected surgeon and a lot of other vets send animals to him for surgeries. His surgeries for the most part work out (although I've read some horror stories on here tonight). Schulman as a vet though beware. If you speak to the animal rescue groups around the Westside they will tell you the same thing. Ask around at the dog parks. Hes developing a reputation. He will usually push for the surgery route. Illustrating this in its extreme, he pushes amputation far to often as the first approach. Hes wanted to amputate 2 of my pets tails and pushed to amputate my friends cats p*nis once. Not kidding. My friend took the cat to another vet, got antibiotics, and everything was fine. On a side note Dr. Schiff, Dr. Sandhu, and almost all the other staff are super nice and compassionate people. But the place is just too big with too many animals to function properly or safely, and Schulman is a loose cannon. He is neither honest, nor a good person. Stay away from this hospital if you love your pet.

5 Stars: What a great Doctor!! (by Amy G.)

Amy G. — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 00:34:00 GMT

We adopted a 4 month old Boxer pup from a rescue who had her elbow surgery at this hospital. She was hit by a car and her elbow was broken straight through. She is now 6 months old and as perfect as if it never happened. What a wonderful surgeon Dr Schulman thank you so much.

5 Stars: caring doctors and nice staff (by Aaron B.)

Aaron B. — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 12:50:00 GMT

I have taken my dog to this hospital a few times through their 24 hour emergency services. The doctors always tried to save me money without sparing proper medical attention for my dog.

I like this place very much.

5 Stars: Finally someone helped my dog! (by Michael D.)

Michael D. — Sat, 31 May 2008 11:31:00 GMT

I adopted a dog who is just the sweetest little girl. She started having trouble with severe swelling in her back legs.
After hundreds of dollars and meds her legs never went down to a normal size.

I called the rescue we adopted her from and they suggested Dr Schulman. He kept my dog for one week and gave her back to me 100% normal happy and what we hope is well forever. She will stay on her meds but as soon as I saw her I could tell she felt better.

Thank you Dr Schulman for helping my dog and the generous discount. It is clear this man cares more about the animals then money.

5 Stars: Dr Schulman is a rescue Dog's hero! (by Julie K.)

Julie K. — Wed, 28 May 2008 12:32:00 GMT

I am the president and founder of a San Diego based animal rescue. Understanding the distance we travel to have our animals treated by Dr Schulman should say it all. Most days we travel to Los Angeles to have a rescue dog cared for takes a minimum of 4 to 5 hours round trip. I have many veterinary options in San Diego and still choose to make the long haul. They are rescue friendly, kind and the best orthopedic surgeon around!I believe you cannot please everyone and when your pet is sick it is very emotional so I can only imagine the negative reviews are based on emotion since I have NEVER had a bad experience at this hospital in over two years.

5 Stars: I just have to....... (by Mary S.)

Mary S. — Sat, 17 May 2008 23:35:00 GMT

stop and write about my experience with Dr Schulman. He is the best Orthopedic surgeon there is. I will debate anyone who challenges that.

He has done surgery on two of my dogs and they are better then ever. The staff was so kind and never seemed bothered by my many phone calls checking in all hours asking how they were.

What do people expect have you never gone to a human medical office? When is the last time you got right in and out? He is a specialist for gosh sakes expect to wait a while your dogs health depends on it.

Five stars is not enough I give them 10 stars

5 Stars: Dr Schulman is an expert Doctor! (by Rick M.)

Rick M. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:53:00 GMT

I use my dog as a meter when I am choosing a vet for him. He hates most vets and will pull, growl and fights like a maniac.

When he broke his leg many friends referred me to Dr. Schulman. I prepared for the normal office visit and fight ahead of me. Dr. Schulman walked into the room and Milo attacked him alright with wiggles and kisses. He has never to date and still is not this friendly with any other vet he has met.

His leg surgery went beautiful my dog made a full recovery and 4 years later he is still running about thanks to the expertise of Dr Schulman.

I agree his office is busy and it takes some time to get in and out but you pay the price for the best as the last review said! Milo deserves only the best.

5 Stars: I find it so funny!!! (by Rhonda W.)

Rhonda W. — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 17:53:00 GMT

Reviews like the last one written by Brian whoever. I have known Dr Schulman a long time since he has taken care of many of my dogs and he is a professional so the whole picking your nose thing is a made up joke to put him down.

I have NEVER had a problem getting him on the phone whenever I wanted him to personally answer my questions. In fact he would take lots of time to explain it in detail.

The bottom line I will tell everyone is the man is the best surgeon I know his office is busy but go anywhere that has the best to offer no matter the service and the demand will always create a busy environment. Make a choice to have the best or not my dogs are getting the best Dr. Schulman.

1 Stars: Absolute worst experience (by Brian M.)

Brian M. — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:07:00 GMT

I only had one experience after a referral and it has been my worst experience at any veterinarian.

My dog needed surgery. First they rescheduled 3 times and gave me lame excuses. This was not a big deal at first until everything else happened. During the pre-surgery interview Dr Schulman picked his nose the whole time, which I found disgusting, but again, I bite the bullet and hoped the surgery would be worth it. Then I picked my dog up after surgery and even though a had a lot of questions Dr Schulman was unavailable to answer them. I was then told to take my dog off her regular medications that she needs to live, which I found amazing. They gave me no explanation.

The following day I check my dog and found several errors wrong. I called them and they scheduled me for an appointment the following day. When I arrived they told me they would charge me for the post check up. I became irritated. Then when I went to se Dr Schulman I overheard him say that he would not see me whatsoever. The tech told me I did not have an appointment even though I did. I left and spoke with the rep later to get information about why this mistake had happened. They convinced me to come back again, which I reluctantly did.

When I arrived back no one would look at me when they spoke to me, including Dr Schulman who was annoyed, abrupt and cold.

The whole experience was unprofessional and cold. I heard others complain while I was there. They seem to be too busy to handle their patients. They messed up and refused to take responsibility.

Do not go there!

5 Stars: This is my favorite Animal Hospital!!!!!! (by Briana L.)

Briana L. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:22:00 GMT

I had a 15 year old Boxer who has now passed away. When she was alive she had lots of problems. My Lucy had a ear hematoma and needed surgery. Three vets told me if I put her under any anesthesia she would not survive. They kept trying to do all they could to fix her ear and not do surgery.

FINALLY someone referred me to Dr Schulman he said he could do the surgery and he was sure he could keep her safe and would do his best. My dog was just fine had her surgery her poor ear was finally better and she had suffered from senior bronchitis forever and when she came home it was gone. He said he did something for her while she was under that helped. It didn't just help it went away.

This man is an expert for sure and cares about animals!! I will always be his patient and customer!

5 Stars: Dr. Shulman is amazing... he saved her life. (by Rachel F.)

Rachel F. — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:56:00 GMT

I am appalled at some of the negative reviews I have read on here about Dr. Shulman and the Animal Medical Center. My husband and I decided to do private dog rescue on our own a couple of months ago, and 2/weeks ago pulled a 6/week old puppy from the Downey shelter in L.A. who had a shattered pelvis & a major hernia.

Dr. Shulman was the doctor we had give us a consult about her (so we could know how much money we would need to save up for her surgeries). Dr. Shulman took her back THAT NIGHT and did the surgery the very next morning COMPLETELY FREE. He didn't want her legs to "set" the way they were... he did a 2/hour, $3,000 operation on her FOR FREE.

He repaired BOTH hips AND the hernia. He is seriously amazing. Because of this doctor; this puppy can walk again.

5 Stars: Dr Shulman is the Bomb!! (by LINDA U.)

LINDA U. — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 19:15:00 GMT

I stumbled on this website and was appalled regarding the negative reviews. I have numerous friends & people I have just met ( today about 12) that I have referred to Dr Shulman they have been absolutely so pleased with the results with their beloved pets. i so respect him as a doctor and surgeon,his care & concern for you pet is so genuine. I challenge you to ignore these vicious reviews and see for yourself. The staff is always kind even tho I know I am a pain always calling to check on my boy. I know you will feel confident and trusting that your animal is in the best of hands with Dr. Shulman .

5 Stars: Best of the Best!!!! (by Leilani L.)

Leilani L. — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 22:15:00 GMT

As the Founder of an Animal Rescue Fund and Medical Director for our sponsored rescues I spare no expense for our animals and want the highest quality care and service.

Dr Schulman and his staff are friendly, kind, and caring. Dr Schulman is the best surgeon I use hands down. He is generous and cares about the animals he treats.

I have had other vets in other areas I work with see the follow up care for many of Dr Schulman's surgeries and they have all said he does incredible surgeries and they admire him.

His phones are busy and sometimes you do have to wait but I would wait as long as it took to be seen at this hospital. A busy practice comes from happy satisfied customers who refer all of their friends. If he is that busy without advertising he must be doing something right.

I would and have recommended him to everyone I know.

5 Stars: Thumbs up to Dr. Schulman and the Animal Medical Center (by Marye B.)

Marye B. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:04:00 GMT

We just moved here 6 months ago from the east coast and needed a new vet for our 8 year old lab Shati. Friends recommended Dr Schulman of the Animal Medical Center but I admit that I was a little sceptical after reading the reviews posted. I made the appointment anyway after the insistence of my friends who swore by him and said that they would never go anywhere else. I must say that our experience was completely the opposite of some of the negative reviews posted here. The staff was efficient and friendly even though they were packed and busy, obviously because they are quite popular and have a loyal following. Dr. Schulman's bedside manner was truly compassionate and educated as he spent nearly 20 minutes talking to us about our cares and concerns over our past issues with Shati, namely arthritis and joint problems. He explained all of our options and made us feel completely at ease with our choice of treatment. After the visit upon check-out, a member of his staff spent an additional 10 minutes going over prescribed medications and and made us feel so at home with our new choice of vet. Six months later we are still thrilled with being lucky enough to have found Dr. Schulman. There hasn't been one negative issue (other than having to wait once because an emergency surgery to save another animals life came in.) Shati's care has been excellent and the people who work there truly love animals and have been great! As far as the pricing, the amounts we have been charge are in fact less than what we were paying on the east coast so we have no problem there. Thumbs up to Dr. Schulman and the Animal Medical Center.

5 Stars: Dr Schulman (Ultimate Yankee Fan!!!) (by Sara S.)

Sara S. — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 15:10:00 GMT

How lucky was I after relocating from New York to LA that the vet I randomly chose from the phone book turned out to be the Ultimate Yankee Fan. Having grown up in New York, I am a bit of a Yankee fan myself and Dr. Schulman (Alan as he insist I call him) made me feel right at home. On top of that, in my opinion, he is also the Ultimate Veterinarian. Although my dog Jackson was just in for a routine exam and vaccinations, Alan took the time to answer all my questions in detail even though he had a very busy morning.
When I was leaving the hospital I noticed now busy the waiting room was and now I know why. He's the best and worth the wait.

5 Stars: The best vet in LA (by Tonya M.)

Tonya M. — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 14:26:00 GMT

I brought my dog Polly to see Dr. Schulman because she was having trouble walking and crying out in pain. My regular vet suggested I see Dr Schulman because in his opinion, he is the best Neurologist in town. Dr Schulman diagnosed my dog as having a slipped disc based on his examination and x-rays. Dr. Schulman spoke to me at length giving me the option of surgery versus conservative treatment. Dr Schulman elected conservative treatment for my dog and explained to me why she wasn't a surgical candidate at this time. I was impressed, that Dr. Schulman, being a surgeon, did not rush my dog into costly tests and an expensive surgery. I was also impressed by his knowledge. He discussed in detail my dog's condition followed by his wonderful support staff that followed up with me on a consistent basis until Polly was better. To this day, Polly is doing great (sometimes a little to great!)
Polly is the love of my life and you made her perfect again!
Thanks Dr. Schulman,

1 Stars: THEY HAVE NO IDEA WHAT"S GOING ON (by kim g.)

kim g. — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 17:52:00 GMT

I recently brought my dog Bella into thier office at 4:00 am Tuesday because my dog woke me screaming in pain. The doctor on duty saw her right away and told me she had a problem with a disc in her back they could try treatment which would cost approximately $1200. They would know within a few days if it worked or not. She was paralyzed and in alot of pain by the way. If the treatment didn't work the orthopedic surgeon Dr. Shulman could do surgery which would cost $5000. That doctor then told me I would need to come up with $3000 before they would do the surgery. Next day the doctor called to say the treatment wasnt working and asked if I wanted to proceed with the sugery or pick up my dog. I asked him how he knew so quickly because he had said they would know in a few days. He responded with telling me there would be some sort of change by now. Since there was nothing there really was no point in proceeding and asked when I was going to pay the balance I had. I initially only had $450 cash on me when I got there at 4:00am. I immediately went down there 7 hours later and aksed what was going on with the treatment where I was told the doctor would see me and did I want to pay for the balance on my now $2200 bill? I asked to see my dog and the doctor. My dog wasnt well at all. I was crying and the doctor's only concern was whether or not I was picking up the dog or leaving her for surgery. I aksed if she could stay another day and continue treatment and figure out a way to come up with the money. At that time he mentioned a program called care credit. That when I paid the $3000 Dr Shulman would probably work out an arrangement. He also said I could shop around but would find his office was cheaper by about 2 or 3000 than any other offices in the area. Before I left I paid the receptionist another $200 and said I would be back later with $1000. She said I would need $2500 (not $3000) before the Dr would do surgery. At about 2:00 I dropped off a check for $1100 from a friend. Wednsday morning the office called to say they couldnt accept a check from someone unless they were there. Fine. My friend called and gave them his credit card. Then another friend called and gave them his credit card for $400. I applied for the care credit. Total $3600. Finally Thursday evening the Dr did the surgery. Called me about 45 min later to say my dog was doing great and I could come visit her in the morning but not that evening because she needed to rest. Encouraged me to bring her favorite food. I asked him what my balance was at that time because the receptionist never called me back to clear up the initial mix up about the first estimate. The Dr said dont worry about that lets just get Bella well. I went to visit Bella following afternoon and was told no because she wasnt doing well from the surgery. I told them the Dr said she was doing great! They said they didnt know why he told me that because she was never doing well. Fast forwrd 5 days later my dog is still sick. They lied about the payment arrangement. Even said they were going to charge me daily for boarding of $85. They DONOT communicate with each other. They tell you one thing then do whatever they want. The DR who works graveyard is just a sales person for Dr Shulman. I wouldnt reccomend you bring your animal here in the worst emergency. They are uncaring. Spend more time socialising with each other behind the desk than helping people. They are unprofessional and Dr Shulman's nurse thinks she deserves an award or something because she repeatedly tells you shes been his nurse for 15 years every oppertunity she gets. Not kidding. I think she told me 15 times how long shes been his nurse. Great! Act like one.

1 Stars: Unqualified and Negligent (by chez j.)

chez j. — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 11:52:00 GMT

We brought in our french bulldog Sunday, October 28, 2007 at 11:15pm for what we suspected was a back problem. He'd broken his back in the past and was exhibiting some of the same symptoms.

We were seen by Margarita. We explained his history of back issues, how he'd broken several discs and had them removed two years ago. She tested his reflexes in his back left leg and they weren't really working. "But to be honest," we told her, "his back leg was never really 100% after the operation." She felt his spine, he displayed some sensitivity and his stomach was gripped with muscles, indicating tht he might be attempting to keep his back immobile.

The doc was convinced it was the back, we suspected but weren't completely sure. We did know, however, that he was in pain and that issue we wanted to address. The doc expressed doubt in the care of her facility because their surgeon was out for the week, and if there was an emergency that required immediate surgical action, he would have to be transferred. I said that no one was performing emergency back surgery on my dog until I spoke with the doctot who performed the last procedure.

Could she recommend another place? She grimaced at that option because "most places would only have interns at midnight on a sunday." So we shouldn't stay there, but we shouldn't go anywhere else. "So what you're saying is we're screwed?" I politely asked. No, no, but we should just be aware. Another option she mentioned was to "take him to City of Angels crisis center 15 minutes away." OK , good---"but they're really crowded tonight." she reported, "I just sent a couple over and they had to wait 2 hours to have their dog seen for an emergency."

Our little man was getting more uncomfortable by the minute, so we finally agreed that she would take some x-rays that we could send to our NY doctor in the morning. The X-rays showed what looked like little bit of narrowing in his 5th vertebrae, but we wanted the images compared with what was done in NY to determine the extent of the damaged. Since she wasn't too busy, she would monitor him over the night with muscle relaxers and steroids for the swelling so he wasn't in pain. .

I called to check his progress in the morning. He he slept through the night, was still panting a bit, but generally seemed OK. By noon, they told me that he was doing well and could go home with oral meds while we awaited the doctor's call.

After paying the $501 bill, we waited for our ittle man when Dr. Schiff came outreport that our dog began an episode of very labored breathing and they wanted to put him in an oxygen cage. We were confused, asking if anything had changed to cause it, how hard was he breathing, what did they give him. She said nothing had changed and it was just sudden.

We asked to see him, expecting to be brought to the back room. Instead, after about 5 minutes 2 nervous technicians carried out an unrecognizable relic of our dog. He was completely limp like a rag, his eyes rolled back into his head, a big swollen purple tongue hung unnaturally out the side of his mouth and his shaved little arms were on fire with fever. My husband ordered them to take him right to the oxygen tank, why were they wasting time. I said he was burning up.

What the hell was going on? He should never have been brought in. He didn't take to the oxygen. They intubated him for the time being, but he might have to go on a ventilator. The closest hospital with a ventilator was occupied, so he had to be transported to City of Angels Crisis Center; the place too crowded for us the night before.

It all happened so fast, we just said yes to everything. Our little man, how could this be? Who had answers? They called a pet taxi with an oxygen tank and planned to send a technician along for the ride. While we waited, we were hit with another $280 charge.

At City of Angels, we learned that our guy had a 107.4 fever, and they didn't kno for how long. By the time he got to Culver City, his temp dropped to 96. He had every complication from the fever that on could imagine. We tried everything, but by Thursday, we lost our precious little angel .

We never did find out hat was originally wrong with him, but we do know that he should NEVER had had a fever that high for that long. Dr. Shiff at AMCSC could have thrown him in an ice bath, given him an injection to reduce the fever immediately, given him a traecheotomy. Instead, we feel that they panicked, then unloaded him onto another doctor. She didn't even offer the City of Angels doctors any help in what could have happened.

We are utterly ravaged with grief and remain in the dark about what happened to our little man who was happy, playing and loving just hours before we brought him to that first place.

The decision is yours, but I wanted to share my story so the negligence of the "doctors" of that facility don't devastate any other family looking to treat their beloved companion

1 Stars: This place ought to be put to sleep... (by cubby c.)

cubby c. — Thu, 15 Mar 2007 11:07:00 GMT

A few years ago my dog went in to get bladder stones removed. Surgery went fine, but a day or so afterwards, the hair on my dog's back started to fall off, in chunks. At first a little, then a lot. Worse, we noticed his back, underneath the coat of hair, was black, like tar. We took him back to AMCOSC and they had no idea what was wrong (or so they claimed). They said it was a spider bite. Well, before we knew it, his entire back hair was gone, and we discovered Choco had a huge burn that yes, covered his entire back. Third degree burn that went down to his muscle in one spot. If you saw pictures, you would not be able to eat for a week. The story is much more painful than you'd care to read, but the bottom line is, Dr. Schulman ended up having to cut off approximately 8x12 inches of skin off my dog's back, then pulling the remainder of his skin together and stiching him back up -to this day, Choco still has a scar that runs the length of his back, a scar that will never heal. Now, in the doctor's defense (if there is one), he performed the reconstructive surgery at now cost (a surgery Choco would not have needed if it weren't for Dr. Schulman's carelessness) and saw him just about every day for three months at no cost to clean up the burn so that it wouldn't get infected (I'd also like to point out that I myself had to wash the burn twice a day as well, you can't begin to imagnie the extent of the ordeal). I was also reimbursed $500. Mind you, the bladder stone surgery was a lot more than $500, and that surgery I was not reimbursed for.

Now, at the time this happened, we thought long and hard about suing, but we decided not to for a few reasons. First off, we are not lawsuit-friendly people. Secondly, we believe that accidents in surgery (and life) can happen sometimes without there being someone to blame. (Btw, let me make it clear in case you haven't caught on, but the third degree burn that went down to the muscle was absolutely a direct result of the bladder stone surgery, this according to every expert I've talked to). Also, as I've been told, similar accidents happen in human surgeries as well (even if rare), so it's definitely something that occurs - something doctors are (or should be) aware of and try to avoid. But most importantly, we did not sue because we just wanted to put the nightmare behind us.

Looking back on it, I wish we had sued. Not to cash in, but to put Dr. Schulman out of business. He does not belong in any sort of medical practice.

Back then, then thing that bothered most was that he never once took responsibility. Never. He always blamed a "spider bite" (how much of a face-slap insult is that?). When he wrote me a check for $500, there was no admission of guilt. He even wanted me to sign a document stating I would not take legal action. I refused. I am not that kind of person, but I gave him my word that I would not, assuming Choco was fully recovered and didn't need further medical attention. So I have not taken legal action (we've learned to look past the scar, even if it's the first thing strangers ask about). I'm sure a lack of admission of guilt had something to do with his insurance, and not wanting to lose his business, so I was even able to understand that and let it go.

But what bothers me the most today is that I know this was not an isolated incident. I know he is a terrible doctor, I know he is careless, I know he does not care about his patients. I hear about it from strangers all the time at the dog park. They come up to me and ask about Choco's scar, they ask what happened to him, and when I give them a brief rundown (more brief than this one), I've had people automatically know who the doctor at fault was - without me ever mentioning Dr. Schulman's name, or even the Animal Medical Center Of Southern California. That is terrifying.

Here's another way I know he is a careless doctor... Two weeks ago I rescued another dog. He had a tiny cut on his ear that the previous owners told me there was nothing the vet could do about it, that it'd heal on its own. The first day I had Bu, I walked out of the shower to find his face covered in blood - his cut had opened. I took him to the VCA hospital and was told the reason he was getting at his ear is he had an ear infection. Thanks to the VCA (located a convenient couple of blocks from Dr. Schulman), Bu is on his way to recovery.

The vet's name who was so inept as to miss the diagnosis of a simple ear infection... Dr. Schulman, of the Animal Medical Center of Southern California.

I have plenty of evidence to support all my claims and would be happy to provide it. My statue of limitations has passed (or so I've been told), but lets put this guy out of business. I know he has good reviews on here, but hey, he can't screw up EVERY animal, can he? Would you trust your children with a doctor who doesn't give them the kind of medical attention they deserve/need?

2 Stars: Arrogant Staff (by S G T.)

S G T. — Sat, 16 Sep 2006 21:53:00 GMT

Primarily the front desk!!! I am, by nature, a very calm person, and their impudence and arrogance caused me to totally 'lose it'.

They are expensive as well. I seriously doubt that anyone can get out of there under a few hundred $.

PROS: Dr. Schulman
CONS: The rest of the staff and their fees.

5 Stars: They are the best! (by Joanna M.)

Joanna M. — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 11:55:00 GMT

Upon their arrival at Animal Medical Center, my boyfriend carried my dying dog through the parking garage to the elevator. He met a man who said,
"Your dog must be very sick."
My boyfriend agreed that sadly, yes, the dog was very ill.
The man said,
"Don't worry. You've come to the right place. They
are the best."
That man was right. They are the best.
Dr. Kahlon and Dr. Schulman saved my dog even though his condition was very difficult to diagnose. They never said my dog was old or caused me to loose faith. They explained everything from best to worse case scenario. I was treated with more compassion and understanding by these two vets
than I have ever been by any M.D. Imagine what they did for my dog. We were allowed to visit and hand feed him while he was hospitalized.
I felt the price was fair and have not been charged for any follow-up visits.
As doggy recovered, we took our kitten for remaining shots and spaying. Yes, I could have got it done for less elsewhere, but what's $3.00 more for a shot when I had peace of mind about her treatment? Kitty is recovering nicely. I didn't worry myself sick over her surgery.
We will never use another vet. I know "never say never", but this is one I plan on sticking to.
Take it from me and the kind stranger in the parking garage. THEY ARE THE BEST.
If you love your pets half as much as I do, you can't afford to go anywhere else.

PROS: They are the best.
CONS: Distance, $$$, Front office staff needs work

5 Stars: Dr. Alan Schulman saved my dog's life.. (by Kate H.)

Kate H. — Sat, 11 Mar 2006 18:26:00 GMT

Dr. Schulman is a true life-saver. He has saved not only my own dog, but also my neighbor's standard poodle who was horribly injured by a car. he takes an extraordinary amount of time explaining every detail and treatment option and is VERY highly skilled as a surgeon. The new offices on Sepulveda are first rate. This is a 1st class hospital, but you pay handsomely for the treatment your pet receives. ONE IMPORTANT POINT>Make sure Schulman performs surgery if necessary...another dr. (no longer on staff) botched a simple spaying of a family pug. The practice had grown too large for just Schulman for a time, but that seems settled now.

PROS: Alan Schulman is the best vet in L.A.
CONS: PRICEY, busy, bad experience with other vet there (no longer on staff)

5 Stars: Great Vet (by Jill B.)

Jill B. — Sun, 15 Jan 2006 10:20:00 GMT

I had previously taken my dog rescue to a vet in Manhattan Beach who charged tons of money and just kept giving her antibiotics for five weeks since he didn't know what was wrong. When she still wasn't getting better, I took her to Animal Medical Center at the recommendation of two friends. The vet there took one look at her, said she needed to be spayed (the other vet didn't want to do it until he thought she was ready) and operated on her that day. When I picked her up the next day, she was already better. The follow up appointments were free and she has never looked back.

The main vet is an orthopedic surgeon and has performed very successful surgeries on my two other friends dogs. I feel very safe in his hands.