Having read some of the 1-Star reviews below, it appears our review (below) is rather aligned with the `trend` in this clinic.

Surely when it comes to DENTAL procedures … read on :
_____________________________________________________________
We brought our recently adopted dog, Noga (a 4+ year old poodle–dachshund mix and former breeding dog), to Barkway Pet Health, located at 169 MacPherson Rd, on 27th February for a spay procedure and CHEM 17 (blood tests).

As commonly done, we also asked that her teeth be checked and cleaned while she was under anesthesia.

When we arrived, we met Dr. TENG – the senior vet.

After a quick examination Dr. TENG mentioned that 4–5 teeth might need extraction, but said it might be less.
He would know better once the dental cleaning was done during surgery.
The ESTIMATED TOTAL COST for both procedures was communicated to us there and then as around SGD 1,600.

Several hours later that day, Dr. TENG called my wife, while Noga was already under anesthesia, and informed her that 11 TEETH NEEDS TO BE EXTRACTED.
We were asked to approve this, which we did, trusting the professional judgment of Dr. TENG who was performing the procedure.

When we collected Noga later that afternoon (around 4pm), the FINAL BILL was about SGD 2,600 – significantly HIGHER than the initial estimate (62% higher!).

What concerned us more than the price, however, was the

**** LACK OF CLEAR DIAGNISTIC EVIDENCE ****

serving as a clear proof and explaining exactly why so many teeth needed to be removed.

Dr. TENG mentioned that extensive extractions are very common with ex-breeding dogs, and the only documentation we were shown consisted of :
• Several mobile PHONE PHOTOS taken during the procedure
• A DENTAL CHART mapping the extracted teeth
• Later on (via WhatsApp), a periodontal PROBING CHART showing measurement numbers

*** WHAT WAS NOT DONE, ***

and what was expected in a case involving 11(!) extractions, was a simple and inexpensive DENTAL X-RAY.

In veterinary dentistry this is almost a routine diagnostic tool, that helps confirm possible issues such as:

– Bone loss;
– Root infection; or
– Gum recession below the surface.

It would have provided OBJECTIVE EVIDENCE that each tooth truly needed removal.

Without that, we were essentially asked to rely entirely on the vet’s judgment after the fact, supported only by photos and internal measurements, which could only be used for recording, not to justify such extensive procedure.

Goes without saying that when such a significant number of teeth are removed, and when the cost rise substantially (62%) above the initial estimate, clearer diagnostics and explanation would go a long way in building TRUST in the medical practitioner and or the clinic he/she works at.

To be fair:
• The surgery itself went smoothly.
• Noga is recovering well and has had no complications thus far.

However, the communication, transparency, and diagnostic process around the dental extractions left us VERY uncomfortable.

A simple DENTAL X-ray, which takes very little time and provides clear visual evidence, could have avoided a lot of doubt and concern.

We share this review so other pet owners understand the importance of asking – in advance – about dental diagnostics and how extraction decisions are made.

Needless to say, that given our extensive experience with caring for dogs and cats, couple with intimate familiarity with many of the top clinics across Singapore, and even more so, with vet-Tech practitioners and Vet physicians, we will refrain from going back to Barkway Pet Health.

Great clinic! Dr Charmaine gave very detailed explanation on the issues and what will be done during surgery. Prices was very reasonable too. Definitely suggest Barkway if it’s within your vicinity. Could tell the surgery was nicely done as my cat was not uncomfortable afterward. Quick response on WhatsApp too. Also, the clinic was very clean, no strong animal smell.