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Click here for Customer Letters & Other Correspondence

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Click here for 2002 Satisfaction Survey Quotes

Click here for 2001 Satisfaction Survey Quotes

Click here for 2000 Satisfaction Survey Quotes

Click here for 1999 Satisfaction Survey Quotes

 

Customer Letters and Other Correspondence

Dr. McCauley,

It was GREAT meeting you and your staff yesterday. I learned a lot and am very appreciative of the skills and talent that you provide, and your willingness to TEACH. That is so nice to see! You really have an impressive

place and your skills with the dogs as well as their owners are phenominal.

Everything that everyone has said was RIGHT!!

Laura and the Iowa DoberPack

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Hi Dr. Laurie,

I just wanted to say thanks again for the time you spent with Jilly. You were so patient and understanding with her and I am very appreciative of that. And then there is Reno and he just loves you to death and not just because you have treats. He is so comfortable when you work on him. Even when he is concerned about sensitive areas he trusts you enough to let you do your job and help him. You have an amazing gift and we are lucky that you are in this area to take care of our dogs. Now if we could just get a highway with an exit right at TOPS it would be great. ;)

Happy New Year!

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To everyone at TOPS,

Our beloved Molly peacefully passed away at home in our arms Monday morning.  During Molly's initial evaluation in march, we were so relieved when Dr. Laurie indicated Molly could benefit from therapy.  Where others gave a grim prognosis, TOPS gave us hope.  Molly's progress was inspiring as little by little she gained strength, could stand and eventually take steps in her wheelchair.  In addition to excellent care, TOPS provided us with hope, guidance and compassion as a determined Molly battled her physical and medical obstacles.

We were so impressed with the entire staff's demonstration of professionalism, kindness, patience and interest in Molly's progress and well being.  It was a blessing to have Molly in our lives and see her reach her 18th birthday in April.  Molly's last 3.5 months were a gift that wouldn't have been possible without the help of TOPS.  While words seem insufficient, we would like to thank everyone for participating in Molly's care and making every time we walked in the door such a positive experience.  Please know that the work you do positively affects so many families and truly makes a difference.

Thank You!

Darrell and Margaret Karolyi

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Samson's Story

“You are going to be really happy that you came here.”  Those were the words that we heard, from a total stranger, upon arriving at our first visit to TOPS Animal Rehab Center.  Little did we know how prophetic those words would be.

Our dog Samson – a lab, border-collie mix – had been run over by an SUV in front of our home on a Saturday evening, as we were unloading groceries.  We immediately rushed him to the Animal Emergency Treatment Center in Grayslake.

It was soon determined that Samson had 6 fractures to both sides of his pelvis, but no damage to his vital organs.  He was in a great deal of pain and would require 3 separate surgeries, with no guarantee that he would completely recover physically.  Outside of his injuries, he had youth and strength on his side, so it did not take us long to decide to go ahead with the surgeries.  Our dog meant too much to us to give up on him.  Samson spent a full week at the emergency center, tolerating all 3 surgeries, pain management, and some recovery time.

Upon his discharge to home, Samson was still weak and unstable – particularly on his back right leg where one of the fractures involved the weight bearing part of the joint.  This made it very difficult for him to stand or walk.  We had to support him with a sling so that he could walk without putting any weight on that leg.

At his follow-up visit, the emergency center recommended that Samson be taken to TOPS in Grayslake, for physical therapy and rehab.  We did not know what to expect, but were hopeful that our once very active dog, who could run faster and jump higher than any of the other dogs at the dog park, would once again be able to run and play Frisbee (his favorite game).

This is where our story becomes a sort of miracle.  The TOPS staff scheduled Samson for a series of Pulsed Signal Therapy.  At first it was difficult to even get him to lie down on his right side, as it was too painful.  However, by his 3rd visit, Samson was cooperative and able to switch sides, allowing the pulsation to have a greater effect.  We began to see improvement almost immediately.  Samson was standing longer and actually starting to put weight on his back right leg.  He became more alert and even playful.  By the end of his 9 sessions, it was hard to believe that this was the same dog that we had brought in only weeks before.  He was stronger, more active, and definitely ready to return to his playful, active self.  He was even going up and down stairs on his own – we no longer had to carry him.  Now we have more difficulty holding him back, so that he can completely recover without fear of re-injuring himself.

Thanks to TOPS and their PST, Samson is back to his old self, and true to his name.  He is strong, healthy, and always looking for someone to play Frisbee with him.  Had it not been for the Pulsed Signal Therapy, along with the genuine loving care at TOPS, Samson would never have recovered so thoroughly from his injuries.   We are now spreading the word about the professional and loving care that Samson received at TOPS .  Each at every person at their facility is a genuine animal lover and it shows in the results that the animals achieve. 

For some dog owners it might have been easier to put their dog to sleep than to put in the time and effort that it has taken to get Samson through his injuries, but we had faith.

 “You are going to be really happy that you came here,” was an understatement.  Every day we are amazed by Samson’s recovery and progress.  We can hardly believe that this is the same dog that only weeks earlier, was at deaths door.  Thanks to AETC, TOPS and their PST, Samson has a long happy and active life ahead of him.  We just hope that we can keep up with him!

 Marty and Karen

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Tom,

I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know how happy my husband and I am of the care we received at TOPS. Fletcher gets better every day. We received 5 inches of snow this morning and he was actually "frolicking" in the snow this morning. I am so pleased with his recovery and hold no doubt that it is due to Laurie and her staff. I appreciate you and your wife's willingness to work with me and my family during a difficult time. It did not go overlooked. How very professional and compassionate TOPS is! I have told all I know about your facility and given them your web site. We are grateful to have been a part of the TOPS family.

Regards,

Suzanne

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Dr. Laurie,

 

Thank you so much for all the time, effort and work you put into rehabbing Denali.  You impressed us right off the start:  you met with us after closing and did a thorough exam.  I think we were at your clinic that night until around midnight!  Your patience and love for animals shines through.

 

You welcomed Denali's brother (Balto) during Denali's sessions.  Our family cannot put into words how grateful we are that we found you, your clinic and your wonderful staff to help us through such a rough time!  

 

Thank you.  Thank you.  Thank you!

 

Denali's leg is fully re-couped and we look forward to bringing Denali down to see you so that you may witness the "miracle" you performed!

 

Love,

 

Kevin, Lisa, Denali and Balto!

 

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I was told by his orthopedic surgeon that my sheltie Keenan would never do agility again, his leg would never be strong enough after suffering a broken bone and resulting osteoarthritis in his hock.  After PST therapy, hydro-treadmill, and chiropractic adjustments at TOPS, he is back doing agility and competing again at the Excellent level.  We are even ready to try herding.  Dr. McCauley and her staff are first rate.

 

Rhonda Politsch and Keenan

240 miles round trip and worth every mile 

 

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TOPS put my very high drive Border Collie back together after surgery for an injury 18 months ago.  He has since competed successfully in herding and agility, and he is also doing obedience (all three sports in warp drive, of course).  I just can't sing their praises enough.

 

Gerianne Darnell and Raymond, who can injure himself going out the front door...

 

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From: akramer

Sent: August 22, 2001, 9:17am

Subject:  Manda is finally Home!

Manda came home from her "multi-month medical odyssey" yesterday and she is in much better shape than she was before her surgery...In fact, Manda seems to feel much better than she has in years!...And, the visit to TOPS Veterinary Rehab did the trick...(Although in the family we refer to TOPS as "The Spa")...Most of you know that Manda went from the Vet hospital at MSU to TOPS over three weeks ago and the rehab services that Manda got at TOPS allows her to walk on all four legs and to jump up and run around (she'll always run goofey).....She benefited from the hydro-treadmill; exercise routine; ultrasound therapy; neuromuscular electrical stimulation; massage; passive range of motion exercises; electrical acupuncture; regular acupuncture; chiropractic therapy; and vitamin treatments....Although Cynthia is SURE that the TV in Manda's (5 foot by 7 foot) "suite" that Cynthia would faithfully set to WB when we would visit Manda is what really did the trick!....One way or the other, Manda is home, and she will be on her exercise regime and water treadmill therapy for the foreseeable future......Now, I'd like to know if TOPS will work with people....I'm sure many of us would like to check in!...

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Dear Dr. Laurie,

I write this letter a day after what is a big milestone for Mark, Mila, and myself -- Mila's 10th birthday.

When I think back to the very first time we drove up to Grayslake, for the initial evaluation, both of us were very concerned that Mila might not make it to her upcoming 8th birthday, yet alone her 9th or 10th.  We call her "Miracle Mila", but we know her progress has been very much the result of your efforts and that of your staff.

We are grateful for all of your individual help, and guidance through some difficult times (the second FCE).

May you and your staff have a very happy holiday and successful upcoming year in your new facility.  And, may there be other "Miracles".

Very truly yours,

Mark and Diane

(Mila, too)

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Dr. Laurie & Staff,

Thank-you so much for all you did for Dudley, for a dog that seemed not much hope to ever walk again, to a dog that runs to the door when I come home is a miracle!  I'm sure we'll be back for treatment now and then but for right now he's doing great.  All my heart felt thanks to you and your wonderful staff!!

Ron & "Dudley"

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Check out this letter from a TOPS customer at vetinfo.com.

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Customer Quotes From 2004 Customer Satisfaction Survey

"Tom, TOPS extended Clancy's life by probably three - four years...I'll always be grateful to you and Laurie for starting TOPS and keeping Clancy healthy and happy and alive till almost 13 years old."

"Your organization is one of a kind!"

"We love Drs. Laurie and Christine.  It's always worth the 3 hour roundtrip drive for the care they provide."

"You were all a godsend to us."

"I am very grateful to Dr. Becky and the whole staff at TOPS...My dog was paralyzed and now he walks because of your staff and the treatments."

"You guys are awesome -- can't imagine what we'd do without you.  You've made a huge difference in our dog's quality of life.  Without you I'm sure we would've lost her by now."

"Silver owes you his life and it is without hesitation that I say that his recovery would not have occurred if not for your intervention and loving care.  Our sincere appreciation and gratitude!"

"Thank you for Heidi's compassionate loving care."

"Thanks for making it possible for us to keep our dog Kelli for a longer period -- we thought we would have to have her put down. Bless you!!"

"Your facility and entire staff are 'the best'.  You brought my dog back to almost 100% and I am grateful."

"Dr. Jurek was one of the most comprehensive and professional vets we have ever met. We would not hesitate to recommend."

"We are very satisfied with the facilities and with Dr. McCracken.  Her compassion and care made us comfortable and more importantly, 'Jack' comfortable."

"The caring and thorough approach that Dr. L. McCauley uses in her day to day routine is wonderful.  Dogs respond to her manner and touch very well.  She is a great resource to myself and the friends I have sent to her."

"You are a 5 star facility and have a 5 star staff."

 

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Customer Quotes From 2002 Customer Satisfaction Survey

"I am so pleased that a facility such as yours exists that provides our pets with an alternative treatment option.  The dedication of your caring Dr's and staff is so obvious to me because of the way Casie reacts when she shows she is coming to see all of you."

"Bandit loves to come to TOPS Rehab for treatment.  He has really bonded with Dr. Laurie."

"I am so impressed with the care provided by Dr. McCauley that I continue to recommend her and the facility to everyone I know who has a dog potentially needing rehab care."

"I love the new place.  It's very warm and professional.  I love everything about the place!"

"Your new facility is wonderful!! Bill (the dog) especially liked the grass area outside his suite when he visited."

"From our very first call we appreciated your concern Tom, and how quickly the information was passed on to Dr. McCauley.  The care and enthusiasm you treated Molly with, Dr. McCauley, was amazing."

"Exceptional care and attention -- thanks!"

"You guys have done wonders with Freeway time and time again.  You have all been wonderful."

"I work at a veterinary clinic and I was extremely impressed by Dr. McCauley and how gentle she was with my dog."

"Thank you for providing such wonderful care for our dog.  The results are amazing."

"We are absolutely thrilled with how you were able to help Smokey...Locally at our vet, he's known as the miracle dog. "

"It's been amazing to watch my dog, and others that we've met at TOPS, progress from complete paralysis to normal activity. "

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Customer Quotes From 2001 Customer Satisfaction Survey

"As a veterinarian and client, I would refer others to you.  I was very impressed with your service."

"Very compassionate group of people -- Dr's and staff alike."

"As I have conveyed to you previously you saved my pet!  Besides being paralyzed, Biff had lost his love of life because of the pain he was in.  We could not touch his bed without muzzling him.  When I brought him in, Dr. Laurie was able to touch, bend, stretch, etc.  Biff knew by touch that Dr. Laurie was going to help him...I feel Biff is at least 95% [where he was] prior to his surgery."

"While unfortunate circumstances brought us to see Dr. McCauley, we couldn't have been happier with the kind, compassionate care our Mick received."

"Although I was not a believer when I started with TOPS I am very happy with the help you have given my dog."

"I feel very strongly about the quality of care the vets and staff give the animals."

"Ike is doing great after his FHO.  He has 9 agility titles, and is almost ready to begin competing in agility and flyball!"

"I continue to refer others and talk about TOPS.  The experience I've had there, and continue to have is exceptional.  My little girl wouldn't be where she is today without the excellent care she's gotten -- Thank You!"

"You cannot say anything bad, when [Dr. McCauley] took a dog who couldn't walk and is now running."

"I think you are great!  I've recommended your clinic time and time again."

"It was a 'miracle'"

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Customer Quotes From 2000 Customer Satisfaction Survey

"Without your people Emil would not have made it back to 100%.  In fact he would not be with us today"

"Everyone at your facility was knowledgeable and concerned about my dog's health! Very impressed with the way he was treated and handled at your facility!"

"There is much love, concern and professional knowledge/treatment with each visit"

"Looking back at the past 15 mos., everyone marvels at how far Kitty Hawk has come…I have spoken to two vets who never thought she would recover to the point she was last winter."

"I would highly recommend you to anyone…The care my dog (Emma) received was awesome! The vets and techs were outstanding!"

"I can't say enough good things about your care"

"Tripod feels much better since coming to TOPS"

"I am very grateful your services exist"

"I feel all the staff go out of their way to make us feel welcomed and cared about"

"I want to say that you and your staff are excellent people. Everyone loves animals at your facility and it shows. Keep up the good work"

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Customer Quotes From 1999 Customer Satisfaction Survey

"I can't say enough about TOPS. I'm just so glad we found you. There's an emotional healing that occurs there in addition to the physical healing, largely due to the very high level of personal attention, caring, compassion, love and passion for your work and clients...Yours is an extraordinary facility with an extraordinary staff."

"Hurray! I will highly recommend your facility to my friends in the sport."

"I can't tell you how grateful I am to TOPS - you finally diagnosed my dog accurately, you arranged for immediate surgery with a very competent surgeon, you gave me a specific rehabilitation plan to follow between visits, and you and your staff have been so encouraging and supportive."

"My dog is treated like a special animal. She is very happy when she comes in for her treatment and I swear it's returned her to the puppy she was before the injury."

"We were advised to have Olivia put to sleep because she had a 10-20% chance of ever walking again. After 3 months of treatment with Dr. McCauley, she was walking on her own 1 year later she's running, jumping and climbing on our bed!"

"Marvelous service for the animals and superb vets and assistants!"

"Thanks for helping me give my dog a better, more comfortable life."

"It was the first time she went to a vet and she was excited and actually seemed like she wasn't afraid."

"We were told that Josh would have a permanently lame leg. After treatment with Dr. McCauley, Josh is 100%! Also - now he loves to swim and we can't get him out of the lake in the summer."

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