PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A veterinarian has sued the national chain Banfield The Pet Hospital claiming he was wrongly fired after repeatedly complaining that his clinic was putting profits above the best interests of animals.
Robert Nix claims the chain’s clinic in suburban Tualatin bought an ultrasound machine and began pressuring veterinarians to use it at least once a week to boost the company’s bottom line, even when they didn’t believe it was necessary.
The lawsuit also alleges that people off the street were hired as “PetNurses” with only a few weeks of training, while most other vet clinics would use certified veterinary technicians.
The Portland-based company said lawsuit’s allegations had “no merit” and the company intends to vigorously defend against the claims.
