3070 W Michigan Ave, Battle Creek Michigan 49037
Dr. Ben and the team at Turner Veterinary Clinic have shown nothing but love, compassion, and true professionalism during one of the toughest decisions we had to make. This past Wednesday, Dr. Ben came to our home to help our boy, Rutledge, peacefully cross the rainbow bridge. Rutledge was such a sweet, loving dog who never had to suffer or experience the loss of mobility, dignity, or control. We were all there with him, holding him, petting him, and loving him through his final breaths, and it's a gift we are grateful to have been able to give him.
I can't even put it into words other than that Dr. Ben arrived with the calm and reassuring demeanor of an angel. He was respectful of our space and feelings, guiding us gently through the process without rushing or disrupting our time with Rutledge (even with our 2-year-old granddaughter screaming for attention every few minutes.) His patient expertise and heartfelt care made all the difference, and his warmth in those moments made us feel like we were saying goodbye with a trusted friend by our side and reassured we were doing the right thing.
How Dr. Ben treated Rutledge in his final moments—petting him and softly reminding him that he was a "good boy" while recalling fond memories—was incredibly touching. He knew Rutledge, proving that his soul goes far beyond being a doctor. He even made us smile through our tears as he joked about Rutledge's brother Sammy, tirelessly looking for the ball that fell from Rut's mouth when he passed. It was those small, thoughtful details that made all the difference.
Rutledge spent his last day surrounded by family, all five grown kids on the floor with him, with Starbucks and Snickers, and more love than he knew what to do with. We are forever grateful to Dr. Ben for making Rutledge's final moments peaceful and dignified, and for bringing comfort to our hearts during such a difficult time. Dr. Ben, and everyone at Turner Veterinary Clinic, will always hold a special place in our hearts. You are more than our veterinarians – you are family.