Fifth Avenue Veterinary Hospital

I don't know who is writing these reviews - maybe Appell's family and friends. I once went to him with a sick hamster; he claimed to know "exotics". He could not even diagnose what I later learned was a simple case of Cushing's Disease. All he wanted to do was more expensive tests. Even when another vet on the phone asked him to prescribe an internal antibiotic for the poor animal's raw skin he refused. I reported him to the NYS Office of Professional discipline. That poor animal suffered needless because of him and I will never forgive him. He may know dogs or cats, but that is it. Money grubber!! The hamster should have been euthanized, and if he knew what he was doing she would have been. I know now more than he does by far about "exotics".

Dr. Appel is a very smart guy who obviously cares a great deal about animals. Seems like he's a good surgeon - he removed an eyeball-sized tumor from our pet rabbit, who went on to live a long and happy life. He's a very cerebral person, so this means that he'll explain what's going on in great detail - we like this. But, also, it seems like sometimes he "overtreats" (recommending a very detailed course of action when less might be possible), and I do hear that other vets are a little less expensive. Overall, I think if nothing is too good for your pet, and you want someone who is very smart and thorough, Dr. Appel is the guy for you.