Detailed written and verbal guidance
Lucy broke her right front radius and ulna badly. My primary care vet recommended a surgeon, and surgery was performed at my primary vet's site. Post-op care, other than fee generating x-rays, was nonexistent. Four months later Lucy was still limping. I hesitated asking for Dr. Aron's help after another surgeon had been less than completely successful. I should not have. The consultation was thorough and extremely professional. That was the first good sign. During surgery Dr. Aron used a bone grafting material and cultured the bacterium that was preventing healing. These steps accelerated healing and defined the correct antibiotic for the bacteria. The previous vet had unsuccessfully used a broad spectrum antibiotic. After surgery Rainy took over and kept Lucy over night. That contrasted with the need to carry a sixty five pound, sedated dog home after the initial operation. Also in contrast with the one page of instructions from the original surgery, Rainy offered detailed written and verbal guidance and wanted daily updates for a week. For six months, through cast changes and an amazing muscle building program, Rainy was always available and provided extensive helpful information. Lucy thrives. If I ever need surgery for myself, it is my profound hope that the care approaches that provided by Dr. Aron and Rainy. It is anticlimactic to note that their care was also more cost effective.
- Steve Sabin

Wanted the best to treat my dogs condition
I have to say I was certainly upset to find out my, not even one year old, puppy had a luxated patella. But I treat my animals as if they are my children and certainly wanted the best to treat his condition. I was refered to Fidos Surgeon through Banfield pet Hospital here in San Diego, CA. I made an appointment with Dr. Aron so he could assess my pets condition and give me all the information I needed so I could make a decision on how to proceed. But prior to meeting Dr. Aron, I did do my homework. I was very satisfied with the results of my inquiry. The same day, after I met with Dr. Aron, his assistant called me with a break down of what it was going to cost and walked me through the whole procedure from beginning to end. She made the surgery appointment for the following week. They did the surgery and put him in a cast. They called me soon after to let me know he was done and recovering. Rainy ask me if it would be better for me to come and get him or should she take him home with her. I opted for the second option considering his age and the fact he was still hooked to an IV so they could administer fluids and pain meds without any problems. She keeps him for 2 weeks to start his physical therapy, which was a good idea because I would have been a softy and not made him do it so soon after surgery. They called me every day for the next 2 weeks with an update on him. I got him home after the 2 weeks and we started his therapy with constant updates to Rainy. She always made time to listen to me and made appointments whenver I felt I need to have him looked at. It was a long road with many trips to the vet but they always came to us which was a huge help. It took many many months of reducing the bandages and building up the leg so the wraps could come off but it was worth it. Today he is a happy bouncy 2 and half year old that could not have been doing this without their expert services. They are a great team and I would not hesitate to use them again or to recommend them to anyone in need of a great surgical team! Thanks for all you have done!
- Daniel Cantrell

Incredible Experience
I just wanted to share how incredible my experience with Dr. Aron and Rainy was. My 6 year old chihuahua had luxtated patelas in both legs she couldnt even walk around the block and my heart was breaking, I thought for sure her life would be shortended because of this, and she would  have to live out her remaining time  on pain medication. Then I met Dr. Aron and Rainy, and they assured me that they could fix Coco's knees. I trusted them right away and really felt at ease with them. They were personable and extremely knowledgeable, so we went a head with the first surgery. Needless to say I was a complete basket case the first week following the surgery, and had to call Rainy many many times, it got to the point I had her phone number memorised, and every time I called she was patient and compassionate with both me and Coco. She walked me through everthing we needed to do to get Coco walking and we talked on the phone almost daily. She came to change her bandages and to check her progress several times a week. Once Coco was ready and that first leg was strong enough, Dr Aron did the second knee, and once again we started out with tiny walks to potty to 5 minutes to 10 etc. to build up strength. Rainy even gave us the cutest pink ladder for exercises, to  help build up her strength, and once again they were always there to check progress. And I can't tell you how greatful I am to Dr Aron and Rainy. When I talked to Rainy the other day I had to tell her that I took Coco to the beach for the first time since her surgery, and I cried happy tears when I put my little 6 1/2 pound chihuahua in the sand and she took off like a bullet chasing those seagulls, she had the time of her life. I dont think I have ever seen my dog that happy, we can now go on long walks and she never seems to tire out, which has also helped me loose quite a few pounds as well. I adore what Dr. Aron and Rainy have done for Coco and me, because of them my dog will have a long happy active life and I can't thank them enough! They are commited and caring and if I had to do it all over again, with Dr. Aron's  surgery skills and Rainys rehab skills I wouldnt think twice. 
- Lonnie Johannesen

Two of the most qualified and generous people I have ever met
Dr. Dennis Aron, our brilliant surgeon, and Lorraine Aron, Fido’s super-caring Coach, are two of the most qualified and generous people I have ever met. We soon discovered that our puppy Saoirse (Pronounced Shear-sheh, meaning Freedom in Irish) had a congenital defect in her leg which many sensible people would have had amputated. We went to Dr. Aron for a second opinion, and found out he believed in miracles. So do we, because finding such a couple proves that the impossible is possible, it just takes a little longer. Lots longer. The operation was a success, but the subsequent rehab would be the proof of success. We had one crisis after another in our household which made our doing the rehab impossible for several months, so Saoirse was kindly housed and cared for by the Aron’s. This was the best decision we and they could have made for Saoirse. When we first came to them, Saoirse had a withered hind leg which she ignored when she ran, which would gradually become painfully arthritic and necessitate amputation, or an incredibly skilled operation and aftercare. The latter is what has happened. Our sweet beloved dog has come back and won us all over. She walks on her hind leg along with the other one, and performs complex maneuvers every day by stepping through a ladder which is gradually raised. She has regained a life of quality. She still needs some time to have a leg that is as muscular as the other one, but she’s improving every day, and Rainy is there with us every step of the way. The feeling that we all have been able to rescue our beloved dog, who had either a painful life in front of her, or one without a leg, or simply one that would have entailed her being put down, which was one suggestion we were given, is amazing now. These two should be so happy that they have given not only another dog a wonderful life, but also enhanced the lives of her human family beyond measure. We thank you two beautiful people from the bottom of our hearts! You have earned our unqualified admiration and eternal gratitude.
- Marianne McDonald, Professor of classics and theatre at UCSD,
Member of the Royal Irish Academy, Founder of the McDonald Center to
treat drug and alcohol addiction

Made us feel like Puppy was their only patient!
“Puppy the 3rd”, our Brittany, had two surgeries in about a two-week period, (September 1st and September 15th, 2007). The first was for a chronic abscess, and the second for oral cancer. Prior to both surgeries, Dr. Aron explained the procedures and answered any questions we had. The surgery for oral cancer was a big concern to us. We felt Dr. Aron was very honest in his assessments. The surgery was quite extensive and we were very concerned that Puppy might not make it. We were given several status reports following the surgeries prior to his release. Before returning home with Puppy, his follow-up care was fully explained, as well as written down for us to refer to after we got home. Rainy gave us her cell phone number to call anytime we had a concern about anything. They followed up with phone calls after we returned home. We never felt rushed and they made us feel like Puppy was their only patient!
Dr. Aron and Rainy spent more time with us than our primary care physicians spend with us. They went far beyond what we would have ever expected of them; including taking him home with them following his cancer surgery. They are both very sincere, dedicated, and caring professionals. We just can’t thank them enough for ALL that they’ve done. We were so fortunate to have Puppy in their care.
April 14, 2010, was Puppy’s 14th birthday and he’s been doing just great since his surgeries two-and-a-half years ago! He loves to go for walks, and we take him camping with us every month. His hearing isn’t what it used to be, but he responds very well to hand signals and he still has the energy and spunk of a much younger dog. He recently had his annual checkup and was referred to as “the miracle dog”. Thank you soooo much Dr. Aron and Rainy for all that you did for Puppy. He’s now a “retired” therapy dog and is living a good life!
- David and Sharon Gladding

Feels Better
Thanks to you for getting us on board with his diet! I can tell he feels better now... You're the best! We Love you!
— J, J, B & D

Happy and Healthy
Just a quick update on Bishop, he’s doing great! He’s happy, healthy and just back to his overall goofy and loving self! We just wanted to thank you and Dr. Aron for taking such great care of Bishop while he was away from home. Also, special thanks to you for all the extra TLC you provided Bishop and we especially appreciated all the support and feedback while we were nursing him at home. We look forward to many more years with are fun-loving Bishop, many thanks to you!
— Robert and Connie Scott

Counting My Blessings
I was thinking about all my blessings this year and thought of Gable's surgery and care that allowed us to enjoy him longer. As you can see by the attached photo he is doing great!! He's gained back weight, loves to run on the beach and acts like a puppy. Thank you again for all the wonderful care you gave our four legged "baby." I truly believe Gable would not be here today if it wasn't for your great care!
- Marlene & Miguel Boggiano

One Year Later
Just wanted to give you an update on Molly and to thank you and your husband for giving me my hunting partner back. Your surgery was a great success. One year later and she is back in the field and doing great. Today after retrieving ducks all morning she was still ready to go and we worked two fields hard for pheasants. She flushed two birds, both hens so we came home empty handed, but I was really proud of her. At 9 years old she is really doing great.
- Trevor Kelly

Saved My Dog's Life
Dr. Aron, Dr. Tugend, and you Rrainy... saved my dog's life, when nobody else would lend a hand, your team was there to save another dog's life! I thought that he may never walk again; but now you would never know, that Buzz, broke his leg in three places.... now he's walking running, and playing like nothing ever happened. I hope that one day, I can do something special for you, and your team.
- Clint Reid

In Great Shape
Kok Chai is still in great shape. His neck pain has not returned since the operation. He is a very active and happy dog now. Thanks again to you and your husband, Dr. Aron for taking care of him. We hope to make arrangements soon to let you see Kok Chai in person.
- Lily and Robert Ulaszek

An Extraordinary Pair of Professionals
Our 1-1/2 year old springer spaniel, Bella, arrived at VSS with a serious compound fracture that was one week old. Dr. Aron was able to save Bella's leg after a lengthy and complex surgery. I can't imagine finding another vet surgeon with the technical abilities to put Bella's leg back together. But restructuring Bella's leg was just the beginning of a long process that next involved Dr. Aron's wife, Rainy. Because we live in Seattle and were enroute to a trip in Antarctica, Rainy took Bella into her and Dr. Aron's home and rehabilitated her for over 2 months. We now have Bella with us in Seattle, and are amazed at her recovery. Without the skill and experience of the Aron's, I'm sure that Bella would be without a fourth leg. The Aron's went above and beyond the call of duty to bring Bella into their home and make her part of their family. They show a great commitment and dedication to the welfare of animals, and we would highly recommend them to anyone seeking surgery or rehab for their pet.
- Lisa Osse, Seattle, WA

Hi Rainy
It is Myrrhan's 11th birthday today. She wanted you to have a pix of her. With her mobility continuing to improve she is finally beginning to admit how much you helped her.
- Tom Stockfisch

The best treatment ever!!!!!!!!
Our 2.5 Year old 5.4# Dachshund Jennie Joe ruptured a disk and was unable to use her hind quarters. Dr. Aron and Rainy stayed late while we drove 450 miles to see them. The staff phoned to get updates and to prepare for our arrival. When we arrived we were greeted with concern and compassion. Dr. Aron explained in detail what Jennie Joe’s injuries were and what pre-op tests would have to be performed. He also let us know that she may never walk again. Rainy gave us a detailed estimate for treatment and she was taken in very caring hands to have her MRI. I think Dr. Aron and Rainy were surprised that the money did not matter, what mattered was a member of our family needed help, that was the top concern for us. The treatment total was less than the estimate, the hotel bill was more. We were kept informed all weekend as to Jennie Joe’s progress. I was taught how to care for her and after the long ride home Rainy and Dr. Aron have kept in touch with her pt and progress. She is starting to regain some movement and we owe that to Dr. Aron and Rainy’s commitment to all their patients.
Marci Marzanno, Mamouth Lakes, CA

No one expected Shadow to run again

When our beloved dog, Shadow, was severely injured in an accident, she required spine and hip surgery.  She also had casts on both hind legs to stabilize a knee injury.  This was very traumatic and scary, but we had the great good fortune to have Rainy Aron as our critical care nurse and then our rehab coach.  Rainy nursed Shadow through the surgeries and designed a treatment plan to get her to walk again. 

It took many months of hard work and challenges, but Rainy helped us every step of the way encouraging us and providing support.  Even though she had many other patients, she always made time for us and made us feel as if Shadow was her most important patient.  Rainy has a gift for working with both people and animals to get them to believe in themselves and accomplish more than they think they can.  This quality, combined with her skills, knowledge and experience, make her the perfect choice as coach for any dog and its family. 
We can’t emphasize enough how important she was to Shadow’s recovery.  No one expected Shadow to run again, but nine months after her accident she prances everywhere she goes. 
Thank you, Rainy!  We couldn’t have done it without you.
The Wade Family
Bob, Julie, Danny, Taylor and Shadow         

The Real Help
The surgery my dog had, went well and I am grateful to the surgeon. But the real help was from the physical therapy she got. Her therapist (Rainy) was awesome. The therapy was a lot of time and hard work on both Daisy's and my part. But I am glad I did it. Because today I have a puppy that can run like she loves to.
Thank You Rainy for everything.
- Heather Douglass, San Diego CA

Exceptional Care
Kahlua, my 10 year old Springer Spaniel, pulled her knee, VSS was recommended by my vet. Dr. Aron explained everything fully. He was very direct and to the point explaining in great detail what to expect over the next four-six months. From the moment he met with us his total focus was Kahlua, her well-being and her comfort. She needed to lose weight before surgery and Rainy worked with me on a weekly basis to get the weight off of Kahlua. She called frequently to see if I had questions -- The day of surgery Dr. Aron called me immediately after surgery and explained thoroughly how it went. When Kahlua was released to me the next day -- I was given phone numbers for a vet tech at the hospital, and also I already had Rainy and Dr. Aron's personal numbers. At 4:00 a.m. I needed to call. I never went to voice mail -- everyone I called answered and walked me through the emergency. Rainy was with Kahlua through rehab. Kahlua liked Rainy and if she even heard Dr. Aron's voice through closed doors -- she was excited and would try to find him. Kahlua is running again six months after surgery. The rehab was long and time consuming but the support and care was exceptional. And I know they will always be a phone call away. The costs was minimal compared to the care and attention Kahlua and I got.
- Mikki Thomas, San Diego CA