I know Dr. Eckhardt to be a caring knowledgable vet. I didn't have to make an appointment at all, I just called to see if they would be open when I could get there and they said yes, no appointment needed. I was seen almost as soon as I walked in the door, it was only a short wait. He doesn't need all the latest expensive equipmet to diagnose the problem, which keeps the cost down to an affordable amount. He explains what the problem is and what he thinks the treatment should be then waits for your OK before proceeding. I trust him competely. I wouldn't ever again go to another vet if at all possible.