Ocean,

First of all, I want to tell you how sorry I am, that your animal has been through so much misery. And, you as well. We count on Professional help SO much, and it is a real tragedy when we hear of failures on their part.

All the advice here is so well placed, those who are compassionate of your trials through this, but, I wonder if we haven't missed something, I don't think that you live in the United States, therefore, the recommendations about the Better Business Bureau may be for naught.

Do you live in the US ?

If not, is there some facility/legal agency, which has influence over a reasonable provision of services, to which you might report this incident ?

If you are in the US, keep in mind that the only recourse that the BBB has, is to and with IT'S members. They have no influence over some business which is not a member of the BBB.

My "theory" that you are not in the US is based on your reference to the "£500" you mentioned. US currency is noted with a "$".

If you live somewhere other than the US, can a business like your "old" vet be sued ? Is that permitted where you are at ?

If that is the case, the least expensive "leverage" you may have, is to get a Lawyer/Barrister to just write a letter to the Vet. Threaten him/her with a Law Suit to recover your unnecessary expenses. Frequently, that "legal" threat will cause a LOT more compliance in your recovery, weather it actually goes to Court or not.

In any case...
Make sure you hold onto ALL the original documents concerning this.
If someone needs to see anything, COPY it and let them have that.
TAKE PICTURES, and only let your legal council see them.
Make sure you keep a written record of everything. Visits, comments, EVERYTHING !
if you don't have this, think back and create one !

The better documented you are, the better chances of recovery exist !

I wish you luck...

Have a good Day !
S.W.