Tierarztpraxis Heiko Heller Thalheim

Our 6-year-old dog died after treatment. On Sunday, November 16, 2025, around 7:00 a.m., we drove from Annaberg to Thalheim because it was the only emergency veterinary clinic open in the area. We explained to the vet several times that our dog was trying to vomit but couldn't, and that his abdomen was severely bloated. In our opinion, these symptoms were not given sufficient consideration. The vet simply said it "looks like inflammation" and, without any diagnostic tests, suspected gastritis. No blood tests, X-rays, ultrasound, or any other examinations were performed. Instead, our dog was only given antibiotics and painkillers, with the explanation that he should feel better during the day. We were also advised to wait until the next day and then—if he didn't improve—to go to a clinic in Leipzig, which is very far away. However, after the treatment, his condition immediately deteriorated further. As his condition worsened, we tried to take him to the nearest veterinarian in the Czech Republic, as it was much closer than Leipzig. But we didn't even manage to drive 10 km: Our dog died on the way there – just 3 hours after being treated in Thalheim.

This practice deserves more than 5 stars. I had my first experience with Dr. Heller when I was heavily pregnant. My Beagle had terminal cancer. I couldn't carry him up the stairs alone, and Dr. Heller helped me without being asked. He made a precise diagnosis and gave me the opportunity to say goodbye in peace. The procedure wasn't even performed on a sterile examination table. I had a blanket. I lay down next to my dog, and Dr. Heller did his job. I was able to be with him until his last breath. Shortly afterward, I received a condolence card from the practice. Handwritten, mind you. That's not something you can take for granted. For this reason, and because he's simply competent, we're also taking our female dog back to him. He's just so competent and gentle with the animals.

We can highly recommend Dr. Heller; he has helped our cats so many times. He's a veterinarian who tries to do everything in his power. He's honest, doesn't beat around the bush, and doesn't try to push unnecessary tests on you. His opening hours are also great. And let's not forget the nurses, who are always there to listen. The whole team deserves more than 5 stars! He even managed to come to our home at short notice to put our cat, who had cancer, to sleep. 😢 Thank you so much! ❤️ 🍀 Unfortunately, vets like him are far too rare!