William and Marie Watkins have filed a lawsuit against Patchogue Animal Hospital, veterinarian Eva Armfield, and five unnamed receptionists who allegedly posed as veterinary technicianss in Suffolk County, New York. Plaintiffs allege breach of bailment, willful misconduct, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, fraud in the inducement, misrepresentation, and deceptive trade practices in connection with the improper administration of an excessive dose of tranquilizers that fatally exacerbated a pre-existing heart condition in their dog, Taro, which veterinarian Eva Armfield failed to diagnose. Taro reportedly died after defendants’ improper care during routine treatment for an ear infection. Plaintiffs further allege that Dr. Armfield allowed unlicensed receptionists to improperly perform veterinary procedures and pose as vet techs. Plaintiffs are seeking $10,000 actual damages and $250,000 punitive damages.
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