And Ldji, I would also caution you about giving advice about 'word of mouth' since there is absolutely NO EVIDENCE or legal opinion as to the liability or negligence on the part of the vet. You are inviting this poster to become the subject of a liable suit.
BS BB....consumer comments regarding satisfaction or lack of satisfaction with the provider of goods or services are not actionable in any way.
The legal issue of whether or not this vet was negligent is up to a court to decide. However, I can damn well guarantee that I wouldn't take my pets to any vet who would actually take them outside, and I can bet that you wouldn't take scruffy to a vet that would do that either.
Mikey the wonderdog was the world's biggest escape artist....but he never got outside of my vet's premises. I paid for many hot dogs, nachos and candy bars that Mikey the wonderdog stole from convenience stores, but he never got away from my vet....only from me.