Happy Valentine’s Day, Viewfinders! This holiday, we want to share what we love most about the veterinary profession! In this special Valentine’s Day 2024 podcast, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, MPA, reveal the most beloved aspects of working as veterinary professionals. Hey, we can buy ourselves flowers! And we can hold our own hand, too! Viewfinders, we hope you’ll find at least a few of our favorite things about vet med to be a welcome departure from, as Beckie puts it, “The Basics.” From professional autonomy to entrepreneurship to innovation and collaboration, to our amazing clients and patients (puppies! Kittens! No, we didn’t go there…), there’s something to remind everyone why we love the veterinary profession! Please share your thoughts on our social media @VeterinaryViewfinder or email us at VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

Workplace violence. Natural disasters. Fires and floods. These stories dominate the news. This week, we discuss whether or not most veterinary clinics are really prepared in the event of an active shooter, power failure, or other emergencies. Viewfinders, this is a critical conversation. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, MPA, discuss their personal experiences with disasters in veterinary practice and workplace violence and the lessons they’ve learned. From creating emergency protocols to running drills with your team, this podcast hopes to inspire and guide you to prepare for any emergency. Viewfinders, share your experiences and thoughts about veterinary practice emergencies with us on Facebook or Instagram @veterinaryviewfinder or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

This week, we're proud to introduce you to an extraordinary veterinary technician, Sam Geiling, CVT. Sam has just been named the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) Technician of the Year! Viewfinders, her journey is exceptional and sure to inspire! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, MPA, talk to Sam Geiling, CVT and Chief of Staff for the Animal Policy Group, about her career in veterinary medicine and some of her remarkable achievements. From serving in the Navy to being a classmate of Beckie's in vet tech school to practicing and teaching in Hawaii, to working with state legislatures and veterinary boards around the country, Sam is a vet tech force to be reckoned with! Viewfinders, we hope you enjoy her unique story as much as we did! Here's a little more about Sam: Sam Geiling, CVT, is Animal Policy Group's project leader, working directly with clients and the entire APG team to oversee plans to ensure goals are successfully met. She is a credentialed veterinary technician with over a decade of teaching experience at an AVMA-accredited vet tech program. She has passed state legislation recognizing veterinary technicians, and volunteers as co-chair on NAVTA's Government Relations Committee. Sam lives in Minnesota with her husband and two sons. She enjoys summer days on the lake, grilling, and discovering new restaurants. @animalpolicygroup https://animalpolicygroup.com/  NAVTA's Government Relations Committee Email: info@navta.net  #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

Are you overwhelmed by Slack, Teams, Groups, and Text work messages? Do you feel guilty when responding to a workplace thread late? Ever judge a teammate for not responding to a message? If so, welcome to the new world of 24/7/365 work messages! In this week’s podcast, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, MPA, tackle the tough topic of some of the potential benefits and pitfalls of how we communicate with our veterinary clinic teams in 2024. They discuss topics from setting time boundaries to curating appropriate issues and messages to share. Dr. Ward shares how he expects AI to help us manage the growing number of interactions and platforms. Beckie offers advice on giving yourself grace when creating personal and professional messaging guidelines. Viewfinders, this is a re-visit of a topic we tackled nearly seven years ago when confronting after-hours telephone calls. As technology and tools have progressed, these intrusions have amplified, and the rules of engagement need to be updated. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

Training requires struggle and even failure at times. But how do we apply this principle when training veterinary medical personnel? In this podcast, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, MPA, delve into the importance of letting veterinary clinic employees struggle in order to improve. Our duo explores the concept of fostering growth through challenges, emphasizing the need for training guardrails and cultivating a culture of curiosity in veterinary clinics. They share tips on how allowing employees to navigate difficulties can lead to enhanced skills and resilience (“Don’t always jump in!”). They reveal strategies for implementing effective training frameworks while maintaining a supportive environment that encourages curiosity and continuous learning. Viewfinders, we hope you enjoy this discussion on the vital balance between providing guidance and allowing room for struggle in a safe and effective manner, ultimately promoting professional development in the veterinary industry. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

What happens when you promote a staff member to a new position or role and it doesn’t work out? What if the staff members want to return to their previous positions? How do we successfully expand our team members’ roles, responsibilities, and duties and “promote from within?” Viewfinders, we’ve got a lot to discuss in this episode! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, tackle the tough topic of job promotions gone bad. More importantly, our podcasters provide you with a variety of ways to support, coach, and set yourself or your employees up for success in transitioning to a new job position. The podcast begins with a real-life question Dr. Ward recently received about handling a veterinary technician struggling after being promoted to clinic manager. The veterinary practice owner feared she’d have to fire the employee after she failed to succeed in management. Our hosts have a lot to say about this, as well as tips for avoiding this sort of dilemma. Beckie shares how to handle the potential vacancy left behind when you promote a staff member. Preparation, planning, and communication are critical elements of a successful job transition and promotion-from-within scenarios. Viewfinders, there’s a lot to learn in the podcast about helping people succeed in your practice. Please share your thoughts and experiences with us on our Facebook or Instagram pages or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

Happy New Year, Viewfinders! On January 1, 2024, the first fully VCPR-compliant remote diagnosis and written prescription in the state of California was performed. But is it too little too late? Will veterinary telemedicine be leapfrogged by AI-assisted telemedicine and beyond? This is one episode you'll want to share with your colleagues! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, start the new year off with a bang as they discuss the recent changes in veterinary telemedicine and artificial intelligence. Our hosts review the recent news of a virtual veterinary-client-patient-relationship (VCPR) being established in California and the potential impacts throughout the US. Both wonder if this move is too late to stop the emergence of AI-powered telemedicine and what AI-assisted veterinary care could be like in the next few years. Dr. Ward shares why the Star Trek Enterprise only had one chief medical doctor, Bones, and what this may portend for AI veterinary care, along with how his daughter recently benefited from AI-assisted pharmacy care. He also revisits his earlier concerns when he served on the AVMA Telemedicine Committee about legal liability and responsibility when AI medicine makes an error. Beckie argues that AI medicine is already pervasive and that the veterinary community is quickly diving into two opposing camps on its utilization. She also shares a story from her recent hospitalization of how AI medicine is changing patient care. Viewfinders, this is an important topic that will shape the future of our profession. Please share your thoughts on our Facebook or Instagram pages or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com "If a machine, a Terminator, can learn the value of human life, maybe we can, too." Terminator 2: Judgement Day #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

Happy New Year, Viewfinders! This week, we have a special expert guest to offer advice and strategies for setting - and achieving - our New Year’s Resolutions! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, are joined by special guest Rebecca Newman, PsyM, CVT, RVT, the Wellbeing Coordinator, for the Veterinary Technology Program at Appalachian State University, to unravel the secrets of setting achievable New Year resolutions for veterinary teams, vet professionals, and personal goals. Discover practical strategies to navigate career aspirations and prioritize self-care with Rebecca's expert guidance. Uncover the keys to unlocking personal and professional success while gaining valuable insights from the dynamic trio. Tune in to the last Veterinary Viewfinder episode in 2023 (#369!) for an engaging conversation that resonates with veterinary team members across all age groups, offering a roadmap to a fulfilling and balanced year ahead. Don't miss out on this empowering blend of veterinary wisdom and personal growth tips! Rebecca’s recommended resource we discussed in the podcast: VIA Character Strengths Survey  - consider a strengths-based approach to New Year's resolutions. Discover your top 5 character strengths and choose one that could use extra nurturing in 2024. Writing SMART Goals The Psychology Behind Successful New Year's Resolutions The Best Way to Follow Through on Your New Year's Resolution? Make an "Old Year's Resolution"

Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas! This week, we continue our annual Veterinary Viewfinder tradition of bringing you a special veterinary rendition of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, read Beckie’s poem that describes an all-too-familiar scenario for those of us who work in veterinary clinics! We hope you enjoy this fun retelling of a holiday standard! Check out the full lyrics at https://www.drernieward.com/veterinaryviewfinder

It's the season of expectations! In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of managing expectations within veterinary clinics. We address common scenarios, such as dealing with a new graduate who might be spending an extended amount of time in the exam room while questioning if our expectations are realistic and exploring ways to improve efficiency. Additionally, we tackle the challenge of colleagues who may be struggling to meet their responsibilities or display the necessary skills. How can better communicating our expectations help them succeed and decrease our frustration? Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, examine the fundamental role of expectations in shaping our interpersonal interactions. They explore the significance of expectations as the foundation for how we relate to one another and offer insights into building stronger connections with colleagues. They tackle the intricacies of expectations, providing their experience and perspectives on fostering more robust and positive relationships in your work environment. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of distinguishing between realistic and unrealistic expectations and provide insights on effectively communicating expectations, especially when it comes to performance reviews and reprimands. Viewfinders, we'd love to hear your thoughts on how you manage and communicate your expectations in your clinic! VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com or Facebook and Instagram!

Currently, 17 US states have reported a mysterious respiratory illness in dogs. As hype escalates on social media, fueled by TikTok and TMZ, how should veterinary professionals educate their pet parents and keep their pet patients safe during this holiday season? Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, tackle the tough topic of how to address an unknown newsworthy canine respiratory illness and practicality and medically. Our hosts also have advice for “veterinary influencers” seeking to capitalize on the issue and steps more reasonable veterinary medical professionals can take to combat excessive sensationalization (and potentially capitalization) on a serious pet health issue. IYKYK Viewfinders, this is a serious topic that needs more tempered and measured responses from the veterinary medical community. How are you dealing with your clients’ questions, and what safeguards are you enacting this holiday season to keep your pet patients safe during the holidays? Share your advice on our Facebook and Instagram pages, @VeterinaryViewfinder, or drop us a line (and Beckie a “Get Well Soon” note) at VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com.

This week, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, celebrate seven years of never missing a weekly podcast - from the hospital! Viewfinders, tune in to learn why Beckie has been hospitalized for the past three weeks! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, update us on the past three weeks of Beckie’s life after the accident and reflect on the previous seven years of podcasting. I’m not crying; you’re crying. Viewfinders, thank you for your loyal listening over the past seven years (365.29 weeks). We’re proud to share our thoughts with you each week and are grateful for the time we spend together. If you’d like to wish Beckie a speedy recovery, drop her a note at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com. To help a colleague in need, or if you need assistance, check out Beckie’s amazing non-profit created to help our veterinary colleagues, the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree - www.veterinarygivingtree.com/. Thank you, Viewfinders! Beckie, get well soon!

It’s Thanksgiving in the United States this week, and that means the holiday season has begun. Besides family, food, and fun, the holidays can also bring stress, anxiety, and dread. This week, we’re joined by Liz Hughston, MEd, RVT, LVT, CVT, VTS (SAIM, ECC) to discuss tips and tactics to help you survive the holidays with a smile. Host Dr. Ernie Ward is missing co-host Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, as she is recovering from an accident. Beckie is doing well, and we’ll share the full story soon. Meanwhile, drop her a “Get Well Soon” message on our socials or email at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com. Liz and Ernie begin by tackling the problematic origins of Thanksgiving in the United States and offer how they’re reconciling the holiday with history. The pair then discuss their different gratitude practices and why gratitude is good for your mental well-being. Liz shares how some veterinary practices incorporate gratitude into their daily huddles. Dr. Ward explains why he believes we must be more openly positive in our business and personal lives. Both reveal how they deal with criticism over being too optimistic (or pushing for change) and why everyone needs to, in Dr. Ward’s words, “start each day tilted toward optimism.” Viewfinders, this podcast has loads of practical tips and real-life stories. We recommend you listen to it before your Thanksgiving visits or immediately afterward to decompress. Regardless of when you listen, we hope you’ll find something to make your holidays a little brighter! Beckie, get well soon! We miss you!

This week, we’re delighted to host Jeff Backus and Dave Cowan of the VetTech Cafe podcast to talk about podcasting, their journeys to vet tech specialization, and the challenges and future of the veterinary profession, Viewfinders, this is one podcast mashup you don’t want to miss! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, share the mic with the two veterinary technician specialists behind the Vet Tech Cafe podcast, Dave Cowan BA, CVT, VTS(ECC) and Jeff Backus, CVT, RVT, VTS(ECC). They share the nontraditional paths they took to become credentialed veterinary technicians and why and how they chose to pursue specialization. Viewfinders, we’d like to thank the Vet Tech Cafe for serving as our Complaint Department for the past couple of years. Remember, if there’s something you don’t like on our podcast, please inform Dave and Jeff! To learn more about them and their huge Spotify deal worth millions, visit www.vettechcafe.com. Thanks, Dave and Jeff, for making this an amazing episode!

It’s estimated that there are 6 million new cancer cases diagnosed each year in the United States. Cancer is by far the single most common cause of death in adult dogs. Similar to human cancer risks, dogs have a 1 in 3 lifetime risk of getting cancer. This week, we talk with a veterinary oncologist and co-founder of PetDx, a revolutionary company bringing noninvasive blood tests to detect cancer early in dogs. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, welcome Andi Flory, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology) Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer at PetDx to discuss how early detection of canine cancer is changing how we think about veterinary cancer treatment. Viewfinders, this is a fascinating conversation on a genuinely groundbreaking diagnostic test. We’d love to hear your thoughts! To learn more about PetDx and their OncoK9 test, visit www.petdx.com or call 833-464-7297 Thank you, Dr. Flory and PetDx, for bringing this vital information to the Viewfinders!

Recently, Amazon announced it was considering offering veterinary telemedicine services to augment its position as a top pet supplies and pharmacy provider. This move would allow them to compete in veterinary telemedicine against competitors like Walmart, Chewy, etc. This week, we discuss the pros and cons and potential impacts this could have on independent veterinary clinics and the veterinary profession. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, review the recent news that Amazon was considering offering veterinary telemedicine. Beckie shares why this is no surprise and that there may be a silver lining for independent veterinary clinics. Dr. Ward expresses his concerns along with several steps veterinary professionals should be taking to ensure continued success in the future. Viewfinders, there’s much more to this issue than simply, “Oh brother, here’s another competitor!” We’d love to hear your thoughts and how you’re addressing this issue.

Medical gaslighting has become a hot topic in human medicine. This week, we tackle the topic and debate whether or not it exists in veterinary practice. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, examine the behaviors and attitudes that veterinary professionals need to be vigilant about to prevent unintentionally dismissing, discounting or discrediting their clients. Throughout this week’s candid conversation, our hosts emphasize the importance of empathy, effective communication, and active listening, urging veterinary professionals to put themselves in their client’s shoes and provide the best possible care. Dr. Ward also shares how he believes Artificial Intelligence (AI) may help physicians and veterinarians avoid medical gaslighting. Both hosts discuss why being open-minded when it comes to diagnosing patients and appreciative of pet owners’ research, regardless of how accurate or applicable, is essential to providing optimal patient care. Stick around to the very end to hear Beckie tell an interesting (and hilarious) story from a recent conference where she presented. We love it when you tell us you listen to the podcast! Viewfinders, this is another emerging topic that needs more attention. Tell us your thoughts! @VeterinaryViewfinder or VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com

The 2023 AAHA Veterinary Technician Utilization Guidelines are out, and we're discussing all the good stuff and the one questionable inclusion (according to Dr. Ward). Viewfinders, there's a lot to talk about! This week, we're live from the first veterinary technician-focused conference, HiVE, in Austin, Texas! (well, at least Beckie is there...). Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, dive into the recently released AAHA Veterinary Technician Utilization Guidelines. They review the subtle - but potentially impactful - shift in proposed vet tech terminology and tips for optimizing your veterinary technicians. Finally, Dr. Ward shares the one thing he's not sure should've been included with the guidelines (no spoilers! You have to listen to it all to find out what it is!). Viewfinders, what do you think about this discussion, and do you agree with Dr. Ward? Share your thoughts on our Instagram or Facebook pages, or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com Read the 2023 AAHA Veterinary Technician Utilization Guidelines here: https://www.aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/2023-aaha-technician-utilization-guidelines/home/

The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) and the World Pet Obesity Association (WPOA) announced World Pet Obesity Awareness Day on October 11, 2023. Up to 63% of pet cats and 59% of pet dogs are estimated to be overweight or have obesity in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. This week, we have a clinical nutrition expert to discuss a recent pet owner survey and how you can help your pet patients seeking to achieve a healthy body condition. We’re pleased to share the mic with Dr. Jason Gagné this week. Dr. Jason Gagné is Purina’s Director of Veterinary Communications. He leads a fantastic team of veterinarians and veterinary product advisors who provide university engagement and sales, marketing, and educational support to the US market.  Dr. Gagné was instrumental in Purina Pro Plan becoming APOP’s first Charter Sponsor to help their ongoing research and outreach efforts to combat pet obesity. On behalf of APOP, Dr. Ward would like to extend a warm welcome and a HUGE thank you to Purina Pro Plan! Drs. Ward and Gagné take a deep dive into a recent Purina research survey to explore dog owners’ attitudes around feeding, treats, table food, “scraps,” and obesity. Dr. Ward shares APOP’s years of similar surveys, and both vets offer practical advice for veterinary professionals to share with their clients and patients. Viewfinders, this is a fast-paced discussion on the complexities of pet obesity. We believe you’ll enjoy it - and hopefully learn a thing or two! Please visit petobesityprevention.org to sign up to participate in this year’s online surveys. We need veterinary professionals and pet parents to take our brief Pet Weight, Nutrition, and Pet Food Survey. Your opinions (and clients) help us shape future research and resource development. For more information and resources to share with your clients, visit petobesityprevention.org or worldpetobesity.org Visit the Purina website and Purina Institute Centre Square for dog owner survey, BCS tools, and more: https://www.purinaforprofessionals.com/brands/purina-pro-plan-veterinary-diets/om-weight-management?utm_campaign=vdp-professional2023&utm_medium=email&utm_source=october_newsletter&utm_content=cr-om_jm_pt-na&utm_term=

This year marks the 30th anniversary of National Veterinary Technician Week! We’ve got the President-Elect of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), Beckie Mossor, RVT, to tell us what you need to know and do! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss this year’s National Vet Tech Week theme, “Pearls of Wisdom,” and what it means to them. Our hosts share their top tips for celebrating your registered veterinary technicians and how you can avoid practice drama over not observing others. Yes, we go there. Dr. Ward shares his tips on using social media to hire vet techs, and Beckie offers tips on using social media to recognize your vet techs’ awesomeness! Bonus hiring and celebration tips are included! We’d also like to publicly recognize NAVTA and Hill’s Pet Nutrition for their 30 years of commitment to National Veterinary Technician Week. Thank you! To learn more, visit: https://navta.net/national-veterinary-technician-week/

October is National Pet Wellness Month (and don’t forget October 11 is Pet Obesity Awareness Day - More on that in an upcoming podcast). This week, we discuss the importance of focusing on preventive veterinary care and how you can boost your wellness programs and plans. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, tackle the topic of creating and maintaining pet wellness plans and programs. The pair stresses the issue of pet care affordability and how inflation potentially risks making preventive pet care elective care for clients struggling to pay their bills. Viewfinders, we’ve got a lot to talk about! Whether you’re a seasoned pet wellness plan expert or looking for ways to make pet care more affordable, this podcast covers a lot of ground! And don’t forget to sign up your clinic (and yourself!) for Pet Obesity Awareness Day at www.petobesityprevention.org before October!

It’s time to start thinking about how we can help our veterinary colleagues in need! This week, we discuss the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree, how to nominate a coworker in need, and how to help! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, review Beckie’s amazing non-profit created to help our needy colleagues, the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree (www.veterinarygivingtree.com/). Beckie reviews the origin of the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree, how many veterinary professionals they’ve helped, and how you can either receive financial assistance or donate to the cause. Viewfinders, if you’re able, donate to this veterinary-specific program. If you or you know someone who needs help, nominate them at https://www.veterinarygivingtree.com/. Thank you, Beckie, for helping our coworkers in need!

The first North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) HiVE has arrived! This week, we’re joined by Paige Allen, MS, RVT, a familiar voice to the Viewfinders, to discuss her exciting new collaboration with NAVC to usher in a new era in veterinary technician/nurse conferences. And if you use the code VIEW, you can register for only $15! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, welcome back a dear friend and colleague, Paige Allen, to share news of the first NAVC HiVE to be held October 16-18, 2023, at the Palmer Events Center in “Keep Austin weird” Austin, Texas! Paige shares how HiVE came into existence (in such a short time, too!) and why position-specific CE and community building are essential to our profession. Viewfinders, visit https://navc.com/hive/ and use the code VIEW to register your vet techs for only $15! We believe this is a FABULOUS GIFT for National Veterinary Technician Appreciation Week! How about you? Thank you, Paige and NAVC, for your continued support and innovation in our profession!

The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) has proclaimed September as Animal Pain Awareness Month, and this coincides with human medicine’s Pain Awareness Month. This episode features one of the outstanding veterinary professionals behind this initiative, a familiar voice on the podcast, and our friend, Tasha McNerney, BS, CVT, CVPP, VTS (anesthesia and analgesia). Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss the origins of Animal Pain Awareness Month and how Tom Hanks’ 1989 movie, “Turner and Hooch,” played a pivotal role in the life of Tasha McNerney. Don’t judge. Listen. Viewfinders, we’re thrilled to bring you another Veterinary Viewfinder voice making positive changes in our profession. Thank you, Tasha, for sharing your enthusiasm with the Viewfinders! To learn more, visit these websites: IVAPM: https://ivapm.org/animal-pain-awareness-month/ Anesthesia Nerds site for symposium and podcast links: https://www.veterinaryanesthesianerds.com/ Feline Grimace Scale: https://www.felinegrimacescale.com/ #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

Hypothetically speaking, have you ever encountered a veterinary staff member who added their parent’s pets to their personal account? Do those pets receive the same discounts, priorities, or privileges as other staff member’s own pets? What about calling for after-hours assistance on behalf of friends and family? Viewfinders, how far do pet care discounts and benefits extend? Do you have written policies governing these rules? Let’s get into it. Host Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, share their experiences with veterinary team members skirting on the edge of extending their pet care benefits too far. Our hosts reveal real-life examples and tactics they used to avoid hurting feelings. Dr. Ward also discusses the guilt he has felt when contacted after-hours by a well-meaning staff member seeking help for a neighbor or friend’s pet. He shares how he overcame these feelings of guilt and why he believes every clinic needs to discuss this issue and develop guidelines. Beckie encourages all veterinary practices to “get ahead of this issue before it becomes a problem.” She also worries that this is a bigger problem than most clinics realize (or admit) and how it may negatively impact team morale. Viewfinders, have you experienced this? Share on our Facebook or Instagram pages or email us at vetrerinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

The controversies began before the official opening of the 2023 AVMA Convention in Denver. One debate that resurfaced this year was expanding the scope of practice, review of licensed veterinary technicians’ roles, and their permitted professional duties. Despite having no regulatory or enforcement abilities, the AVMA proclaimed it would pledge “to defend against expanding the scope of practice,” particularly in the role of a proposed midlevel practitioner. Unfortunately, the discussions quickly grew to include debates about preventing any establishment of a VCPR by a licensed veterinary technician, going against legislation passed in several states. Viewfinders, we’ve got a lot to talk about in this episode. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and President-elect of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss the recent controversies around expanding the scope of practice and the duties a licensed veterinary technician can perform and how this potentially impacts both the veterinary profession and access to pet care. Viewfinders, this is a critical issue that impacts veterinarians, vet techs, and all members of the veterinary profession. Please share your opinions on our Facebook or Instagram pages, or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com RESOURCES CITED: “AVMA pledges to defend against expanding scope of practice” - AVMA Convention 2023 Daily News https://www.avma.org/events/avma-convention/convention-newspaper/avma-pledges-defend-against-expanding-scope-practice AVMA Policies - Safeguarding care for animals with veterinarian-led teams https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/safeguarding-care-animals-veterinarian-led-teams NAVTA Response to AVMA Statement on Scope of Practice https://navta.net/news/navta-response-to-avma-statement-on-scope-of-practice/ Academy of Internal Medicine for Veterinary Technicians open letter to the AVMA: https://www.aimvt.com/ “AVMA, the ultimate gatekeepers and their disdain for veterinary technician advancement” by Stephen Niño Cital, RVT, SRA, RLAT, CVPP, VTS- LAM (Res. Anesthesia) https://medium.com/@NinoCital/avma-the-ultimate-gatekeepers-and-their-distain-for-veterinary-technician-advancement-2e09622e400d “AVMA’s two faces” by Stephen Niño Cital, RVT, SRA, RLAT, CVPP, VTS- LAM (Res. Anesthesia) https://medium.com/@NinoCital/avmas-two-faces-adf4c7e53364

Most U.S. veterinary professionals are required to complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their professional licenses. But who chooses those CE opportunities, and who pays for them? How are you paid for time away from the clinic? Who decides when you can take CE? This week we discuss the perils and pitfalls of providing veterinary CE for employees - and the dangers of not. Viewfinders, there’s a lot to discuss! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, share stories from their own practices as well as recent awkward scenarios of associate veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians struggling to negotiate and navigate CE benefits. Our hosts also examine the risks of inequitable CE offerings, including non-licensed staff, and why educational opportunities for all staff can benefit your practice. Viewfinders, this is a complicated issue with few easy answers. Please share your thoughts and ideas with us on Facebook and Instagram or at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

Veterinary medicine has a diversity and inclusion problem. While an issue that large may not be something most veterinary professionals believe they can solve, Dr. Valerie Marcano is committed to trying. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, are thrilled to introduce you to one of the founders of Pawsilbilities Vet Med, Dr. Valerie Marcano. Pawsibilities Vet Med is an organization created to provide mentorship to minorities, LBGTQ+, and other marginalized communities in veterinary medicine. Dr. Marcano shares her journey from growing up in the Dominican Republic, to moving to the Bronx as a teenager to becoming a poultry veterinary specialist. She shares the realities of going to veterinary school and practicing as a minority. Dr. Marcano explains how these experiences inspired her to encourage diversity and inclusion in vet med by providing mentorship and training opportunities for all veterinary professionals. Viewfinders, we hope you’ll find this conversation as uplifting and informative as we did. To learn more about how you can get involved: Links:  www.pawsibilitiesvetmed.com https://www.pawsibilitiesvetmed.com/why-dei/ https://www.pawsibilitiesvetmed.com/join-us/ Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/PawsVetMed https://www.linkedin.com/company/pawsvetmed/ https://www.instagram.com/pawsvetmed

Who would guess that choosing a software subscription or medical equipment could cause division and disharmony within a veterinary practice team? Join Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, in The Veterinary Viewfinder's latest podcast episode: "Who Decides What To Buy? Veterinary Team Decision-Making For Software and Equipment Purchases." This week our hosts delve into the critical aspect of choosing software and equipment in the veterinary world and discover the thought process behind these crucial decisions. With expert insights from Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, this episode sheds light on the complex dynamics of veterinary team decision-making and empowers practices to make informed choices. Gain valuable tips on aligning technology with practice needs, optimizing workflow efficiency, and maximizing patient care. Stay ahead of the game and elevate your decision-making skills with this engaging and informative podcast episode! Viewfinders, what do you think? Has this been an issue in your clinic? How did your team or leadership handle it? Please share your experiences on our Facebook and Instagram pages or message us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

Who gets to go when it’s slow at your veterinary clinic? This week we tackle a tough topic rarely talked about, yet it happens in a variety of ways. Who gets to leave early can be divisive among your team if you don’t set boundaries and guidelines. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, begin with an overview of this seemingly innocuous issue. They share their own personal experiences, and lessons learned the hard way! This conversation is full of practical advice, and we think it should be shared with your clinic leaders! Viewfinders, what do you think? Has this been an issue in your clinic? How did you handle it? Please share your experiences on our Facebook and Instagram pages or message us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

What happens when an animal needs emergency care, and you can’t contact the owner? What if you don’t have adequate equipment or medications? Do you tell the owner? What if that animal is under your care or being boarded? What about giving a boarding pet an anti-diarrheal without explicit permission? Viewfinders, this week we’ve got a multitude of ethical dilemmas concerning veterinary medical consent. It’s a good one! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, share stories from the trenches regarding sticky situations concerning the consent of care. Our anchors cover many moral and ethical issues, from boarding to emergencies to neighborhood kennels. Viewfinders, this is an excellent podcast to share with your friends and colleagues. It will catalyze conversations to help you stay ahead of problems. Please share your thoughts on our Instagram and Facebook pages, or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com. Thanks for listening!

We talk a lot about the importance of rewarding and recognizing your veterinary team members, but what about celebrating them? This week we discuss the difference between benefits, incentives, and rewards and why all are essential in maintaining a harmonious and healthy workplace environment. Viewfinders, there’s much more to this topic than an “Employee of the Month” certificate! Host Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, take a deep dive into what it means to celebrate veterinary clinic employees. Dr. Ward suggests “inspiring” should be an essential element of any celebration, and Beckie offers real-world tips for highlighting team members. Viewfinders, what are some of the ways you celebrate your team? Share them on our Facebook or Instagram pages at Veterinary Viewfinder, or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

As PRIDE Month comes to a close, we wanted to share our thoughts, experiences, and tips for being a better ally for the veterinary profession’s LBGTQ+ community. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, reveal their experiences and learnings from their own LBGTQ+ advocacy efforts. Dr. Ward shares lessons from his political campaigning, and Beckie reviews how she has grown in her allyship efforts. For more information, check out these excellent resources: BlendVet: www.blend.vet Chapter VIII: Veterinary Inclusion and Intersectionality Initiative: chapterviii.org Diversify Veterinary Medicine Coalition: diversifyvetmed.org “Diversity & Inclusion on Air”: bit.ly/3YULScS Journey for Teams: journeyforteams.org Pawsibilities: pawsibilitiesvetmed.com Vet Med Interconnected organizations: bit.ly/3lz8T7j Other Perspectives on Allyship “Providing a safe place for those in the field to be who they are should be our No. 1 goal.” https://todaysveterinarybusiness.com/other-perspectives-on-allyship-0423/

Have you ever talked smack about another veterinary clinic? Have you ever had a client bad mouth their previous vet? This week we examine how we talk about our veterinary colleagues and how we may be inadvertently “talking trash” about each other. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, explore the intentional and unintentional ways our comments and questions may negatively impact our colleagues. From clients questioning prior care to veterinary professionals publicly dismissing others’ opinions and actions, this episode features a bevy of thorny ethical and moral dilemmas. Viewfinders, how we treat each other affects our personal and professional self-esteem and joy. While we point out that we’re not against speaking out when negligence or malpractice occurs, we question how seemingly innocent remarks can “throw a colleague under the bus.” Viewfinders, this is another good podcast episode to share with your colleagues and friends! #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

Do you have a boss or manager who constantly checks everything you do? Do you feel excessively supervised? Does your boss tell you what task needs to be accomplished and by when… but then watches your every move and frequently criticize your work and processes? If so, you may be micromanaged. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, begin this podcast by defining micromanagement in the veterinary clinic. They discuss a micromanager's typical traits and actions and why some people are more likely to micromanage than others. They explore how harmful - and counterproductive - micromanaging can be and the negative impacts on team morale and job satisfaction. Our hosts share techniques for talking to a micromanager, reducing the anxiety-creating impacts of a micromanager, and how you can foster a trusted, collaborative workplace. Viewfinders, this is an excellent conversation to share with your entire team. It's also a great one to share with a micromanager (anonymously, of course!). Please share your experiences and thoughts on our Facebook and Instagram pages or email veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast

“Sweetie, can you help me?” “Hey, Doc, can you check this out?” “Honey, that’s very kind of you.” Do any of these terms make you feel disrespected? Uncomfortable? It doesn’t matter why; if terms like these make you feel uneasy, you’re entitled to speak up. This week, we discuss inadvertently hurtful words and phrases that veterinary professionals frequently encounter in practice. We also discuss ableist language and how you can become a more sensitive a respectful communicator. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, explore the world of words meant to help but may accidentally harm. They discuss common terms to discuss with your team along with ways to politely - and civilly - let others know a term is upsetting. Viewfinders, this is an excellent conversation to share with your team. Please share your experiences and comments with us on our Facebook or Instagram pages or veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

Veterinary appointment no-shows can wreak havoc on your schedule, decrease revenue, and lower team morale. This week, we examine strategies for dealing with veterinary clients who fail to show up for their appointments. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, tackle the too-common problem of veterinary appointment no-shows. Dr. Ward shares the history of strategies to deal with no-shows over the past 30 years and why the issue is more critical than ever. Beckie offers several solutions to curbing and controlling no-shows and chronically late clients. Our hosts discuss solutions that have been successful and additional problems created by late and no-show clients. They also review if they believe it is getting better or worse. Viewfinders, share your thoughts and experiences on our Facebook or Instagram pages or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com

Veterinary Clinic Violence - Shively Animal Hospital Fatal Shooting This is another conversation about violence in veterinary clinics that we wish we didn’t have to have. This week we want to discuss some of the lessons veterinary professionals can learn following the fatal shooting of a veterinary team member at the Shively Animal Hospital in Kentucky. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss the growing threat of workplace violence in veterinary clinics and steps to take to prepare your team. Dr. Ward recounts his personal experiences with gun violence and the staff training he implemented in his veterinary clinics after his first encounter as a young veterinarian. Beckie calls for more conversations with team members on how to respond to threats, and both hosts call for more attention to the issue from national organizations such as NAVC. Viewfinders, have you been the victim of workplace violence? What steps are you taking to keep your staff safe? The video and article Dr. Ward refers to in the podcast can be found here.

Viewfinders, we've got lots of questions about swapping stuff with other veterinary clinics! Chances are you've asked to borrow or been asked by a neighboring veterinary clinic for medications or supplies you've run out of. How do you charge for them? What happens if you discover your price is significantly different than your competitor's? Do you even send clients to another practice or business to pick up something you're out of? Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, tackle the tough - and surprisingly complicated - the topic of sharing meds and supplies with nearby veterinary practices. From delivery charges to who asks and answers, this is another wide-ranging conversation that starts on borrowing medications but ends up discussing employee benefits. Viewfinders, we think you're going to enjoy this one! Please join us in congratulating Beckie on her latest adventure as President of the Veterinary Technician Program at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina! Hooray! We wish her the best of luck!

We know there are significant health benefits to sharing your home with a pet. So why don’t more older people have a companion animal? This week, we explore the possible stigma and biases faced by seniors who could benefit from pet ownership. Viewfinders, this is a good one! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, tackle a tough topic rarely talked about: the fears, concerns, and even biases faced by older people considering adding a new pet into their home. Many of these perceived risks and fears may be unfounded, yet they serve as a real barrier to pet ownership by many. Beckie begins by stating the obvious: many seniors fear what would happen to a pet if they died. Our hosts review some of the solutions to these worries and question how often it becomes a matter of relinquishment. Dr. Ward shares some of his clinical experiences dealing with older clients considering a new pet and reveals how his own implicit biases may have influenced certain decisions. Viewfinders, this is an important topic that we believe needs more attention from veterinary professionals. If you have ideas or resources, share them on our Facebook, Instagram, or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com Book Dr. Ward recommended: Starter Dog: My Path to Joy, Belonging and Loving This World By Rona Maynard https://ecwpress.com/products/starter-dog Canadian organizations mentioned in this podcast: ELDERDOG CANADA “Pawds” in seven Canadian provinces offer an array of free services (walking, brushing, pet food delivery, transportation to the vet or groomer) and urgent care (care for a hospital stay); and ElderDog will re-home senior dogs. To be assured of a loving home for any dog you can no longer care for, Canadians can register with their long-term care program. elderdog.ca MY GRANDFATHER’S CAT Serving seniors facing terminal illness or a move to assisted living, this Canadian charity arranges homes for both cats and dogs. The goal: keeping the pet with its human until the very last day. Free. mygrandfatherscat.ca

“Lasting hope starts here.” This week, we’d like to introduce the Viewfinders to a fantastic new veterinary support organization, the Veterinary Hope Foundation. We’re thrilled to speak with one of the co-founders, Dr. Blair McConnel, and the head of the Mental Health Professionals for the organization, Krista Martin, LISW-CP, LCSW. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, review veterinary professionals' unique mental health challenges and how the free Veterinary Hope Foundation support groups work. Dr. McConnel shares why she co-founded the Foundation and how anyone in veterinary medicine can benefit. Krista Martin shares how the six-week programs work, why they use “affinity groups” to place veterinary team members with similar experiences or challenges, and why six to eight-member groups are the most effective. If you or someone you know could benefit from joining a free peer group such as this, sign up at www.veterinaryhope.org. Viewfinders, please share this podcast with your team and colleagues. Thank you to the Veterinary Hope Foundation for giving us hope to overcome our mental health challenges and find a nurturing and supportive community! To learn more or join a support group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/veterinary-hope-foundation/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/VeterinaryHopeFoundation #sharevetlove #veterinary #veterinary #vettech #veterinarytechnician#veterinary #podcast

It’s Veterinary Receptionist Appreciation Week, and we’ve got the person who started it all, Ethel Pawlak! Joins us to celebrate our amazing veterinary receptionists April 23-29 as Veterinary Receptionist Week! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, are joined by the person who started Veterinary Receptionist Week some nineteen years ago, Ethel Pawlak. We share her story of decades in veterinary practice and why she believes veterinary receptionists deserve their own special week of recognition. We agree! We discuss why veterinary receptionists (CSRs, etc.) are often unsung heroes in the veterinary profession and how they can make - or break - a veterinary experience. Dr. Ward advocates for better pay, benefits, training, and support and expresses how a stable veterinary receptionist team can grow your business. Beckie praises veterinary receptionists' unique skillset and why she believes they are essential for successful patient care and client service. Viewfinders, how are you celebrating Veterinary Receptionist Week? Share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas! Thank you, Ethel Pawlak, for advocating for veterinary receptionists! To learn more: https://www.veterinaryreceptionistweek.com/ http://instagram.com/vetreceptionzest

This week, we’re delighted to bring you a special episode on large animal and livestock veterinary technicians featuring The Cattle Vet Tech, Meg Harrington, BS, CVT. Meg shares the latest update (and back story) on the recent changes to expand the scope of work veterinary technicians in her home state of Arkansas can perform and why she’s so passionate about large animal medicine! We don’t talk nearly enough about our large animal colleagues nearly enough on the Veterinary Viewfinder. This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, are joined by Meg Harrington, BS, CVT, the “Cattle Vet Tech,” to talk about her life, career, and why she’s fighting to expand the roles of veterinary technicians in Arkansas and around the country. Viewfinders, we hope you find this conversation as inspiring as we did. Thanks again to Meg for her persistent advocacy of the veterinary profession! Learn more about Meg here: https://www.facebook.com/cattlevettech/

There have been a lot of legal moves lately regarding the roles, regulations, and titles of U.S. veterinary technicians. This week we look closer at what’s happening in several states and why all veterinary professionals must stay informed. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, review the recent legal maneuvers in Arkansas and what impact these changes may have around the country. This week's episode also discusses new rules proposed in California, Colorado, and elsewhere. Viewfinders, in addition to staying up-to-date on legal changes affecting the veterinary profession, what issues are you seeing in your state? Let us know so we can share them with our colleagues! As always, Viewfinders, we can’t thank you enough for your loyal listening over the past 6.5 years! Have a great week! To learn more about the Arkansas legislation and the incomparable veterinary technician specialist Stephen Cital’s take on its opposition, read his article here: https://medium.com/@NinoCital/avmas-two-faces-adf4c7e53364

This week we’re delighted to have one of the founders of The Bridge Club join us. Catherine Haskins has spent much of her career behind the scenes in veterinary medicine, and now that she’s stepping out front, she’s got a lot to say! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, share the mic with Catherine Haskins of The Bridge Club. In her words, The Bridge Club “is a critical conversation company initiating meaningful conversations to elevate veterinary medicine. We strongly believe thoughtful discussions lead to realistic outcomes of the issues and topics affecting the veterinary profession. Our mission is to connect, engage and grow veterinary medicine and the services provided.” In addition to sharing Catherine’s story, we revisit the relationship between veterinary professionals such as groomers, trainers, dog walkers, etc. We first covered this way back in August 2017. You may want to check out that episode (and a couple of others) for our advice on building relationships with pet paraprofessionals in your community - and why it’s essential! Catherine and The Bridge Club will address that topic on April 19, 2023, and we recommend that you tune in. As always, those broadcasts are FREE (just like this podcast!). Thanks, Catherine, for sharing your story with the Viewfinders!

Chances are, if you’re a veterinary technician, you were asked for a “working interview” during the hiring process. This week, we’ve got a veterinary technician who cautions that not only may working interviews be illegal, but that may put interviewees at considerable risk. Viewfinders, you don’t want to miss this one! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, are joined by Amy Newfield, MS, CVT, VTS (ECC), owner of Veterinary Team Training. The trio talks about all things “working interview,” including what Amy considers a “working interview, how Dr. Ward’s “working interviews differ from most, and Beckie’s firsthand experience being asking “to prove her skills.” Viewfinders, there’s a lot to process in this week’s episode. We want to thank Amy for sharing her perspectives, experiences, and advocacy for veterinary technicians. If you’d like to learn more about Amy, visit her website at https://www.vetteamtraining.com/ #veterinary #veterinary #vettech #veterinarytechnician#veterinary #podcast

Working in a veterinary clinic can be stressful and downright depressing at times. A positive leadership team and support structure can make your job more enjoyable and meaningful. This week we’ve got Josh Vaisman to discuss his survey called “Leadership & Workplace Experience Study: The Impact of Positive Leadership on Veterinary Teams.” Viewfinders, this is a conversation we think you’ll find helpful for your team! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, are joined by Josh Vaisman, MAPPCP, CCFP, founder of Flourish Veterinary Consulting. We take a deep dive into his survey on what factors make a great veterinary workplace and how you can make yours better! This conversation is full of advice and experiences that will benefit any team member. If you’re struggling with your leadership, we suggest sending them a link or playing this episode out loud so they can hear! Subtle, we know. Thank you, Josh, for sharing your positive vibes with the Viewfinders! If you’d like to learn more about Josh, check out these links: * Flourish Veterinary Consulting website: www.flourish.vet * Study report: https://www.flourish.vet/positive-workplace-study-results * Josh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-vaisman-mappcp-pgd-8371877/ #veterinary #veterinary #vettech #veterinarytechnician#veterinary #podcast

Many veterinary professionals are familiar with Class IV or “cold” laser therapy for pet patients suffering from arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. The challenge many pet parent face is bringing their dog or cat to the vet clinic for regular treatments. This week, MedcoVet’s CEO, Alon Landa, joins us to discuss how veterinary professionals can prescribe in-home laser therapy for their patients. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, RVT, are joined by Alon Landa to discuss how vets can increase compliance and adherence to laser therapy regimens. Alon shares his unique (and out of this world - literally!) story of how he “landed” in veterinary therapeutics and the science behind photobiomodulation in pets. Viewfinders, we’re excited to bring you this innovative approach to helping your clients provide the best care for their pets using cutting-edge medical techniques. To learn more: MedcoVet Website: https://link.medcovet.com/vvp_website To try a demo unit: https://link.medcovet.com/vvp_demo_unit For pet owners to get a consult: https://link.medcovet.com/vvp_for_pet_owners #veterinary #veterinary #vettech #veterinarytechnician#veterinary #podcast

Title protection for medical professionals, particularly veterinary technicians, continues to be an issue in the US. This week we’re joined by two of our favorite - and outspoken - vet tech friends, Stephen Cital and Liz Hughston. They review a recent article they co-authored titled “Why title protection matters: A look at where we’ve been, where we’re going, and why it is still an issue.” Viewfinders, this is a good one! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, review the current state of medical professional title protection within the US. Stephen shares that human medical professionals are facing similar issues. At the same time, Liz reviews the history behind the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI) and how the title “veterinary nurse” is being misused. Viewfinders, this a hot topic that you need to understand fully. Hopefully, you’ll be inspired to get involved after listening to this podcast! We want to thank Liz and Stephen for their efforts and for taking the time to review this issue in detail and with tremendous consideration. To learn more about our guests: Liz Hughston MEd., RVT, CVT, LVT, LVMT, VTS (SAIM)(ECC) https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-hughston-6811981a5/ Stephen Niño Cital RVT, RLAT, SRA, CVPP, VTS- LAM (Res. Anesthesia) www.stephencital.com #veterinary #veterinary #vettech #veterinarytechnician#veterinary #podcast

This week we’re proud to bring you a conversation with a fundamental change agent within the veterinary profession, Paige A. Allen, MS, RVT. Paige has guided both veterinary technician organizations and held the highest office in the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) - FOR TWO TERMS! This week she shares her story and vision for the future of veterinary medicine. Prepare to be inspired! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss how Paige became interested in the veterinary technician profession, her progression as a leader, and what changes she thinks the next generation of veterinary technicians (and veterinarians) needs to make to improve veterinary practice. From title protection to the term “veterinary nurse” to her experiences of being told she couldn’t become a veterinarian “because she was a woman,” this conversation will brighten your day! Viewfinders, share this podcast with someone who needs a lift or is facing a challenge. Hopefully, you’ll find the nudge you need to make positive changes in your world after listening! About Paige Allen, MS, RVT Paige started her career in 1984 in a mixed animal practice in Nebraska. In 1986, she came to Purdue University, where she held several positions in Purdue’s Veterinary Hospital, including Food Animal Technician, Large Animal Anesthesia/Surgery Technician, and Director of Central Supply. She helped to start Purdue’s Veterinary Technology Distance Learning Program and is now the Assistant Director for Academic Advising for Purdue’s Veterinary Nursing Program. She has a fantastic husband, three outstanding children, and five terrific grandchildren! Darrell and Paige live in the country and have two cats, Mac & Cheese. She is always looking for new adventures and challenges, personally and professionally.   LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/paige-allen-ms-rvt-5971842b

What happens when a team member needs to bring their pet in during recovery or to avoid a behavioral problem at home? Where do you keep it? Who cares for it? Is the employee charged? How long can they bring their pet? What happens if you run out of space? If they’re sick, when are they examined? These are but a few of the potential problems that arise when bringing personal pets into your practice. This week we look closely at how you can create solutions to avoid these common personal pet pitfalls. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, review their experiences and observations with team members’ pets in the practice. Viewfinders, this is another wide-ranging conversation designed to help you develop protocols and policies to avoid problems. Please share your thoughts on our social media or email us!

Chances are you’ve received at least one unsolicited plea for veterinary medical advice from a friend, family member, or some random person on social media. How do you respond politely and professionally? How do you set boundaries with folks in the “real world?” This week we look deeper into one of the more frustrating - and stressful - aspects of being a veterinary professional. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, examine all sides of the professional and personal boundaries we establish and (try to) maintain. Drawing on real-world examples and experiences, this conversation will surely spark debate and discussions within your clinic.

Applying for a Veterinary Technician Specialty (VTS), work promotion, or a new job can be daunting. This week we talk to Heather Carter, MPS, LVT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia), about the process to apply for a VTS and how to land that new job or new title! Host Dr. Ernie Ward is flying solo this week as Beckie Mossor, RVT, has an unexpected last-minute conflict. Luckily for the Viewfinders, we’re joined by the dynamic Heather Carter, MPS, LVT, VTS, to discover how a credentialed veterinary technician can succeed on the VTS journey. This wide-ranging conversation is full of tips and tricks to make any job application stand out from the crowd. If you’re curious about becoming a Veterinary Technician Specialist, this podcast is simply a must-listen-to episode. You can reach Heather at: HCarter@PartnerVESC.com LinkedIn Work website

It's not often you get to talk with a two-time Pulitzer Prize nominee, eleven-time New York Times Best-Selling author, human performance expert, and a dear friend. Viewfinders, we are thrilled and honored to bring you another exclusive interview with the extraordinary Steven Kotler to talk about his new book, "Gnar Country: Growing Old, Staying Rad," and how you can apply his research to reach your peak potential, no matter your age! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, welcome back the incomparable Steven Kotler. Viewfinders, this wide-ranging conversation covers everything from how you can achieve incredible things at any age to how Steven's rescue chihuahuas taught him about the flow state to peak performance insights for veterinary professionals (Steven's wife, Joy, worked for many years in a veterinary clinic in addition to running their animal sanctuary). Our friend Steven Kotler has written six books on flow and peak performance. Yet, because of the complicated nature of flow science and his desire for readers to understand that science, those books could only capture a small portion of what it actually means to apply these ideas on a day-to-day basis. Gnar Country, on the other hand? This book goes far beyond the basics of peak performance. It’s a nuanced, expert-level view. Less science, more practice (so you can get after it). Pre-order your copy now and receive over $1,750 in free peak performance tools & training: www.gnarcountry.com Learn more at www.stevenkotler.com

The 2022 NAVTA Demographics survey was released during VMX 2023. This week we discuss the findings, actions we can take, and questions for the future. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and President-Elect of NAVTA, Beckie Mossor, RVT, take a deep dive into the findings of this critical survey. The last demographics survey was conducted in 2016, and, wow, some things have changed - and others remained, sadly, the same. The survey results revealed the following highlights: • The average Veterinary Technician is earning 25% more than in 2016.• More than 70% of Veterinary Technicians have an Associates’ degree, up 16% from 2016.• More than 1/3 of Veterinary Technicians have student loan debt, averaging $29,700/person.• One-third of Veterinary Technicians have a second job, most often at full-time. Viewfinders, this is an important discussion for the veterinary profession. We encourage you to share it with your colleagues, discuss your thoughts, and get involved! Read the full report here.

This week we’re recording live from the world’s largest veterinary conference - VMX, in Orlando, Florida! We cover the happenings, who’s here, and our vision for the future of VMX. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, are recording live from the floor of VMX 2023. They’re joined by over 27,000 veterinary professionals interested in learning about the latest advancement in veterinary medicine. This show is for anyone interested in what VMX (and NAVC) is all about and for those attending who might’ve missed some of the news. Dr. Ernie Ward shares his excitement and joy at the record-breaking attendance of over 27,000 and what this means for the future of veterinary CE. Beckie walks us through some of the critical issues for veterinary support staff being promoted throughout the conference. Both share their hopes and aspirations for the future of VMX and how you can help influence future CE offerings. Viewfinders, we don’t often have the opportunity to record live from such an amazing event. We hope you’ll share in our admiration for VMX and NAVC after listening to this episode! There’s always room for improvement, and we’re sure VMX is listening to you!

As we begin a new year, many veterinary professionals set goals to become professional writers, speakers, or influencers. This week we share our advice for aspiring future leaders and lessons we’ve learned that may accelerate your progress. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, review their journeys into the world of veterinary writing and speaking and their top tips for anyone interested in pursuing the role of “key opinion leaders” or, dare we say, “influencer.” During this episode, you’ll also learn why Dr. Ward and Beckie are somewhat uncomfortable with that term.) Viewfinders, this episode is full of nuggets that can help you achieve your goals. Dr. Ward and Beckie will be at VMX 2023 in Orlando, Florida next week, so be on the lookout and say “Hi!”

What better way to spend a New Year’s Day than visiting a veterinary emergency clinic - as a patient and client! Our very own Beckie Mossor, RVT, had to take her doggo to the ER on New Year’s Day, and she gained a lot of insight into how you can provide better patient care and client service. Viewfinders, there are a lot of good lessons in this week’s episode. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Motor, RVT, share their recent experiences in hospital ER rooms. Dr. Ward recounts the eye injury he sustained (initially discussed in episode 317), and Beckie reviews her New Year’s Day vet ER visit. Dr. Ward and Beckie would like to thank ER staff members who took care of them and worked tirelessly throughout the holidays. But both also believe there are lessons to be learned, and as Dr. Ward describes his 2023 intention, we should all strive to make everything in our personal and professional lives better this year. Here’s to a Better 2023!

Predicting the future is tough…but we do it anyway every year! This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss some of the topics and trends they believe veterinary professionals will be talking about in 2023 and beyond. Viewfinders, we hope you’re having a wonderful holiday season! Thank you for listening in 2022, and we hope to share your speakers for half an hour each week in 2023! Happy New Year!

Happy holidays, Viewfinders! This week we’ve got a special rendition of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” written by our very own Beckie Mossor, RVT! ‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the clinic Not a creature was stirring, but there’s always a cynic. “Seems awful quiet,” they said; Oh yes, they did dare, For at that very moment, they knew the rush soon be there.   The front staff was working away on their day, When they heard the cursed words, they cried, “What’d you just say?!” Then the new grad in training gently laid down a cat, Turned with a frown and said, “What’s wrong with that?”   When out in the lobby, there arose such a clatter, Seasoned staff on their shifts knew what was the matter. But the newbies, they flew to the front in a flash, When in came the clients, through the door with a smash.   A cat in a crate calling out with a Meow, A client at hand yelling we need some help now! If that didn’t seem bad enough, then appeared, A bunny not eating; it’s white and lop-eared.   With experience and grace, so swift and so quick, I knew in a moment it must be a vet tech. More rapid than dex, the techs they all came, And they checked in each patient as they called them by name.   Now, Buddy, and Daisy, then Missy and Max! Next, Buster, and Sox, and Angel, and Jax! To exam room one, to two, then to three, Patients and parents, as far as we see.   As x-rays are taken, and lab work gets done, The staff’s in good spirits; they’re still having fun. So, vet’s do exams, and techs fill their order, The patient list is shrinking; slowly, it gets shorter.   By the end of the day, they have seen every pet, Every prescription refilled; their bottles all set. Discharges go great, the parents all listen, Their eyes don’t glass over. They don’t shimmer and glisten.   The staff wraps it up and turns out the lights, Grateful the day's curse didn’t end in a fight. Forgiveness is given for the jinx that was spoken, Any grudges they had were mostly broken.   For overall, it was a success, No drama or hassle, and minimal stress.   A workday like this is my wish for you, My wish is just this, it is pure, and it’s true.   So to make this wish work, we know it must rhyme,   My wish for you is to go home on time.

If your social media is anything like ours, you’ve seen a lot of questions and concerns about the upcoming National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) Board of Directors elections. You may have also been following Veterinarians Against Ventilation Shutdown (vavsd.org (http://vavsd.org)) and their efforts to have the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reclassify ventilation shutdown, which uses a form of heatstroke to kill pigs and chickens. This week we discuss these issues and why you should care about how our membership-led professional organizations operate. Viewfinders, this is another hot topic all veterinary professionals need to know about! (And find out why Dr. Ward made Beckie cry!) Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss why Beckie is running for NAVTA President and what the latest controversy is about. Beckie stresses the need for all veterinary professionals to get involved with their professional organizations and why change often takes longer than you’d like. Ernie offers advice on how professional organizations can get members more involved and why he continues to support a democratic and bureaucratic process, despite not winning his position on several topics (telemedicine and ventilation shutdown, for example.) Viewfinders, if you’re a NAVTA member, be sure to vote before December 31, 2022. Dr. Ward shares why he believes this may be the most important election in recent history. Good luck, Beckie! Explaining NAVTA’s Nominating Process https://navta.net/news/explaining-navtas-nominating-process/ (https://navta.net/news/explaining-navtas-nominating-process/) Veterinarians Against Ventilation Shutdown website vavsd.org (http://vavsd.org)

Non-compete clauses have been standard practice in veterinarian contracts for decades. This week we're joined by veterinary hiring consultant Paul Diaz to discuss why he believes non-competes should be abolished. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, share the mic with Paul Diaz to review the history and usage of a non-compete clause in employment contracts for veterinary professionals. Paul reveals why this practice is unfair and potentially harmful to veterinarians' mental well-being and future opportunities. Beckie reviews her experiences with non-compete clauses and why vet techs should take notice. Dr. Ward and Paul describe what they believe is a better option and how to negotiate for it when accepting a job. Viewfinders, does your clinic require a non-compete? If so, do you agree with them? What other solutions do you propose? Please email us your thoughts at VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. Find out more about Paul Diaz here: www.hirepower.com.

Winston, an unarguably adorable French bulldog, took top honors at the 2022 National Dog Show. Historically, breeds crowned Best in Show surged in popularity. Will Winston's win result in a flurry of French bulldogs this year? Viewfinders, this is another potentially sticky situation for veterinary professionals. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss the dichotomy of a French bulldog winning the crown jewel of US dog shows in the same year countries such as Norway are banning them. The pair review the diverging differences in attitudes toward brachycephalic breeds in European countries and the US. Our hosts share ideas to bridge the divide between breeders, breed enthusiasts, and rescue/shelter communities. Dr. Ward expresses his support for identifying and registering responsible breeders and the need for state and national veterinary organizations to get involved. Beckie reveals that loving and supporting pure breeds and rescue pets aren't mutually exclusive. She calls on veterinary professionals and breeders to share how they can - and should - work together. Viewfinders, do you anticipate a flurry of Frenchies in your clinic? What are you do to educate clients on the unique needs of brachycephalic breeds? Please share your thoughts and opinions on one of our social media platforms or email us at VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com.

Happy Six Years to us! And you, the Viewfinder Family! This week, Dr. Marty Becker joins us to talk all things veterinary! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, want to thank the Viewfinders for their loyal listening over the past 312 episodes. This week we're honored to share the mic with a dear friend, Dr. Marty Becker. Dr. Becker and Ernie share stories from their "old days" and pontificate on the changes ahead. Learn why Dr. Becker loves Dr. Ward's number one rule for want-to-be vets: "bathe dogs and cats and any animal you can." Dr. Becker shares his high school nickname of "Farty Becker." You heard it here first, Viewfinders! Dr. Becker shares his secret to being left alone on airplanes. He also dishes on his late mother and why he's grateful for this Thanksgiving, even though his mother has passed. You have to hear that one! The trio discusses why they're glad the veterinary community is having a more open conversation about mental health and what additional steps need to be made. The podcast ends with Dr. Becker sharing the changes he predicts for the veterinary profession and what he's most excited to see. We hope this special episode brightens your Thanksgiving holiday. We're grateful you choose to spend time with us each week. Happy Thanksgiving, Viewfinders!

The Washington State Veterinary Board of Governors (WSVBG) recently voted to approve a private veterinary practice’s proposal to establish a self-serving apprenticeship program as an alternative pathway to licensure as a Veterinary Technician in the state. The Washington State Association of Veterinary Technicians (WSAVT), NAVTA, AVMA, and several other veterinary groups opposed the change. This week we have two leaders from the WSAVT, Ryan Frazier, BS, LVT, and Ashley Byrne, LVT, to bring the Viewfinders up to speed and explain why this matters to everyone in veterinary medicine. Host Dr. Ernie Ward is flying solo this week as co-host Beckie Mossor, RVT, is traveling. Ashly, Ryan, and Dr. Ward have a spirited discussion on how this change occurred, what the nationwide implications could be, and what happens next. Viewfinders, this legal change could prove significant if enacted in other states. Thank you to Ryan and Ashley for sharing their concerns with the Veterinary Viewfinders! I encourage you to share this conversation with your state’s veterinarian and veterinary technician leaders. To learn the latest news on this issue, visit https://www.wsavt.org/news.

The holidays are here! And that means the stress many veterinary professionals feel is climbing faster than Old Saint Nick on his sleigh Christmas Eve! But it's not too late to prepare your clients and team and avoid some holiday stress. We've got a checklist of the top things you should do in your clinic before Thanksgiving! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, share their most significant concerns (fears, anxieties, worries, you get it) about the 2022 holiday season. Dr. Ward worries that a "perfect storm of staff shortages, pet parent demands, and lack of emergency care" could brew a stress storm like never before. Beckie agrees. But more. Our duo dish on simple ways to get ahead of stressful interactions by deploying a client communication strategy. Beckie reveals her top tips to educate clients "before that Schnauzer's annual bout of pancreatitis strikes." You may want to jot some of these down (or at least ask your veterinary practice manager to do it). Viewfinders, are you worried about this holiday season in your vet clinic? Are you short-staffed? Do clients seem short-tempered? Share your thoughts and experiences on our social media! If you have questions or topics, email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

It’s the holidays! If you’re like most veterinary clinics, clients will begin showering you with love - and gifts - very soon! But what happens when those well-intentioned gifts carry unexpected consequences? What about holiday tipping, homemade food, and a host of other seemingly innocent gestures that can cause division (or food-borne illness) in your clinic? Viewfinders, get ready for a conversation about holidays in vet med that rarely gets spoken out loud! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, start with how to handle “special favors” and tips for nail trims, grooming, and baths. As pet parents scramble to fluff up Fido for holiday parties, they may go to great lengths to, as Dr. Ward puts it, “jump to the front of the line.” Beckie questions the safety of accepting “ a bowl of potato salad,” and why we should be extra-vigilant about food-borne illness during the holidays. Joint: we’re already short-staffed. Did Susie wash her hands? Did Billy double-dip? Keeping it real. And finally, how do we ensure our team distributes gifts equally? What happens when that box of cookies “gets crushed while we were doing a two-hour emergency surgery? Nobody cared to save us any!?” Beckie speaks from experience. Viewfinders, take these questions to heart and discuss them with your team before the E. coli outbreak takes you out. Happy holidays!

We often talk about the alleged importance and benefits of exit interviews in the veterinary profession. But what happens when an exit interview turns into a slug-fest? Do you really get truthful information? This week we discuss the pros and cons, risks and benefits of exit interviews, and whether you should even bother in 2022. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share a recent question Dr. Ward received from a young associate who “spent an hour getting my @$$ kicked in an exit interview.” The duo discusses all things interview exit and when it makes sense - and when it doesn’t. Viewfinders, this is one of those topics that typically only gets briefly mentioned in practice management and rarely gets scrutinized. We believe there’s something for everyone in this podcast. Share with your colleagues - and management.

Each holiday season, many of our veterinary colleagues endure financial hardships. Over the past few years, these challenges have been complicated by the pandemic and inflation. That’s why three licensed veterinary technicians, Beckie Mossor, Crystal Vaquero, and Lily Preston started The Veterinary Industry Giving Tree, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterinary professionals in need. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, discuss the origin and mission of the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree, and how you can help. About The Veterinary Industry Giving Tree: Our Mission: To provide financial assistance to veterinary professionals & their families during difficult times. Our Vision: To build a reliable source of financial assistance to aid industry members in relieving stress for holidays and special occasions and improve our colleagues' quality of life. Our Values: * Anonymity * Open-mindedness * Philanthropy Website: https://www.veterinarygivingtree.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682336046035250 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veterinaryindustrygivingtree/ Email: veterinarygivingtree@gmail.com

National Veterinary Technician Appreciation Week is October 16-22, 2022. This week we celebrate our amazing licensed veterinary technicians! The “backbone,” “heart,” or “insert organ system of your choice here” of veterinary medicine! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, take time this week to talk about the invaluable contributions veterinary technicians make to the veterinary profession. Our hosts share tips on how you can recognize your vet techs, why they deserve a whole year of celebrations, and how to attract more great folks to the vet tech profession. The pair also discuss their views on “resilience” and some of its associated risks as this year’s theme. Viewfinders, we hope you’ll take time to do something special for your vet techs from October 16-22, 2022. If you do, please share it on our Instagram or Facebook pages! If you have questions or ideas for future podcasts, email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

Veterinary colleagues, we need your help with the 2022 US Pet Obesity Prevalence Survey! Sign up today at PetObesityPrevention.org. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss how veterinary professionals can help gather information on pet obesity rates in the US this October. The duo discusses findings from the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) 2021 Pet Owner Weight Management, Nutrition, and Pet Food Survey, including current pet parent attitudes on grain-free diets, DCM, best sources of pet food information, and much more! We need your help with this year’s survey. Our primary goal is to enroll as many veterinary clinics and professionals to collect BCS and body weight information. In addition, we ask that you share the Pet Owner Survey on your social media to help us better understand contemporary attitudes and opinions on pet weight loss, food, and how we can better help pets achieve (and maintain) a healthy body condition. PRIZES! Did we mention prizes? The veterinary professional that submits the most pet data will win a YETI COOLER! The clinic that submits the most pets will receive an IPAD! We’ll also give away several prizes to random participants, including BASEPAWS GENETICS TEST KITS! Stay tuned to APOP’s Instagram and Facebook for additional details and prizes! Be sure to sign up by October 12!

“Acting your wage” is the latest social media, well, TikTok, trend to hit the US workplace. Gen Z’ers have taken “quiet quitting” and defined it in their terms. Bonus, there’s also taking a “workcation” popping up on feeds everywhere. Viewfinders, you don’t want to miss this one! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, explore what “act your wage” means for veterinary practices, the root causes of these issues, and changes you can make in your management and leadership styles to help. Viewfinders, these trends are primarily in response to chronic low wages and benefits, poor or toxic workplace cultures, and managers more focused on profits than people. There’s a lot to discuss on this topic, and we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Please email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com or drop us a DM on our socials. While you’re at it, please click on the Apple Podcasts link and drop us a 5-star to keep our little podcast growing! Thanks, and we’ll talk to you next week!

Have you ever worked in a veterinary clinic that split vaccine dosages? What about recommending half-dose heartworm or flea preventives? Ever stray so far off label that you felt uncomfortable? If you’ve ever encountered one of these dilemmas, you don’t want to miss this episode! (Although you may need to turn the volume down, so your boss doesn’t hear.) Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, share real-life stories of vet practices that may have pushed a little too far beyond the scientific and moral boundaries of veterinary care. Importantly, the pair discuss the impact of observing these uncomfortable acts on our mental health and physical well-being. In fact, they speculate these “tiny tensions” are a major contributor to veterinary burnout. Our hosts offer practical, although potentially painful, advice for anyone seeking to “stand up against” a questionable clinic protocol or practice. Viewfinders, this is yet another good discussion of a complex - and confounding - problem in veterinary medicine. It’s a good one!

With the fall veterinary CE season ramping up, we thought we’d discuss what to wear and how to act at CE events. Yes, we had to go there. Listen and you’ll learn why. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share some of their tales of attire and attitudes at the scores of vet med events they’ve attended. From flip flops and tank tops, to feet propped up on chairs, to lecture hall Candy Crush marathons, our duo dish on some of the more interesting personal choices they’ve observed, and why it matters. Viewfinders, this conversation is about much more than the clothes we wear at CE events. It’s about our attitudes and behaviors and getting the most out of our precious educational opportunities. This is an episode you really need to listen to before you comment. We’d love to hear your thoughts on what to wear (or not) to CE and what behaviors you think are a distraction (or helpful!). Thanks for listening!

Feedback: everyone needs it to improve. But what happens when we get unexpected negative feedback? How can veterinary professionals separate “context from content” and learn the valuable lessons nearly any form of feedback offers? For a “profession of perfectionists,” there’s a lot to discuss in this episode! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, start by defining what valid feedback looks like in veterinary practice. From there, they review why nearly any form of feedback can be beneficial for your professional (and perhaps personal) growth, why your network is essential in evaluating feedback, and how to remain in control, even when you don’t like what, or how, feedback is being delivered. Viewfinders, there’s a lot to consider in this podcast that transcends “feedback.” We’d love to hear your thoughts! And we’d appreciate you giving us feedback over on Apple Podcasts by pressing the 5-stars! Your review really helps us reach more of our colleagues!

“Quiet quitting” has gone viral. This week we examine what “quiet quitting” really means, how it’s actually been around for a long time (thank you, Gen Xers), and how you can learn from this workplace trend. In our 300th consecutive weekly episode (!), hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the latest Gen Z TikTok trend of “quiet quitting.” The pair explain how this applies to veterinary professionals, and why this may be a healthy movement. Dr. Ward reminds the Viewfinders that, “You are not defined by how many hours you work.” He shares why establishing healthy boundaries between work and personal life are essential for a long - and satisfying - career in veterinary medicine. (And he’s been doing this for over 30 years.) Beckie examines the workplace pressures many veterinary professionals feel if they “take time for themselves” and how many clinics may be reinforcing toxic relationships with work by “texting you at 2 a.m. to ask about work" and then getting upset if you don't respond immediately. Someone needed to hear that... Viewfinders, thank you for allowing us to get to 300 podcasts! Back in 2016 when we started, we could not imagine how much we’d grow and how much fun we’d be having! Share this podcast with a colleague who needs to hear it and don’t forget to head over to Apple Podcasts and give us a 5-star review so we can reach more veterinary professionals! Email: veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com

Many of us see things that need changing or improving nearly every day. Sadly, few of us take action to make those changes or improvements. Stefanie Perry, CVT, VTS (Dentistry) recognized that Arizona veterinary technicians didn’t have an organization, so she and two others decided to make that change! This week, we learn how you can help the AZVTA and steps you can take to make changes in your world! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are thrilled to introduce you to Stefanie Perry, CVT, VTS, the current President of the brand new Arizona Veterinary Technician Association (azvta.org). She’s part of a growing movement of licensed veterinary technicians who are establishing protections and promoting better standards of veterinary care around the US. Regardless of where you live, this episode is both inspiring and pragmatic for making change. We need more folks like Stefanie, President-Elect Jennifer Serling, CVT, RVT, VTES, AAS, BVSc (Go App State!), and Vice President Katie Foust, CVT! Bravo! If you’re interested in learning more about the AZVTA, visit them at azvta.org.

What’s the latest news on the unionization movement in US veterinary clinics? What is a union and how can forming them help veterinary professionals preserve the best aspects of their jobs while improving many of the worst conditions? This week we welcome back vet tech extraordinaire Liz Hughston MEd, RVT, CVT, LVT, LMVT, VTS (SAIM) (ECC) to share the latest developments on veterinary professionals’ unionization. Viewfinders, hold on to your seat…this is one fast-paced ride! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore the reasons why unions make sense in veterinary practice, why the continued expansion of corporate practice ownership makes them even more important, and the steps you can take if you’re interested in forming a union in your place of work. Beckie and Liz detour into what (or not) vet med organizations such as the AVMA and NAVTA should be doing (or not) when it comes to educating veterinary professionals about collective bargaining. Our trio also discusses what information is (and isn’t) being shared with our colleagues from our professional groups. They also offer advice on how our associations and agencies can be more transparent and inclusive when it comes to offering a variety of opinions and strategies for change. Viewfinders, this is another impactful conversation that covers a lot of essential topics. Share your thoughts with us on our social media challenge or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com For more information on veterinary unions, check out these links: http://www.natvpu.org/ https://www.instagram.com/nvpunion/ https://www.facebook.com/NationalVeterinaryProfessionalsUnion communications@natvpu.org

Do you throw a party when a team member leaves? What about birthdays or work anniversaries? How do you make celebrating employees fair and equitable? Does it sometimes feel like high school all over again in terms of who gets recognized, how, and when? If you’ve ever felt unsure about what, who, and how to recognize your team’s special events (and some maybe not so special happenings), then you’ll definitely want to check out this week’s Veterinary Viewfinder! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore how to gracefully - and strategically - celebrate a team member’s leaving. Dr. Ward explains why many veterinary clinics don’t commemorate when a staff member leaves for a competing practice across town, but are quick to “throw a party” when they move across state. Beckie details how saluting staff for a wide variety of milestones can boost your culture and encourage job satisfaction. Both hosts offer simple, and affordable, tips on making meaningful staff recognitions and advice on keeping things fair. Viewfinders, share your thoughts on this episode or suggestions for additional topics on your social media or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

The Veterinary Viewfinder was founded in 2016 to “tackle the toughest topics in veterinary medicine.” One of the tough topics we’ve covered repeatedly is the growing movement to ban non-therapeutic, non-preventive procedures such as feline digit amputation, often referred to as “declawing.” This week we’re excited to introduce you to the Canadian Animal Health Technician (same as US RVT/CVT/LVT) who succeeded in the enactment of a law banning declawing in the Province of Quebec. If you’re wondering, Quebec is the second-most populous province with a population of over 8 million. Not bad for a vet tech! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are thrilled to bring you a master class in how one person can bring about big change. Leading the class is the amazing vet tech (animal health technician in Canadian-speak) Alexandra Yaksich, BSc., AHT. Alex wears many hats. She is currently working as a freelance writer, communications consultant, content creator, and relief animal health technician. The story we share this week is about how anyone can overcome their doubts and fears to create change. Viewfinders, prepare to be inspired! Alex is a loyal podcast subscriber and decided to email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com and tell us she had a story to share! (You can, too!) If there’s something in your world you want to improve or change, Alex lays out a practical, logical, and systemic approach. Whether it’s animal welfare, social justice, LGBTQ+, worker rights, or anything you feel is wrong or less than ideal, we believe this episode will not only inspire, but offers a pathway for change. Viewfinders, this is a good one! Follow Alex on Instagram (@alexandra.yaksich) or connect with her via LinkedIn at https://bit.ly/3znSCoZ.

It's no secret many (most?) veterinary clinics across the nation are feeling overwhelmed. Our clients and patients must wait days to weeks to be seen or endure long waits in lobbies for "walk-in" appointments. Could shifting to a "hybrid urgent care model" help ease the stress many veterinary professionals are experiencing? Let's talk about it. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss how any general veterinary clinic could shift to a "hybrid urgent care model" and the potential benefits. Dr. Ward emphasizes that this type of strategic change could help by changing our team's perspective and expectations on an already busy day. Beckie shares that many vet techs who would like to work ER cases but can't manage the hours may also find this model appealing. We'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions. We'll continue to promote and advocate for innovations that improve patient care, client service, and staff well-being. Share your thoughts on our social media accounts or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

We’ve heard too many stories the past few months of veterinary clinics not taking new patients or unable to see routine care appointments for weeks. Have the pandemic, workplace shortage, an inflation made the veterinary industry potentially less “recession proof” than before? Viewfinders, let’s tackle this tough topic! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss how some clinics may be inadvertently putting themselves at increased risk of recession impacts due to not accepting new patients, long waits for annual care, and rising prices. Dr. Ward points out why this potential recession may be unlike any other for the veterinary profession as a multitude of veterinary market forces conspire to threaten our traditional economic resilience. Beckie discusses her concerns that too many veterinary practices may not appreciate that today’s clients may not be as loyal as in the past and that vet-flation may cause many pet parents to price shop out services. Our hosts discuss the “veterinary workforce translocation” that may have additional impacts on how independent vet clinics operate in the future. They also discuss steps every clinic needs to take now to lessen the affects of a potential economic downturn. Viewfinders, we hope this episode gives you ideas on how to weather the economic storms that may lie ahead. Don’t forget to head over to Apple Podcasts and drop 5-stars on on us so we may reach more veterinary colleagues! If you have any questions or topic ideas, email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com!

A frequent guest on the podcast, Stephen Cital RVT, RLAT, SRA, CVPP, VTS- LAM (Res. Anesthesia), recently caused a bit of controversy on vet med social media by taking a very public stand against continuing education conferences held in states harboring laws against women’s and LGBTQ+ rights and other social injustices. Stephen decided to “sit out” or boycott speaking at these events, resulting in considerable online chatter. This week, in an exclusive interview, we’re thrilled to bring you his side of the story and why it matters to all of us. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT review Stephen’s actions, discuss both the support and criticisms he has received, and practical steps we can all take to stand up for the things we believe in. Viewfinders, this is an important conversation on a topic that many, including us, may find uncomfortable at times. We think it’s important to openly (and civilly) address this issue as a profession and hope this sparks conversation - and action - in your world. A huge thanks to Stephen for joining us and bravely sharing his story. Link to Stephen’s LinkedIn post: https://bit.ly/3o5zTJj Link the Facebook post discussed in the podcast: https://bit.ly/3NY9EPP veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com @veterinaryviewfinder

Choosing a veterinary or veterinary technician school is one of the most important - and potentially challenging - decisions you’ll make in your career. Today, technology and educational innovations provide vets and vet techs with more professional school choices than ever before. This week, let’s look at one exciting new veterinary technician program developed by our very own Beckie Mossor, RVT! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore the next generation of veterinary technician programs. Dr. Ward begins by sharing a recent “random Facebook message” he received about choosing a veterinary school and the advice he offered. Beckie takes us on a deep dive into the current state of US veterinary technician schools and why she’s excited to share some of the innovations of her new A.S in Veterinary Medical technology Program from Gurnick Academy. And Dr. Ward explains why that A.S. degree might be more important to your decision than you might think. Viewfinders. Share this podcast with any students or colleagues interested in pursuing a prolonged career in vet med! To learn more about Beckie’s Gurnick Academy veterinary technician A.S. program, click here: https://www.gurnick.edu/programs/veterinary-medical-technology-program/ If you’d like to learn more about all the veterinary technician programs accredited by the AVMA CVTEA, check out this link: https://bit.ly/3yl7YKn

We want to take a moment to address the June 24, 2022 Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) decision to overturn Roe versus Wade. This decision stripped away the right to have a safe and legal abortion in the United States. Everyone should have the right to decide what's best for themselves and for their families, including when it comes to ending a pregnancy. This decision potentially has dire consequences for individual health and safety and could have harsh repercussions for other landmark decisions. Restricting access to comprehensive reproductive care, including abortion, threatens the health and independence of all Americans. Thank you to Arielle Nissenblatt, the founder of the EarBuds Podcast Collective (https://www.earbudspodcastcollective.org/), for starting this movement. Podcasters from around the world are making this announcement at the top of their podcasts in a time where people really are looking for help, looking for unity, and looking to know what to do. This is an amazing movement to show how many of us are concerned and how important it is to unite over this very important topic. We encourage you to speak up, take care, and spread the word. Thank you to the Viewfinders who continue to serve others and share their love and compassion with all.

Perhaps there’s never been a time when more veterinary professionals changed jobs than during the past 18 months. Many colleagues are finding increased salaries, better benefits, and interesting opportunities. But what happens when your new job turns out to have many of the old problems you were getting away from? Viewfinders, let’s talk about that and a whole lot more concerning switching employers. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin with a recent conversation Dr. Ward had with a young veterinarian who recently changed jobs. Despite an awesome signing bonus and generous salary bump, after a few months at the new clinic, she confided she wasn’t as happy as she’d hoped. What went wrong? Listen to find out! Our pair discuss what to look for when thinking about changing jobs, how to self-evaluate what’s really wrong in your workplace, and why it’s essential for each of us to self-reflect on why we love this profession in order to find the best workplace. Oh, and why any job isn’t necessarily going to provide you with purpose, fulfillment and meaning in your life. As always, there’s a lot to unpack in this podcast! The duo also discuss establishing realistic expectations for veterinary professionals when dealing with the pet-owning public, relationships with coworkers, and treatment from managers and bosses. There’s so much to talk about this week! Please join in wishing Beckie a Happy Birthday this week! All she asks for is a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts: http://bit.ly/VetView Thanks again for listening! Email us at: VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com

A viral news story involving a Maine veterinary clinic and relinquishment of a pet whose owner couldn’t afford treatment has been widely circulating on social media. This week we address many of our concerns from sloppy reporting to missed media opportunities to the practice of pet relinquishment. Our full support and hearts go out to the entire veterinary team involved with this challenging case, and hope this conversation will help others facing similar situations. Viewfinders, there’s a lot to discuss on this tough topic. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT review the recent case involving the Maine Veterinary Medical Center and a client who relinquished her pet because she couldn’t afford the $10,000 fee. Dr. Ward begins by examining tactics to handle media inquiries involving disgruntled clients. Beckie Mossor, RVT shares her own experiences and why the art of compromise is essential in dealing with these cases, especially in an emergency setting. Dr. Ward reviews his opinion on financial relinquishment and confiscation of pets. He also encourages clinics to role-play these scenarios and create plans to help when confronting financial constraints. Viewfinders, while our hearts are broken for all involved in this case, we urge our colleagues not to resort to online client-bashing and hurtful rhetoric. It can be challenging to practice radical empathy and compassion, but we hope you can remain respectful and professional when posting your thoughts. There are many lessons we can learn from these tragedies. We encourage you to check out Dr. Ward’s piece on a couple of similar situations. We’re also including the Maine Veterinary Medical Center’s complete June 11, 2022 Statement on our website. Local News Reports: 'That's my boy:' Mainer pleads for return of puppy surrendered over $10K vet bill https://wgme.com/news/i-team/thats-my-boy-owner-pleads-for-return-of-puppy-surrendered-over-10k-vet-bill Maine vet clinic responds to I-Team investigation about surrendered dog https://wgme.com/news/i-team/mvmc-responds-to-i-team-investigation-maine-veterinary-medical-center-jaxx-german-shepherd Maine Veterinary Medical CenterJune 11, 2022 Statement https://www.scribd.com/document/578065883/Statement-From-Maine-Veterinary-Medical-Center#from_embed Dr. Ernie Ward’s 2017 Video and Blog on a similar case: Why Don't Veterinarians Treat Animals For Free? “Why don't we just treat it for free?” is a question that many pet owners have for veterinarians, especially in cases where the pet owner can’t afford treatment. https://www.drernieward.com/blog/2017/12/22/why-dont-veterinarians-treat-animals-for-free

We hate to break it to you, but the pandemic isn't over yet! This week we examine some of the less-discussed impacts of the “Pandemic Period” in veterinary medicine. Viewfinders, this is one interesting conversation! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT take listeners on a circuitous route around some of the lasting effects on our psyche post-pandemic. From fear of coughing in the exam room (or the terrifying sound of a client coughing!), to crowded elevators and lobbies, to learning potentially disagreeable facts about co-workers beliefs during lockdowns, this podcast packs a powerful punch! Viewfinders, what lingering effects are you observing these days? Any advice for colleagues struggling to get “back to some form of normal?” Share on our social media or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com.

What would you do if suddenly you couldn’t work in veterinary practice due to injury, illness, or other unexpected life event? This week we explore how to make a “Plan B” for your career and why it’s important to start thinking about life outside vet med. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin this episode as Beckie recounts a recent injury that made her reflect on whether or not she could complete her responsibilities as a practicing veterinary technician. From the “I got hurt!” conversation launching pad, the duo review disability insurance, promotions, retirement accounts, alternative jobs, and a whole lot more! Viewfinders, to date the conversation about “exit strategies” has largely been limited to practice owners. We want to take this opportunity to encourage everyone employed in veterinary medicine to imagine “life after vet med” and what it means to you. You can email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com or drop a message on our social media (Beckie LOVES Facebook messages from you! Really.). Don’t forget to give us 5 stars on Apple Podcasts or your favorite player so we can reach more veterinary professionals! Stay safe and we’ll talk to you next week!

Gas at record prices. Rent is up double-digits. New homes and interest rates are skyrocketing. How is inflation impacting the veterinary workforce and what can we do to help? Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT take on the tough topic of post-pandemic inflation and how the workforce shortage is being affected. Viewfinders, there are a lot of helpful tips in this one, but the most important is we need to start talking about it! Our veterinary podcasters begin with the current inflation rates around the country and stories from colleagues struggling to pay for gas and rent. Tips for saving money and potential aid for staff are reviewed along with a heaping dose of, “Oh no’s!” From gas cards to apps to government tax programs, this episode covers a lot of ground. We also touch on childcare challenges and why our most vulnerable staff are likely receptionists (CSRs) and support staff. Is inflation affecting your team? What solutions are you finding successful? Share your ideas and experiences on our social media! And don’t forget to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave a quick 5-star review! THANK YOU!

As veterinary professionals return to the clinic, some are eager to catch up on months of missed gossip. When is gossip okay, when is it harmful, and what should you do about it? Viewfinders, there’s a lot to talk about when it comes to “veterinary gossip!” Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin by sharing their definitions of “veterinary gossip.” They each recount several examples of good, neutral, and bad gossip in veterinary clinics and strategies to change a “culture of gossip.” Beckie reviews some legal requirements about what types of “gossip” are allowed (or not) and tips for creating a “gossip policy” for your clinic. Dr. Ward offers advice on what to do if you observe intra-office gossiping and why it’s not always the best idea to reprimand employees who are gossiping. Viewfinders, we hope this conversation will inspire you to talk about the conversation occurring in your clinic! If you don’t mind, please stop by Apple Podcasts and leave us a 5-star review. Here’s the link: https://apple.co/3EFKcKL Resources mentioned in the podcast: Workplace Gossip: What Crosses the Line? https://bit.ly/3FUx9qv HOW TO HANDLE EMPLOYEE GOSSIP? https://bit.ly/3LkNfLe

Controversial prong dog collars were recently banned by the government of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, Queensland, home of the Great Barrier Reef and Gold and Sunshine Coasts. Legislators cited prong collars violated their Animal Welfare standards by “using pain as punishment.” Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the increase in global rules and regulations aiming to improve animal welfare. The pair review the recent Norwegian breeding bans on English Bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Maryland’s newly-passed prohibition on feline declaw surgery, and other recent legal changes in animal law. Viewfinders, what do you think about the ban on prong collars? Do you think there is growing interest in passing laws to improve animal welfare? Do you think these changes are happening quickly enough in the US? What changes would you like to see? LINK: Controversial dog collars to be BANNED in Queensland as they 'use pain as punishment' https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10794119/Queensland-Govt-ban-pronged-dog-collars-state.html

While there’s been a lot of discussion on how to help the people - and animals - affected by the war in Ukraine, we wanted to find out what was happening with the dogs left behind after the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear accident. This week we’re honored to bring you once again the incomparable Dr. Jennifer Betz, a veterinarian who has been helping and researching the Chernobyl dogs for many years. We originally spoke with Dr. Betz in 2018, and wanted to learn how the war was impacting these fascinating animals in the Red Forest and Exclusion Zone around Chernobyl. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT learn what impacts the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and specifically the Chernobyl region, has had on the Chernobyl nuclear plant workers and the caregivers of the “Chernobyl Dogs.” Viewfinders, we think you’ll be inspired by the incredible acts of courage and care of the many volunteers daring to help these dogs and other animals caught in a radioactive war zone. Viewfinders, if you can help, check out some of the resources Dr. Betz recommends below. Thanks for listening and stay safe. We’ll talk to you next Wednesday! Links to organizations from Dr. Jennifer Betz: https://www.cleanfutures.org/ https://www.facebook.com/cleanfutures https://www.facebook.com/DogsofChernobyl https://visitingveterinarians.com/ https://www.facebook.com/visitingveterinarians https://www.facebook.com/pomoczviratumua  (This is a group of several non-profits who work together as one unit in Ukraine) https://www.facebook.com/tiernothilfeukraine  (This is an organization I know personally and work with) https://www.facebook.com/Shelter.SIRIUS  (Largest shelter in Ukraine that is supplying food to so many towns) https://www.spcai.org/  (One of our big supporters and all around good charity)

As the war wages on in Ukraine, many veterinary professionals are eager to help both pets and colleagues in need. This week we’re joined by Dr. Ivan Zak as he offers ways to help through Animal Help Ukraine, a new initiative by the Galaxy Vets Foundation. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT welcome back to the Veterinary Viewfinder Ukrainian-born veterinarian, Dr. Ivan Zak (short for Zakharenkov), to discuss how you can help those in need through an important new initiative. Dr. Zak shares some of the experiences his family and employees are enduring in war-torn Ukraine, his efforts to relocate friends and family, and how veterinary professionals are helping animals in need despite risking their lives. He reviews how veterinarians and veterinary technicians/nurses can volunteer to provide free telemedicine assistance for desperate pet parents in Ukraine and how to donate financial aid. Viewfinders, if you can volunteer or donate, please do. We’d like to thank Dr. Ivan Zak and others who are helping those affected by the war in Ukraine. We all hope and pray for a quick and peaceful resolution. To learn more about Animal Help Ukraine from Galaxy Vets Foundation, visit: https://bit.ly/38lc1x0

This week we’re joined with vet tech/nurse extraordinaire, Harold Davis, RVT, VTS (ECC) to discuss an important (and exciting) new initiative from our friends at the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) - the Veterinary Nurse/Technician Empowerment Initiative! Harold currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for NAVC and is one of the key drivers behind this expansive seven-part initiative to empower and celebrate veterinary nurses/technicians (and, yes, Viewfinders, Dr. Ward asks Harold to explain that hyphen!). Harold has also been instrumental in many modern-day advancements within the veterinary profession and his story is as much inspirational as impactful. We know you’re going to love this conversation! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss how Harold became an RVT, his secret for remaining enthusiastic about his profession for 46 years (!), his career path, his role in the formation of Veterinary Technician Specialists (VTS), and what the NAVC Veterinary Nurse/Technician Empowerment Initiative is all about. So much to talk about! Viewfinders, definitely check out the links below detailing how you can participate in this initiative. And while you’re clinking away, please stop by Apple Podcasts and click on 5-stars for us! It would make our week! Thanks again for listening the past five-and-a-half years! Talk to you next Wednesday! NAVC Veterinary Nurse/Technician Initiative Links: * NAVC.com * Link to the veterinary nurse champions nomination at Today's Veterinary Nurse * nurse webinar series * Link to NAVC veterinary nurse tribute video 

Happy National Veterinary Receptionist Week! This week we celebrate the incredible veterinary receptionists that make our lives so much better! April 24-30, 2022 Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share the many reasons that veterinary receptionist are integral - and essential - members of the veterinary healthcare team. Veterinary receptionists are the initial, and often final, point of contact for pet parents in a veterinary clinic, answer medical and pet care questions, and handle a host of challenging client interactions - Let's Show Veterinary Receptionists the Love They Deserve! Our hosts discuss the evolving terminology of veterinary receptionists, including customer service representatives (CSR's) and Dr. Ward's own "Client Coordinators." They share why front desk turnover rates may be affecting a clinic's growth, and why low wages and benefits may be a part of the problem. Roles, responsibilities, and training are also covered in this dynamic conversation. Viewfinders, we hope you'll find this podcast inspiring and encourage you to celebrate your veterinary receptionists this April! For more information, visit https://www.veterinaryreceptionistweek.com

What happens when a person appears at a veterinary clinic claiming to be a pet’s owner? How do veterinary professionals know they’re the rightful - and legal - owner? How does the client prove it? Who can make medical care decisions and how do we hold them accountable? Viewfinders, there’s a lot more to discuss on this topic than simply, “I found this pet. Can I keep it? Thanks.” You don’t want to miss this one! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the tricky topic of how veterinary clinics determine who is a pet’s owner, who can make decisions, and, ultimately, who is responsible for paying? Even more complicated, what happens when a spouse or partner rejects the other’s decision? If you’re like us, you’ve probably already experienced a bit of this, but don’t worry, we’ve got even more worst-case scenarios to share! We also review how, and how far, should a veterinary practice go to ensure a pet parent is truly the “pet’s owner.” What happens when we ask too much - or too little - verification and things go horribly wrong (and they do)? As Dr. Ward says, “There are so many ways these situations can go sideways, it’s hard to keep your head on straight!” Speaking of keeping your head, what happens when a spouse or partner claims their significant other “wasn’t in their right mind to make that decision”? The hits keep on coming in this episode! Viewfinders, this is another tough topic our profession needs to do a better job addressing. By alerting you to potentially problematic scenarios, we hope you’ll be better prepared and able to create staff training and clinic policies to, as Beckie always says, “Get ahead of it!”

We’ve been saying for the past two years that there’s never been a better time for veterinary professionals to change jobs or renegotiate your contract. This week we review what you should be looking for if you’re “checking out how green the other lawns may be.” Hint: Pretty green! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share what attributes to search for when you’re scrolling job listings, questions to uncover the “real workplace conditions,” and tips for negotiating wages and benefits. Whether this is your first or fourteenth job in a veterinary practice, there’s something for everyone in this week’s podcast! Share your thoughts on our social media or write to us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com And don’t forget to leave us 5-stars on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. It really helps get these conversations to other veterinary professionals interested in making our profession better! Thank you for listening the past 5-1/2 years!

Many veterinary professionals have been asked by pet parents to omit, edit, or alter a pet’s breed or history on a form for housing, travel, insurance, or other “official” forms. This week we discuss the medical ethics surrounding designating a “pit bull mix” as “mixed breed” and other potentially uncomfortable scenarios. Viewfinders, this is a good (and important) one! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT get real about requests they’ve received from clients trying to move or visit loved ones, obtain vaccine status, or pet insurance. Most of these conundrums involve banned breeds, and pets that are well-mannered or otherwise healthy. These request seem to come out of nowhere and there are no easy answers. Our hosts offer advice on politely - and legally - handling these pet parent pleas along with their concerns on veterinary professionals’ future liability and the impact of emerging technologies. Dr. Ward reviews how he believes genetic testing will both transform - and potentially complicate - client petitions to “delete” certain breeds or physical attributes on legal forms. Beckie explains how veterinary technicians are often caught in the middle of veterinarian and client disputes over these forms and how to navigate those turbulent waters. Viewfinders, this is another good conversation on a topic we don’t often discuss publicly. Share your thoughts with us on our social media channels or at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com Also, please do us a HUGE FAVOR and leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! It helps us reach other colleagues and keeps these important conversations going!

Have you ever had a job benefit or workplace perk suddenly taken away? What about a new hire that is given compensation above long-time team members? Are some employees allowed to bring their pets to the office while others aren’t? In the past were you offered free or “at cost” vet care but now you have to pay? Viewfinders, we’re hearing more of these stories about workplace inequities, so this week we’re going to tackle it! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore what happens when the benefits or perks of working in a veterinary clinic are suddenly taken away or reduced. What happens when veterinary professionals depend on these perks to make up for poor pay? We’re hearing of veterinary practice owners and mangers blaming inflation, workplace shortages, and increased demand as reasons they’re cutting back on certain benefits. We’re also learning of situations in which new hires are offered more CE pay, association dues, and other perks to get them to join a practice, while not offering similar wages and benefits to existing staff. And that’s causing all the feels. Viewfinders, this is another topic quietly percolating out there in veterinary world. We’ve got a chance get ahead of this potential issue before it damages your team morale. Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us on our social media channels or at VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com

What happens when veterinary professionals accidentally or inadvertently break or damage equipment (or even uniforms) when caring for pet patients? This week we share why this is a harmful management tactic and better ways to communicate the proper care of veterinary equipment. Beckie is "coming in hot" in this episode! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle a real-life dilemma Beckie recently ran across on her social media. The post discussed how a veterinary practice had recently added a new piece of equipment and the boss told the team, "If you break this, it's coming out of your paycheck." You can bet our hosts have strong opinions on why this is potentially harmful and may be a subtle signal of a toxic workplace. Dr. Ward reveals he has encountered this sentiment in a wide variety of settings. He explains why this management strategy may actually result in employees hiding any equipment damage from owners, putting patients at risk, and cause a cascade of blaming each other. He also discusses why an imposed "fear of the consequences of damaging equipment often leads to underutilization and a waste of resources." Beckie expresses the dangers of "leading by fear" in the veterinary workplace an dhow even seemingly minor comments such as these undermine team morale. Viewfinders, our hosts encourage us to carefully analyze our language and monitor for unintended consequences. They also offer several bits of advice on how to protect expensive equipment while optimizing its utility. This is a good one!

This week we're thrilled to bring you an exclusive - and her first ever - podcast interview with the 2022 National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) President, Ashi Selke, RVT, CVT. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT learn Ashli’s story of becoming a veterinary technician, her personal military service, how she got involved with NAVTA, and plans for her leadership term. Beckie encourages NAVTA to accelerate their title protection plans and initiatives, and offers advice to work both with the AVMA and state veterinary medical Boards. Ashley offers her take on the recent AVMA HOD meeting in which the Utah Representative, veterinarian Dr. Paul Toniolli said of allowing veterinary technicians into the AVMA membership: "Little by little the camel gets in the tent, and the master of the camel gets shoved out of the tent. Now, I don't know that our association would be overtaken, but the principle that the camel in the tent teaches is that sometimes small, seemingly harmless acts, even made with good intentions, can sometimes have very negative repercussions, and that would be our concern. Somebody with alternative ideals might try to get in and strong-arm the association." Alrighty then. Viewfinders, this is a fascinating back-and-forth between two passionate veterinary technicians dedicated to improving their profession. We think you’ll enjoy it! To learn more about Utah veterinarian Dr. Paul Toniolli’s remarks, read here: https://news.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=210&catId=617&Id=10685148 To read NAVTA’s Title Protection Report, visit here: https://www.navta.net/news/navta-report-shows-title-protection-for-veterinary-technician-is-needed-and-desired-but-absent-and-misunderstood-in-most-states/

Happy belated Veterinary Assistant Appreciation Week! February 14-18, 2022 was celebrated by the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York City - and we missed it! This week we take time to not only appreciate our beloved veterinary assistants, but also discuss some of the challenges and opportunities we see in the future of this essential role in veterinary medicine. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share their love and respect for these often unsung heroes of veterinary medicine. The pair discuss some of the prior (unnecessary) drama between celebrating National Veterinary Technician Week and other recognitions for veterinary team members. Dr. Ward emphasizes that, “Celebrating one group doesn’t take anything away from another.” Beckie posits on whether or not vet assistants are over- or underutilized in clinics and why “Veterinary State Boards need to get ahead of this issue because private entities already are there.” Both hosts offer setting boundaries and credentialing for veterinary assistants. Beckie stresses the National Veterinary Technician Association’s Approved Veterinary Assistant Program (link in notes) and offers her opinions on some of the rapidly developing private programs. Viewfinders, this is another important topic that transcends an “appreciation week.” Share your thoughts and opinions with us! Viewfinders, if you’d like to see Beckie and Ernie “live” on the internet to take your questions, drop us a line at VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com! The Approved Veterinary Assistant program created by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America: https://www.navta.net/veterinary-assistants-program/

While many of our podcasts have focused on the current veterinary workforce shortages, perhaps we haven’t talked as much about retaining staff as we should. This week we discuss how hiring, onboarding, phase training, new employee integration, and personality matching can help keep good staff longer and improve your team’s ability to attract and retain new hires. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT talk a deep dive into the steps you need to take when hiring and onboarding new veterinary team members. From Dr. Ward’s method of “team interviews and hiring,” to Beckie’s nightmare stories of “first day disasters,” this episode is packed with practical advice for any veterinary clinic interested in attracting and retaining and the best teams. While no one can’t magically get you new employees, we can help you keep your best team members and maybe make your practice a “destination career” or at least a supportive, nurturing, and collaborative environment. Viewfinders, this is a good one to share with your friends and co-workers!

Veterinary unions are once again in the news. A Thrive (formerly Pathways) veterinary clinic in New York recently voted 2 to 1 to form a union. There is growing interest in veterinary unionization, and this week we're joined once again by one of the leading voices in this movement, Liz Hughston, MEd., RVT, CVT, LVT, LVMT, VTS (SAIM) (ECC). Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT talk with Liz about the latest developments in the Thrive veterinary clinic case and other veterinary unions across the country, what a union really is and how collective bargaining could help veterinary professionals, tactics commonly used to discourage veterinary professionals from pursuing collective bargaining, and why this discussion is arguably more important than ever before in our profession. Viewfinders, this is an important topic that has the potential to improve many aspects of the veterinary profession that we feel need changing. From low pay to title protection, to resources to help prevent burnout, unionization is one mechanism to give veterinary professionals working in corporate-controlled clinics a real voice. To learn more about the National Veterinary Professionals Union, visit www.natvpu.org. To watch the John Oliver Union Busting reporting Liz referred to in the podcast: https://youtu.be/Gk8dUXRpoy8 Liz also recommends this video on Union Busting: https://perfectunion.us/

Brachycephalic Breed Bans in Europe - Can It Happen in the US? In January 2022, Norway approved a legal ban on breeding Bulldogs and Cavaliers, citing animal welfare violations. A similar ban and breeding restrictions has growing support from UK and other European veterinary organizations. Could the US be next to ban brachycephalic breeds? Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT weigh the pros and cons of brachycephalic breed bans - and whether American dog lovers and veterinary professionals would support such mandates and regulations in this week’s episode. Beckie shares the recent Norwegian court ruling and how this could affect other countries, including the US. Dr. Ward cites several studies that validate increased health risks of brachycephalics and how this impacts their welfare. Viewfinders, this is a very tough topic for both our hosts and you may feel some of the same personal conflict! It’s a good discussion! Dr. Ward challenges us to view the issue both from the pet parents’ perspective of increased cost, care, and medical conditions associated with these breeds, but also from the pet’s welfare: how it feels to struggle to breathe, walk, or play. Both hosts agree we need to do a better job encouraging more responsible breeding, promote cross-breeding of these at-risk breeds, and educate the public about the health - and welfare - risks associated with brachycephalic. Both stop far short of breed bans, but believe we can improve the overall health and wellbeing of brachycephalics by being more proactive on this issue. Viewfinders, what do you think about this issue? How can we inspire conversations in both the veterinary profession and breeders? Why aren’t more veterinary professionals talking about this issue! Now’s your chance! Additional resources: First legal ban on breeding Bulldogs and Cavaliers announced The law came into place in Norway this week and could have consequences world-wide https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/belfast-news/first-legal-ban-breeding-bulldogs-22943414 Unravelling the health status of brachycephalic dogs in the UK using multivariable analysis https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-73088-y British Veterinary Association (BVA) position on brachycephalic dogs https://www.bva.co.uk/media/4231/bva-position-on-brachycephalic-dogs-full.pdf https://www.bva.co.uk/take-action/our-policies/brachycephalic-dogs/ #EndTheTrend petition: We're calling on Britain's top brands to stop using brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds in their advertising https://www.bluecross.org.uk/end-the-trend-brachycephalic-petition

Recently the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board sent a memo to state veterinarians warning about Board complaints and disciplinary actions taken in response to veterinarians responding to client online posts and reviews. Vets were found at fault for ethics or professionalism violations due to an online spat. You may want to re-read that. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the blurred lines between freedom of speech, the ability of a veterinary professional to defend themselves from online attacks, and the risk of being disciplined by their state veterinary medical Board. You may also want to re-read that. Viewfinders, this is a complicated and nuanced issue that we believe needs more public discussion. Much more, as you'll learn in this podcast! There are a LOT of issues intersecting here! Have you received reports or similar warnings from your state veterinary medical Board? Have you heard of colleagues reprimanded for defending themselves against online attacks? Please share your experiences!

With the reality of veterinary workforce shortages and challenges hiring veterinarians and veterinary technicians in 2022, talk of improving license portability has resurfaced. This week we discuss why we believe it’s time to make it easier to share veterinary and veterinary technician licenses among states. Hint 1: It’s already been done in the human medical professions. So, yeah. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the recent discussions at the January 2022 AVMA meeting that addressed veterinary shortages and a call for license portability. If you couldn’t guess, there’s a committee for that. Have no fear, Viewfinders, apparently an official investigation is underway. Never mind that the AVMA has no regulatory jurisdiction in the matter... Meanwhile, 29 US states are already part of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact to provide expedited licensure for physicians among member states. Hint 2: We think the IMLC serves as an excellent template for state veterinary medical boards and licensing agencies. Our hosts discuss the current challenges of obtaining veterinary professional licenses and how this may be making it harder for some states to recruit veterinary staff. They also discuss how making it easier and more affordable to obtain licenses may lead to longer participation in the workforce. This is a good conversation, Viewfinders! Finally, Beckie shares her strong opinions on the January 2022 AVMA discussions around allowing non-veterinarians to join the AVMA. You don’t want to miss her thoughts on this "controversial" topic! Speaking of controversy, why on earth is this an AVMA flashpoint in 2022? Beside, Beckie says a simple name change is all it would take if credentialed veterinary technicians aren’t allowed a voting voice in the AVMA. She suggests renaming it to the “American Veterinarian Medical Association!” She’s got a point… Viewfinders, this episode is full of practical steps each state can take to address the issue of veterinary license portability. If you’re struggling to hire veterinary professionals, contact your state veterinary medical board today! Let us know your thoughts!

What happens when a veterinary professional’s own pet needs veterinary care? Do they schedule an appointment? Who cares for them, when are they seen, and how much do they charge? What are some of the potential disruptions and discord that bringing in our own pets for veterinary care can create in a veterinary practice? Perhaps more than you’d think… Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore the benefits - and potential pitfalls - of taking our own pets into the clinics we work in. From “picking staff favorites,” to micro-aggressions and staff tensions, to determining fair fees, and being asked to perform diagnostic tests or treatments on our ailing pets, this week we tackle a tough topic rarely discussed publicly. Beckie shares her recent experiences in not being able to get prompt care for her own pet and Dr. Ward offers some of the solutions he discovered in his clinics. Both express the need for being proactive on this issue, particularly given the current state of staff shortages and overwhelmed schedules. Viewfinders, this is a good one! Viewfinders, how do handle staff pets in your clinic? What problems and solutions have you found? Share them on our social media or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com! Finally, as Dr. Ward says, “GO DAWGS!” Congratulations on Dr. Ward’s alma mater the University of Georgia for winning the 2021-22 NCAA college football national championship this week by defeating rival University of Alabama!

There's been a surge in the number of veterinary professional certifications over the past few years. But are those extra initials behind your degree worth it in 2022? Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT start the new year off with a conversation about the what's, when's, why's, and (probably most important to employers) worth of professional certifications. It gets complicated. Viewfinders, our hosts have a number of professional certifications to their credit, yet they encourage caution before adding one (or some) to your signature these days. Beckie asks whether or not imposter syndrome is behind the need to add professional clout and Dr. Ward ponders how much profit motive is at play. Both worry that certain organizations or companies may be taking advantage of some veterinary professionals by leveraging the "need to be seen" by colleagues as capable and competent by adding certifications. Did we mention it's complicated? Beckie argues that title protection should (once again) be our profession's top priority and that we need better clarification on the difference between "credentials" and "certifications." Both hosts agree that VTS and Board-certification are true "professional credentials" but are concerned that some groups may be promoting a "certification" as a "credential," leading to confusion by the pet-owning public and dilution of value by our colleagues. Told you it was complicated. Dr. Ward challenges the notion that every certification (or credential) must carry a profit motive or "return on investment" and encourages Viewfinders to better themselves through education, and, yes, certification when appropriate. Viewfinders, this is another wide-ranging conversation that tackles a tough topic we believe needs to be talked about more in the veterinary profession. Happy New Year and staff safe! And keep it simple! ;-)

Happy New Year, Viewfinders! This week our hosts preview the veterinary profession’s toughest topics and trends we predict for 2022! Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT join in a rapid-fire discussion of the top challenges they foresee for 2022 (and beyond). Some of the issues they discuss include: * Veterinary workforce shortages * Mental health issues (burnout, depression, compassion fatigue, substance abuse, etc.) * Veterinary staff wages and benefits * Student loans and the rising cost of DVM/RVT degrees * Inflation of vet services and products - what impacts will inflation have on patient care and client communications? * Social media complaints - We’re seeing reports of vets being charged with ethics and professional behavior violations when they engage clients online. Yikes! * Corporatization vs Independent Practices: How can we get along and compete? * Core vaccines - potential challenges post-pandemic vaccine controversies? * Politics - Veterinary Practices and 2022 Midterms * What happened to the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI)? Our continuing plea for veterinary technician Title Protection * Telemedicine - Muddy waters ahead or smooth sailing? * Brachycephalic breeds - Will US veterinary professionals speak out as they are in the UK? * CBD - definitely maybe? * Climate change * Animal welfare and Food animal production, ventilation Shutdown (VSD) Looks like 2022 is going to be an exciting and promising year! Happy New Year, Viewfinders!

Happy Holidays Viewfinders! This week, we’ve got TWO Very Veterinary Holiday Poems to share! Pull on your favorite comfy clothes or hit “play” on your way to work, because we’ve got plenty of holiday cheer to spread to you this week! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discovered two “very veterinary holiday poems” to put their best holiday podcast spin on! These are family-friendly, so blast away on your sound systems! (Or share your headphones…) Our first poem was written by the UK’s Dr. Marc Silpa when he was but a wee student at the University of Edinburgh in 2015. It was titled “The Veterinarian’s ’Twas the Night Before Christmas” and published in SAVMA’s “Vet Gazette.” Set in his teaching hospital’s ER, we bet you’ll recognize similarities with many of your own holiday emergencies! Will Dogual survive? Will their treatment plan work? Listen closely to learn his fate! You can read it here: https://bit.ly/3pbzvKO We hope you like our special “twist on the tale!” Next, we have a mixed-animal practitioner perspective on Santa’s reindeer called “Equine Vet Xmas Poem.” No, we didn’t make that up. What it lacks in title creativity it more than makes up in reindeer medicine fun! Santa has a load of sick reindeer, and his “Elf recommended” treatments don’t seem to be helping. It’s nearly Christmas and Vixen may be pregnant (thanks, Rudolph), Blitzen has antler arthritis, Cupid is foundering, and Donner needs a shot of bute. Plus, will Santa run off without paying the veterinarian? Listen to find out! It was written by Dr. Madison Seamans in 1993 and can be enjoyed here: https://bit.ly/3pbzV3Q Viewfinders, we hope you enjoy these fun renditions and share with friends and family! Be safe and we hope you’re able to be with those you love. Happy Holidays from us to you!

There’s a new TikTok trend we believe could potentially harm dogs called the “Bark at your Dog Challenge.” Veterinary colleagues and concerned pet parents, let’s discuss. And, WTF is wrong with people? Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT revisit their concern that some popular social media trends could be harmful to animals. This week our hosts discuss what many are calling a “funny, hilarious and surprising” challenge that they categorize as “disturbing.” Beckie recalls the history of potentially problematic social media trends (and our past podcasts addressing them) and why this particular challenge especially irks her. Dr. Ward ponders if these “scary” challenges are an extension of other “bad behavior” social media trends and what impact social media may have on the the human:animal bond among the youngest pet owners (we’re looking at you, late Get Z pet parents out there). Dr. Ward also shares his concerns that this is an extension of a broader expansion of “videos of people behaving badly” that seems to get more social media likes, views, or attention. Again, WTF is wrong with people? Viewfinders, once again, we’re bringing you a veterinary topic lurking just below the mainstream that we think needs more discussion by our colleagues. Beckie repeats her wish for a dollar every time we’ve said, “Let’s get out in front of this topic.” We accept all major forms of payment! Our loyal Viewfinder Family, what do you think about these trends? What do you think about Beckie and Dr. Ward’s advice on how veterinary professionals can - and should - address them? We want to hear from you!

In early 2021, a hypothetical veterinary technician degree was proposed and discussed by a select group of about 20 individuals representing 12 organizations. Called a “Masters in Veterinary Clinical Care,” the exploratory degree has garnered a lot of questions and confusion. This week we discuss what we know and our initial impressions on how this may - or may not - benefit the veterinary profession. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share their concerns and offer their advice when it comes to better access to veterinary care and utilization of licensed veterinary technicians. As you can imagine, Beckie has strong opinions on this topic and isn’t afraid to tackle it! Beckie stresses the need for veterinary title protection, standardization of credentialing processes and requirements, recognition of credentialed vet techs, and clearly defined roles and responsibilities within the vet clinical setting. In short, Beckie believes there’s a lot of work to be done on the current AS and BS veterinary technician degrees before we create a new one. Dr. Ward supports expanding the roles and duties of licensed veterinary technicians, including expansion into a “Veterinary Nurse Practitioner,” but worries the proposed Masters in Veterinary Clinical Care is more “paper than progress.” Both hosts advocate for an expansion of what vet techs can - and should - be allowed to do in veterinary clinical practice. Dr. Ward also recounts how he “angered lots of colleagues” about 10 years ago when he proposed that licensed vet techs be allowed to undertake additional training and licensing to perform spay and neuters in shelter settings. He also says you can tell where someone lies in their support of this issue by asking, “What medications can they dispense?” You can imagine how our duo discusses that one! Viewfinders, we hope this conversation sparks you to explore and discuss with your friends and colleagues. By working together, w can help expand access to veterinary care and propel our profession! Stay safe and we’ll talk to you next week! Read the white paper published in February 2021 here: https://navc.com/download/MS_Advanced_Veterinary_Clinical_Care_Report.pdf

Recent news of a veterinary technician’s death by suicide went viral on social media, and included discussions on the responsibility of employers to identify and offer help. This week, we discuss how veterinary professionals and clinics respond to personal tragedies such as suicide, workplace harassment, bullying, and other personal tragedies and challenges and steps any veterinary clinic can take to provide a more caring, compassionate, and healthy workplace. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT revisit a recurring theme we’ve tackled over the past five years: poor veterinary working conditions leading to mental health challenges and burnout. The duo explore simple and inexpensive strategies that can help retain and attract the best team members along with improving productivity, morale, and personal job satisfaction. They also ask why these solutions aren’t being implemented more widely? For starters, Ernie and Beckie believe access to counselors and therapists should be a mainstay in every veterinary clinic. Health insurance, opportunities (and encouragement) for self-care measures, along with clear mechanisms for handling team (and management) complaints are all essential elements of healthy workplaces. If your clinic is missing any (or all) of these, our hosts encourage you to demand change now. Beckie muses that many independent clinics don’t offer access to counseling because they fear what changes might be required and Dr. Ward compares today’s discussions to his efforts to promote workplace wellness and self care in the early 2000’s. Viewfinders, we hear your slow roar on these issues. Waves of change are crashing on our profession’s shores, and together we can navigate to a safe - and healthier - harbor. This is a heavy conversation but we believe these discussions help propel positive change throughout our profession - and world. Share your thoughts with us! And thanks for over five years of loyal listening! Viewfinders are the BEST!

In the United States, it is estimated that almost 150,000 horses per year are unwanted. What is “unwanted”? The term is used to refer to horses that are old, injured, sick, unmanageable, or fail to meet expectations. The horse may have a lameness or illness…or he could just be the wrong color or gender. His problem could be life-threatening…or chronic and manageable. He may have a mild behavioral problem…or a severe one. … This week we speak with Dr. Stacie Boswell, an equine surgeon and author of “The Ultimate Guide for Horses in Need,” a veterinarian who has dedicated much of her career to helping “horses in transition” and provide better care and welfare for all horses. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT learn how Dr. Boswell became an equine veterinarian and why this topic is so important to her. … The trio also discuss the unique mental health and self-care challenges faced by large and mixed-animal veterinary professionals and how Dr. Boswell keeps her energy and enthusiasm high, despite the challenges she encounters. … Viewfinders, this is another wide-ranging conversation that offers us a glimpse into another side of veterinary practice. To learn more about Dr. Stacie Boswell and her book, “The Ultimate Guide for Horses in Need,” at: https://stacieboswell.com/

The Massachusetts State Senate recently approved a bill that ensures law enforcement officers' K-9 partners receive life-saving medical attention and transport in ambulances if they are injured in the line of duty. The bill, known as Nero's Law, was drafted in response to the shooting that claimed the life of Yarmouth Police K-9 Sgt. Sean Gannon, and severely injured his K-9 partner, Nero. … This week our hosts, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, explore the impact such legislation could have and why veterinary professionals should be more involved. … Dr. Ward pledges his full support of Nero’s Law and expresses his surprise when he discovered the the majority of US states don’t allow injured law enforcement K-9’s to be transported in “human” ambulances. … Beckie shares her concern that veterinary clinics be fully integrated into the assistance of injured police K-9’s, including communicating and alerting emergency clinics of pending arrivals and for guidance on life-saving treatments. … Dr. Ward also encourages states to provide clear guidance on treating law enforcement K-9s exposed to narcotics and emergency administration of drugs such as naloxone. … Both discuss how the “devil is in the details” with this sort of legislation, and offer many tips to make the law more meaningful and helpful. And, yes, it starts with veterinary professionals! … Viewfinders, what do you think about this proposed law? What are your state’s rules and regulations regarding injured police dogs? mH40Eg6jAf6GJJQDZEd0

Tell me if you’ve heard this one before: Some pet parents are combining current conspiracy theories with internet medical misinformation and forming personal beliefs that are turning our veterinary exam rooms into “Debate Night” or “Fight Clubs!” Are we at risk of losing our ability to have civil discourse with clients and compromise? This week is all about the polarization of pet parents and their impacts on veterinary practice. This week, we’re not pulling any punches! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin this episode by discussing a recent controversy over allowing pets, particularly dogs, into some eating establishments. This controversy over allowing pets in restaurants spilled over into a large retirement community, and, as Dr. Ward says, “The real action was in the comments!” But dining with dogs isn’t what this week’s podcast is about... Our hosts discuss how polarized the general public and pet parents have become over the past couple of years on pet-related issues from restaurants, travel, vaccines, and preventive care (we’re looking at you, heartworm and flea/tick preventives!). It seems more clients are looking for a debate or argument with veterinary professionals than ever before. And when asked about their stance on these hot topics, some of these disgruntled pet parents call in a social media “hate raid” on your clinic! What’s a veterinary clinic to do? Viewfinders, this is another hard-hitting, wide-ranging conversation about an emerging challenge in veterinary practice. As Beckie always says, “NOW is the time to get ahead of it!” Are you experiencing more heated conversations in your exam rooms? Do you think you’re seeing more extreme positions and opinions on many veterinary care topics? How are you handling this challenging situations?

International Human Animal Bond Day is November 8, 2021! What’s that, you ask? We’ve got the President-elect of the Human Animal Bond Association (HABA) this week to explain! … This week we’re missing co-host Beckie Mossor, RVT as she’s deployed helping animals in need with the ASPCA. We miss you! … That leaves co-host Dr. Ernie Ward to handle the mics this week with HABA’s incoming President, Dr. Patrick Flynn. … Drs. Flynn and Ward discuss the origins of International Human Animal Bond Day, future plans for HABA, and how veterinary professionals can participate. ... Dr. Flynn also shares the story of how meeting Dr. Jane Goodall inspired him to promote the human animal bond to a wider audience. … Dr. Ward encourages HABA to challenge the definition of the “human animal bond” and shares his thoughts on why the term needs to transcend companion animal species and apply to all animals. … Dr. Flynn brings energy, creativity, and optimism about all things human animal bond related to HABA (and his “real job!”) and we think this wide-ranging (and sometimes provocative) conversation about veterinary professionals, the human animal bond, and animal welfare is an important one. Please share with your friends and colleagues! … To learn more about the Human Animal Bond Association, visit: www.humananimalbond.net … Share your human animal bond stories on November 8, 2021!

In a recent episode, we asked the Viewfinders if veterinarians were “real doctors” (and also if vet techs were “real nurses”). We received a flood of comments and DM’s and witnessed many social media threads and posts discussing our comments and questions. Thank you! … But some of the reasons and arguments supporting vet professionals as “real medical professionals” seemed, at first, to be solid, but after closer inspection, began to crumble, metaphorically speaking. This week we explore a few of the more popular answers and rebuttals with, well, more questions. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin with a spate of threads and comments that misunderstood or misinformed readers about state laws governing the terms and roles of licensed veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Beckie encourages every veterinary professional to begin by knowing their own state veterinary practice acts and pertinent rules and regulations. … Dr. Ward revisits the risks and pitfalls of directly comparing veterinary professionals with human medical professionals. Dr. Ward rallies all veterinary professionals to celebrate our unique and powerful contributions to society and discontinue arguing we’re “the same as them” when we’re (clearly) distinct and (arguably) better (that’s our opinion, Viewfinders!). … Beckie cautions us to be careful with our words on social media and avoid “hate raids” that we complain about when vets are targeted online. … Limited veterinary licensure, public perception of veterinary professionals, and do we truly treat all animal species are also addressed in this episode. Dr. Ward shares his animal welfare crusade against ventilation shutdown (VSD/VSD+) and how these experiences have exposed him to accusations and criticisms from colleagues and some of the lessons he’s learned that may help any vet professionals receiving online denunciation. (Visit www.vavsd.org to learn more about this important animal welfare issue). … Viewfinders, this is a continuation of a hot topic discussion that we believe makes our beloved profession stronger and more inclusive. Let us know what you think and share with a friend! Talk to you next week!

Are veterinarians “real doctors”? What about vet techs? Are they “medical professionals”? A recent veterinarian versus Peloton quarrel over a "medical professional discount" went public on social media, and we’ve got all the feels… … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward (a proud Peloton papa since the beginning) and Beckie Mossor, RVT (not in the Peloton fam) tackle the issue of what to do when the public fails to recognize or respect veterinary professionals was “medical professionals.” This issue is a whole lot bigger than a stationary bike. … Beckie shares the recent social media outrage and "Peloton punching bag” that has dominated many feeds the past week. Beckie postulates that this week’s Peloton pushback follows a long history of vets being dissed, that hearkens all the way back to Dr. James Herriot. … Dr. Ward urges our colleagues to take meaningful steps to make positive change, rather than solely engage in online emotional outrage. He also encourages our veterinary organizations, particularly the AVMA and NAVTA, to issue statements and his in elevating the public perception of veterinary professionals. … Both our hosts share personal stories of how they’ve been slighted in public, and Dr. Ward reveals how he stopped comparing himself to human doctors early in his career and why veterinary professionals shouldn’t “take it personally.” … Viewfinders, this is a jam-packed conversation that covers a lot of tough topics. Let us know your thoughts!

For the past year, controversies surrounding COVID-19 vaccination have dominated the news. Vaccine skepticism and hesitation is being reported at all time highs. Will COVID-19 vaccine skepticism cause an increase in pet parents refusing veterinary vaccines? We share our thoughts in this week’s episode. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the tough topic of vaccine hesitancy faced by veterinary professionals. The pair reveal several conversations they’ve had with colleagues concerned about an increase in clients questioning pet vaccines. They also discuss the growing threat of online attacks on veterinary clinics recommending certain vaccine protocols. … The duo offer simple tips on helping clients better understand vaccines and preventive care. Dr. Ward offers his time-tested “no debate, everyone wins” attitude toward hot topics such as vaccinations and other preventive care topics. And once again, our hosts implore managers and owners to provide better support and resources for their staff. … Viewfinders, the key message for this topic is “Prepare now!” This episode stresses how your veterinary practice team can prepare now for the future challenges quickly approaching. … Viewfinders, are you seeing more clients refusing pet vaccines? Do you think clients are more volatile and prone to outbursts over seemingly innocent recommendations than ever before? Share your experiences with us!

National Veterinary Technician Week is October 17-23, 2021! Can we get better working conditions, please? And other ways to celebrate your credentialed veterinary technicians in 2021. … This week hosts Beckie Mossor, RVT and Dr. Ernie Ward share their tips for celebrating your credentialed veterinary technicians in honor of the 28th annual NVTW (started in 1993, for all you veterinary medicine history nerds). In addition, they tackle a ton of tough topics facing vet techs and the veterinary profession. You knew we couldn’t stop at “pizza party!” … The duo dive into the poor representation of vet techs in organized veterinary medicine, starting with why the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) isn’t accurately named. Dr. Ward offers some simple tips for making the AVMA more inclusive and representative of the “American veterinary medical” system. Beckie explains why this is actually important for the future of our profession. …Beckie explains why $15 an hour isn’t really a “living wage” and both offer insights into what better pay and benefits for vet techs should - and could - be. Beckie also shares why title protection is essential for the growth of credentialed veterinary technicians. … Finally, our hosts offer gift and recognition ideas for veterinary practices interested in celebrating their credentialed vet techs this year. Viewfinders, there’s a lot to think (and take action) about in this episode!

Lately, we’ve been hearing stories of veterinary practice managers and owners making departing staff feel guilty for finding a better job. After a team member puts in their notice, they then face a barrage of guilt-inducing blame and judgment, further eroding their self confidence and assertiveness. But it doesn’t end there. … Hosts Beckie Mossor, RVT and Dr. Ernie Ward also share their concerns about the rapidly approaching holiday season and the impact "holiday time off" may have on our already overwhelmed teams' morale, productivity, and patient care. Ho, ho, hold on for this one, Viewfinders! … This week our hosts discuss the importance of respectfully and professionally handling an employee leaving their job for another, and why exit interviews may, “help you save the rest,” as Dr. Ward puts it. … The pair also tackle the topic of holiday time off and each share real-time vacation dilemmas they are hearing from veterinary colleagues around the country. Beckie advises, “Get ahead of your holiday planning now!” We explain… … Viewfinders, once again we cover A LOT of territory in this half-hour conversation. Share your thoughts by email or direct message!

There’s no shortage of veterinary job listings these days. As competition for veterinary professionals heats up, are some of these employment ads potentially misleading or misrepresenting their workplace reality? We tackle that tough topic and job search woes in this episode! Plus, we give our thoughts on creating better, more truthful job postings and why making employees your top priority is the best strategy of all! Viewfinders, hang on to your noggin’ for this one! … Hosts Beckie Mossor, RVT and Dr. Ernie Ward discuss the recent escalation in the appealing language and messages in veterinary job ads. The pair offer advice to applicants seeking to sift through the fluff and get to the truth. … Our hosts also share several recent stories of vets and vet techs who discovered a new hire was being paid more than established staff, and the impact that had on team morale. … Dr. Ward revisits his experience and philosophy on his switch in the 1990’s to paying staff much more than “industry standards” and how that move affected both revenue and quality of life for him and his team. … Beckie stresses the importance of protecting the title of “veterinary technician” in employment listings and how to handle a boss or manager not playing fair with pay and benefits. … Viewfinders, we hope these tough conversations continue to spark change within the veterinary profession. We had a blast recording this episode and would love to hear from you!

A recent pet parent survey found that 47% experienced “separation anxiety while away from their pets.” 76% of respondents claimed their dog suffered from anxiety behaviors while they were away. In addition to these stats, there’s been a growing number of media stories examining “the high cost of veterinary care,” and increased requests to “return” or relinquish adopted “pandemic pets.” This week we explore the interconnectedness of these stories and how we can help as veterinary professionals. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT review a spat of news stories that describe current challenges faced by pet parents. From fears of leaving pets alone when returning to work post-pandemic, to financial challenges of veterinary care, and how some animal shelters are responding to requests to relinquish pets, this episode tackles a LOT of tough topics our profession is facing in late 2021. … Our hosts offer steps every veterinary clinic can take to address complaints about money, initiating conversations about behavioral issues, and how to help pet parents worried about leaving their pets at home. And MUCH more! … Viewfinders, how are you handling separation anxiety worries with your clients? Are you hearing complaints about cost of care? What about the return of “pandemic pets” to shelters? We’d love to hear your experiences! … Survey cited in podcast: https://people.com/pets/dog-owners-experience-separation-anxiety-from-pets-survey/

This week co-host Beckie Mossor, RVT reports to us from the Western Veterinary Conference (WVC) in Las Vegas, Nevada where there’s a lot of talk about the big veterinary corporations and pet retailers and the impact they’re having throughout the profession (spoiler: a couple are engaged in a battle of lawsuits amongst other issues). … Co-host Dr. Ernie Ward talks with Beckie from deep within his home podcast bunker and the pair muse on how quickly changes are happening in the pet and veterinary industries as we (hopefully) begin to see a little post-pandemic light ahead. Well, at least a few in-person veterinary conferences are happening, so there’s that. … Beckie and Ernie discuss the lessons veterinary professionals can learn from some of the more well-organized (and funded) large corporate practices and pet retailers, and what independent practices can do to remain competitive for staff. … Beckie drops gems such as “veterinary technicians are going over you or with you” and “ride not resist” when it comes to positive changes, while Dr. Ward applauds veterinary technicians and support staff for standing up for self-care, mental health support, and better working conditions. … Viewfinders, there’s a lot to unpack from this trip to Vegas! We’d love to hear your thoughts. Don’t forget to stop by your favorite podcast player and drop a brief 5-star review! It helps so much! Thanks and we’ll talk to you next week!

During the past 18 months, nearly every veterinary practice has experienced unprecedented demands and challenges. Throw in the reality of an historically-tight job market, with few available veterinarians and vet techs to go around, and you’ve got even more problems. These difficulties have caused considerable professional (and personal) burnout, with many colleagues not knowing how they could possibly take a break. That’s where relief (or locus) veterinary staff could help heal your practice ills. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by Dr. Cindy Trice, Founder of Relief Rover, an online service that connect veterinary clinics with relief help. … Dr. Trice shares how she started in relief work, what led to the formation of ReliefRover.com, and how impactful leveraging relief staff can be for an overworked team. … Viewfinders, you know we’re compactly lamenting the fact that you’re overworked, underpaid, and under appreciated. Here’s a solution we think could help you (at least) get a break to recharge your spirit (and body, relationships, etc.). … What have your experiences with relief vets or vet techs been? Is this something you think would help your clinic? Share your thoughts (and a 5-star review) over on Apple Podcasts or our social media! Thank you!

DOOBERT! Doobert! So fun to say, we had to say it twice! So what is it? … This week we sit down with the Founder of Doobert.com, Chris Roy. Doobert is “an online software platform custom-built for animal rescuers. It’s like a combination of Match.com specifically for animal shelters and rescues to find new partners, and then a volunteer Uber for getting the animals where they need to go.” You’re gonna want to listen to this one! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT learn all about the innovative Doobert platform that connects animal rescue volunteers or “Dooberteers” to transport shelter pets across town or across country. This “pet rescue relay” is super cool and saving lives! … Viewfinders, we hope this inspiring ray of goodness warms your week! Thank you to Chris and all the Dooberteers for helping those that can not help themselves. Bravo! … Visit www.doobert.com to learn more or volunteer to help.

Veterinary practices around the country are reporting high numbers of veterinary staff failing (or bailing) on interviews or even work. Is “ghosting” or saying nothing becoming the new way to say, “No”? This week we discuss. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the concerning trend of veterinary job applicants “ghosting” veterinary practices during the hiring process. Is this really a thing? If so, why? And what can we do to improve communications during interview and hiring? … The duo tackle the reasons why “ghosting” may be on the rise, the role social media may be having on the acceptance or failing to follow-through, and the impacts this behavior may have in the short- and long-terms. As Beckie shares, “Do you want guilt in the short-term or resentment in the long-term?” We explore. … Viewfinders, is “ghosting” jobs becoming accepted? What affects may “no shows” have on existing staff? What happens to the future job prospects for folks who “ghost” veterinary clinics? So much to talk about this episode! … Viewfinders, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Share with us on social media or email veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com And thanks for not ghosting us for the past (nearly) 5 years!

Burnout. Debt. Suicide. These are some of the topics closely associated with the veterinary profession in 2021. But are these negative narratives hurting our appeal to the next generation of veterinary professionals? This week we discuss the current public perceptions of veterinary medicine and how we can change them for the better. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the topic of how an onslaught of negative news about veterinary professionals may be influencing - and perhaps curtailing - the future of our profession. … The pair discuss burnout, student debt, suicide and depression, title protection, (dis)organized veterinary medicine, and a whole lot more during this episode. … Viewfinders, this is another wide-ranging conversation about a topic we think deserves more attention and action from our colleagues. Share your thoughts with us online or email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com

The real “gold medalist” of the Tokyo Olympics may be mental health. Simone Biles and Novak Djokovic each brought their own “twist” on how we can “smash” false perceptions about pressure, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges faced by elite athletes and, yes, even veterinary professionals. (You'll have to listen to find out the meaning of those puns!) Viewfinders, this is a good one! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT review the very different repossess to Simone Biles withdrawal from some of her Olympic competitions due to personal concerns about her mental health and the “twisties.” Beckie shares her experience with the “twisties” as a prior gymnastics coach and why it’s a particularly dangerous, and largely inexplicable, condition. … The pair reflect on comments made by tennis star Novak Djokovic about Biles and her mental health revelations. They also compare and contrast how Biles rose to compete again with Djokovic’s on-court tantrum and quitting the mixed doubles competition just before he and his partner’s Bronze medal match. We couldn’t have scripted a more timely and relevant large-scale example to spark a mental health discussion in veterinary medicine. … Viewfinders, this episode serves as an excellent backdrop for you and your team to begin a wellness and self-care journey toward better mental health. We worry that our profession inadvertently continues to reward and promote the “tough it out” and “just get over it” attitudes toward mental and physical health through our actions, social media posts, and treatment of those who speak out in support or need. We can do better than our current systems of “burned out in 5 years” that seems pervasive in 2021. … Viewfinders, what do you think about the discussion around the Olympics and mental health? Are there lessons veterinary medicine can benefit from? How are you having these conversations in your clinic? Share your stories on our social media!

What happens when veterinary team members have pets in need of expensive veterinary care? Do they make payments to their clinic over time? Does their clinic have a limit on outstanding debt? Do co-workers judge each other based on care decisions or running up high bills at the clinic? What happens if the employee leaves? Does a veterinary employee’s ability to “put it on my bill” influence our perception and expectations on our client’s ability or willingness to pay for their pet’s veterinary care? So many tough money questions this week, Viewfinders! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT dip back into the tough topics of money, finances, and debt in the veterinary profession. This week the pair explore the impact of costly veterinary care from a veterinary professional’s perspective. … Topics covered include how a clinic handles a team member with debt, payment options, potential influence on team dynamics, and a variety of “hard lessons learned.” … Viewfinders, this is one of those topics we believe needs further evaluation by our profession. As Becky always says, “Get ahead of this one!” … Viewfinders, how does your clinic handle employee “bills” or delayed payments? Do you have a limit on how much you can “charge?” Do you think this topic impacts our expectations from pet parents? We want to hear from you! … To see Dr. Ward’s video, “WHY DON'T VETERINARIANS TREAT ANIMALS FOR FREE?” Click here: https://youtu.be/3aEiOfLDtgE … And don’t forget to give us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts It helps us reach more of our friends and colleagues!

Each week it seems we learn of another natural disaster related to, caused or worsened by climate change: wildfires, hurricanes, heat waves, mudslides, drought, flood - you name it. And these disasters affect veterinary professionals and pet parents around the world. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss how veterinary clinics can prepare for disasters and interruptions caused by a variety of emergency situations. They also explore veterinary professionals' responsibilities to our communities and how we can help ease anxiety in our clients should an emergency occur. … The pair also offer advice on veterinary staff training for other emergencies such as robberies, workplace violence, and clients in peril. ... Viewfinders, this is another example of how a little preparation can go a long way in helping others. … If you’d like to help the Port Royal Veterinary Hospital mentioned in the podcast, check out the South Carolina Association of Veterinary Technicians (SCAVT) or their GoFundMe at gofund.me/61147fc2 … Viewfinders, how are you preparing for natural disasters? Do you have emergency plans in place? Has your clinic been affected by a catastrophe? Share your tips and stories on our social media.

Recently, a very popular North Carolina TikTok star who keeps and “wrangles” venomous cobras in his parent’s basement, lost a cobra while taking it outside in his backyard. For nearly a week, his neighborhood was terrorized by the fear of waking up to a cobra in their house. The cobra was eventually found in a neighbor’s yard and safely captured. It could’ve ended much worse. And this is only one example of the world of exotic animals on TikTok. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore the popularity of social media channels devoted to exotic, and sometime dangerous, animal ownership. The pair tackle what is driving this fascination, what should veterinary professionals do if they see this type of content, and is this creating an increase in exotic animal ownership? … From venomous snakes, spiders, rare mammals, fish, big cats, and more, social media is full of folks showing off their animals. Dr. Ward expresses his genuine concern for these animal’s welfare and why veterinary professionals should “get in front of this trend.” … Beckie shares several exotic animal stories from social media that she’s seeing and steps to encourage responsible animal care. … Viewfinders, this is another hot topic that we think more veterinary professionals need to be talking about. What do you think about these TikTok stars gaining fame (and fortune) keeping exotic animals? What do you think the veterinary profession should do to safeguard animal welfare and public safety? Share your thoughts on our social media! … To learn more about The Veterinary Industry Giving Tree and vote for them, check out their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682336046035250/ or Instgram: @veterinaryindustrygivingtree

Happy Summer Holidays! That is, of course, assuming you get any holiday time off, especially if you work in a veterinary clinic. This week we discuss the disturbing trend of requiring veterinary clinic employees to provide shift coverage for taking time off due to vacation or appointments. And when taking a vacation, does your boss or manager text telling you how busy and overworked everyone is while you’re away? Yes, you read that right. Viewfinders, there’s a lot we need to talk about this week. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the trend of requiring veterinary staff to provide their own coverage when taking time off. Beckie shares several real-life stories of veterinary technicians faced with either covering their missed shifts or not going on vacation. She also reveals how some managers and owners are making their employees feel guilty for the crime of taking time off from work. That’s messed up. … This episode is full of real-life dilemma and stress-inducing, burnout-causing bad management practices. Fortunately, our hosts offer several solutions that may help you this year. … Viewfinders, the struggle - and guilt - is real. We can - and must - do better, or we face burning out an entire generation of talented and dedicated veterinary healthcare professionals. Have you heard of similar tales from veterinary colleagues? What are your favorite tips for more efficient holiday staff scheduling? Share your experiences and opinions on our social media!

Talking about pet obesity can be tricky and challenging for many veterinary professionals? A new study conducted at University of Guelph seeks to understand the potential impact of weight bias and stigmatism on veterinary care and the treatment of pet obesity. … This week we’re back talking about co-host Dr. Ernie Ward’s clinical area of interest, pet obesity. He and co-host Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by Kat Sutherland, BScH, MSc, a PhD candidate from Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph to discuss an important study she’s undertaking with Dr. Jason Coe. Viewfinders, you can help! … The discussion begins with what weight bias and stigma is, how it is learned, and how it may affect our clinical recommendations and outcomes. … The trio discuss tips and advice to help your veterinary clinic team better communicate pet obesity to pet parents. … Viewfinders, there’s A LOT to process in this episode. We hope you’ll take the survey (and a chance to with $100! Canadian money, but, still…) to help us ultimately provide better patient carte. Thank you, Kat! (And what a pawfect name!) … CONTACT: Kat Sutherland, BScH, MSc Department of Population Medicine Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph  Exploring veterinary professional-client communication related to pet weight Veterinary Professional Survey https://uoguelph.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9WQv1GscKazDhTU

Happy National Pride Month Viewfinders! This week we’re joined by Pride VMC’s Ernie Spencer, CVT, VTS (ECC) to discuss correctly using pronouns, creating a safe workplace, and inclusion in veterinary practice. It’s good one! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin by emphasizing the importance of the recent Federal proclamation declaring June National Pride Month. Beckie asks Erin to share how this makes members of the LBGTQ+ community feel and Dr. Ward emphasizes the impact national declarations carry in society. … Erin shares tips on correctly using pronouns in the workplace and how to help a co-worker navigate the sometimes intimidating veterinary clinic cultures to encourage inclusivity. … Viewfinders, this is another important topic we believe needs more discussion within our profession. How is your clinic celebrating Pride month? How are you handling pronoun usage in your team? Share your experiences with us on Facebook or Instagram.

Perhaps one of the toughest challenges veterinary professionals face each day is maintaining a positive attitude. Positive work cultures begin with positive leaders, and that’s what we’re going to discuss today. … Josh Vaisman, CCFP, MAPPCP spends his days helping veterinary professionals create positive work environments. A self-described “happy guy,” Josh shares his enthusiasm with the Viewfinders today - and we take this opportunity to tackle the toughest topics you’re facing each day! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin by asking how can we reach or influence negative bosses? What id they don’t want to embrace a positive or safe workplace? What’s an employee to do? … Josh then explains what a “psychological safe space” is and why your clinic needs one, pronto! (Hint: it’s something we’ve been talking about for years on the podcast, so the Viewfinders are well-prepared for today’s lesson!) … Josh details how anyone - and everyone - can find positivity in daily practice and what do to when you encounter negative vibes, poor managers, and toxic teammates. … Viewfinders, this is another excellent podcast you may want to play out loud in your treatment areas for “you know who” to hear! Let us know your thoughts! … Find out more about Josh’s work here: www.flourish.vet https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-vaisman-ccfp-mappcp-pgd-8371877/ https://www.facebook.com/flourishveterinaryconsulting

Will the hit Disney Movie Cruella create in a surge in Dalmatians, Chihuahuas, or Chinese Crested dogs? Do media stereotypes about certain breeds or animals lead to painful cosmetic surgeries or stigmas? This week we tackle veterinary professionals and how to proactively respond to pet and animal media trends and movements. We go a LOT deeper than Disney this week, Viewfinders! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT chat about the recent portrayal of dogs in the Disney movie Cruella. The pair speculate on whether or not veterinary clinics will see an increase in Dalmatians, chihuahuas, or even Chinese Crested dogs as a result of their movie portrayals. Are veterinary professionals doing enough to educate the public on some of the potential health risks associated with these breeds? What can we do better? … This episode’s conversation includes how media portrayals can lead to breed stereotypes and perhaps cosmetic procedures such as ear cropping and tail docking. … There’s plenty of discussion on how emotionally demanding working in a clinic that performs cosmetic surgeries, declaws, or ignores certain breed-associated health risks can be for concerned vet professionals. … Viewfinders, these are important questions our profession needs to ask. While answers are few and perhaps even controversial at times, we hope this podcast encourages more solutions.

Has your veterinary clinic been ping-ponging between curbside, hybrid, masked service, and now something else? This week we discuss the real challenge of “change fatigue” in veterinary clinics and some creative ways to help. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT spend some quality time together on Memorial Day starting with talking about the nationwide shortage of the euthanasia drug, pentobarbital. Dr. Ward examines whether or not veterinary clinics should reevaluate inventory management of critical-use supplies and if “just in time inventory” should be reserved for less essential drugs. They also offer advice on how you can stay updated on drug shortages and supply issues. … Beckie tackles COVID vaccination in veterinary clinics and Dr. Ward reveals a recent Facebook discussion in which a veterinarian was challenged over a controversial COVID-19 vaccination opinion. Dr. Ward shares what every vet clinic should do today to prepare their teams for this increasingly frequent, and potentially client-losing, question. … Beckie also explores some of the challenges veterinary professionals are facing as they “re-open.” She explains why “It must be nice…” should never be said in a veterinary practice. … The pair explore the importance of offering time off for self-care and morale boosting, especially during overwhelming workloads. Dr. Ward retells a recent colleagues question about closing down for a few days and how they made it work. … Viewfinders, thanks again for listening! We hope you had a restful and restorative Memorial Day and took time to thank those service men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can enjoy the freedoms we cherish.

How far is too far for veterinary professionals to offer pet care advice? Should veterinary professionals offer unsolicited advice? If so, what are the best tactics? What are the risks? This week we discuss this and a WHOLE LOT MORE! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the topic of if or when should we stick our “professional noses” into pet parents’ business? When is it appropriate or not? This episode is as painful as a prong collar on a Shih tzu… and, yes, we go there, too! … Beckie kicks things off by retelling a recent trip to a pet store in which she couldn’t help but offer unsolicited (and free!) advice on a chew bone purchase. You’ll have to listen to find out how it ended. (Hint: Dr. Ward describes it as “tossing a hand grenade behind your back as you leave the pet store!”) … Dr. Ward shares the colorful names he was called when he intervened after witnessing rather rough treatment of a dog during a run and Beckie reminds us of a past episode in which we discussed questionable care on an airplane. So much business to stick our noses into! … Dr. Ward shares his top communication tactic he always employs whenever offering advice, so be sure to let us know if you’ve tried his advice with your clients or pet parents. … Viewfinders, this is another tough topic with no easy (or clear) answers, but we share loads of practical tips and assistance. … And a huge thank you to everyone who leaves us 5-star reviews on Apple Podcasts! We read them all and you make all the time and effort to make this podcast for the past 4.5 years worthwhile. If you haven’t yet, please do us a favor and leave us a review! It means the world to us!

Are veterinary medical associations, state veterinary medical boards, and veterinary practice acts only giving veterinary technicians "lip service" when it comes to participation and power? This week we tackle the topic of fair representation (or lack thereof) of licensed veterinary technicians within veterinary medical organizations and regulatory agencies. ... Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share their recent conversations with vet techs from around the country at Vet Team Global Stream 2021. Many expressed concerns that vet techs continue to be marginalized and largely ignored within the majority of veterinary medical organizations. We believe that needs to change. ... Beckie gives the Viewfinders updates on vet tech issues and legislation from several states, including a potentially controversial move in Colorado. She also gives brief status reports from California, Minnesota, Montana, and other states. And she tells us what's REALLY on her mind! ... Dr. Ward expresses the need for more representation and voting power by vet techs at the AVMA (and Beckie apologizes to AVMA President Dr. Kratt for her persistent lobbying on this topic!) and why expanding the legally permissible roles of vet techs could help ease the shortage of veterinarians and boost innovation. ... Viewfinders, once we again we're hoping to catalyze conversations for positive change throughout our profession with this wide-ranging discussion. Share your thoughts with us on social media!

Are we inadvertently confusing our clients by using vague terms and acronyms on our invoices? What about unclear communication in the exam room? Do different veterinarians recommend different drugs or preventives, leaving support staff to decipher? This week we tackle a constellation of confusing communications in veterinary practice. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin by discussing a Mother’s Day dilemma in which Dr. Ward’s mom was utterly confused - and upset - by her dentist’s invoice. A medical term without context led to almost losing a client and certainly sparked some neighborhood complaining. … The pair share tips on avoiding invoice and written communication misunderstandings, why plain language wins in the exam room, and the importance of having unified product and protocol recommendations in your practice. … Viewfinders, we believe this is another topic that occurs much more frequently than we wished. Beckie sums it up by explaining why “Yes” or “No” is rarely a good answer from clients and how we can learn from “comical communications” and misunderstandings to become better communicators. ... Talk to you next Wednesday!

Loud barking, pooping in parking lots, parking space tensions, and employee smoking breaks can test a veterinary clinic’s relationship with neighboring businesses and homeowners. This week we discuss how you can be a good veterinary neighbor. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT begin with a legal case in which a neighbor sued a veterinary clinic for excessive noise. The duo discuss how to help reduce the inevitable noise associated with caring for animals, and ways to ease potential misunderstandings (and legal actions). … The pair also talk about the importance of poop patrols, how to keep your clients from taking their pet for potty breaks on your neighbors’ lawns, and staff parking lot drama. Dr. Ward shares his tip to prep (and reward) his business neighbors before busy holidays and Beckie encourages practice leaders to introduce and get to know their neighbors. … This is a jam-packed conversation that will spark conversations and inspire solutions in your practice to this very real-world challenge. … Viewfinders, have you had any issues with your neighbors? Share your stories on our Instagram or Facebook pages! Talk to you next Wednesday!

Change and progress are inevitable, especially in veterinary medicine. But what happens when your clinic boss, manager, or supervisor fails to keep up with medical advances and clings to outdated protocols and procedures? This week we discuss how you can help make positive procedural changes in your veterinary practice. … Host Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the topic of confronting and changing the attitudes and policies of a clinic’s leadership. … Dr. Ward shares his top tactics for presenting new medical information to reluctant staff members, why we need to bring more “solutions, not complaints” to management, and his favorite way to solicit feedback to improve an idea using a “On a scale of 1 to 10…” method. … Beckie discusses why we need to surround ourselves with smart people - and then listen to them! She also challenges vet techs to negotiate with leaders and her experiences in getting managers to accept updated procedures and treatments. … Finally, Dr. Ward reminds practice leaders that the first thing to maintain progress is to let go of hubris and ego and he explains why leaders that can say, “I didn’t know that!” excel above those who always have all the answers. … Viewfinders, this is a jam-packed conversation! How do you approach your boss or manager when it’s time to change? What have your experiences been? … Don’t forget to head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a “Hello!” and 5-start rating. You’ll make our week! THANK YOU!

This week we are honoring the often unsung heroes of a veterinary clinic, the veterinary receptionists or CSRs! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT have a “Conversation of Celebration” detailing the many amazing and inspiring abilities of the front desk support staff that allow vets and vet techs to be their best! … Dr. Ward marvels at how veterinary receptionists are able to recognize pets by their family’s cars! He also explains how receptionists/CSRs CSRs represent the clinic personality, mission, and standards and are integral to client loyalty. He also explains why we need to train and pay our receptionists better. … Beckie shares her recent experiences taking both her sister’s and her own dog the vet and how a receptionist really made her feel welcome. … Dr. Ward shares why he believes our receptionists are so essential to a successful client experience because “they own:” * The client’s first impression * The first smile * The first “Hello” * Are asked the first question * The last goodbye * The client's last question * Provide the last reminder … Viewfinders, this week we hope you’ll take time to celebrate and recognize your clinic’s “Jack or Jill of All Trades.” Our veterinary receptionist are true multitaskers and multi-disciplinarians. Every day, they deal with conflict management, sometimes serve as grief counselors, and are responsible for emergency triage. All while answering phones, billing out, scheduling, and fetching meds - ALL WITH A SMILE! I’m exhausted reading this! … Viewfinders, let us know how you’re celebrating National Veterinary Receptionist Week!

Many veterinary professionals are asked by young students whether or not they should become veterinarians or veterinary technicians. This week, we ponder that question within the context of two professions in flux. Viewfinders, the answer is "Definitely maybe?" and involves a multitude of challenges and opportunities we discuss this week. … This podcast covers everything from student debt, pay inequality, lack of vet tech representation in national and state veterinary organizations, outdated practice acts, corporatization, generational differences, and a whole lot more. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share their current answer to this timeless question along with some of the (good and bad) advice they received form mentors. … Viewfinders, this is another conversation that packs A LOT of topics confronting our profession today into a half hour. Are there issues we touch on you’d like to hear us magnify and explore further? Let us know! … Thanks again as always for listening for the last four years!

What happens when your personal social media blows up in your veterinary clinic? Can you post controversial content on your personal pages without professional consequences? Viewfinders, this is one tough topic we tackle this week! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT address people being fired, reprimanded, or causing conflict in their workplace because of something they posted or shared on their personal TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter feeds. Where are the online boundaries between work and private life, if there are any? … The duo divulge times they’ve stepped out of bounds online, stories from colleagues who have experienced consequences of their content, and strategies for everyone scrolling and posting these days. … Viewfinders, have you witnessed workplace tension because of online messages? How do you navigate these potentially stormy waters? Share your stories! … Thank you again for listening! Talk to you next Wednesday!

Veterinary professional continuing education (CE) is changing. Conference closures accelerated the shift to online CE, and now we’re seeing widespread changes in how veterinary CE conferences are innovating and adapting. There’s a lot going on we need to talk about when it comes to maintaining your license through required CE. … This week, we’re joined by 3 of the 4 founders of one of the first, if not the original, completely virtual online veterinary conferences, Vet Team Global Stream (VTGS). Superstar licensed veterinary technicians Beckie Mossor, Monique Feyrecilde, and Julie Legred share the podcast (so sorry Jade Velasquez couldn’t make it this time!) to tell us why the trend toward online CE is important and permanent! … The “Quad Squad” discuss the origins of VTGS, their commitment to providing world-class CE at an affordable price, and why virtual communities and networks are essential to veterinary professionals. … Viewfinders, what do you think about online CE? Do you think state VMAs should allow veterinary professionals to receive our CE online or is this just a “pandemic patch?” … If you’d like to learn more about Vet Team Global Stream, visit them at https://www.vtgsconference.com/ of follow them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/VirtualVetConference/)or Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/vtgsconference/). … Viewfinders, we’ll talk to you next week! Thanks for listening!

Antibiotic resistance is an issue that affects every veterinary and human healthcare provider. There’s no way to sugarcoat it: Antibiotic resistance is a very real existential threat for humanity. … The problem is many small animal veterinarians don’t see themselves as responsible or contributing to antibiotic resistance. This week we’ve got a veterinary expert who research proves small animal vets and vet techs are part of the problem — and solution. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by a veterinarian who has been conducting research on veterinarian and veterinary technician’s attitudes toward prescribing antibiotics. Dr. Dan Taylor recently successfully earned his PhD at Colorado State University and discusses some of his findings. … Dr. Taylor also shares how he found his passion for this topic after years of general practice and even a stint as food inspector, and why this topic is even more important after the Covid pandemic. … Dr. Taylor gives practical advice for the common scenario of a pet parent demanding “But you’ve got to give my pet SOMETHING!” The trio also review communication and treatment options to dispensing antibiotics, and why vet techs are essential in calming nervous pet parents (and young vets!) worries about not giving an antibiotic. … Viewfinders, this is another tough topic that small animal veterinary professionals need to talk more openly about. How do you handle pet parents who “want some medication” or “just refill his last antibiotic prescription?” … If you want to learn more about Dr. Dan Taylor’s current research project evaluating pet parents’ attitudes toward antibiotics: ... Veterinary support staff antibiotic survey - https://ucdenver.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4VjbFnBgqZBZe2a ... or email him at: dantaylordvm@gmail.com … Here are links to some of the videos and research we talk about: … Snotty Kittens and 10 Million Human Deaths - Veterinary Vlog 013 - Dr. Ernie Ward https://youtu.be/eVtXxfq8jJ8 … VMX 2019 Why Are Small Animal Vets Overprescribing Antibiotics? https://youtu.be/6kWfDdqHji8 … Transmission of Antimicrobial-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Clonal Complex 9 between Pigs and Humans, United States https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/27/3/19-1775_article

Big Changes at NAVC & VMX - COVID, Strategy Shifts, & the Virtual Future with CEO Gene O'Neill … This week we’re delighted to be joined once again for an exclusive interview (and special surprise!) with North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) CEO Gene O’Neill. … Gene gives hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT an update on the 2021 VMX conference June 5-9, 2021, the health and safety precautions that will be in place, and what you can expect when you arrive. … Gene then discusses the strategic shift and focus for NAVC. Gene reveal his vision to make NAVC a year-round veterinary CE destination accessible to all veterinary professionals. The focus on “micro-learning” opportunities, regular and monthly CE events, and the ability to engage with experts both in-person and virtually are just a few of the exciting initiatives we can expect from NAVC over the next couple of years. … Gene then takes Dr. Ward and Beckie on a virtual tour of the upcoming NAVC immersive 3D CE platform. He teases the coming expansion of veterinary CE into virtual reality (VR) and explains why the virtual platform matters for a more enjoyable and effective educational experience. … Dr. Ward likens the experience to the Oasis from “Ready Player One” and expresses how “familiar” the 3D experience is to him. Beckie emphasizes the importance of fostering community, whenever online or in real life. Both our hosts left the simulation impressed and excited for the future of a “Virtual NAVC.” … Viewfinders, what do you think about virtual CE? Is it here to stay or will it disappear as soon as the pandemic is over? Are you interested in a 3D immersive CE experience? Did you read or watch "Ready Player One?" How about "Armada" or "Ready Player Two?" Asking for a friend... Share your thoughts! … Visit navc.com for more information

Veterinary Suicide - Why We Must Keep Talking about It with Not One More Vet's Dr. Carrie Jurney … Once again, over the past couple of weeks, the US veterinary profession has been devastated by news of a series of suicides by colleagues. This week we speak with the President of Not One More Vet (NOMV) Dr. Carrie Jurney to find out what we can do to help prevent suicides in veterinary medicine. … Co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT have a candid conversation about the current trends in suicide both in the US and abroad, the warning signs of self-harm, and simple steps you can do to help a colleague or loved on tin need. … This episode also discusses some of the reasons veterinary professionals may be at greater risk of suicidal ideation and depression, and the impact student debt has on overall wellbeing. … Viewfinders, this is a tough topic we need to keep talking about until we no longer receive news about losing another friend, coworker, or colleague. … FOR HELP … Not One More Vet website: https://nomv.dreamhosters.com … Suicide Prevention Resources: https://afsp.org/suicide-prevention-resources … National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Available 24 hours in English or Spanish: 800-273-8255 … Crisis Text Line: Text “Hello” to 741741 … Depression or Crisis Talk: Text "HOME" to 741741

Have you ever been told to “quiet down the laughter” in your clinic? What about “lighten up on the good vibes and get serious”? Can you be playful, happy, and joyous and still be productive and provide excellent patient care? Well, yeah. … This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss what happens when management kills the joy of working in a veterinary clinic. Whether a clinic’s leadership means to or not, by discouraging playful interactions between coworkers, they may be contributing to burnout, poor productivity, and even suboptimal patient care. No bueno. … Dr. Ward shares some interesting studies of Navy SEALS and the neurobiology of laughter and joy and why “a happy treatment area is a productive one.” Science. … Beckie digs deep into how veterinary ER teams rely on humor to get through stressful times and how keeping things light can benefit your clinic. … Viewfinders, this is another important topic that isn’t discussed enough in the veterinary profession. How do you find joy and humor in your work? Let us know!

It’s been quite the year for being short-staffed due to sickness in veterinary clinics. COVID-19, seasonal flu, curbside practice and the enormous emotional toll veterinary professionals are paying have led to workplace shortages. And even shorter tempers. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss how to deal with unexpected staff shortages in veterinary practice. Whether due to physical illness or emotional depletion, how can your team prepare for last-minute “call-in sick?” … Our hosts share personal stories, experiences, and solutions that every team needs to hear. Whether you work with 150 or 5 co-workers, there’s at least one tip you can apply to your personal life and professional environment in this week’s episode. … As Beckie says, “If you’re struggling, rewind this podcast and play it for your manager or owner!” … Stay safe and sane out there, Viewfinders! Let us know how you deal with being short-staffed due to sickness in your clinic!

If you're a licensed veterinary technician, how'd you like to earn a salary that’s 50% higher than the industry average? ... This week our guest is Jesse Longo, LVT from New York City's Bond Vet, and he says vet techs can make up to $42 per hour at the clinic he works for under an innovative program they're calling the Nurse Elevation Program. ... Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT learn Jesse's story of how he switched from history teacher to LVT, from ASPCA to Bond Vet, and how he's helping to elevate the earning potential of fellow vet techs. ... Viewfinders, this is an interesting conversation you don't want to miss! ... Share this episode with your friends and colleagues and tell us what you think! $42/hour? Why not?

Workplace divisions have been a challenge in veterinary practices for ages. But are tensions rising and has the source of conflict changed over the past few years? … We’re living through a highly divisive and politically-charged time in the US and around the globe. And, oh yeah, there's also a pandemic to deal with. This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore how the external world’s issues are creating conflict and volatility within veterinary clinics. This is truly a tough topic! … The duo discuss the recent popularity of masks, mugs, t-shirts, and even jewelry that proclaim political and social justice statements. They ask whether or not the veterinary clinic is the appropriate context to make a political or social justice stand? You don’t want to miss this conversation! … Dr. Ward expresses his concern that social media has given many permission to behave disrespectfully toward others and spread distrust. Beckie shares that her father even “unfriended” her on social media due to political disagreements! And you don’t want to miss Beckie’s rant against football! … Finally, the pair offer several solutions to help veterinary teams reclaim cohesion and unite. While there are no easy answers to these complex issues, we believe by openly confronting and discussing them, we can make positive change during these turbulent times. … Viewfinders, what are your thoughts on this topic? Are you experiencing heightened tensions between coworkers in your clinic? How are you coping and overcoming these issues?

It’s hard to scroll your social media feeds these days without running across a veterinary professional poking fun at pet parents. But what happens when “funny” crosses into “offensive,” “hurtful,” or client shaming? Have some veterinary professionals taken TikTok too far? … This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the recent uptick in veterinary social media content aimed at showcasing pet parent demands, questions, and other miscommunication and misunderstandings. Many of these posts and videos are clever and serve a positive purpose, but others seem to only belittle and humiliate otherwise caring and well-intentioned clients. What are the true motivators behind these posts and how we can cope in healthier ways? Are some of our colleagues posting these videos in a pursuit of “likes” and followers” without regard for potential impacts on the profession? Where are the professional boundaries and what happens when our colleagues cross them? As Beckie says about today’s episode, “It kind of turns into a little therapy session.” … Viewfinders, this is an important topic we hope will spark conversations throughout the profession. What do you think about our concerns? What about our suggestions? And finally, what are you doing, as Dr. Ward advocates, to “tilt toward optimism” and promote positive messages in your personal and practice life?

Ben & Jerry's Doggie Desserts! Need we say more? ... This week we're thrilled to bring you the Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) behind Ben & Jerry's newest product, Doggie Desserts, Lindsay Bumps, CVT! ... Lindsay Bumps, CVT is a Global Marketing Specialist (and canine culture expert for the "K9 to 5'ers" - you have to listen to find out!) for Ben & Jerry's in Vermont. Lindsay shares her story from childhood 4H and horse lover to vet tech school to private practice and how she arrived at Ben & Jerry's nearly 10 years ago. ... Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT drool over her ice cream stories. Lindsay also shares practical life advice for anyone facing burnout or challenges in veterinary medicine. As Lindsay says, "I've been there, too!" ... Viewfinders, we're honored to share Lindsay's unique and powerful story with you. ... What do you think about Ben & Jerry's Doggie Desserts? Be sure to listen to the very end for a special request from Lindsay (Twitter: @Bumpsie027 and LinkedIn). ... Share pics of your doggos enjoying B&J Doggie Desserts (or you!).

We spend hours each week typing in medical records, SOAPs, client communications, and email. What if we could simply tell our computers what to type? Talkatoo allows veterinary professionals to harness cloud-based AI to dictate their medical records with ease. While this may sound like an informercial, this episode is NOT sponsored… we just believe our colleagues need to know about this time-saving technology! (*But if you’re interested in sponsoring the show… Beckie said let us know!*) … This week we’re joined by the founder and CEO of Talkatoo, Shawn Wilkie. Shawn joins Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT to share how he entered the veterinary industry, the origins of Talkatoo, and how veterinary professionals around the globe are saving time and effort with this innovative technology. … Dr. Ward and Beckie both have been using Talkatoo in their daily lives (we’re using it right now) and have found it to be incredibly useful, accurate, and saved a lot of effort! … Shawn also shares a special GIVEAWAY to Viewfinder listeners so be sure to listen to the entire episode to find out how you can enter to when Talkatoo for your clinic! … Viewfinders, we bring you unsponsored content such as this because we feel you need to know how to make your life a little less stressful so you can get home to your life sooner! … What do you think about dictation technology? Is this something you’d like to use in your practice? Have you tried dictation services in the past? If so, and you didn’t find it helpful, you really owe it to yourself to try this next-generation AI-enabled dictation! … Visit www.talkatoo.com for more information.

Welcome to 2021! So far, it seems even weirder and more chaotic than 2020! … This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT report on recent curbside innovations from veterinary professionals around the country and how our profession is handling the stress that is January 2021. … Beckie shares the importance of “Communicating above the nose!” And how creative makeup, glamorous glasses, and “fun masks” can make your team more approachable by pet parent and pets. … Client complaints continue to affect our colleagues and negatively impact morale in veterinary clinics. Dr. Ward and Beckie share a few stories of how veterinary professionals are handling emergencies and providing exceptional care despite what a “vocal minority” of disgruntled pet parents may post online. … Dr. Ward expresses his concern that current events will erode trust in social media, and why it’s more important than ever to regain control of our client communication channel. Dr. Ward encourages veterinary clinics to reduce their reliance on Facebook and Instagram to attract and engage with clients. This is a story that we believe will gain more importance during the upcoming months. … COVID vaccination rollouts to veterinary professionals are being reported and our hosts reflect on the importance of veterinary professionals being immunized. … Virtual conferences will be the more for at least the first half of 2021. Dr. Ward and Beckie predict what will happen in the latter half of 2021 and which CE changes may be permanent. Beckie also teases the Viewfinders with news about her 2021 Vet Team Global Stream conference (vtgsconference.com). … Veterinary pharmaceutical, food and distributor representatives are still largely unable to meet with clinics in-person and it continues to affect how veterinary clinics receive information on new products and offers. Despite these persistent challenges, many veterinary sales reps are getting creative and keeping their clinics apprised of development - and stocked with pens (Beckie said that). … Viewfinders, we’re confident 2021 is going to be a great year for the veterinary profession! Do you share our optimism? Tell us why or why not! How is your team handling the stress of the chaotic news cycle? What’s your favorite mask? We want to hear from you!

Burnout affects every veterinary professional, regardless of where they work, what they do, or how old or educated they are. This week we’re thrilled to share the mic with Dr. Ivan Zak as he shares insights from his recent veterinary burnout research. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by Dr. Ivan “Zak” Zakharenkov, a veterinarian who recently conducted his MBA dissertation on “Veterinary Burnout.” Dr. Zak reviews the difference between burnout, compassion fatigue, depression and other psychological challenges faced by all veterinary professionals. … The trio tackle the differences between staff burnout in independent versus corporate veterinary clinics, which age groups are more likely to experience burnout, and why veterinary technicians may face additional risks. How to recognize burnout both in yourself and your colleagues is also a highlight of the conversation. … Several solutions are discussed in addition to how better “lean management” principles can help your team avoid burnout and achieve harmony. … Viewfinders, this is an important conversation to have as we enter a new year - and new decade. How are you handling burnout in your clinic? Have you experienced burnout or have your colleagues? Share your thoughts and experiences with us on our social media channels. … To learn more about Dr. Ivan Zak, visit https://vetintegrations.com/ an due sure to check out his podcast, The Veterinary Innovation Podcast - https://veterinaryinnovationpodcast.com/ … Happy New Year, Viewfinders! Let’s make it a GREAT YEAR! See you next week!

Happy New Year! 2021 is here… now what? … This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share their lessons from 2020 and how they each set - and accomplish - goals for the new year. … The duo reflect on the wins and losses for the veterinary profession in 2020 and what they’re looking forward to in 2021. Dr. Ward expresses his hope for a better post-pandemic world and Beckie offers practical advice for anyone who wants to level up their lives in 2021. … We think you’ll find simple ways to set goals and find inspiration in the lessons learned from 2020. … Stay safe, Viewfinders, and we’ll talk to you in 2021!

Happy Holidays, Viewfinders! This week we’re sharing your holiday shoutouts to your colleagues, friends, and family. While 2020 has certainly challenged the veterinary profession in unprecedented ways, in this episode we take a few minutes to celebrate the power of our resilience and recognize listeners who were nominated by their peers. … Viewfinders, we hope you enjoy this holiday season safely. Take time to care for yourself and remember the positive things that you’re grateful for this year. … Thanks again to everyone who commented and messaged us on social media. If you have a special someone you’d like to shoutout and give praise to, drop us a note or comment! … We’ll see you next week for a special 2020 year-end episode you don’t want to miss!

Many veterinary professionals feel they have at least a little Dr. Dolittle in them. You know, the ability to connect, communicate, even "talk to the animals." ... This week we're joined by a veterinarian and animal communicator, Dr. Barbara Shor, to discuss what an animal communicator does, her journey to becoming an animal communicator, and the practical - and perhaps even clinical - applications of her work. ... Along the way, Beckie shares her own personal experiences, Dr. Ward asks about the feelings and "communications' of farmed animals (you knew he'd go there), and Dr. Ward tries to relate to Dr. Shor by revealing some of deep meditation experiences (it involves how he believes he can feel his blood flow in vessels). ... Viewfinders, this is a conversation that could ONLY happen on the Veterinary Viewfinder! ... For more information about Dr. Shor, check out her book: https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Wild-Intimate-Messages-Elephants/dp/B00N25ETSE

This week we’re doing a special simultaneous broadcast of our podcast on both the Veterinary Viewfinder channel as well as on the Veterinary Innovation Podcast! Cool! … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share the mics with Shawn Wilkie and Dr. Ivan Zak from The Veterinary Innovation Podcast out of chilly but cheerful Canada! … The two teams recount their starts in podcasting, their history in the veterinary profession, and offer advice for anyone inserted in how to create and discover GREAT ideas! … This is another wide-ranging thought experiment that has something for everyone in veterinary medicine. Whether you’re a seasoned veterinarian, new graduate, veterinary technicians practice manager, CSR or assistant, we believe you’ll learn and be inspired by this high-energy discussion. … Viewfinders, you can find out more by visiting https://veterinaryinnovationpodcast.com/ … Happy holidays, everyone!

If you order inventory, manage a veterinary practice or team, or have to deal with the mountain of “stuff” required to keep a busy clinic cooking, you DO NOT want to miss this week’s episode (and stick around until the end for a special offer for Viewfinders)! … This is one of those episodes that Beckie says, “will 100% affect your day-to-day work.” Inventory management creates A LOT of headaches for veterinary staff. Running out of supplies, missing rebates and deals, backorders, and countless hours spent each week placing orders can take its toll. There’s got to be a better way… … There is! This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by Alex Kates, Founder and CEO of Vetcove, an innovative veterinary supplies price comparison and online ordering tool - and much, much more! As Dr. Ward says, “THIS is why computers were invented!” … Alex shares how he and his brother started Vetcove after growing up helping in his dad’s equine veterinary clinic. They saw how tough it was for their dad’s practice manager to order and maintain inventory, and set out to use their computing and business expertise to make her life easier. And so, Vetcove was born in 2015! … If you’d like to learn more and try Vetcove for your clinic’s ordering needs, visit www.vetcove.com and use the code VIEWFINDER to receive a $50 cash back offer! “Purchasing for your vet hospital?Shop every supplier at once. Cut ordering time in half and save on supplies with the vendors you already use. Completely free to veterinary clinics & nonprofits.”

This week we’re celebrating FOUR YEARS and 208 EPISODES of the Veterinary Viewfinder Podcast! … Thank you for your loyal listening, sharing with colleagues, and being the best bunch of friends we could hope for! … We take a brief stroll down memory lane this week and share the many reasons why we still love talking with you (and each other!) each week for the past four years. … We then discuss the tremendous amount of feedback we received from last week’s podcast, “The Rise of Veterinary Influencers: Controversies and Opportunities.” You definitely want to hear this! … We also share our tips for surviving the “pandemic holidays,” why Beckie calls it the “Pan-damnit!” and how to remain positive despite the many challenges this year poses. Dr. Ward once again reminds us, “Tilt toward optimism” by using his simple gratitude practice. … Beckie gives us an update on the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree and Dr. Ward reveals how their 25th Annual Calabash Community Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade will go on this year…with quite a creative twist! … Viewfinders, we hope you enjoy this wide-ranging celebration episode. We really appreciate everyone who reached out and gave us feedback on last week’s episode. We definitely hit a professional pain point that needs more attention! … We hope you have a wonderful - and safe - Thanksgiving holiday! Can’t wait to talk to you next week!

Are you a veterinary influencer? Do you aspire to be called “an influencer?” If so, you may want to talk to Beckie first! … This week co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the rise of veterinary influencers. The duo discusses the controversies and opportunities of being a social media influencer, and their concerns over certain types of “veterinary influence.” Viewfinders, buckle up. This episode might get bumpy! … Beckie shares her concerns that some popular veterinarian influencers may be “driving a wedge” between veterinary professionals and pet parents. Dr. Ward muses that some veterinarians may be posting unprofessional or inappropriate content in an attempt to get more “likes.” Both hosts lament the promotion of uncredentialed, unlicensed, self-proclaimed pet experts to large veterinary CE keynote speakers. Told you it might be bumpy. … Viewfinders, this is an especially tough topic that deserves our profession’s attention. What do you think about the rise of veterinary and pet influencers? What are your suggestions for making sure we’re educating the pet-loving public in a professional and responsible manner?

Happy COVID-19 Holiday Season Viewfinders! Or, as Beckie says, Happy Holidays, COVID-19! (You have to listen to the podcast to understand…) … With the holidays just around the corner, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT take time to discuss how the pandemic may affect veterinary clinics during the traditional holiday season. Each shares how their businesses are planning to celebrate the holidays, and offer a wide variety of advice for any clinic or veterinary professional. … The duo tackle office parties, Dr. Ward reviews how he’s advising veterinary practices to host virtual client parties to mitigate some of the stress and ”impersonality” the past several months of curbside service has created, and Beckie provides guidance on staff gifting. … Viewfinders, this is a podcast you need to hear NOW as you begin preparations for the upcoming holiday season. Dr. Ward even reveals how he and Laura’s 25th year hosting their community Christmas tree lighting and parade has creatively adapted to the current quarantine and social distancing. … How are you celebrating the holidays with your team and clients? What about gifts? Have your practice finances been negatively affected by the coronavirus disruptions? We want to hear from you!

With most of 2020's veterinary continuing education conferences moving to an online format, what lasting effects will this have in 2021 and beyond? Will some veterinary conferences fall victim to the coronavirus pandemic? What will future veterinary CE look like? ... This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT reflect on their experiences creating, supporting, and working with several veterinary conferences during 2020. What worked and what didn't? More importantly. What have we learned that can help improve veterinary CE in the future? ... How will state veterinary medical boards and licensing agencies adapt to online CE? Will states begin allowing more virtual learning credits after the pandemic passes, or will they retreat to traditional CE requirements? Our hosts have strong opinions on this! ... The pair also discuss the recent trend toward free and low-cost online CE. Dr. Ward ponders what impact this will have on the value of education and whether or not practices will continue to pay for staff CE if they can get it for free? ... Beckie suggests online CE may have significant advantages over traditional in-person CE and is better suited to address many different learning styles of veterinary professionals. ... Our hosts also speculate on how a shift toward online and hybrid CE will affect corporate sponsors and the ability of companies to share their advances with veterinary professionals. ... Viewfinders, this is an important topic that few are talking about. CE affects all licensed veterinary professionals, and how we remain licensed and accredited is something we need to pay attention to. What do you think? How do you see veterinary CE evolving over the next few years?

This week we’re honored to share the microphone with the 2020 American Humane Hero Veterinary Nurse Award winner, Julie Nettifee, RVT, BS VTS (Neurology). Visit http://herovetawards.org/ to learn more or nominate a veterinary hero in your life! … Julie has been on the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine veterinary technician nursing staff for over 20 years. Julie shares her journey from childhood to present day specialization, how her passion for neurology has given her professional resilience and career longevity, and offers inspirational messages for how to stay in love with our vocation. Viewfinders, grab your hankies. … Beckie also tells us about a special COVID-19 holiday program she’s kicking off to help our colleagues severely affected by economic challenges this year. Check out the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/682336046035250/ … Viewfinders, if you haven’t already, VOTE! That’s all. Just VOTE! See you next week!

Arguably one of the most challenging exam parameters for veterinary patients is body temperature. We have traditionally performed this rectally. So there’s that. … But how accurate is a rectal temperature anyway? And how were those “normal temperature ranges” determined? Have we been taking pet’s temperatures wrong? … This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor are joined by two of Mella Pet Care’s co-founders Yale Zhang and Anya Babbitt to discuss “all things temperature” - and a whole lot more! (Mella.ai) … The quartet muse on the current limitations and challenges of rectal temperature in animals, why the “standard” thermometer may not be as good as we’d like to believe, and Mell’s approach to in-home diagnostics. … Dr. Ward and Yale postulate on the future of in-home diagnostics, how this will impact telemedicine, and what this means for veterinary clinics. … Beckie challenges the notion that in-home testing performed by pet parents will threaten the veterinary profession and makes an astute observation on pediatricians, babies, and, well, body temperatures and veterinary businesses. You have to listen to find out more! Brilliant! … This is an important discussion because it speaks to the accelerating trend of what Dr. Ward calls, “The democratization of diagnostics.” We think you’re going to love this conversation!

Happy National Veterinary Technician Week! ... Okay, now that we've got that out of the way, our hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT get real about the present challenges the veterinary technician/nurse (that's one of them!) profession faces today. ... This conversation is timely and essential if the veterinary profession (DVM's, RVT's, CVPM's) are to thrive over the next decade. It's also unapologetically raw, unfiltered, and will probably upset a few of our colleagues. Evolution and progress ain't necessarily easy sometimes. ... While our hosts certainly celebrate the innumerable contributions veterinary technicians make in the pet and vet worlds, they also highlight areas for much needed improvement. ... Improving diversity, increasing pay and benefits, standardizing credentials and nomenclature, and what rewards REALLY make an impact on your staff are just a few of the topics covered in this important podcast. ... Viewfinders, how are you celebrating National Veterinary Technician Week? What did you think about some of these red-hot topics? Did we get it right, wrong, or somewhere in-between? We want to hear from you! ... And, THANK YOU, you bunch of awesome animal-loving, science-loving, caffeine-craving fellow nerds out there!

Many of us in the United States choose “Made in the USA” or “US Owned and Operated” whenever given a comparable choice. But what about businesses founded, owned, or operated by our colleagues? Does that affect our choices? Should it influence our decisions if the products or services are similar in quality and price compared to non-vet professional businesses? … This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the importance of supporting our entrepreneurial colleagues. … With a torrent of new pet businesses and products, who is behind some of the most buzz-worthy trends? How can we encourage innovation by our colleagues? … The duo share their experiences as entrepreneurs, clinicians, and consultants to provide the Viewfinders with a unique perspective. … We believe this is an important topic our profession needs to tackle. With so many new businesses entering our industry and profession, we believe it is essential veterinary professionals are involved in establishing the culture, ethics, and vision of the companies responsible for creating foods, drugs, and lifestyle accessories for the pets and pet parents we love to serve. … Viewfinders, what do you think about this? Do you seek our businesses owned or operated by colleagues? Are you an entrepreneur? Do you have a unique service or product you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comments!

EPISODE 200! 200 CONSECUTIVE WEEKS! WOO-HOO! THANK YOU! … We talk a lot on the Veterinary Viewfinder about the importance of self-care and wellness, including taking time off for yourself. Even though we may escape our veterinary clinics from time to time, how to we truly disconnect from the incessant text questions, prescription approvals, and myriad of other interrupters during “time off?” … This week co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT offer their tips and advice for setting boundaries when taking time off work. Beckie shares her recent vacation experience and how she dealt with requests while she was celebrating her 10-year wedding anniversary. … This episode is a must-listen for anyone who manages or owns a veterinary practice. As Dr. Ward says, “Respecting time off begins with leadership and leads to workplace culture.” … If you know someone or are struggling yourself with “time-off guilt” or unsure how to disconnect without missing out or letting down your team, this episode is meant for you! … Viewfinders, thank you again for your loyal listening and helping us reach tens of thousands of downloads each month! 200!! … How do you prepare for vacation or taking a long weekend? Do you have “time-off guilt?” We want to hear from you!

Many veterinary professionals are beginning to plan for their 2021 Continuing Education requirements. Many of us have questions and concerns about coronavirus and conferences. Is it safe? How are the facilities disinfecting? Are masks required? How full will the lecture rooms and exhibit halls be? Will food be served? This week, we have an exclusive conversation with NAVC CEO Gene O’Neill and the Executive Director for the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) Mark Tester to answer these questions and more. … Host Dr. Ernie Ward is flying solo this week as co-host Beckie Mossor, RVT is on vacation - and on the mend after injuring her knee - this week. … Dr. Ernie and his guests go deep on the cleaning protocols of the OCCC and VMX 2021, how VMX has created new policies regarding attendance, room capacity, and movement in the OCCC. Needless, to say, the 2021 VMX will look very different from previous conferences. Dr. Ernie also inquires about the VMX’s historical “ladies bathroom shortages” and how the conference is adjusting this year. … Viewfinders, this is an excellent conversation from two people who have a lot a stake - and a lot of people’s health and safety on their minds - during this pandemic. I think you’ll find the steps they’re taking and the seriousness with which they perform their duties comforting. This is another tough COVID-19 conversation for the veterinary profession, but one that will surely leave you hopeful for 2021. … We also discuss how VMX 2021 is going virtual on the internet and why this is important for the global veterinary community. In addition, listen closely as Gene explains special incentives, benefits, and their flexible cancellation policies for 2021. ... Viewfinders, are you planning on attending VMX 2021 in Orlando in January? What about other conferences? Is COVID-19 influencing your CE decisions? We want to hear from you! … Thank you again for your loyal listening. This marks Episode 199! Stay safe and we’ll see you next week. 200!

Pet parents and veterinary professionals are increasingly getting their news, information, and even medical advice from social media. With the trend toward shorter forms of content, is this helping or hurting pet care and veterinary professionals? … This week our co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the impact Tik Tok, Instagram, Snapchat are having on the veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and pet parents. What effect is this global “social experiment” of social media having on the quality of life, health, and overall wellbeing for both people and pets? … The pair offer solutions for veterinary professionals interested in learning more about what pet parents are asking about online (Dr. Ward describes how he uses “social listening”) and Beckie explores the pros and cons of super-speedy scrolling and “meme learning.” … Viewfinders, this is a candid conversation about a topic that continues to affect the world. How are you using social media, especially short-form media in your practice? What do you think about veterinary professionals and pet parents using these platforms as their primary means of information? What are some of your favorite - and unfavorite - influencers? … Viewfinders, thank you again for your loyal listening as we near our FOUR YEAR ANNIVERSARY!! Stay safe and give your pets a hug from us! See you next Wednesday!

Crowdsourcing has become a routine decision-making tactic for many veterinary professionals. Whether asking for advice on social media, posing a challenging case on a medical forum, or asking for help with a personal issue, throwing our questions and concerns into the internet has become increasingly popular and practical. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the pros and cons of asking the internet for help. The pair share their own experiences with seeking assistance from both traditional mentors and friends as well as the internet. … Dr. Ward expresses his deep belief in the power of interpersonal relationships and networks while Beckie reviews the tremendous potential of remote advice, especially for veterinary professionals living in rural areas. … This is a complex and nuanced issue, and we hope we’ve provided a little more clarity on how you can optimize your online advice experiences and avoid the potential pitfalls. … Viewfinders, how are you using crowdsourcing in your daily life? What have your experiences been? What advice do you have for veterinarians and veterinary technicians? We want to hear from you!

COVID-19 has been emotionally, physically, and spiritually rough for many veterinary professionals. Many of us find ourselves in a “pandemic misery rut.” … This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT get real about self-care and building mental and emotional fortitude to deal with the onslaught of confrontational veterinary clients, long hours, and the total chaos that we are calling the “next normal.” It gets better. … Our duo dive deep into the simple daily habits they rely on to stay focused and remain positive during these challenging times. … Restorative rest, sleep tracking, healthy hydration and nourishing nutrition strategies, exercise hacks, and why your personal relationships matter more than ever to your well-being are all part of today’s conversation. … If you’re struggling to find the silver lining in today’s pandemic, give this episode a listen (or twice!). If you know a friend or colleague looking for help, share this week’s podcast. … Reach out to us on social media @VeterinaryViewfinder. … Thanks again, Viewfinders, for helping us make it to episode 196! Stay safe - and positive - out there! See you next Wednesday!

Millions of pets have become "Pandemic Pets" as quarantined homes welcomed furry friends to help ease the stress of disruptions caused by COVID-19. ... This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the topic of whether or not these pandemic pets are receiving proper veterinary preventive care and if this puts these newly-adopted dogs and cats at greater risk of preventable diseases. ... The duo share real-life stories and offer solutions to the causes of this surge in pets at potential risk. ... They also reveal unexpected lifestyle risks associated with the novel coronavirus pandemic and how veterinary professionals can be proactive at connecting with pet parents and protecting dogs and cats. ... This is an important discussion we hope the Viewfinders enjoy. Dr. Ernie and Beckie highlight several pet care issues that have been largely unacknowledged need more attention from our profession. ... Viewfinders, what have your experiences been? How are you winning at relations with shelters and foster groups? What steps are you taking to communicate with pet parents? We want to hear from you! ... Thank you again for your loyal listening! Almost 4 years! Let us know if there's a tough topic you'd like us to tackle! Stay safe!

Veterinary clinics around the country are reporting more confrontations with angry pet parents. This week, we dive into why this may be happening and what your veterinary team can do to help. … The COVID-19 pandemic continues to challenge veterinary professionals around the world. On disturbing trend is increased conflict with frustrated and angry, sometimes violent, clients. … This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle why veterinarians may be seeing more angry clients and steps to de-escalate a tense client interaction. … Viewfinders, this is an excellent discussion on a wide range of topics and tactics concerning conflict resolution. Please share it with your team or colleagues you think could use a little help or inspiration. … If you have a tough topic you’d like us to tackle, let us know on Instagram (@VeterinaryViewfinder) or Facebook (/VeterinaryViewfinder)!

The current COVID-19 global pandemic has certainly accelerated many changes within the veterinary and pet care professions. This week, we tackle the emerging trend of pet parents purchasing veterinary medical devices and in-home diagnostics and what this means for our profession. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss a quiet shift in pet parents beginning to do more in-home self pet care due to the coronavirus pandemic. Both agree there are plenty of opportunities and upsides for the veterinary profession, but there are potential risks, too. … Dr. Ward shares his recent experiences replacing cars lost during Hurricane Isaias and how there are lessons to be learned by veterinarians. He also explains why he believes Carvana can teach veterinary clinics how to provide better service for pet parents. … Beckie reviews her recent discussions with veterinary medical device manufacturers and what the next couple of years may hold for in-home veterinary medicine. … Viewfinders, this is another important topic that few are talking about. We believe it’s important to inform you about these issues and for our profession to be proactive in communicating with pet parents. … What do you think about this trend? Asset or liability? Benefit or detriment? … As Beckie says, “If the pet benefits, it’s our duty to figure out a way to help them get it.” … Thanks for listening, Viewfinders! If you have a tough topic you’d like us to tackle, let us know! Stay safe and give your pets a hug from us!

Viewfinders, Beckie and Ernie wanted to let everyone know they’re safe and thank you for your messages of concern and support. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT live where Hurricane Isaias made a direct hit on August 3, 2020. … Dr. Ward shares his storm experiences and why they’ll call this the “Fire Hurricane” in the history books. He recounts the flooding, fires, and hurricane force winds that this “sleeper storm” ravaged on the Carolina coast. … Dr. Ward also explains why this was the worst storm he’s experienced in his 28 years living on a tiny barrier island and why the coronavirus pandemic may have made this more catastrophic. … We’ll be back next week tackling another tough topic in veterinary medicine! … Thank you, Viewfinders for your love and support!

This week we’re proud to bring you a special conversation with North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine’s Director of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, Dr. Allen Cannedy. … Dr. Allen Cannedy is a dedicated mentor and recruiter of students from groups that are underrepresented in veterinary medicine. For example, he regularly invites pre-college aged students to shadow him as he makes patient calls during his personal large animal practice. … The commitment to mentoring and recruiting has been a hallmark of Cannedy’s career. His work with NCSU CVM has resulted in many students from a variety of cultural backgrounds and from both in-state and out-of-state colleges and universities attending his veterinary school, whether they are first-year veterinary students, interns, or residents getting a final year of clinical experience before entering into their careers. … Dr. Cannedy joins hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, RVT for a real-world candid conversation about the challenges minorities face in veterinary medicine, how both veterinary schools and the industry can help, and his story of overcoming personal challenges to become a veterinarian. … This is an inspiring discussion and is helpful to understand how all of us can help increase diversity and promote inclusion within our own veterinary practices. … Plus, Dr. Cannedy settles a challenge between Beckie and Ernie. Ernie says it’s a draw; Beckie says she wins. Listen to the end of this podcast to find out what this is all about! … Viewfinders, we’re committed to making our profession more open-minded and accepting all people, regardless of color, religion, sexuality, or even personal statements (listen to the end!). We desire a world where people aren’t judged by how they look, but by what they do. Together, we can seize this moment and make our community more loving, peaceful, and open. … As Dr. Ward says in the podcast, diversity and inclusion ultimately relies on each of us “to make small, brave acts.” Listen to this podcast and share how you can help improve diversity and inclusion in your clinic. … Thank you Viewfinders for your loyal listening! If there’s a “tough topic” you’d like us to “tackle,” drop us a line or message us on social media. Stay safe! See you next Wednesday!

We’re used to talking about veterinary professionals being attacked online and experiencing cyberbullying by angry clients, organizations, and the general public. But what happens when veterinary professionals cyberbully each other? … This week we’re joined by a veterinarian who has been cyberbullied by her professional colleagues and a therapist who specializes in helping veterinary professionals deal with these sorts of issues. … Dr. Crystal Heath shares her story of cyberbullying by an online group of veterinary professionals and how this has affected her both personally and professionally. We also learn how she’s turning this personal tragedy into a resource for other veterinary students and animal health professionals. … Julie Squires, BA, CCFS, is a Certified Compassion Fatigue Specialist and Certified Life Coach who specializes in helping veterinarians and veterinary professionals. She provides insight into why some people resort to online attacks, how to cope, and strategies for resiliency. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT would like to encourage anyone who is confronting peer attacks, whether online or in clinic, to share their story and get help. This is tough topic that affects many of our colleagues and needs to be stopped. … Dr. Heath’s student and animal healthcare support group: www.OurHonor.org … Julie Squires: www.rekindlesolutions.com ... Veterinarians Against Ventilation Shutdown: www.vavsd.org

This week we take a moment to remember the loss of Summer Taylor with special guest Jade Velasquez, LVT, president of Washington State Association of Veterinary Technicians, chair of NAVTA's PR committee, and sits on NAVTA's Membership committee. ... Next, we tackle the tough topic of pet insurance fraud with a longtime Viewfinder, Eliza Mariner, RVT. Eliza reached out to us by email after confronting a potentially uncomfortable situation that bordered on unethical and illegal. … Co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss pet insurance fraud along with other equally morally-challenging scenarios that many veterinary professionals confront each day. … This episode is an extension of previous podcasts on the impact of how seemingly insignificant daily interactions can lead to burnout, job dissatisfaction, and poor patient care. … Viewfinders, we’d like to thank Eliza for reaching out with a topic she thought the Veterinary Viewfinder should tackle! If you have a tough topic you’d like us to cover, drop us a line! Thanks for listening each Wednesday for the past 3.5 years and making us the top-ranked veterinary topics podcast!

As people around the country (and the world) have been forced into working from home and reduced social interactions, some people have filled their days with drinking excess alcohol or lighting up a joint or two. … Many veterinary practices are reporting higher than usual numbers of inebriated, intoxicated, and otherwise wasted pet parents visiting their clinics. … This week our hosts, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, hammer out some of their real-life loaded tales from veterinary practice, how they helped their staff avoid getting bombed by these unexpected events, and why creating a plan can help your team walk a straight line. … This is a serious topic that deserves more attention within our profession.Our hosts discuss why these sorts of situations lead to burnout and stress, and what our professional organizations should be doing to help. … Viewfinders, let us know if you’re seeing an uptick in drunk or stoned pet parents trying to cope with the stress of the global pandemic. How is your practice handling these situations? … As Dr. Ward says, “Stay safe…and stay sober!” Cheers, Viewfinders!

Millions of pets have been fostered, adopted, or somehow wiggled their way into innumerable homes and hearts around the country (and the world). How can veterinary professionals help this new generation of pet parents make the right pet care decisions when they’re still “Pre-Pet Parents?” … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT go over some simple and effective ways any veterinary practice can begin helping current or prospective clients make the best decisions on the right species, breed, size, and age for their next pet family member. … The duo discuss a variety of online tools, blog and social media posts, and team efforts to make sure the veterinary voice is heard out in the “very big World Wide Web.” … The pair also discuss what happens to pets if an owner passes away (young or old, expected or not) and learn what Dr. Ward believes veterinary professional organizations and corporate veterinary practices should be doing to help pet parents with pet estate planning and how these steps and tools could potentially encourage more pet parents. … This is a wide-ranging conversation with plenty of real-world practical tips. … Viewfinders, we hope you enjoy this “Coronavirus-free” episode and are staying safe!

The gut microbiome has been intensely studied for the past 20 years, yet we’re only now beginning to understand it’s impact on overall health. … This week we have one of the top researchers in the animal microbiome, Dr. Holly Ganz from Animal Biome in Berkeley, California. … Dr. Ganz shares her story of her 20 years researching the gut microbiome, her development of “poo pills” to treat a variety of intestinal and digestive disorders, and her own story of overcoming breast cancer. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT “take a seat” to discuss some of the “poopular” myths about the microbiome, their love of “poo cocktails” and “poo slurries,” and why they wish more veterinary professionals would “spin down the poo.” Enough already with the poo puns. … Viewfinders, what do you think about “poo pills,” probiotics, and dietary fiber? Are you researching the influence the gut bacteria have on overall health and behavior? Definitely share this with your favorite “veterinary poofessional.” Sorry. … Stay safe out there, Viewfinders! See you next week!

Resilience: “the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.” But what does it mean for veterinary professionals? … This week we’re joined again with Dr. Sarah Wooten to discuss the topic of bouncing back from failure and confronting stress in practice. Developing and nurturing our resilience seems even more essential these days. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT get real with the stress most veterinary professionals face each day. The trio offer examples and solutions that will benefit any team or individual. … This is an uplifting, authentic, and practical conversation about how we can all achieve more calmness and clarity in our lives. … Please share this podcast with a colleague, co-worker, or friend who needs a little shot of positivity this week! … Thanks for listening, Viewfinders, and stay safe!

This week we’re handing over our mic for an important message from Ahsante the Artist on “How to be a Good Ally - Identity, Privilege, Resistance.” Although this presentation was originally published on YouTube in August 2017, we think its message is particularly meaningful today. … You can watch her powerful video here: https://youtu.be/q7ElX4GFQpI and visit her website here: https://www.ahsantetheartist.com/ … We also encourage you to visit the Black DVM Network at https://www.blackdvmnetwork.com/ and follow them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/blackdvmnetwork/ They’re doing amazing - and essential - work to help bring more diversity into the veterinary profession.

Could an experimental Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) drug be the secret to treating human COVID-19? … This week we’re thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the California-based Anivive Lifesciences team to discuss their recent FDA submittal to use their experimental FIP drug on human coronavirus patients. … Anivive’s Founder & CEO, Mr. Dylan Balsz joins us along with Dr. David Bruyette, Chief Medical Officer, and Dr. Chad Dodd, Chief Commercial Officer to share their exciting story. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT learn about how a companion animal drug company’s deep research and experience with coronaviruses is helping develop an advanced treatment for humans suffering from COVID-19. … This conversation emphasizes the importance of the One Health concept, how veterinarians are uniquely poised to tackle pandemics, and the exciting prospects for using software to accelerate biotechnologies and usher in medical breakthroughs for both humans and animals. ... And Dr. Dave Bruyette. Anytime you have the chance to learn from Dr. Bruyette, don't pass it up! … For more information, visit  https://www.anivive.com/

As people begin to return to work and resume the “new normal” of daily life, many veterinary professionals worry if we are communicating adequately with millions of new “pandemic pet parents.” … This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the topics of how to ensure pet parents don’t miss essential veterinary care and services, socialization and training tips, and how to stay connected with your team during these stressful times. … The pair share stories from veterinary clinics around the country (good and not so good), offer advice on conducting online puppy socialization classes, tips for hosting Pandemic Pet Parent live webinars and “pawty’s,” and why you should offer dog training programs during this time. … The hosts also discuss the importance of paying close attention to the emotions of your team during the recovery period. Dr. Ward shares a recent story of the disconnect between a veterinary practice owner’s cheerful assessment of team morale and the harsh reality presented by the Practice Manager. Beckie provides guidance on creating a workplace where staff members can feel safe discussing their true feelings and concerns. … This is a wide-ranging an inspirational conversation packed with practical advice for any general veterinary practice. … Stay safe, Viewfinders and share this podcast with a friend who could use it!

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused veterinary professionals to rethink nearly every aspect of veterinary practice. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss some of the client communication lessons we’ve learned, and how we can apply them permanently. … Dr. Ward shares a real-life example from a friend’s recent curbside appointment, and what the client had to say about the experience. Our hosts then analyze the visit and offer insights on how it could be better. … Beckie reviews why it’s incredibly important to remain focused and positive for team morale, and Dr. Ward emphasizes your clinic’s team dynamics on productivity. … Dr. Ward reviews the most important client education messages you need to communicate now, and how to share a virtual veterinary appointment experience. … This episode is full of tips and advice for optimizing curbside service and client communication during tumultuous times of change. … Please share this episode with a veterinary colleague you think would benefit from it! Stay safe, Viewfinders!

With the current COVID-19 pandemic, the human-animal bond has arguably never been more important and essential for human well-being. … This week we’re delighted to be joined by the newly elected President of the Human Animal Bond Institute and longtime animal welfare advocate, veterinarian Dr. Laird Goodman. … Dr. Goodman joins hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT to share this story of animal advocacy, what the goals and aspirations of the Human Animal Bond Association (HABI https://www.humananimalbond.net/ are, and what Beckie has to do with all of this (hint: she’s taken on even MORE responsibilities!). … Also, Viewfinders, please do me, Dr. ERNIE (listen to this episode near the beginning and you’ll get the joke), a huge favor and leave Beckie a billboard-sized graduation congratulatory note on our Veterinary Viewfinder Facebook or Instagram page (this time, listen to the episode near the end and you’ll get it). So proud of you, Beckie!! FIERCE!!! … Viewfinders, this is another super-upbeat and impactful conversation. Dr. Goodman has been promoting the power of the human-animal bond for most of his career and is a delight to interview! Do us a favor, subscribe, share, and leave us an iTunes Podcasts review to help us reach more of our vet and pet colleagues. Thank you!!

Have you ever witnessed something in veterinary practice or animal handling that you felt uncomfortable about? Who do you turn to if you suspect animal abuse, negligence, and malpractice is occurring? What if your employer doesn’t provide adequate PPE or a safe working environment in the COVID-19 era? … This week we’re joined by veterinarian an attorney Lance Roasa (www.roasalaw.com) to discuss these tough topics. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the ethical, moral, and legal issues involved in a real-life declaw case. … The conversation turns to reporting unsafe working conditions, especially post-COVID-19, and how to file a coronavirus-related report. … The trio also offer advice on what to do if you’re confronted by a situation you consider immoral or even unethical, yet fails to fall into the category of illegal. … This is a powerful episode packed with practical advice. Please share with your veterinary colleagues as well as veterinary students and veterinary technician students. This is a raw, real-life conversation that will touch anyone involved in caring for animals. … Thank you Viewfinders for listening! If you haven’t yet, please leave us a 5-star review on iTunes! … Stay safe out there! This is episode 179... out!

This week we’re honored to bring the Viewfinders an exclusive interview with the new CEO of the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) Gene O’Neill. … Gene shares his story of going from CPA to CEO of the NAVC with hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT. … This episode reveals how Gene transitioned from serving as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the NAVC for the past 7 years into his new role as CEO. He shares the challenges of taking over during a global pandemic, how NAVC has helped the veterinary community both during the current coronavirus pandemic and Australian bushfires tragedy (for more on this, be sure to listen to our outstanding discussion on this with Australian veterinarian Dr. Anne Fawcett - episode 163). … Gene discusses how the NAVC is preparing to host VMX in January 2021 and what changes to veterinary continuing education (CE) he sees moving forward. … Ernie encourages Gene to continue expanding the NAVC’s role as a professional and industry advocate at both the state and federal regulatory levels. The trio discuss the importance of having an organized veterinary medicine group that reflects and represents the contemporary challenges faced by today’s veterinary professionals. … We’re so grateful that Gene took time out of his incredibly busy schedule to talk directly to the Viewfinders. … For more information on Gene O’Neill, CPA, CIA and the NAVC, visit, www.NAVC.com

Many of our veterinary friends and colleagues are stuck in their hometowns (and homes) and missing continuing education (CE) conferences and veterinary organizational meetings. That's no good. … So Beckie and a group of super-friends decided to bring a global conference to you! … This week, host veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by a Veterinary Viewfinder regular guest, Julie Legred, CVT to talk about their latest project, a virtual veterinary team conference they call Vet Team Global Stream! … Julie and Beckie discuss why they created the Vet Team Global Stream conference, why it was important for them to include all members of the veterinary healthcare team (no credentials required!), and who some of the guest speakers and entertainment will be! … This is fun conversation that touches on veterinary life during (and after) the pandemic, and stresses the importance of personal education and self-improvement. There’s a LOT to unpack in this episode! … To learn more about the conference, visit www.VTGSConference.com … Early bird discounts end May 1, 2020, so sign up soon!

Veterinary telemedicine is booming, like it or not, and Dr. Ward says you can blame it on the coronavirus pandemic. … This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT take a closer examination into what veterinary telemedicine looks like during the COVID-19 crisis. … The pair share best practices, observations, and state their case why they believe it’s time for veterinary telemedicine to be more widely adopted by US veterinary professionals and veterinary medical boards. … This is an important conversation based on one of Dr. Ward’s earlier columns, “The Coronavirus Catalyst for Telemedicine,” found at www.DrErnieWard.com and his participation on the AVMA Telemedicine Committee. … Thanks for listening and sharing our podcast, Viewfinders! Stay safe!

We didn’t want to talk about Covid-19 or coronavirus, but we had to! Here’s a lighter take on the realities of living and working as a veterinary professional human being during this pandemic. We hope you enjoy it! … This week we check in with hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT on how they’re coping with coronavirus shut-downs and what veterinary colleagues across the nation are telling them about their “new normal.” … Beckie shares the launch of her upcoming virtual veterinary team conference, Vet Team Global Stream 2020, to be held May 16-17, 2020. (@VirtualVetConference) … Dr. Ward talks about adjusting to his two daughters living at home again, the social media shade he’s seeing online as a result of stress, and why he believes this “is NOT the New Normal” and how he thinks life will be changed for the better after this pandemic is over. … Beckie shares her concerns for veterinary support staff working in clinics where they feel unsupported, underprepared, and under-equipped to safely work during Covid-19. … Viewfinders, how are you balancing life an Dwyer are you finding positive vibes when the world is overwhelmed with coronavirus? … Dr. Ward says, “Stay safe and give your pets a hug from me!”

Pet food has become a controversial - and even contentious - topic for many pet parents and veterinary professionals. This week we’re joined by a pet nutritionist who transitioned to plant-based diets for dogs - Diana Laverdure-Dunetz, MS, aka “The Pet Food Diva.” (www.PetFoodDiva.com) … Diana shares her story of why she chose to pursue a career in pet nutrition, why she shifted to plant-based diets for dogs, insight into what pet parents are talking about on the internet, and her journey as a female entrepreneur. … Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss with Diana the importance of veterinary professionals being open-minded about nutrition, how to talk to clients about nutrition, and why pet parents desperately want our help with pet food decisions. … Viewfinders, we think you’ll find this conversation enlightening and educational. It's not often that veterinary professionals are able to learn about alternative pet diets and what is ion the minds of millions of pet parents. We think you’ll also appreciate this topic during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Hopefully this will give you something COMPLETELY DIFFERENT to think about! … As always, Viewfinders, we thank you for your loyal listening for over 3.5 years! As Dr. Ward says, “Stay safe and give your pets a hug from me!”

How does it feel to be working in a veterinary clinic during the COVID-19 pandemic? That’s the question hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT address during this podcast. Dr. Ward shares messages and comments from veterinary professionals dealing with everything from “staycation pet parents” looking for something to do, “quarantined from work” folks looking for a nail trim for their pet, to the seemingly overwhelming demands of bosses and managers seeking to maximize revenue during these times. The duo also express hope that the human-animal bond will be amplified after this crisis resolves, and share why they think humans need companion animals more than ever. This is a frank, honest, and perhaps painful look at the current state of veterinary practice in the US during the coronavirus pandemic. Viewfinders, what are you feeling during this time? Are you stressed? Overworked? Worried about your health or your co-workers’? What steps are you taking to continue serving your pet patients? Are you experiencing any PPE or supply shortages? Please share with us what's happening in your clinic on social media @VetViewfinder and /VeterinaryViewfinder. Dr. Ward adds, “Stay safe and give your pets a hug from me!” Until next week, Viewfinders, stay positive! We got this!

If you’ve been in veterinary practice for any length of time, you know how difficult it is to diagnose, manage, and monitor diabetic cats and dog patients. This week we share the mic with Baycom Diagnostics CEO Gus Ray to discuss A1C testing in pets, why A1C is undoubtedly the best biomarker for diabetes, and why every veterinary clinic should incorporate A1C testing in their practice. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT take a deep dive into the world of veterinary A1C, the role pre-diabetes may play play in the future of veterinary disease detection (especially with pets with obesity! You knew Dr. Ward would go there!) and what inflammatory biomarkers you’ll be seeing soon. We hope our Viewfinder Family enjoys this “coronavirus-free” Be safe, Viewfinders!

Professional respect - or disrespect - can define a workplace. This week we're joined by Heather Prendergast, RVT, CVPM, SPHR to discuss real-world examples of disrespect toward veterinary technicians and support staff. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share their own experiences and the trio offer several simple steps any veterinary team can take to encourage a more harmonious team culture. The sad truth is that many veterinary professionals have faced disrespect from bosses, managers, or coworkers, leading to frustration and burnout. This special episode tackles this tough topic and is something we think any veterinary team member can learn from or be inspired to take charge and make positive changes in their life. Whether you're an owner, practice manager, technician, or receptionist, this is a discussion we think you'll enjoy. Thank you, Viewfinders, for listening and sharing with your colleagues!

It’s hard to hire a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT, CVT, LVT) these days! This week we’re joined by the 2020 National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) President, Kenichiro (Ken) Yagi, MS, RVT, VTS (ECC, SAIM). Ken gives us the latest update on the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI) and engages in an important discussion with hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT on the need for veterinary technician title protection (and what this means), how to get the most out of your RVT staff, what procedures RVTs can - and should - be doing, and a free online tool to help any veterinary clinic determine how well they’re utilizing support staff. This is a timely conversation on a wide variety of topics affecting the veterinary profession in 2020 and beyond. Please share with your colleagues! Viewfinders, don’t forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts this week. Thank you!

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common -- and challenging -- medical conditions veterinary professional confront in general practice. This week we’re joined by Board-certified veterinary surgeon and rehabilitation specialist Dr. Kristin Kirkby Shaw. Dr. Shaw joins hosts veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor, RVT to discuss her new CARE (Canine Arthritis Resources and Education) program, her thoughts on the importance of early arthritis recognition in dogs and cats, how the entire veterinary practice team can help improve OA patient care, and her amazing story (she grew up in Panama with pet monkeys! Who knew?). Viewfinder, do us a humongous favor and go give us a review on Apple Podcasts if you haven’t already. The super secret Apple algorithm uses your input to help us reach more of our veterinary colleagues. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for loyally listening the last 3 years!

The veterinary and pet worlds were rocked once again by recent allegations that counterfeit heartworm preventives and fake cancer cures were being sold online as well as a high-profile animal abuse case involving a doggie daycare facility in North Carolina. This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT reveal the latest counterfeit heartworm scare, this time involving purchases made at Amazon.com. A Minnesota (!!!) dog was diagnosed with heartworm disease after it was discovered the preventive she purchased was fake. Our hosts also discuss the online company recently found guilty of selling phony cancer cures disguised as legitimate medications. Finally, what about sketchy pet care service providers? A breaking news story from North Carolina reveals the importance of veterinary professionals working with lay pet care providers to ensure the safety and wellbeing of pets. Viewfinders, how are you handling these issues? What are you telling your clients about online medication purchases? How do you recommend pet care services you don’t provide to the pet parents in your community? What should our profession be doing? Thanks for listening, please share and subscribe, and leave us a review on iTunes! See you next week!

Working in a veterinary clinic can be stressful! Burnout, compassion fatigue, imposter syndrome, depression, and more are a few of the consequences of an unhealthy work environment and lack of emotional support for veterinary professionals. This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor RVT are joined by a licensed clinical professional counselor who also happens to be a Certified Veterinary Technician! Becky Murray, CVT, MA, LCPC discusses her role as grief counselor for clients, how she helps her staff of over 300 (!!!) successfully (and healthily) deal with daily stress, and tips for handling online criticisms and negativity. The trio also cover the practical value of glitter jars (that's not a typo, and Dr. Ward is apparently a glitter-fan), why you shouldn't throw pizza or doughnuts at problems (again, not a typo), and how to avoid judging and shaming clients for their treatment choices. If you like this type of content, please subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes! Thank you Viewfinders for over 3 years of listening to our weekly podcasts!

Pet parents can order a variety of DNA tests for their pets off the internet or even in select retailers these days. This week we’ve got a special guest to help veterinary professionals decipher fact from fiction, advice from speculation, and C from G (DNA joke - stick around until the end for another of Dr. Ward’s attempts at genetic humor…) when it comes to pet DNA and genetic tests. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by their friend and colleague, Dr. Chris Menges from Basepaws. Chris shares his story of how he went from private veterinary practice to DNA-biotech startup, why he specialized in epidemiology and genomics, and how he thinks the future of veterinary genetic testing will advance over the next ten years. This is an important conversation that every veterinary professionals needs to have with their teams. More pet parents are having (or considering) these tests for their pets and we need to know how to answer their questions an address their concerns. Viewfinders, this is a good one! If you’d like to learn more about what Dr. Menges is doing, visit www.basepaws.com. What do you think about pet DNA testing? Do you recommend it? Why or why not? We want to hear from you!

On January 22, 2020, the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) released its latest “Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) ‘Traveling by Air with Service Animals.’” This proposal could significantly change the definitions - and mandatory allowances - of service animals and how they are allowed to travel by air in the US. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT dissect the new proposals, how to navigate the often-confusing definitions and terminology used, potential impacts (and unintended consequences) of this update. If you haven’t read the NPRM, you can check it out below. Our hosts also advise concerned veterinary professionals to comment during the 60-day comment period (link in show notes). This is a potentially big change that could directly impact veterinary professionals. Viewfinders, after listening to these proposals and our “hot takes,” what do you think? How do feel about the proposed USDOT veterinary forms? “Good health, good behavior, ability to relieve themselves” (or not)? What about the new size limitations? What about species restrictions? Will it help - or harm - air travel with service animals? We want to hear from you! Link to Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) “Traveling by Air with Service Animals”: https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/resources/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/359646/traveling-air-service-animals-nprm.pdf Direct Link to USDOT Comment Form: https://www.regulations.gov/comment?D=DOT-OST-2018-0068-4724

It’s that time of year when many of us have a bit of a “spending hangover” from the holidays! Credit card bills are piling up, and bank accounts are looking thin. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss whether the cost of veterinary care is a barrier for pet parents seeking our help. Dr. Ward shares some breaking January 2020 pet parent survey results along with the latest reporting from Chewy, Guggenheim, and PetIQ on the current state of the veterinary market. The talk turns to the trend in “retail veterinary services” or the growing number of veterinary “wellness clinics” appearing in Walmart, Tractor Supply, and elsewhere. Dr. Ward and Beckie tackle the “talent attraction” dilemma and how generational shifts are causing significant change in both veterinary practice organization, professional culture, and the type of pet care services offered. This is a wide-ranging conversation that touches on many urgent and important challenges the veterinary profession is facing. Viewfinders, what do you think about these trends? Is the price of our services and products actually part of the problem? Are only 33-40% of pet parents visiting their veterinarian each year, as some of the shared data suggests? Would a large number of pet parents really prefer a "retail vet?" We want to hear from you!

Most of you of heard - and seen - the massive bush fires engulfing Australia over the past four months. The environmental devastation on this scale is historically unprecedented. This week's guest is a veterinary professor, animal ethicist (and part-time philosopher) from the University of Sydney, Dr. Anne Fawcett. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the latest on the Australian fires, the environmental impact she's witnessing, the damage to both animal life and ecosystems, and the role veterinarians should play in this tragedy. Dr. Fawcett shares her thoughts on why she believes veterinarians should take a more active role in discussing climate change and animal welfare, and offers advice for veterinary professionals who want to help. Viewfinders, this is an incredible story that impacts every living organism on our fragile planet. Please listen and share this podcast with other animal advocates. From Dr. Fawcett and us to the Viewfinders: If you'd like to donate: For donations for wildlife bushfire victims in Australia: https://www.wires.org.au/donate/emergency-fund [NB this is just in NSW] RSPCA:  Victoria: https://rspcavic.org/giving/donate Queensland: https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/donate/koalas South Australia: https://rspcasa.secure.force.com/donate?utm_source=web_traffic&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=main_donation_page_top_righthand_corner_button New South Wales: https://www.rspcansw.org.au/bushfire-appeal/ Vets Beyond Borders are coordinating a veterinary response: https://www.vetsbeyondborders.org/ The Australian Veterinary Association Benevolent Fund is helping affected veterinarians and their families in the wake of the fires: https://www.ava.com.au/library-resources/other-resources/bush-fire-resources/ Engage: Climate Vets: https://www.climatevets.net/ Vet Sustain: https://www.vetsustain.org/ The Climate Council: https://www.climatecouncil.org.au/  The Guardian Newspaper climate change articles: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/climate-change Climate Emergency Declaration: https://climateemergencydeclaration.org/ The World Scientists Warning to Humanity: A Second Notice, can be read here. A number of veterinarians have signed this: https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/article/67/12/1026/4605229

Skin allergies season in dogs (and cats) never seems to end these days. This week we're thrilled to be joined again with Dr. Dana Liska, Dermatology Specialist at Zoetis to talk about the benefits of a dermatology work up and how veterinary teams should (and can) work together to ensure derm and itching appointments are as efficient - and effective - as possible.Hosts Beckie Mossor, RVT and Dr. Ernie Ward review who and how to take a thorough dermatological history, the basics of diagnosing seasonal skin allergies, and the latest the treatment options. We're so grateful for the support of Zoetis in bringing this special episode to the Viewfinders. We're also appreciative of the efforts of Dr. Liska and Zoetis at providing highly efficacious and safe treatments for these challenging clinical conditions. We LOVE and recommend the pet owner's CYTOPOINT Itch Tracker you can download at www.CYTOPOINT4Dogs.com - Beckie and Dr. Ward's favorite client education tool of 2019! You can also access more information on the veterinary team approach to dermatology care at www.ScienceofStrongerBonds.com

We'll be honest, we secretly dream of working with lions, tigers, bears, and all sorts of wildlife! If you share this dream of working as a veterinary professional in a zoo or exotic locale, you're going to love this week's podcast! This weeks hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by the Oklahoma City Zoo's Mark Romanoski, CVT. Mark shares how he got started in zoo medicine, offers advice for aspiring exotic animal professionals, and indulges us with some pretty amazing tales of treating wildlife. The trio discuss conservation and breeding programs, the dangers of improper "animal sanctuaries" and unlicensed individuals keeping exotic animals in their homes, and why feces is an important tool for research (you can blame Dr. Ward for that little tangent...). Mark reveals his "daily grind" and his favorite species to work with (all of them, of course!).

here’s an old saying in medicine that, “Death and Illness Follow the Seasons.” Give this podcast a listen if you agree! In this week’s conversation, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss how veterinary professionals can cope with seasonal surges in pet euthanasia and loss. The pair share stories from their practice lives, offer advice on shifting from “Silly Sweater Mode” to “Terminal Illness Expert,” and how to help colleagues struggling with the strains and stress of euthanasia during the holidays. We believe the veterinary profession needs more authentic conversations like this on tough topics we all confront. Viewfinders, please forgive Dr. Ernie’s audio today; he was in a busy airport terminal making his way home! And while you’re in the holiday spirit, PLEASE leave us an iTunes review! That’s all we’re asking for! Thank you, Viewfinder Family!!

Once again, we tackle the tough topic of what, if any, holiday gifts we should give our veterinary coworkers. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore whether structured gift-giving within a business team is appropriate, establishing (and adhering to) gifting boundaries, and examples of some of their favorite veterinary team gifts. The pair also share what they’re giving their personal pets and some of their all-time favorite dog and cat toys and accessories. Beckie announces a special project celebrating her upcoming tenth wedding anniversary (congratulations!) and Dr. Ward reveals the special gift he and his wife are giving each other (hint: it involves surfing). Viewfinders, what do you think about holiday gifts for your practice team? What are your favorite pet gifts? What are you giving yourself this year? All we ask from you is a review on iTunes! As silly (and simple) as that is, that’s how we know you like this podcast and it helps other colleagues find us. Thank you and happy holidays!

Happy holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy Whatever you celebrate this time of year! This week our hosts, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, tackle the topics of what we should say to clients and coworkers this holiday season, how should we celebrate, and what about spouses and significant others at work parties? Learn about Dr. Ward’s dreaded (and celebrated) annual team caroling, why having assigned tasks and an agenda for a party helps “keep it moving,” and what you should do about alcohol during office parties. The pair also debate whether or not holiday parties make sense for veterinary clinics these days. This week’s podcast is a raw and candid discussion about these potentially controversial seasonal topics that our profession needs to discuss more openly. Our words - and the spirit with which we deliver them - affect everyone around us, and our hosts offer some insight into what works, and doesn’t, in veterinary clinics. Viewfinders, help us end the year on a high note by leaving us an iTunes review and sharing this podcast with a friend! Mele Kalikimaka!

Recently Microsoft revealed that it found workers who worked a four-day work week were more productive and happier. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, RVT contemplate whether we’re working ourselves to poor patient outcomes and burnout. Dr. Ward explains why he’s concerned we’re creating a “Generation Burnout” of veterinary professionals and how to improve inefficiencies in the veterinary clinic. Beckie shares her stories from clinics who reduced the days worked and why she’s convinced it can work in any clinic. Viewfinders, what do you think about this? Do you think “Generation Burnout” accurately describes our current professional challenges? What steps are you taking to increase productivity and improve staff wellness in your clinic? What do you think about working four 8 to 10-hour days? Don’t forget to leave us a review in iTunes! Thank you, VIEWFINDERS!

Pet food recalls, climate change, animal welfare, and longevity are all directly related to the foods we feed our pets. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by one of Dr. Ward’s co-authors, Alice Oven, MA, to discuss their important new book, “The Clean Pet Food Revolution: How Better Pet Food Will Change the World” (2019 Lantern Books). The trio discuss why pet food is such a hot - and often controversial - topic for veterinary professionals and pet parents, what the plant-based diet shift means for dogs (and cats), the coming cellular agriculture meat revolution, and why they felt this book needed to be written now. Regardless of you own personal food philosophies, this conversation - and book - will help you better understand the rapidly changing pet food environment an dhow to answer your client’s toughest questions. The “Pet Food Revolution” is well underway, and this book (and, hopefully, this podcast) will help you stay informed. And Dr. Ward explains why “he can’t write a paragraph without a scientific citation” and why the authors CITED 27 PAGES OF REFERENCES. (That’s as many as Dr. Ward’s classic pet obesity book, “Chow Hounds” -2010 HCI Publishing. Yeah, he's like that...) We can't wait to bring you the final co-author, super biotech CEO, Ryan Bethencourt! Thank you, Viewfinders FOR THREE YEARS!! That’s right, this week marks 3 YEARS OF WEEKLY PODCASTS FOR VETERINARY PROFESSIONALS! We love you! You’re the best!

If you live in North America or the UK, chances are you’ve encountered political debates on the treatment floor of your veterinary clinic over the past couple of years. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share their experiences, Dr. Ward recounts his political campaign and how it impacted his veterinary staff and clients, and the two offer advice on how to successfully handle these potentially heated conversations in the clinic. This podcast isn’t about our political beliefs, but about how you can create best practices and boundaries to avoid hurt feelings, misunderstandings, and workplace tension. With the 2020 US political campaigns heating up, this is an excellent time to begin creating your plan for dealing with political debate within your veterinary practice. Viewfinders, what do you think? How do you handle politics in your practice? Have you witnessed or experienced arguments or altercations over politics, BREXIT, or other hot political topics in your workplace? Share your thoughts on our social media!

There’s drama and then there’s DRAMA!! This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss when, how, and why you should share your feelings with your veterinary work family. Dr. Ward reveals why he believes the legacy of Baby Boomers “Suck it up buttercup” attitude may have led to today’s burnout and mental stress. Beckie shares a recent personal tragedy and how she dealt with it. Both emphasize the importance of a supportive clinic culture and leader that staff members feel comfortable sharing their feelings (and how Dr. Ward and Laura Ward did this!). And the duo discuss how REAL Drama Kings and Queens make it more challenging for real nurturing to occur (and what to do if you find yourself in a similar situation). This is another good “real real” talk about the tough topics faced in everyday veterinary practice. Viewfinders, please share this episode with a colleague who needs to hear it. Together we can help create more supportive, nurturing work environments.

Do you struggle with money? Are you worried about your financial future? Is retirement a fictional concept? This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor are joined by Denise Tumblin, a certified public accountant with years of experience helping veterinary professionals pay themselves and secure their financial future. This is a practical conversation about why you should be paying attention to your savings, debt, and why Dr. Ward says, “Pay your future self!” Viewfinders, this November completes our THIRD YEAR OF PODCASTING! Thank you for your loyal listening and support! If you haven’t tell a friend about the podcast. And don’t forget to leave us a review on iTunes!

No matter where you are or what you're doing, someone is watching you. By definition, that makes you a LEADER. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT offer advice to help you overcome the challenges of daily veterinary practice and life. From awareness of your influence on others around you, to techniques to clearly communicate with colleagues and family (and Dr. Ward's two most powerful phrases you need to say more often), to strategies to stay inspired and positive, the duo gets real with tips on how you can find happiness, success, and positivity in your daily grind. Viewfinders, we think this is a good one! Share with us on social media what you think! And don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! THANK YOU!

By now you’ve probably heard about the controversy between certain dog foods and potential DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy). But is DCM really caused by dog food? Many specialists and veterinarians are beginning to raise serious questions about the alleged link between diet and heart disease. This week we’re joined by animal nutritionist Dr. Ryan Yamka for a deeper dive behind the headlines into what’s really going on - or not! Dr. Yamka shares his expertise and experience with this issue, what veterinary professionals need to know in order to answer our clients’ questions, and what we do to do moving forward to resolve the controversy. Dr. Yamka also shares some of his concerns about how the data has presented to the veterinary profession and dog-owning public, and what he thinks may be behind the dilemma. This is an incredibly educational episode that EVERY veterinary professional (and pet parent) needs to hear! Viewfinders, what do you think about the DCM-BEG controversy? We want to hear from you! And thank you for your continued support! If you haven’t already, please go to iTunes and leave us a review. It helps us get guests such as this to share all sides of these often complicated controversies! We want to help keep you informed and expose you to as many sides of these issues as possible - and those 5-star reviews help! THANK YOU VIEWFINDERS!

We've discussed the importance and value of mentoring here on the podcast multiple times over the past three years. This week we're joined by Dr. Aaron Smiley, the founder of an online veterinary mentoring app called DVM Mentor (DVMMentor.com). Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT ask the tough questions about whether or not online mentoring can help, the challenges of "virtual coaching," why everyone is in agreement that we need a better mentoring system, and Dr. Ward shares his experiences with earlier attempts at "virtual mentorship." This is an exciting conversation that digs in on many of our profession's underlying issues and why we believe this needs to be more openly addressed. This is a good one, Viewfinders! If you like conversations like this, please do us a HUGE favor and leave us a review on iTunes. Thank you Viewfinders for being the BEST PODCAST FAMILY IN THE UNIVERSE!

Problems, problems, problems! These days there’s no shortage of challenges and issues within the veterinary profession. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by Catherine Haskins (Chicago-based Haskins Consulting) to discuss how to switch from problem-focused to solution-oriented in your veterinary clinic. This is a candid conversation that focuses on why a healthy mindset is essential to maintain team morale, retain enthusiasm, and avoid burnout. Viewfinders, how do YOU stay positive and searching for solutions instead of commiserating in negativity? Share your tips! And don’t forget to leave us a review on iTunes!

Self-care is essential in resisting burnout, remaining positive, and restoring passion. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT share their favorite personal self-care habits and hacks, how they deal with “self-care guilt,” and Dr. Ward reveals his favorite technology to help him optimize restorative sleep (and why he no longer calls it “recovery!”). The duo also dives into intermittent fasting (Dr. Ward “Yes,” Beckie “Maybe”), when is the best time to workout, and simple gratitude practices each use to, as Dr. Ward puts it, “Tilt toward optimism!” This is a fun conversation about a topic many recommend and advise, but few get real about. Viewfinders, let us know your favorite self-care hacks, how you deal with guilt, what are your favorite dietary habits? We want to hear from you, the BEST PODCAST FAMILY IN THE PODCASTER UNIVERSE!

The anti-vax movement has been slowly infecting the pet-owning public the past few years. Recent surveys indicate many dog and cat owners are skipping or avoiding core vaccinations for their pets., including puppy and kitten vaccines. Many pet owners claim these vaccines are unnecessary or may somehow cause harm, including outrageous claims including “canine autism.” This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT take a candid look at this controversial topic. Viewfinders, what do you think? What are you seeing in your clinic? How are you handling these challenging cases? Share your thoughts on our Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter feed. Thank you for listening!

Do you have an “Employee of the Month” award? Do you give out “gold stars” or have a “Reward Wall” in your clinic? What about holiday pay bonuses? If you do, do these tactics actually encourage positive workplace behaviors and actions? This week co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore what veterinary staff incentives get results and create a more positive clinic environment. Find out what Dr. Ward calls the “Perfectionist Trap,” what happens when an incentive program fails, and why sometimes a paid-day-off beats more money. This is a conversation rich in management nuggets, real-world examples, and lots of practical advice for any veterinary team. Thank you Viewfinders for your loyal listening! Please share this episode with a colleague who needs a lift and leave us a review on iTunes!

This week we’re honored to be joined by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President-elect, Dr. Douglas Kratt. Dr. Kratt joined Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT for a candid, provocative, and inspiring discussion about the veterinary profession and his plans for his Presidency. Dr. Kratt shares how and why he became a veterinarian, what it’s like to practice with his veterinarian wife, student debt, telemedicine, VCPR, generational shifts, the rise in power and scale of corporate veterinary practices, and so much more! Thank you, Dr. Kratt, for spending time with our Viewfinders!

Veterinary telemedicine has been a professional hot button topic for the past five or six years. This week we’re thrilled to share the podcast with John Dillon, CEO of veterinary teletriage service, GuardianVets. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT explore the current regulatory and legal boundaries of veterinary telemedicine, why Dr. Ward calls teletriage “a pager service on steroids,” and what the next three to five years hold for the VCPR. This is an informative conversation with one of the innovators in veterinary virtual and online services. To find out more about GuardianVets, visit them online at https://www.guardianvets.com Thank you loyal Viewfinders for another great episode! If you like this, please leave us a review on iTunes! Thank you!!

Itching dogs update with Veterinary Dermatologist Dr. Dana Liska! Once again we're thrilled to share the podcast with veterinary dermatologist Dr. Liska from Zoetis. This time we review why so many dogs develop allergic dermatitis, the latest news and strategies in diagnosis and treatment, and how allergies may negatively impact a pet's (and pet parent's) quality of life. This is an excellent episode for all team members to review as we enter another "allergy season!" This podcast is sponsored by Zoetis, the makers of treatments including APOQUEL and CYTOPOINT. Important Safety Information Do not use APOQUEL® (oclacitinib tablet) in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. APOQUEL may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or preexisting cancers to get worse. APOQUEL has not been tested in dogs receiving some medications including some commonly used to treat skin conditions such as corticosteroids and cyclosporine. Do not use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Most common side effects are vomiting and diarrhea. APOQUEL has been used safely with many common medications including parasiticides, antibiotics and vaccines. For more information, please see the full Prescribing Information at apoquel.com. CYTOPOINT has been shown to be effective for the treatment of dogs against allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis. Zoetis is dedicated to changing the way we approach canine pruritus to protect the bonds that matter most. Visit ScienceofStrongerBonds.com for more.

There is a growing global trend of body modification in pets. Exotic hair styles, dye jobs, piercings, studs, and tattoos are beginning to cross over from humans to their pets. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the welfare and ethical issues of these “visual entertainment” trends and the roles and responsibilities of the veterinary profession to ensure animal safety and wellbeing. If you’re unfamiliar with these procedures, you definitely want to listen. Share your thoughts about this on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter! Viewfinders, you’re the best! We thank you for your loyal listening. Please take the time to share this podcast with a friend or colleagues you think would enjoy it. If you haven’t, please leave us a review on iTunes. You’re the greatest listeners and colleagues in the world!

Performance evaluations are incredibly powerful tools for veterinary staff training, team morale, and job satisfaction. This type of feedback is also essential for providing the highest standards of patient care and client service. The fact is that performance evaluations (“job reviews”) are an integral component of the DNA of successful veterinary clinics. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the mechanics of employee evaluations, what an ideal review schedule looks like (or doesn’t), and how any veterinary clinic can get started. We think you’re going to love this nuts-and-bolts guide to employee performance reviews. We’d really appreciate if you subscribe to this podcast and give us a review on iTunes. Thank you again, Viewfinders, for your loyal listening!

The Internet has the potential to educate pet owners about better healthcare, but it also can scare the heck out of them! This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor RVT discuss some of the real and not-so-real internet news clients are worried about, simple strategies to help the veterinary team communicate the truth in a polite and effective manner, and why veterinarians need to pay attention to the myths, truths, and questions being raised and spread on social media. This is a timely tough topic that every veterinary team needs to hear and discuss. Viewfinders, don’t forget to head over to iTunes to subscribe and leave us a review! Every 5-star you give us helps Apple and other podcast players realize that the Viewfinder Family is strong and interested in these topics! Thank you for your loyal listening!

New York just became the first state in the U.S. to totally ban feline declawing. This week we’re delighted to be joined again by feline expert Dr. Margie Scherk to discuss what the new law means for veterinary professionals, how these measures have been received in her home country Canada, and why she believes veterinarians need to take a more active role in the declaw debate. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT take a deep dive with Dr. Scherk into the complex ethical and moral challenges of elective surgical procedures, the impact declawing has on the entire staff, and how public perception toward declawing has shifted over the past 20 years. This is an important topic for your entire veterinary team. Don’t forget to share your experiences on one of social media channels, and please leave us a review on iTunes! Thank you Viewfinders!

This week we're joined by our dear friend and colleague (and Dr. Ward’s student extern back in the day!), Dr. Andy Roark, to discuss his suicide prevention program, 4 Eyes Save Lives. Dr. Roark joins hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT to discuss why discussing suicide and depression in the veterinary profession is important, how Andy addresses some of the questions and controversies surrounding this program, and Ernie shares why being any healthcare provider is especially stressful. This podcast discusses suicide, depression, and burnout, so if you'd prefer to skip this episode, we totally understand. If you or someone you know would like to talk to someone about burnout, depression, or suicide, call 1-800-273- 8255 (TALK) or text HOME to 741741. To find out more about this program, visit DrAndyRoark.com

On July 1, 2019, California made history when it allocated $5 million dollars for veterinary care for homeless people. This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss what this budget means for veterinarians and veterinary technicians, why this is SO IMPORTANT, and ways to extend and amplify our message. This is an important conversation that touches on many aspects of our profession’s future, including student debt and societal awareness. If you like veterinary and pet discussions such as this, please let the AI computer overlords know by leaving us a brief 4 or 5-star review on Apple iTunes! THANK YOU VIEWFINDERS!! YOU RAWK!!!

Episode 137 (2 2/3 YEARS of weekly podcasts!) This week, podcast hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle a topic often overlooked in veterinary practice: How to make our clients with special needs feel welcome. Beckie shares her recent Chicago VMA experiences after giving a presentation on this topic, Dr. Ward shares stories of some good (and not so good) client interactions, and both share a multitude of tips and tactics for veterinary professionals. This is a podcast we recommend sharing with your entire clinic team and then creating your own staff training materials and policies. And, huge congratulations to our old Viewfinder co-host, Dr. Cyndie Courtney, on the recent birth of her son! CONGRATULATIONS, CYNDIE!!!! If you enjoy these podcasts, PLEASE leave us a review on iTunes! Your support fuels us to keep going! Thank you, VIEWFINDERS!

This week we're delighted to share with the Viewfinders a special friend, Tasha McNerney, BS, CVT, VTS (anesthesia and analgesia). Tasha shares her stories of being a college student seeking her passion, pursuing a career as a veterinary technician, being a single mom, and helping other veterinary professionals with anesthesia and pain management. This is a delightful conversation with a truly special colleague. Viewfinders, if you like conversations like this, please leave us a quick review on iTunes! Thanks!

This week we meet Yalanda Medina, founder of Cleveland-Based Squad 51, a pet emergency transport service and pet emergency first responders. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT learn the story behind Squad 51, what types of veterinary emergency medical services they can (and can’t) perform, and their new relationship with pet insurance. This is a fascinating conversation that you and your team will be talking about! SquadFiftyOne.com Viewfinders, do us a huge favor and leave us a review on iTunes! Many thanks for being loyal listeners!

Recent news reports convenience euthanasias have rocked the pet world and caused intense scrutiny of the veterinary profession’s role in this practice. This week Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT discuss the recent Richmond, Virginia euthanasia case, their own experiences with convenience euthanasia requests, and why talking openly about this topic is needed more now than ever. In addition, our hosts connect euthanasia with burnout, Dr. Ward explains why the veterinary profession is increasingly confused by the extreme types of pet owners, and Beckie shares the most heartbreaking moment she’s witnessed in veterinary practice. Plus, there are guns, how much should we charge for euthanasia and coccidia! This is one to share with your veterinary colleagues and friends! Viewfinder Family, do you like the podcast? Please leave us a brief review on iTunes! Thanks for listening!

Are you a big fan of Harry Potter? Did you read (and re-read, and re-read) them until the covers fell off? Did you wait in line with your six-your old daughter to purchase the books when they went on sale at midnight? (It could happen...jus sayin!) If so, you're going to love this podcast! Dr. Michale Miller is using the Harry Potter universe to provide insight into his veterinary life. Co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT learn how and why (and it may involve an ill-fated deep sea fishing trip) Dr. Miller became a veterinarian, how he's adjusting to fatherhood, and how he uses Harry Potter to inject a little "magic" into his veterinary career. VIEWFINDER FAMILY, if you like this podcast, do us a huge favor and give us a 10-second review on iTunes! That's all it takes and it means so much to us!

This week we’re honored to be joined by the 2019 SAVMA Teaching Excellence Award Winner Kristen Messenger, DVM, PhD, DACVAA, DACVCP. Dr. Messenger is currently a pharmacology professor at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. In this high-energy conversation, Kristen shares her own journey to becoming a veterinarian, the biggest challenges her students are facing, and the ways she’s working to improve the next generation of veterinarians. From student debt to social media, this is a conversation for any Viewfinder who wants to become a veterinarian, are currently in veterinary school, or have already graduated. It’s that good! Dr. Messenger also co-hosts a podcast for her students, and you can hear a few samples here: Season 1, Episode 9:  Special guest, former veterinary student, Dr. George Shaaf visits the podcast and talks about student perspectives and anesthetic risk; we talk about special laryngeal mask airway devices (V-gels). https://cvm.online.ncsu.edu/online/FileServer/Presentation/bb3fbd604e4e4ce0a0b28c1135ec95f91d/25e0dfd8-7366-491c-b489-e0a87076b1c8.mp3?FeedId=5acf0874e965468d9989398545ea07fb17

This week we explore the role of surveillance cameras in the veterinary workplace. Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT ponder the ways surveillance cameras can be used for good and how their usage may go terribly wrong if we’re not careful. The Viewfinders cover how cameras can be used for staff training, protecting against false accusations from clients, increasing patient care and client service, adding services, and protection from theft. What are your thoughts on Big Brother watching YOU? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes! Thank you for listening!

How would you like to sail the Caribbean helping island animals? This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by an Australian veterinarian doing it! Dr. Sheridan Lathe is sailing her 37-foot boat, “Chuffed,” island-to-island helping dogs, cats, livestock, and exotic animals along the way. Her popular Youtube channel, Vet Tails’ Sailing Chuffed, chronicles her adventures. We talk with her about her childhood in Australia, practicing at wildlife sanctuaries, her travels in China working with Asiatic bears, and how she followed her dreams aboard a floating veterinary clinic in the Caribbean. Ernie asks her what impact U.S. veterinary student debt plays in pursuing dreams, and Beckie inquires about how to follow your dreams without the sailboat. This is an exciting and interesting glimpse into an alternative veterinary pathway! Dr. Lathe’s links: Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcDSkw35FYqsFgMqoZjt7zQ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vet.tails_sailing.chuffed/ Website: https://www.vettails.com/

This week Walmart announced it was launching an online pet pharmacy, WalmartPetRx.com, and plans to open 100 in-store veterinary clinics over the next 12 months. This week Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT talk with Julie Legred, CVT about what this means for veterinarians and veterinary technicians, pet owners, and pet retailers. The trio offer insights on how independently-owned clinics can learn from Walmart, and why they see this as a win-win for the veterinary profession and U.S. pet owners. Dr. Ward speculates on the timing of this announcement from Walmart and how it may affect the impending Chewy.com IPO. To contact Julie or Beckie about this project and other career opportunities, email them at talent@veterinaryadvancements.com Don’t forget to subscribe and give us a review on iTunes!

This is one of those episodes we wish EVERYONE could hear! Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by their dear friend, Dr. Amy Mohl, as they discuss her story within the framework of following your passions, overcoming challenges, and finding happiness. This is an episode we hope you enjoy, find inspiration in, and share with your friends, regardless of whether or not they’re in the veterinary profession. This one goes in the time capsule for sure! Let us know what you think! If you like this episode or want to let your VetViewfinder Flag fly, give us a 5-star review over on iTunes!! C’mon, Viewfinders, we NEED YOU!!

This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor discuss the breaking news that California RVTs have abolished the previously-required California RVT exam in favor of the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam). The team discusses what this means, why this (or potentially isn’t) a sign of professional progress, and what the implications for veterinarians and the veterinary profession may be. They also discuss license reciprocity, examination standards, and Dr. Ward shares a story he was recently told by a dentist who encountered a specific, and almost disastrous, hiring situation that reveals a shortcoming in the current licensing system. Thanks again for listening and please leave us a review on iTunes and share with your friends! We love talking to you every Wednesday!

Should pugs be banned? What about French bulldogs, English (or British) Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus? This week host veterinarians Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor weigh in on the ongoing UK push to ban certain breeds. What are the reasons, who are the folks leading the conversation, and what are the proposed solutions? This is a lively review of the current state of breed restrictions along with some of the trio’s own potential solutions. This episode also marks Cyndie’s last podcast with the team after nearly 2.5 years! Cyndie’s family is growing and she needs to take more time to be with her (almost) new child. THANK YOU Cyndie for your enthusiasm and insight! We’ll miss you! And please take a few seconds to give us a review on iTunes! It means so much to hear from you and fuels our efforts here at the Viewfinder to continue tackling the toughest topics in veterinary medicine! See you every Wednesday morning!

This week we're excited to sit down with the licensed veterinary technician, Jade Velasquez, who started the popular Facebook group, Veterinary Support Staff Unleashed. In addition to her work as an LVT and Facebook group administrator, Jade has recently transitioned into practice management. Host veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor explore the unique way Jade became a licensed veterinary technician, what her greatest challenges and biggest surprises were as she started managing a busy veterinary clinic, and what her goals are with Veterinary Support Staff Unleashed. This is an energetic conversation with loads of practical tips and tricks! Find out Jade, Beckie, and Dr. Ward's favorite time management tools, which personality test they prefer for staff (and themselves), and what the biggest support staff complaints and issues keep popping up on Jade's Facebook group. Don't forget to subscribe and please give us a review on iTunes!

This week we discuss a little known, but rapidly expanding, veterinary medical school program called “2+2.” Host veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor try to make sense of the pro’s and con’s of a program that allows veterinary medical school; students who live in a state without a veterinary school to complete their first two years of veterinary school on their home college campus. Confused? We help untangle the taxpayer contributions, who gets to pay in-state tuition, student obligations, and what impact these sorts of programs may ultimately have on the veterinary profession. There are no easy answers, and our hosts quickly discover that “2+2” may not add up to everything they expected. Thanks Viewfinders for your continued support! If you haven’t yet, please leave us a quick review in iTunes. Talk to you again every Wednesday! Links: "2+2 programs add up - Veterinary colleges partner with other universities to educate more students across state lines" https://www.avma.org/News/JAVMANews/Pages/190415a.aspx "SDSU, Minnesota working on collaborative program in rural veterinary medical education" https://www.sdstate.edu/news/2018/12/sdsu-minnesota-working-collaborative-program-rural-veterinary-medical-education "VETERINARY MEDICINE PROGRAM University of Alaska Fairbanks" https://www.uaf.edu/vmed/about-us/faqs/#2plus2

This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by one of the veterinary industry’s longtime female leaders and entrepreneurs, Brenda Andresen. Brenda shares her personal story, what she sees as some of the most pressing challenges faced by veterinary professionals today, and her latest project, The Bridge Club. Brenda also weighs in on the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI), telemedicine, and how professional women can support, instead of competing against, each other. The Bridge Club website: https://thebridgeclub.com/ Thanks, Viewfinders for your continued support! If you haven’t, please leave us a quick review in iTunes. Talk to you again every Wednesday!

This week we are thrilled to share the mic with an exceptionally talented and experienced registered veterinary technician who is also an accredited expert in feline behavior. Tabitha Kucera RVT, CCBC, KPA-CTP is a pioneer for veterinary technicians in the area of feline behavior. On this week’s podcast, Tabitha shares her story of becoming an RVT, why she chose to specialize in feline behavior, and what she’s doing today to help make the veterinary world more feline-friendly. This is an entertaining and educational conversation that any veterinary professional will benefit from hearing. Be sure to listen to the entire podcast to find out why Tabitha thinks it’s an excellent idea for feline practitioners to consider enrolling in a Karen Pryor dog training course! Tabitha Kucera’s website: https://www.chirrupsandchatter.com/ Cat-Friendly Practice / American Association of Feline Practitioners: https://catvets.com/cfp/cfp Please take a few seconds to leave us a review on iTunes. Your review helps us grow and makes us feel good inside! Thank you for listening!

Recent news stories have featured human surgeons performing procedures on dogs, human dentists treating animal’s teeth, and other human medical professional treating animals. This week we explore how we, as veterinary professionals, feel about this touchy topic. Where are the professional boundaries? Why aren’t these physicians and dentists being questioned by veterinary medical boards? How would you feel if a veterinarian performed surgery on you? This is an extremely interesting conversation on a topic that rarely gets discussed! Find out what made Dr. Ernie Ward say: “Are we onto something big that’s beginning as a drip-drip that turns into a deluge of change?” We would love to hear what you think about this issue! And, please, leave us an iTunes review if you enjoy conversations like this. Thank you!

One of the most controversial topics in the veterinary profession during the past few years has been the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI). What should veterinary technicians be called? What should their credentials be? And what responsibilities should they have? This week we’re pleased to sit down with one the VNI’s most vocal, and articulate, critics, Liz Hughston, RVT, VTS (SAIM, ECC). Liz has been a guest before, and this time she shares her disagreements with Mark Cushing, JD, the lead attorney for the VNI. Liz is an outstanding guest, and listen to find out why Dr. Ward said “every neural connection on this topic was blown” after listening to Liz’s cogent arguments. This is an AMAZING episode. PLEASE forgive us for Dr. Ward’s audio… he was traveling and wound up stuck in a very echo corner of a random office for this recording! Thank you again, LIZ! If you don’t mind, please leave us a review on iTunes. That’s all we ask of you in exchange for producing this podcast each week. Your review means the world to us and helps us reach more veterinary professionals.

Empowering your veterinary team to do their best and finding their personal superpowers isn’t a myth. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor meet with Tracy Dowdy, CVPM to discuss team empowerment. Strategies to better utilize your team members, what a relationship-centered business looks like, and what independent veterinary practices can learn about empowering staff from corporate practices. Don’t forget to subscribe and please leave us a review on iTunes if you like this podcast!!

Veterinary clinics and veterinary professionals are increasingly falling prey to online hacks and internet scams. From spearfishing to catfishing to drug diversion, veterinarians and veterinary technicians are vulnerable to schemes targeting their social media profiles, personal data, and professional licenses. This week we tackle this frightening topic that affects us all. This is an important conversation you should have with your team (and family) today!

We're back with another dermatological dilemma we confront (nearly) every day: the itching dog! Atopy, insect bite, and food allergies fill our schedules, challenge our teams, and frustrate everyone (especially the poor pet suffering from incessant itching)! This week we're joined by veterinary dermatologist Dr. Candace Sousa. She shares her insights and advice on diagnosing and treating itchy dogs, as well as the latest trends and tips in testing and treatment. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney have a wide-ranging conversation that will help any veterinary practice more confidently help itching patients. This special podcast episode was brought to you by our friends at Zoetis, makers of Apoquel and Cytopoint. Product information for APOQUEL is available at: www.apoqueldogs.com/apoquel_pi.pdf Zoetis is dedicated to changing the way we approach canine pruritus to protect the bonds that matter most. Visit www.ScienceofStrongerBonds.com for more. Do not use APOQUEL in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. APOQUEL may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers to get worse.

Emotional blackmail in veterinary practice by clients and colleagues is a common experience for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor have a raw and candid discussion about how it feels to be taken advantage of, emotionally manipulated, and deliberately hurt by clients and co-workers seeking to harm others. After you listen, share your thoughts on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter @VetViewfinder. And do us a HUGE favor by leaving us a review on iTunes! Thanks for your support over the past nearly 2.5 years!

CBD products for pets are everywhere these days! We know pet owners and veterinary professionals have plenty of questions, and we've got answers! This week veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor are joined with Phyto Animal Health CEO Ian Quinn to review the current legal and regulatory status of CBD, where veterinary professionals can find the latest clinical research, and answers to many of our most pressing questions. If clients are asking you about CBD for their pets, this podcast is for you! In addition, Ian shares his favorite CBD companies (in addition to his own), and why a COA is essential when selecting CBD products. Ian also shares how much pot he thinks might be fatal for Willie Nelson! (jk, but he does) BONUS: Ian shares his favorite pot joke at the end! (It's really corny...but funny!) Visit www.PhytoAnimalHealth.com for more information, AFTER YOU LEAVE US A REVIEW ON iTunes! Thank you!

Itchy pets can be one of the most frustrating signalments seen in veterinary practice. This week we chat with Board-certified veterinary dermatologist, Dr. Andrew Hillier from Zoetis, to discuss the latest developments in the diagnosis, treatment and client communication strategies for allergic dermatitis. This is a high energy conversation that walks you through the practical (and shockingly simple) steps your veterinary team needs to take to ensure better treatment - and compliance - with your dermatology recommendations. This special podcast episode was brought to you by our friends at Zoetis, makers of Apoquel and Cytopoint. Product information for APOQUEL is available at: www.apoqueldogs.com/apoquel_pi.pdf Zoetis is dedicated to changing the way we approach canine pruritus to protect the bonds that matter most. Visit www.ScienceofStrongerBonds.com for more. Do not use APOQUEL in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. APOQUEL may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers to get worse.

This week we review breaking news about the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI) with lead attorney Mark Cushing from Animal Policy Group. Veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary nurse (RVT) Beckie Mossor review the latest developments and objective from the VNI lead lawyer. Whether you support or object to the VNI, this is a conversation all sides can benefit from listening -- from start to finish! After you listen, please leave us an iTunes review!! Thank you!!

Fake news! Corporate conspiracies! It seems like nearly every week there’s a new viral veterinary news story that, well, isn’t as truthful as veterinary professionals might prefer. This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor take on Fake Veterinary News, fake veterinary professionals (maybe even those that claim to be “animal behaviorists,” have a CBS television show and will be featured at VMX in a keynote!?), and how to scientifically and politely dispel these myths. This episode is a must-listen for your team to stay ahead of breaking news, communicate more effectively with your clients, and learn how to spot fake news stories.

Standards of veterinary medical care can be complicated and confusing — and downright tricky to agree upon. This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor explore how a veterinary clinic should choose protocols, what protocols should be enforced, and what treatment options should be more flexible? This lively discussion should spark your team to more closely examine how we decide to do the things we do in veterinary medicine. Please leave us a review on iTunes! That’s all.

Happy 2019! This week we share some of the things we are - and are not - looking forward to in 2019 for veterinary professionals. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor discuss the veterinary nurse initiative (VNI), telemedicine, organized veterinary medicine, corporate practices (and find out why Dr. Ward calls the future of veterinary medicine “the ‘Walmartization’ and ‘Amazonation’ of the profession”) and upcoming medical advancements. Dr. Ernie Ward shares why he believes veterinarians need to fight for animal welfare ("and end factory farming!") and cautions about economic uncertainty in 2019. Find out which host’s family may be expanding, and which may be contracting! End the year by leaving us a review on iTunes! It means the world to us!! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy Holidays! It’s the “most wonderful time of the year” in veterinary practice! Or is it? This special holiday edition of our podcast, host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney, along with registered veterinary Technician Beckie Mossor detail veterinary clinic staff holiday scheduling drama, co-worker gift dilemmas, party alcohol rules, and how to remain cheery when our clients are dreary! If you’re searching for your lost sanity, pop in your earbuds and give this episode a listen! And after you’re done, PLEASE give us a review on iTunes. It’s the only gift we’re asking for this holiday season. Happy Holidays!

Are you socialized? How do you find friends as adults? Are we expanding our social networks beyond the veterinary profession? This week, host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor talk about making friends and finding fulfillment outside of work. The trio share tips on maintaining friendships, online communities to meet new friends and the benefits of socialization. And find out Cyndie’s plans to write a book about, “How to Date other Moms.” Please help us by LEAVING A REVIEW ON ITUNES! Your one-minute review MEANS THE WORLD TO US! (At least our podcast world.) Seriously, we

When is enough too much? When (and how) is it okay to say, “No”? Is it clear or murky? This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor discuss establishing healthy boundaries with veterinary bosses and co-workers, clients, and friends and family. Failure to set boundaries is an issue that leads to veterinary professional burnout, poor patient care, and lower job satisfaction. Share this episode with the entire team! SAY “YES” to this! Please help us by LEAVING A REVIEW ON ITUNES! This is how we grow and reach more of our veterinary colleagues. Your one-minute review MEANS THE WORLD TO US! (At least our podcast world.) Seriously, we need more reviews! We’ve been at this TWO YEARS, so the least you can do is…. Click on five stars? THANK YOU!

Feeling out of control? Ever felt like you weren’t being listened to at work? This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor question what it means to be in control of your professional career and personal life, how to regain control, and why collaborative decision-making can benefit your veterinary team. We need your support to reach more of our veterinary colleagues! Please subscribe, share, and leave us a review -- especially on iTunes! Thank you for listening!

Once again we tackle one of profession’s most challenging topics: MONEY! The tension between providing the best veterinary care and the cost of providing that care causes tremendous conflict and confusion among our colleagues (and us!). Are we talking too much - or too little - about money with pet owners? What impact do recent human healthcare and insurance changes have on the perception and value of veterinary services? If we strive for increased transparency regarding charges, are we overemphasizing cost and diminishing care? This week Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor explore the controversial world of money in the veterinary profession. Please help us by LEAVING A REVIEW ON ITUNES! This is how we grow and reach more of our veterinary colleagues. Your one-minute review MEANS THE WORLD TO US! (At least our podcast world.) Seriously, we need more reviews! We’ve been at this TWO YEARS, so the least you can do is…. Click on five stars? THANK YOU!

Feeling stressed? Overworked? Lost your mojo? Losing the romance? This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor take a candid look at work/life balance in the veterinary profession. From real-life struggles and tribulations to practical tips and advice, this episode is packed will help restore your sanity and release you from "perfect" and into "for reals." PLEASE leave us a short review on iTunes! That's all we ask. It lets us know you like what we're doing and helps us reach other veterinary colleagues. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!

The question of whether or not a veterinarian or veterinary clinic should sell non-medical products has perplexed generations of practitioners. This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor question whether or not vets should sell "stuff," how to choose the best products if you're going to sell "stuff," and the tricky ethical lines veterinary clinics tread when selling "stuff." This is a wide-ranging, candid, and brutally honest conversation about the impact retail sales have on the veterinary profession. PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW ON iTUNES! (That's all we ask of you... THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!)

A recent North Carolina veterinary technician's death by suicide prompted us to explore the issues of depression, substance abuse, and suicide among veterinary support staff. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor share their thoughts and experiences with veterinary staff suicides, what our profession can do to help, and what you can do to aide a colleague. Please share this podcast with anyone you think could benefit. Resources mentioned in this podcast:  1-800-273-TALK (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) Suicide is preventable. Get free help now. Text CONNECT to 741741 https://www.avma.org/ProfessionalDevelopment/PeerAndWellness/Pages/Wellness-Gatekeeper-Training-for-Veterinarians.aspx  https://www.facebook.com/groups/2249260498635880/  https://www.facebook.com/groups/S4SPrivateGroup/  https://www.navta.net/default.aspx https://www.navta.net/news/422562/NAVTA-announces-the-formation-of-the-Veterinary-Team-Wellbeing-Task-Force-July-2018.htm Avma.org/workplacewellness

100! THANK YOU! It's hard to believe we've recorded 100 episodes of our podcast! We owe it all to you, our loyal listeners and colleagues. This week we celebrate by recapping behind-the-microphone stories and share some of our favorite moments of the past two years. Welcome to our podcast party! Want to give us present we'd really love? A review on iTunes! Thank you again for your loyal support!

This week we expose you to a radioactive topic: What happened to the dogs and cats left behind in Chernobyl? Our guest, Dr. Jennifer Betz, knows firsthand the current conditions of the canines and felines living in the Chernobyl disaster area. We were positively radiating during this episode, and the fallout of our conversation will leave you glowing! (I’ll stop now.) YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS THIS EPISODE! Please help us by LEAVING A REVIEW ON ITUNES! This is how we grow and reach more of our veterinary colleagues. Your one-minute review MEANS THE WORLD TO US! (At least our podcast world.) Seriously, we need more reviews! We’ve been at this TWO YEARS, so the least you can do is…. Click on five stars? THANK YOU! Dr. Jennifer Betz’s information: http://cleanfutures.org/ https://cleanfutures.org/projects/dogs-of-chernobyl/ https://www.gofundme.com/dogs-of-chernobyl http://www.veterinaryventures.com/

This week, we have a special THANK YOU to the AMAZING VETERINARY TECHNICIANS that make the world better! During October 14 - 20, 2018 celebrate National Veterinary Technician Week with us!

Pro-sal, production-based, merit-based - these are a few of the terms used to describe the increasingly common method used to pay veterinarians (and some veterinary technicians, as you’ll find out). What are the pros and cons of paying veterinary professionals on a percentage of revenue generated basis? Are your veterinarians gaming the system? Dr. Ernie Ward shares an experience you might not realize happens in many clinics, Dr. Cyndie Courtney relates her personal experiences, and Beckie Mossor, RVT reveals what veterinary clinic support staff really think about their doctors being paid based on the revenue they generate. This is a candid conversation about a highly controversial - and rarely openly discussed - element of working in veterinary medicine. If you like these podcasts, do us a favor and write a couple of sentence review on iTunes! It helps us grow and engage more of our colleagues to make our profession better.

Have you, a friend, family member, colleague, or client ever been denied a pet rescue adoption? Are some animal rescue groups inadvertently encouraging people to go through breeders and pet stores due to cumbersome requirements? We asked our social media channels, and apparently this is a bigger problem than we realized. This week our trio tackles the thorny issue of what makes an appropriate animal rescue protocol, our thoughts on how to improve the process, and tales from the real-world on heartbreaking (and confusing) pet rescues. PLEASE LEAVE US AN ITUNES REVIEW! Your subscriptions and reviews help us reach more veterinary colleagues and create better content. THANK YOU!!!

This week co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor are evacuated from their homes during Hurricane Florence. Dr. Cyndie Courtney joins Dr. Ward (Beckie cellular service failed during recording) to discuss what it’s like to live through a hurricane. Helpful advice for any veterinary clinic affected by a natural disaster such as hurricane, flooding, wildfire, earthquake, tornado, etc. From how to prepare, what advice to offer clients, how to travel with pets, and what can you do when a dog gets bitten by a venomous snake when winds are 100 miles per hour and all roads are flooded? That, and so much more, in this week’s podcast! PLEASE SHARE THIS PODCAST! (And leave a review) We love our profession and want to help our veterinary professional friends! Thanks for listening!

Welcome to fall…that magical time of the school year when freshman everywhere are full of excitement, and seniors are desperate to exit. This week we examine the veterinary and veterinary technician school admission process. What’s right - and what’s wrong - and what we think we should do to make it better. What do you think about veterinary professional school admissions? What would you change? Let us know! Please share our podcast with co-workers and colleagues who you think would benefit from these discussions. Better yet, do us a solid and leave us a review on iTunes. We love making these podcasts and want to know what you think... and that you're out there! Hit us up on social media (FB, IG, Twitter). Thanks again!

Cloning pets, especially dogs, is a real thing. As in, there’s a real company really doing it RIGHT NOW. For a measly $50,000USD, you can have your favorite furry friend brought back in an exact genetic copy. This week our trio tackle the thorny ethics, sketchy morals, and scientific rigor (?) of this evolving pet medical breakthrough. From Barbra Streisand’s cloned pups to questions about the care of surrogate animal mothers, this is one podcast you will want to share and discuss with your colleagues! And wait until you hear what Dr. Ernie Ward says about the future of service and military dogs… HELP US MAKE THE PODCAST BETTER! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need your reviews to help us grow and improve. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Insta. C’mon, we’re not asking for much!

MONEY!!! We sure spend a lot of time talking about the challenges of finances in veterinary practice on the podcast! This week we’re joined by our friend, veterinary dermatologist Dr. Dana Lisa, to discuss how to handle the rising costs of treating chronic dermatitis. Dr. Liska will explain how she talks about Cytopoint, Apoquel, and other revolutionary treatments with budget-minded clients. This is a really impactful conversation that yields many helpful tips and tricks you can use in your clinic. This episode was brought to you by our friends at Zoetis, makers of Apoquel and Cytopoint. Product information for APOQUEL is available at: www.apoqueldogs.com/apoquel_pi.pdf Zoetis is dedicated to changing the way we approach canine pruritus to protect the bonds that matter most. Visit www.ScienceofStrongerBonds.com for more. Do not use APOQUEL in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. APOQUEL may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers to get worse.

We all have someone we look up to, are inspired by, or seek to emulate. This week we share some of the people outside the veterinary profession who have taught us, pushed us to do more, and are making the world better. We talk about famous authors, teachers, friends, and more during this uplifting episode. Brene Brown: https://brenebrown.com/ Steven Kotler: https://www.stevenkotler.com/ Elizabeth Green: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-green-308b865/ Atul Gawande: http://atulgawande.com/ Steve Kirton: https://www.circahealthcare.com/ Tricia Montgomery: http://k9fitclub.com/ We need your support to reach more of our veterinary colleagues! Please subscribe, share, and leave us a review -- especially on iTunes! Thank you for listening!

This week we speak with the founder of K9 Fit Club, a group dedicated to developing human and dog fitness programs. Tricia Montgomery shares her story with host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor. Exercise tips, weight loss, diet trends, and more are discussed in this conversation from St Louis, Missouri! We need your support to reach more of our veterinary colleagues! Please subscribe, share, and leave us a review -- especially on iTunes! Thank you for listening!

Itching dogs, chronic dermatitis, frustrated clients, online myths (and bad advice) all add up to create dermatological drama in our veterinary practices! This week we chat with veterinary dermatologist Dr Dana Liska to dispel mountains of misconceptions, dispense practical diagnostic and treatment advice, and soothe our weary minds and souls when it comes to conquering chronic dermatitis! Dr Liska joins host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney plus registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor for a candid, energetic, and entirely practical guide to dealign with chronic dermatitis in your patients. We learned so much and had so much fun - and you will, too! This episode was brought to you by our friends at Zoetis, makers of Apoquel and Cytopoint. Product information for APOQUEL is available at: www.apoqueldogs.com/apoquel_pi.pdf Zoetis is dedicated to changing the way we approach canine pruritus to protect the bonds that matter most. Visit www.ScienceofStrongerBonds.com for more. Do not use APOQUEL in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. APOQUEL may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers to get worse.

Join us this week for a rapid fire session on our top tips to make your personal and professional life a little easier, more efficient, and more fun! Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor share their best quick bits of advice for veterinary practice, patient care, client service and self-care. If you enjoy fast-paced, real-world recommendations, you’re going to love this special episode! IF YOU ENJOY THIS PODCAST, PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW. In order to keep getting fantastic guests, we need to show them some love! Take just a few seconds (seriously) to leave us a 4- or 5-start review on iTunes. THANK YOU!!!

This week the entire gang gets together - for the first time in person! - to record a special podcast from the floor of the 2018 American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Annual Conference in Denver, Colorado. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor go deep on CHANGE! What, how fast, should, could, and WHY change is essential for veterinary professionals. The trio talk about the recent AVMA debarking controversy, CBD usage, the veterinary nurse initiative, telemedicine/telehealth, and much, much more! We think you’ll enjoy this rapid-fire, no holds barred, and frank discussion about why change seems to take forever — or in the blink of an eye! Sorry for the noisy background… they were all veterinary colleagues! Please share our podcast with co-workers and colleagues who you think would benefit from these discussions. Better yet, do us a solid and leave us a review on iTunes. We love making these podcasts and want to know what you think... and that you're out there! Hit us up on social media (FB, IG, Twitter). Thanks again!

Where are all the registered veterinary technicians and veterinarians? More and more veterinary clinics are reporting significant challenges hiring - and keeping - qualified veterinary team members. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward an Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor review the current veterinary job market woes an doffer suggestion on finding the best employees. Dr. Ward revives his “DVM-lite” limited licensure model from 15 years ago and reviews why he believes the veterinary profession may go the way of Family and General Practice human medical doctors. Th group give advice on recruiting and hiring staff as well as pay, benefits, and creating a healthy and welcoming clinic culture to retain employees. We need your support to reach more of our veterinary colleagues! Please subscribe, share, and leave us a review -- especially on iTunes! Thank you for listening!

Mandatory spay and neuter regulations, breed bans, microchip laws, and doggie DNA testing for renters - we’re seeing a wave of new animal regulations sweep the world. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor engage in a spirited discussion on whether or not animal regulations have gone too far (or not far enough), and what veterinary professionals should do to encourage better pet care. The trio tackle the recent Fort Worth, Texas pet microchipping controversy, Delta Airlines’ ban of pit bull breed emotional support dogs, DNA testing to identify dog poop, and RETRACTABLE LEASHES! Please help us by sharing our podcast with co-workers and colleagues who you think would benefit from these discussions. Even better, leave us a review on iTunes. We love making these podcasts and want to know what you think... and that you're out there! Hit us up on social media (FB, IG, Twitter). Thanks again!

This week we wrestle once again with the topic of money-guilt harbored by many veterinary professionals. This time, we explore issues around homeless people with pets, standards of pet care, pet care shaming, and more. This is an excellent roundtable on a topic most veterinary professionals must confront nearly daily. We need your support to reach more of our veterinary colleagues! Please subscribe, share, and leave us a review -- especially on iTunes! Thank you for listening!

One of the most controversial pet travel topics these days is the designation of "emotional support animal" and "service animal." This week our trio, Drs. Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney, along with Beckie Mossor RVT, take to the skies, trains, and restaurants as they confront the perils of emotional support animals. What is the difference between "service animal" and "emotional support dog?" Can you really buy "fake" service dog vests on Amazon? Who’s in charge of regulating and verifying “service animals?” Why did Delta recently ban "pit-bull breed" dogs as support companions? What role do veterinary professionals play in all of this? This is a must-share episode with ANYONE in the veterinary profession. Please share our podcast with co-workers and colleagues who you think would benefit from these discussions. Better yet, do us a solid and leave us a review on iTunes. We love making these podcasts and want to know what you think... and that you're out there! Hit us up on social media (FB, IG, Twitter). Thanks again!

This week, we discuss the current global wave of corporatization and consolidation of the veterinary profession. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor review the pros and cons of working in a corporate practice, whether or not consolidation is (or ever was) inevitable, and what does this mean for the future of veterinary professionals? It's a good one... We need your support to reach more of our veterinary colleagues! Please subscribe, share, and leave us a review -- especially on iTunes! Thank you for listening!

It's summer! Yaaay! Oh, noooo! Along with sunshine, long days, and chillin' by the pool comes unexpected stress in veterinary practice. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor take a beachside/lakeside/online stroll down some of the profession's most treacherous June through September trails. Tourists, drop-in non-client emergencies, the Monday flu, and fighting for time off are tackled in this "for reals" conversation. And Dr. Ward ponders, "Where did all the summer high school and college helpers go?" This is one hot and sticky podcast... AND PLEASE SUBSCRIBE AND LEAVE US A REVIEW! We do this because we love our profession and your support means the world to us!! Thank you!

This week, we've got a master class in entrepreneurship with Dr. Liz Bales, inventor of the Indoor Feeder (formerly the NoBowl Feeder) for cats. Dr. Bales joins Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney to discuss how she evolved from equine practice to feline (see what I did there?), how she went from good idea to an actual product, and her best advice for anyone who has a good idea. This is an AMAZING conversation that will benefit any veterinary professional in their job and career. IF YOU ENJOY THIS PODCAST, PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW. In order to keep getting fantastic guests, we need to show them some love! Take just a few seconds (seriously) to leave us a 4- or 5-start review on iTunes. THANK YOU!!!

Owning a veterinary practice can be a rewarding -- and challenging -- prospect. This week host veterinarians Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney and veterinary technician Beckie Mossor are joined by New Jersey practice owner Dr. Michael Tokiwa to discuss the positives and pitfalls of practice ownership. From equity, to leadership, to vision, to staff training and interactions, this is a wide-ranging conversation that will benefit any veterinary professional, regardless of whether or not ownership is an interest or option. PLEASE GIVE US A REVIEW! Your reviews help us grow and reach other veterinary professionals. Follow us on Facebook (Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder), Instagram.com/VeterinaryViewfinder, and Twitter.com/VetViewfinder.

This week we're honored to interview the President-Elect of the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) Dr. Cheryl Good from Dearborn, Michigan. Dr. Good shares the story of how she became a veterinarian, what it was like to have three kids in a five-year span while working full-time and starting her own practice. We discuss the changes she's seen in veterinary medicine during her career, the changes at NAVC and VMX, and what she hopes to accomplish as NAVC President. This is a wide-ranging conversation that touches on so many aspects of real, daily veterinary practice life. PLEASE GIVE US A REVIEW! Your reviews help us grow and reach other veterinary professionals. Follow us on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder), www.Instagram.com/VeterinaryViewfinder, and www.Twitter.com/VetViewfinder.

British Columbia/Vancouver joined a host of other large municipalities May 8, 2018 when it banned feline declawing by veterinarians. This week we're joined by Dr. Margie Scherk, a feline veterinary specialist and one of the true pioneers and champions of the anti-declaw movement. Veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor talk with Dr. Scherk about her story, why she's so passionate about cats, and the debates surrounding feline declawing. You'll want to play this episode again and again! PLEASE GIVE US A REVIEW! Your reviews help us grow and reach other veterinary professionals with topics such as this. Follow us on Facebook (Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder), Instagram.com/VeterinaryViewfinder, and Twitter.com/VetViewfinder.

Online and digital marketing is essential for any business to succeed in today's marketplace. This week we're joined by a digital marketing expert, InTouchVet's Bill Schroeder. Bill has been helping veterinary clinics succeed for over 20 years and shares his best advice for busy veterinary practices to optimize their social media and online marketing. Host veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and Dr. Cyndie Courtney talk with Bill about how he and his wife started helping veterinarians in Chicago, what recent changes at Facebook mean for veterinary professionals, what social media and online platforms he recommends, and the technologies Bill thinks veterinarians should be looking at during the next 1 to 3 years. This is a great lesson in online marketing and strategy for any veterinary professional! PLEASE GIVE US A REVIEW! Your reviews help us grow and reach other veterinary professionals. Follow us on Facebook (Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder), Instagram.com/VeterinaryViewfinder, and Twitter.com/VetViewfinder. Bill's company: www.InTouchVet.com

This week host veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and veterinary technician Beckie Mossor welcome veterinary nutritionist and University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine professor, Dr. Julie Churchill. The three review the latest Association for Pet Obesity Prevention Survey results, explore the reasons behind some of the survey responses, dispel many nutritional, diet, and exercise myths, and offer pet food advice for every veterinary team member. This is an episode full of pet food facts and fictions, communication tips and tripwires, and a whole lot of fun! Pretty please, give us an iTunes review and subscribe! To keep this podcast going, we need your help and support. Follow us on Facebook (Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder), Instagram.com/VeterinaryViewfinder, and Twitter.com/VetViewfinder. Please share our links!

There are approximately 900-2,000 cases of animal hoarding in the U.S. each year, affecting over 250,000 animals. Dr. Jill Kirk is on the front lines of the war against animal abuse, neglect, and hoarding. Host Dr. Ernie Ward along with Dr. Cyndie Courtney and Beckie Mossor, RVT, talk with Dr. Kirk about animal hoarding, how to recognize the common signs of abuse and neglect, and steps any veterinary professional can take. This is an important conversation for any veterinary team member and animal advocate. Please give us an iTunes review and subscribe. To keep this podcast going, we need your help and support. Follow us on Facebook (Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder), Instagram.com/VeterinaryViewfinder, and Twitter.com/VetViewfinder. Please share our links!

This week we meet an OG veterinary entrepreneur and innovator, Dr. Philippe Moreau from France. Dr. Moreau is double-boarded in Neurology and Internal Medicine, published author and award-winning speaker, serial entrepreneur, and has pioneered much of the technology, telemedicine, and apps that claim to be “new” today. Veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney discuss Philippe’s story, his vision for telemedicine, and this latest innovation, My Buddy Pet App, an incredibly rich client education, appointment scheduler, and telemedicine app. This conversation covers Philippe’s 40-year career, and gives incredible insight into the mind of a true innovator and entrepreneur. Links discussed in podcast: www.mybuddypetapp.com www.visiocaresuite.com Videos and additional support materials: -      VisioCare Suite (TV + Consult + Home) https://www.dropbox.com/s/bacogynqortn63k/Visiocare%20Suite_US%2001-09-2016sharp.mp4?dl=0 -      My Buddy Pet App for vets & staff https://www.dropbox.com/s/pqq8kdn4pfm93dn/Animation%20Pub%20myBuddy_EN.mp4?dl=0 -      My Buddy Pet App for pet owners https://www.dropbox.com/s/ltntsnc9w1qgagu/Animation%20Pub%20myBuddy_EN.mp4?dl=0 PLEASE GIVE US A REVIEW! Your reviews help us grow and reach other veterinary professionals. Follow us on Facebook (Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder), Instagram.com/VeterinaryViewfinder, and Twitter.com/VetViewfinder.

Cancer. Amputation. Two words that strike fear in many pet owners' hearts. This week we're joined by the founders of Tripawds.com, a website community dedicated to helping pet owners facing limb amputation and other ambulatory challenges in dogs and cats. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney, along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor, talk with Jim Nelson and René Agredano about why they started Tripawds.com, how they made it a sustainable business, and future trends in pet care, especially pet cancer treatments. They discuss the rising cost of cancer care, the importance of pet health insurance, and potential pet owner guilt when it comes to confronting cancer. You don't want to miss their inspiring story! HELP US MAKE THE PODCAST BETTER! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need your reviews to help us grow and improve. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Insta. C’mon, we’re not asking for much!

With the recent Facebook/Cambridge Analytica controversy, many veterinary professionals have been concerned and confused about their online safety and the privacy of their client communications. This week veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney, and veterinary technician Beckie Mossor explore Facebook usage by veterinary clinics, whether or not Facebook Messenger and other social media interactions are potentially violating veterinarian-client confidentiality, how safe and secure (or not?) are Facebook Secret Groups, and debate the question of should veterinary staff members and clients be Facebook friends. YOU CAN HELP MAKE THE PODCAST BETTER! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need your reviews to help us grow and improve. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Insta. We’re not asking for much!

This week we’re delighted to share the microphone with registered veterinary technician specialist, Liz Hughston, MEd., RVT, CVT, VTS (SAIM, ECC). Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor embark on a wide-ranging discussion about veterinary staff unionization and collective bargaining, Liz offers her perspective on the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI), and the quartet discuss pet medical marijuana / CBD / cannabis usage. This podcast is a little longer than normal, but I think you’ll want to stick around for the entire conversation! WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MAKE THE PODCAST BETTER! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need your reviews to help us grow and improve. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. Join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Instagrams. C’mon, brah, we’re not asking for much!

Cooperative Veterinary Care is the latest concept to help make veterinary patients more comfortable during examinations, testing, and treatments. This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney, and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor are joined by Monique Feyrecilde, LVT, VTS (Behavior). Monique is co-author of a new book debuting this week, Cooperative Veterinary Care with Alicea Howell. Monique writes, "Learning to teach, train and handle animals requires meaningful 2-way communication between the handler and animal. When we can observe, appreciate and respect the lessons we learn from interactions, training effectiveness, success and enjoyment will increase for both the handler and the animal. By embracing science-based, humane techniques, every handler can teach animals and every handler can receive the gift of being taught by animals. My mission is to make that gift of mutual learning available to any handler interested in receiving it." Monique's website: http://www.teachinganimals.com HELP US MAKE THE PODCAST BETTER! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need your reviews to help us grow and improve. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Insta. C’mon, we’re not asking for much!

Imagination, curiosity, and creativity are essential traits, attributes, and skills for successful veterinary professionals (and people). This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward an Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor explore the creative side of veterinary medicine. The trio traverse Thoreau’s take on inspiration and creativity, share tales of imaginative solutions discovered in exam rooms, surgical suites, and strapped onto turtle shells, and simple steps to encourage your creativity. Dr. Ward reveals what a nootropic stack is, shares some of his favorite freaky supplements and rituals, and the gang goes bonkers over people who shut down ideas. This episode is entertaining, educational, an maybe a little weird when Ernie gets in his infrared sauna to meditate and take mushroom extracts. If this episode isn’t worth a 5-star iTunes rating, I don’t know what is. Do us a solid and help us grow by subscribing, sharing, and taking 30-seconds to leave a review on your favorite podcast portal. Hang with us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

MONEY! What do veterinary professionals do when a client can’t afford the cost of pet care? Are we providing the best veterinary medical care at an affordable price? How do we deal with situations when a client can’t - or won’t - pay for “gold standard care?” Do payment plans work? Should veterinary technicians discuss billing and pricing with clients? Those are a few of the topics our trio tackle this week. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor share their experiences and insights in confronting cost of care controversies in veterinary practice. HELP US MAKE THE PODCAST BETTER! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need your reviews to help us grow and improve. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Insta. C’mon, we’re not asking for much!

This week we welcome third-year Missouri veterinary school student Seth Williams. Seth is host of the popular vet school podcast, “Vet School Unleashed,” and has quite an interesting story on how he became a veterinary school student. Seth joins host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with Beckie Mossor, RVT to share his convoluted and circuitous route to veterinary school, and why he started a podcast aimed at veterinary school students. Seth shares that most of his classmates aren’t concerned with student debt (yet!), there's a sense of camaraderie and lack of intra-class competition (yay!), that the #MeToo movement hasn’t affected his veterinary school (yet!), and gives us insight into what veterinary students are looking for in future jobs and mentors. We’d like to thank Seth for being a guest on the Veterinary Viewfinder podcast and sharing his candid opinions and experiences as a veterinary school student. Thanks again, Seth! Good luck in school! HELP US GROW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need to hear from you. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Insta. C’mon, we’re not asking for much!

Does National Pet Dental Month Matter Anymore? Since 1995, veterinarians have celebrated National Pet Dental Month each February. But has the "holiday" lost its luster? Veterinary dental specialist Dr. Heidi Lobprise weighs in with host Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with Beckie Mossor, RVT. The group discuss why veterinary dentistry still isn't being prominently featured in most veterinary school curricula, the role and future of veterinary technicians in pet dentistry, Dr. Lobprise's 2-week dental recheck strategy, and why veterinary professionals should be talking more about chronic inflammation (CI) in our pet patients. WE NEED YOUR REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need to hear from you. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Insta. C’mon, we’re not asking for much!

You know what we’re talking about because you deal with them, too. Angry, upset, threatening and irate veterinary clients can damage team morale, cause unbearable stress, and adversely affect patient care and client service (for our nice clients). This week, our hosts tackle how they deal with irate clients, how to spot a “secretly angry” client, and steps your team can take to help prevent conflict in the future. Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with Beckie Mossor, RVT share stories from their practice lives (Dr. Ward’s gun battles! Beckie witnesses trashed lobby TV’s!), offer advice on addressing anger in the exam room, and explain why “Firing Clients” may not be the correct terminology nor professional mindset we should be using. This is a wide-ranging, highly informative, and provocative conversation your entire practice team should consider listening to as a group. Bonus points if you identify and explain Dr. Ward’s musical choice this week! WE NEED YOUR REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. We love making this podcast, but we need to hear from you. You can follow us on FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder, Twitter @VetViewfinder and Veterinary Viewfinder on the Insta. C’mon, we’re not asking for much!

This week we are thrilled to be joined by the extraordinarily talented and accomplished registered veterinary technician, Stephen Cital, RVT. Stephen shares his journey from human medicine to laboratory animal medicine, how he got into veterinary anesthesia, and why he loves his job more than ever. We also discuss the issues faced by the LGBT community in the veterinary profession, solutions and suggestions to help make our profession more inclusive, and how to spot — and avoid — some of the common everyday pitfalls practitioners fall into with a diverse workforce. This is a high energy conversation you do not want to skip! THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. You can also join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

With the 2018 Super Bowl this weekend, we decided to take a deep dive into what makes the best veterinary teams successful. Hosts Drs. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT review some of the common characteristics of the best teams, how to integrate new employees into your clinic team, what are some of the pitfalls of overstepping professional or personal boundaries in the workplace, and more. Learn what "Book Clubs and Bars" have to do with establishing appropriate professional relationships in your clinics. The trio offer advice on what to do with a toxic team member, Dr. Ward shares his love for personality testing his staff, and why written job descriptions, evaluations, mission statements, and appointment scripts are incredibly important for success. This wide-ranging conversation is sure to inspire you to make your team ready for the Big Game... and beyond! THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. You can also join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Finding good employees is a challenge for any clinic. Finding good veterinary technicians is even harder! This week Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney, along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor are joined by “MKA from Minnesota,” or Michelle Krasicki-Aune, MBA, BS, CVT, a credentialed veterinary technician who has a company dedicated to providing clinics with relief veterinary technicians, mentorship, and much more. Michelle tells how (and why) she became a veterinary technician (canine heartworms are involved), how the profession has changed, and where she thinks the future of veterinary technicians lies. Along the way, the quartet chat about the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI), her best advice for staying motivated in clinics, how managers and owners can learn from RVT/CVT/LVT’s, and some of the challenges she sees in daily practices. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. You can also join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Nearly 2 billion people, including veterinary professionals, are using Facebook in 2018. This week Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with Beckie Mossor, RVT talk with Dr. Caitlin DeWilde about social media and her business, The Social DVM. The group discuss Caitlin's story of becoming a veterinarian, the recent changes to the Facebook News Feed algorithm, and practical advice for managing a veterinary clinic's Facebook Page. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW! Please leave us a quick review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. You can also join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT talk with large animal veterinary nurse an equine nursing specialist Heather Hopkinson about the differences - and similarities - of large and small animal veterinary care. Heather shares her story of a young girl working at stables to earn horse riding lessons to becoming a pioneer and leader in the large animal veterinary technician world. Beckie and Heather recount their days together in veterinary technician school, how the veterinary nurse initiative (VNI) may affect large animal veterinary professionals, and the shared struggles of all animal advocates. The trio explore how compassion fatigue and burnout are different in the large animal world, how language and words affect emotions, and Heather explains why all veterinary nurses are at risk for attrition and unhappiness if they don’t find meaning and purpose within - and outside - the veterinary profession. This is a great conversation that applies to anyone working in the veterinary industry. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. You can also join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

The veterinary profession is now dominated by women. This week, the Veterinary Viewfinder tackles the topic of veterinary professionals having children, bringing our kids into the clinic, and handling clients’ children during veterinary appointments. Co-hosts Drs. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor share tales of crates used as cribs, a mother who demands Dr. Ward share EVERYTHING with their child during an appointment (and then dramatically changes her mind), Beckie talks about vet techs being used as “babysitters” during clinic visits, and Cyndie reviews her experiences as a "new mom" intersects with "practice life" over the past few months. Dr. Ward discusses the importance of paid maternity leave for veterinary professionals, and the trio offer advice for anyone planning a pregnancy or wondering how to tell their boss. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. You can also join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week we're joined by friend and colleague, Dr. Alex German from the University of Liverpool. Alex joins Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney, along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor, to share his story of becoming a veterinarian, his experiences as a mixed animal practitioner, returning to academia to pursue his PhD and Internal Medicine Board Certification, and finding his passion in clinical research. Alex and Ernie discuss their combined efforts combating pet obesity, Cyndie prompts a discussion on weight bias, and Beckie relates the pressures veterinary nurses often encounter when dealing with pet obesity. The group discusses Alex's latest research publications, his work on dog and cat growth curves, and how these tools may help veterinarians prevent pet obesity. This is a wide-ranging conversation that touches on many issues veterinary professionals may struggle with during daily practice life. Do yourself a favor, and listen to this one all the way through! Growth Charts mentioned in podcast: https://www.waltham.com/resources/puppy-growth-charts/ Dr Alex German: ajgerman@liverpool.ac.uk THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY iTUNES. You can also join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week we're thrilled to share the podcast with "Vets Against Insanity" card game co-creator, Dr. Sarah Wooten. Sarah sat down with Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT at the recent Fetch dvm360 Conference in sunny San Diego and was joined via the magic of the internet by Dr. Cyndie Courtney. Ernie and Beckie gave Sarah the better microphone, and apologize for the reverb and echo-y sound in this podcast (they were in a cavernous hall, but still, Ernie left a certain mic cord at home...3,000 miles away...and had to improvise. Cie la vie.). Sarah shares her story of becoming a veterinarian, confronting burnout, leaving the profession, her latest professional reinvention and invention of the game "Vets Against Insanity." Sarah and Ernie swap triathlon tales, Cyndie discusses veterinary mother-guilt and pressures of raising children, and Beckie tackles compassion fatigue and burnout in this wide-ranging and insightful conversation. You don't want to miss this one!

At the end of each year, many veterinary professionals begin reflecting on their accomplishments, experiences, and goals. For many veterinarians and veterinary technicians, this time of year is one to consider changing jobs. In this week’s podcast, Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor discuss all aspects of quitting or starting a job. What’s the appropriate amount of notice; should owners or managers allow staff to continue working after giving notice they’re leaving; and what are some of the best ways to handle losing a team member? What about starting a new job? What can you do to start your new employment off on a positive note? The trio offer tips and real-life experiences to help you and your team develop better training and employment policies, as well as creating a culture where team members want to stay. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! PLEASE LEAVE US A REVIEW! Please leave us a review on your favorite podcast site, ESPECIALLY ITUNES. You can also join the conversation and share your thoughts about these topics and what you’d like to hear us tackle on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week we're honored to have a true veterinary innovator, entrepreneur, and leader, Dr. Justine Lee. Dr. Lee joins co-host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor to discuss her story of becoming a veterinarian, writing books, creating VetGirl, and her latest projects, the VetGirl Wellness App and her upcoming veterinary continuing education conference. This is a great conversation about finding work-life balance, starting and raising a family, and how anyone can find their passion and meaning. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcast site. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week we discuss the emerging role veterinary technician specialists are playing in the veterinary profession. Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with co-host, Beckie Mossor RVT, are joined by National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) President-elect Kara Burns, LVT, VTS (Nutrition). Kara shares her story from beginning as an Emergency Psychologist, to finding her passion in veterinary medicine, to founding a veterinary specialty. Learn Kara's best advice to help veterinary technicians deal with stress, expand their roles, and find happiness in their work. You don't want to miss this episode! THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!! WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcast site. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

It's our ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY! Thank you so much for OVER 25,000 DOWNLOADS! Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor, look back on their past year of weekly podcasting, share the stories behind the episodes, recall some of their favorite and most controversial guests and topics, and look at some of the stories they'll be covering in 2018. WE WANT TO THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Your support means so much to us. If you like what we're doing, please subscribe and leave us a review. Join us on social media at Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Women are now the majority of practicing veterinarians in the U.S., yet our profession struggles to find women leaders. In this podcast, host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney, and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor are joined by Dr. Karen Bradly, a pioneer in the movement to inspire and develop women leaders within the veterinary profession. Dr. Bradley shares her story of becoming a veterinarian, recounts her journey becoming an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) officer, and what she’s doing to encourage a new generation of female leaders. Along the way, the quartet lament the way some women are treated by their peers when they attain prominence, what veterinary technicians can learn from the gender and generational shift occurring among veterinarians, and how to inspire change within the profession. This wide-ranging conversation is sure to motivate you to pursue greatness! WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcast site. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week host Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor are joined by practice owner and manager, Laura Ward to discuss sexual harassment in the veterinary workplace. What specifically is workplace sexual harassment? Does it exist in veterinary medicine? How can you prevent it from happening? What can you do if sexual harassment occurs in your veterinary clinic? Please share this important discussion with your veterinary healthcare colleagues. We must not accept workplace sexual harassment in any form. Join the conversation on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder. Resources: visit the American Association of University Women Sexual Harassment page www.AAUW.org, or www.RAINN.org, sexual harassment and abuse hotline: 1-800-656-4673

This week we're joined by the Petplan Veterinary Technician of the Year, Purvi Patel from Ontario, Canada! Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor cross the border to find out what it's like to be a veterinary professional in the Great White North. Purvi shares her story of growing up in Malawi, moving to Canada to pursue veterinary medicine, and finding her ultimate passion as a veterinary technician. Purvi also discusses with the trio the similarities and differences in veterinary practices in Canada and the U.S., her thoughts on the term “veterinary nurse,” and whether or not Canadian pet owners complain about money as much as Americans! WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcast site. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

The primary objective of medicine should be preventing disease. If that’s true, why do so many veterinary (and human) healthcare professionals find it challenging to talk to clients about preventive care? This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor explore the challenges, myths, and strategies for veterinary preventive care. Dog and cat nutrition, vaccines, parasiticides, oral health and dentistry, and senior pet care are just some of the topics the trio converse about in this week’s podcast. WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcast site. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

National Veterinary Technician Week is October 15-22, 2017. This week we’re honored to share the mic with the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) President Mary Berg. Co-host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor chat with Mary about how she became a vet tech, the importance of veterinary technician specialists, current progress on the veterinary nurse name change initiative, her greatest accomplishments and the #1 thing she thinks need to be changed in the veterinary technician profession. The group also talk about celebrating National Veterinary Technician Week and why Dr. Ward call vet techs, “the greatest people on the planet!” Share with all your veterinary professional friends! WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcast site. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Ever dealt with a colleague who has lost their passion? Worked for a boss or manager who has lost their enthusiasm? Maybe feeling a little down yourself or not treating loved ones nicely? Burnout affects untold tens of millions of U.S. workers and leads to lost productivity, poor patient care, and illness in the veterinary profession. Host Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor tackle burnout head-on in this important podcast. Real-world stories, the latest data, successful strategies the trio has utilized, and steps any clinic or individual can use to help avoid burnout. Share this episode with your entire team! Please be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcast site. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Dr. Susan Little is widely known and incredibly respected in the feline veterinary world. This week Dr. Ernie ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor sit down with Dr. Little and explore how she became a veterinarian, her unlikely journey to feline expert, her favorite tips and tricks for practicing feline medicine, and a genuinely good conversation about the trio's shared love of the veterinary profession. Whether you're a feline fanatic or lover of all animals, this episode will warm your heart and inspire your week!

This week we are honored to speak with veterinary pain management pioneer, Dr. Robin Downing. Managing pain in veterinary patients can be a challenge. Recognizing pain, treating discomfort, and keeping current with new drugs and modalities takes tremendous effort. This week Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney speak with a true trailblazer in veterinary medicine, Dr. Robin Downing. Dr. Downing shares her from practicing in a small, rural practice to becoming an early advocate for pain management in animals. The trio tackle pain management for veterinarians and veterinary technicians, emerging pain treatments such as acupuncture and class 4 laser, nutrition, and why the entire veterinary healthcare team needs to focus on pain management for the the pets we serve. This special podcast will serve to heal your achy soul… Please be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcast site. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week we talk with co-host Beckie Mossor about her recent experience aiding animals displaced by Hurricane Harvey in Texas. Beckie joins Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney for a discussion about Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, how veterinary professionals can get involved with ASPCA and FEMA relief efforts, and the best ways to help animals during natural disasters. Beckie inspires us all and we'd like to thank her and the thousands of animal assistance volunteers everywhere for making the world better! #BeBetter #VetLife #VetTech #Veterinary

Chances are you've at least seen her company's awesome apparel emblazoned with "Dog Is Good," "Cleanliness Is Next to Impossible," and, of course, their iconic "It's All Fun and Games Until Someone Ends Up In a Cone." This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney and veterinary technician Beckie Mossor have an incredible conversation with Dog Is Good founder, Gila Kurtz. Gila shares how she founded Dog Is Good with her husband, her best advice for budding entrepreneurs, why she loves working with veterinary healthcare providers, and her future plans for Dog Is Good. This is an episode full of practical tips and heartwarming anecdotes. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Being a veterinary client or patient in the human healthcare system can, well, suck! Why is client and patient service often underwhelming, rushed, and, insensitive in the medical professions? Hosts Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor share some of their most terrible medical appointment stories, common mistakes made in veterinary client service, and tips for making your team better. In this week's episode you'll also learn why Dr. Ward started giving money to his clients over 20 years ago and how any team can change their mindset with a few simple mental tricks. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Chances are, you’ve got plenty of people to thank for helping you attain the goal of working in the veterinary profession. Host veterinarians, Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney, along with registered veterinary technician, Beckie Mossor, share the tales of who mentored them, what mentoring means to them, and how you can become an effective mentor in your clinic. Dr. Ward frankly discusses why many veterinary clinics don’t hire high school students or participate in veterinary school externship programs. The panel shares the ways mentoring has positively impacted their lives and how to find — and become — the best mentor. Finally, the trio ask if virtual or online mentorship counts? What role does social media, internet, books, podcasts, and more play in shaping and developing our careers and professional lives? Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

You know the saying, “You can’t please everybody?” Well, it’s true. Unfortunately, most veterinary healthcare professionals are pleasers by nature and try to please everybody all of the time, resulting in big problems. This week, host veterinarians Dr. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician, Beckie Mossor, talk with Dr. Cherie Buisson about Imposter Syndrome in the veterinary profession. What exactly is “Imposter Syndrome,” how can you tell if you have it, simple steps to overcome it, and how to help those experiencing Imposter Syndrome in your clinic. The quartet also explores the problems with trying to please everybody - colleagues, bosses, and clients - and how to take, and give, constructive feedback. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

What do you do when you’re asked to do something unethical, immoral, illegal, or just plain weird in veterinary practice? What if it’s your boss, manager, or co-worker who requests you do - or don't do - something that makes you uncomfortable? Hosts Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor tackle the tough topic of responding to these challenging scenarios in this week’s podcast. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Medical mistakes are estimated to result in over 250,000 human deaths in the U.S. each year. What about in veterinary medicine? What types of medical mistakes do we commonly encounter in our animal patients? What are steps we can do prevent medical mistakes and how should a veterinary clinic team respond when mistakes are made? Host veterinarians Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor discuss real-world problems, their experiences, and offer suggestions and advice on avoiding medical mistakes in your clinic. Dr. Ward also shares a unique program from Australia to help you reduce medical errors. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week our hosts discuss how should veterinary professionals work with other pet care providers? Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor contemplate the roles and responsibilities veterinarians and veterinary technicians have when referring to pet care individuals such as trainers, groomers, pet sitters, and boarding facilities. What should the veterinary profession do about unlicensed, non-credentialed, uneducated individuals offering advice on animal care? How can we determine which non-veterinary providers are safe for our patients and clients? How can we foster collaboration between veterinary professionals and everyone else? As Dr. Ward states, “This is an incredibly important topic that touches us all.” Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This is a special edition of the Veterinary Viewfinder. If you haven’t listened to episode 035, 2017 AVMA Conference podcast, please check it out to provide context for these unedited attendee interviews. Co-host Dr. Cyndie Courtney interviews several attendees of the 2017 American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. Dr. Courtney explores what attendees like or dislike about the AVMA an organized veterinary medicine, what their personal involvement is, and how to encourage veterinarians to become engaged in their profession. These three group discussions with experienced and new veterinarians and veterinary medical school students provide interesting insights into the topics on the minds of our colleagues. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week co-hosts veterinarian Dr. Cyndie Courtney and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor talk with Dr. Ernie Ward from the 2017 American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Annual Conference in Indianapolis, IN. The trio talk about new AVMA President Dr. Michael Topper, stagnant conference attendance, the new AVMA telemedicine guidelines and potential consequences of their lack of clarity, and controversies around opioid reporting legislation and medical marijuana usage in veterinary practice. The group also shares some cogent comments from a veterinary technician. Dr. Ward asks what can the AVMA do to remain relevant and encourage participation by young veterinarians and what role should veterinary technicians have in the future? Finally, the hosts offer their best advice for the AVMA and the future of the veterinary profession in a lively, wide-ranging discussion. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week we talk about cancer in pets with veterinary oncologist Dr. Sue Ettinger. Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward & Beckie Mossor, RVT are rejoined with Dr. Cyndie Courtney after her maternity leave. This podcast focuses on how the veterinary team should approach cancer, the best ways to share a cancer diagnosis with pet owners, why Dr. Ward believes being non-judgmental is key to successful outcomes and emotional well-being of our staff, the role of veterinary technicians in helping cancer patients, and many more important topics concerning cancer. Join the conversation on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Does your front staff fight your back? Do your technicians battle your receptionists? Does everyone combat the boss or manager? According to host veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward, workplace warfare affects nearly every veterinary practice around the world. Team disharmony negatively impacts patient care and productivity. This week Dr. Ward and co-host veterinary technician/nurse are joined by practice consultant and Certified Veterinary Practice Manager, Debbie Boone to discuss how you can overcome workplace tension and stress. A wide-ranging conversation covering common causes of conflict, how your attitude contributes or lessens tension, and simple steps anyone can take to better enjoy their work. Find out why Dr. Ward says, "You do not cure cancer by watching it grow." Join the conversation at Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week host veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and veterinary technician Beckie Mossor have a deep conversation on euthanasia, veterinary hospice, compassion fatigue and more with Dr. Dani McVety. Dr. McVety is co-founder of Lap of Love, an in-home veterinary euthanasia and hospice care service. We discuss why Dr. McVety chose to pursue a career in veterinary euthanasia and hospice, best practices for in-home euthanasia, and how any veterinary team member can help provide a more comfortable euthanasia experience for pet owners. This is a wide-ranging conversation concerning what Dr. Ward calls, "Our most important procedure." Join the conversation on Facebook and @VetViewfinder

This week host veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and veterinary technician Beckie Mossor are talking disaster response opportunities for veterinary teams with ASPCA official Gina Manke. Learn how Gina got started with the ASPCA, what the top deployments are for ASPCA teams and volunteers, and how you can help in this week's podcast. Join the conversation on Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder & Twitter @VetViewfinder.

RABIES! Over 60,000 people die each year from this deadly zoonotic disease. On veterinarian, Dr. Luke Gamble from the U.K., is on a mission to eradicate rabies and save human and animal lives. This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and veterinary technician Beckie Mossor talk with Dr. Gamble about his group, Mission Rabies, and how veterinarians and veterinary nurses can help. Veterinary technician Jessie Foley discusses her recent participation in a Mission Rabies campaign in Malawi. If you’d like to learn more about the incredible work Mission Rabies is accomplishing, check out these sites: www.MissionRabies.com www.CliniciansBrief.com/Mission-Rabies

Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward & Beckie Mossor, RVT are joined by practice owner & hospital administrator, Laura Ward to discuss giving back to your community. We discuss how to plan and pull off an Open House, creating an awesome Pet Health Fair, and why the Wards believe giving back to your community is good for team building and practice building. If you're looking for ideas to jumpstart your clinic's civic participation, this episode is chock full of ideas and inspiration. Join the conversation on Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder & Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Steve Dale from WGN Radio and Steve Dale Pet World (SteveDalePetWorld.com) joins hosts Dr. Ernie Ward, Dr. Cyndie Courtney, and Beckie Mossor, RVT to discuss what pet owners are asking him on his popular radio show, social media and blog. We tackle pet behavior, food questions (including what people are saying about raw and BARF diets), vaccinations, and cost of veterinary care. Join the discussion on Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter.com/VetViewfinder.

This week Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT, visit the 2017 North Carolina Veterinary Technician Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina to talk with veterinary technicians about the profession. Co-host Dr. Cyndie Courtney joins the conversation about practice challenges vet techs face, the biggest surprises they found after graduation, what large animal and equine veterinary nurses would like their small animal colleagues to know, and what advice they’d give to their younger selves. Join the conversation on Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

How can you find your dream veterinary job? What are employers looking for in job applicants? How can practice owners and managers find the best team members? Practice manager Heather Prendergast joins Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with Beckie Mossor, RVT to reveal secrets to finding, getting, and keeping the best jobs! Resumes, interviews, trends, and social media searches are just a few of the topics covered this week. Join the conversation on Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

We go global this week with a look at veterinary practice in the U.K., Saudi Arabia and the Middle East and Hungary. Special guest veterinarian Dr. Mark Hedberg joins Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie, Mossor, RVT for a look at some of the differences in veterinary clinics with a vet who has practiced around the world. Why are vets called "surgeons" in the U.K.? What is it like to practice in the Middle East? Why are Hungarian vet clinics closed most of the day? How can you become a globe-trotting veterinarian or veterinary technician? Join the conversation on Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Reality TV veterinarians are everywhere these days. But how "real" are these "reality" vets? Are they good or bad for the profession? How are television and online videos affecting standards of care, costs, and public perception of veterinary medicine and surgery? Veterinarians Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney with Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle TV vets and more on this episode. Join the conversation on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Do veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary staff make good patients? Do we know too much, ask too many questions, demand too many answers of our own doctors and nurses? Veterinarians Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney along with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor dissect our own human health care experiences and share how we treat MD's and RN's when they turn to us for care. What do we love, and hate, about visiting our own physicians? How can veterinarians learn from the good, and bad, of the human health care system? Join us on Facebook at Veterinary Viewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

What are the things you need to survive your busy days in veterinary practice? What rituals, superstitions, quirks and oddities do your doctors and team members have? What are the best pens, shoes, and scrubs? Veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor dish on daily dilemmas, their craziest superstitions, what items go missing most often in our clinics, and so much more in this hilarious and revealing episode. Join the conversation on Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and on Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward visits the 2017 Global Pet Expo sponsored by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) in sunny Orlando, Florida. Co-hosts Dr. Cyndie Courtney and Beckie Mossor, RVT inquire about the latest products and highlights of the convention. Neon cat litter, new OTC dewormers, a world of tech and trends, and the world's first (and only?) birdy bra are just of few of the topics in this week's podcast. Join the conversation on Facebook at Veterinary Viewfinder and on Twitter at @VetViewfinder.

It's a hard knocks life. In this episode, veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor share some of the hard lessons they wished they'd teach in school. At least you'll have the chance to learn these oftentimes painful lessons from the comfort of your listening device... Join us at Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Veterinarian and co-host Dr. Ernie Ward, fresh from the loss of his beloved 15-year old dog, Sandy, shares his story with Dr. Cyndie Courtney and Beckie Mossor, RVT in this special episode. The team discusses the grieving process, how we help our clients, team members, and colleagues cope with euthanasia and losing a dog, cat, horse, hamster, or other animals. They also talk about why grieving for a pet is so intense, the importance of corpse viewing, whether or not other pets should witness or observe a deceased pet, burial and death rituals of animals, disenfranchised grief, and some of their toughest losses, both professionally and personally. Share your stories on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter: @VetViewfinder.

This week Beckie Mossor, RVT reports from the 2017 Western Veterinary Conference (WVC) in sunny Las Vegas, Nevada. Drs. Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney inquire about the world's second largest conference, buzz and busts, Elvis sightings, why isn't anyone posting on social media, where are the best spots to nurse an infant and dine (not necessarily at the same time, bonus points if possible), and so much more in this week's decidedly Vegas episode. Join the conversation on Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Pet obesity in the U.S. continued to steadily increase last year, affecting nearly 59% of cats and 54% of dogs, according to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP). During their ninth annual survey, APOP also found pet owners and veterinary professionals disagreed on key pet food issues such as the benefits of corn and grains, value of raw and organic diets, and the best sources of pet nutritional advice. Veterinarian and APOP founder Ernie Ward, Dr. Cyndie Courtney, and Beckie Mossor, RVT talk about these issues and more this week! Follow us on Facebook at Veterinary Viewfinder or Twitter @VetViewfinder

Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor ponder gender inequality in the veterinary profession. Today an estimated 70% of veterinarians and 95% of support staff are females. Is this too much? Why has this occurred? Why are women veterinarians and medical doctors paid less than their male counterparts? What about maternity and paternity pay? Do pet owners have more confidence in male veterinarians? Why are strong female leaders viewed as "b&*^%$" ? These questions and more in this week's episode. Join the conversation on Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder.

This week our hosts are joined by their spouses for a special romantic Valentine's Day edition. Dr. Ernie Ward and his wife, Laura, talk with Dr. Cyndie Courtney and her husband, Mike, along with Beckie Mossor, RVT and her hubby, Timmy. The trio dish on how they met, the perils of dating a veterinary professional, the best bits and grossest stories, and advice for keeping romance alive while caring for animals. Share your love stories with us at Facebook/Veterinary Viewfinder and on Twitter @VetViewfinder.

Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward & Beckie Mossor, RVT report live from The North American Veterinary Conference (NAVC) in Orlando, Florida while host Dr. Cyndie Courtney is stuck in Kansas. Topics include the name change to VMX, long walks, Robin Roberts and Darius Rucker, hot topics, tattoos, emerging trends, controversies and confusions and... NO (real) STARBUCKS! Will our hosts survive and remain (somewhat) coherent?

Veterinarians Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor ask, "Are we getting the best CE for our bucks?" Which is better, in-person or online CE? Who pays for it? How do you get time off for CE? What's the best conference swag & what's your favorite 2016 CE lesson? Tell us thoughts at Facebook.com/VeterinaryViewfinder & @VetViewfinder

Veterinarians Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor ask, "Is the veterinary profession the least diverse on the planet?" What are some of the current challenges to diversity in the veterinary healthcare fields, how can we encourage more diverse student populations, and how can we prepare veterinarians for the future? We'd like to hear your thoughts! Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and @VetViewfinder

Veterinarians Drs. Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor explore whether or not veterinary healthcare teams provide the same level of pet care they ask of their clients? What if a team member disagrees with a clinic's or veterinarian's recommendations or protocol? These questions along with each host's biggest struggle of caring for their own pets.

Veterinarians Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor confront whether pursuing a degree in veterinary healthcare is a good or bad idea; how staggering student debt impacts our profession both financially & emotionally; potential solutions for excessive debt, escalating college tuition, and imbalanced veterinary supply & demand. The hosts share why they joined the veterinary profession and offer some of their best personal advice.

This week host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor peer into their crystal food bowls to predict the future of veterinary medicine. The trio review the controversies, benefits, and risks of telemedicine and virtual pet care, what apps they like and use, how in-home care (mobile or housecall veterinarians and technicians) may evolve, and their dreams for the future. Share your thoughts and predictions on Facebook Veterinary Viewfinder and @VetViewfinder - Happy 2017!

Veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney with veterinary technician Beckie Mosser rewind the year in veterinary medicine. The vet who shot the cat with an arrow, advances in dermatology, changes in the profession, the relevancy of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), and "do-over's" are part of this week's episode. Join the conversation on Facebook at Veterinary Viewfinder and tweet us @VetViewfinder - Happy New Year!

Host veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor explore the dangers and dilemmas as well as the benefits and blessings of veterinary client relationships. The trio talk about setting personal and professional boundaries, what to do when a client oversteps and intrudes, and strategies to deal with tweets and texts after hours. Continue the conversation with us on Twitter @VetViewfinder and Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder. Happy holidays!

Veterinarians Ernie Ward & Cyndie Courtney with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor tackle the topic of tension between veterinary professionals and profits. We discuss the emotional toll finances take on the veterinary team, how pet insurance can help pets & vets, wellness plans, & things that made us grateful last week. Join the conversation on Facebook/VeterinaryViewfinder and Twitter @VetViewfinder

Veterinarians Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with veterinary technician Beckie Mossor discuss the role and responsibility of veterinarians in the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP), substance abuse within the veterinary profession, solutions and advice for dealing with the current heroin and drug epidemic, as well as their weekly Pet Peeves.

Host veterinarians Drs. Ernie Ward and Cyndie Courtney along with registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor kick off the weekly Veterinary Viewfinder podcast discussing holiday staffing woes and drama, wintertime convenience euthanasia stress, and their favorite/worst pet peeves of the season!