Veterinary Viewfinder Podcast

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!