VETTECH U 2024 / HOUSTON, TX
ROADBLOCKS When proposing the introduction of veterinary technician counseling sessions, it is common to encounter hesitation. To effectively address these concerns, it’s important to first understand the root of the hesitation. If the issue centers around expanding your skillset and exercising more autonomy, a productive approach is to review your state’s practice acts and discuss them with the veterinarian. This can help mitigate concerns by clarifying what is within the scope of your practice and reassuring the clinic that these sessions are both legal and beneficial. In some cases, the hesitation might stem from worries about time constraints on top of an already heavy patient load. To counter this, it is crucial to map out how these appointments will be structured to enhance efficiency. By demonstrating that technician-led sessions can streamline operations, allowing the clinic to see more patients without adding significant stress, you can alleviate concerns about overburdening the practice. Efficient delegation of responsibilities within the team can further support this approach. For example, freeing up a technician to focus on patients while also handling tasks such as the floater, lab work, pharmacy duties, or callbacks can help maintain productivity without overloading the staff. Another common obstacle is client cost objections. Clients may be reluctant to pay for technician services, especially if they are used to receiving certain services from a technician without being charged for the time. To address this, consider preparing a price sheet that compares the cost of a visit with a veterinarian versus a veterinary technician. This transparency helps clients understand the value of technician-led appointments, where they will be achieving cost savings and why these services are a worthwhile investment. The "not the doctor" mindset can also present challenges, either through self-doubt or client concerns. This mindset often arises from a lack of recognition or understanding of the competencies and capabilities of veterinary technicians. To counter this, it’s important to communicate your credentials, share your personal “why” story, and provide information about the role and expertise of a veterinary technician in your counseling sessions. While changing this perception may take time, consistently emphasizing the value of your qualifications and the quality of care you provide can gradually shift client attitudes. No matter what roadblocks you encounter, it is essential to approach them with empathy and a willingness to understand the perspective of others. By viewing the situation from their lens, you can use your problem-solving skills to address their concerns
effectively and find a way to move forward. Ultimately, overcoming these challenges will not only benefit the clinic and its patients but also enhance the role and recognition of veterinary technicians in providing high-quality care. START YOUR BIG ADVENTURE The role of veterinary technicians in pediatric appointments is multifaceted and vital to the health and well-being of young pets. By taking the lead in areas such as nutritional counseling, behavioral care, and preventive care, veterinary technicians not only enhance the quality of care provided but also empower pet owners to take an active role in their pets' health. Through comprehensive education and empathetic care, veterinary technicians can significantly impact the lives of pets and their families, preparing these tiny tails for the big adventures that lay ahead. REFERENCES • Burns KM. Proper nutrition: Is the new emphasis a fad? Veterinary Team Brief 2014; June:8-9. • Cline M, Burns KM, Coe JB, et al. 2021 AAHA Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. JAAHA 2021;57(4):153-78. • American Animal Hospital Association. The path to high quality care: practical tips for improving compliance. 2003. AAHA Press, Lakewood, CO. • Vendramini THA, Amaral AR; Pedrinelli V, et al. Neutering in dogs and cats: current scientific evidence and importance of adequate nutritional management. Nutr Res Rev 2020;33(1):134-44, doi:10.1017/s0954422419000271. • Bermingham EN, Thomas, DG; Cave NJ, et al. Energy requirements of adult dogs: a meta-analysis. PLoS One 2014; https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. pone.0109681. • Bermingham EN, Thomas DG, Morris PJ , et al. Energy requirements of adult cats. Br J Nutr 2010;103:1083-93, doi:10.1017/s000711450999290x. • Allaway D, Gilham M, Colyer A, et al. The impact of time of neutering on weight gain and energy intake in female kittens. J Nutr Sci 2017;6(19). doi:10.1017/ jns.2017.20. • Gaillard V, Steagall P, Péron F, et al. Feline and Canine Neonatal and Pediatric Care: A Practical Guide for Veterinarians; Gaillard, V., Franck, P., Eds.; Royal Canin SAS: Aimargues, France, 2024; p. 360. • American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior. AVSAB Position Statement on Puppy Socialization. https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Puppy- Socialization-Position-Statement-FINAL.pdf • American Veterinary Medical Association Animal Welfare Division. Literature review on the welfare implications of socialization of puppies & kittens. American Veterinary Medical Association 2015. https://www.avma.org/sites/ default/files/resources/socialization_puppies_kittens.pdf • American Animal Hospital Association. The 2023 AAHA Technician Utilization Guidelines, https://www.aaha.org/resources/2023-aaha-technician-utilization- guidelines/ • Banfield to Offer Technician Appointments. Veterinary Practice News 2019, accessed 3 Jan 2020, https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/banfield-to- offer-technician-appointments.
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