Pediatrician vs. Veterinarian

Round 2. Medical care is really high on my list in my children's life. Most of you know the battles I have been through this past year with the move in finding the perfect clinic and doctors for my babies. I struggled and fought and questioned a lot of ethics and practices yet still none of them have met my standards and the high quality of treatment we received while in Oxford, today we have tried yet another facility.

If you read the paragraph above it sounds like I have struggled with finding the perfect pediatrician - well if you have 2 legged babies that would be so, but I am blessed with the 4 legged kind and am speaking of their veterinary care.

I am always on pins and needles and intimidate some with my questions when searching for the veterinarian that can match the healthcare my pups need. The clinics I have encountered are far from what I am accustomed to. Today was a step in the right direction. The vet I met was extremely nice and willing to answer any of the questions I had with an open heart and mind. I didn't feel that there was any lack of experience nor lack of ignorance when it came to his profession. I sincerely felt like he took the time to get to know me and Foxy Mama as she went in for her annual shots. We spoke of his practice and treatments he used and I politely questioned his reasoning for giving the IMRAB 3 even though she had it last year. IMRAB 3 is the rabies shot that is given and is good for 3 years. It doesn't have to be given every year and most all vets use this vaccination yearly which isn't necessary. I have found that the past 2 vets reasoning is because not all pet parents come back every year for their pets annuals, so most clients aren't educated, but know that rabies shots are required - therefore come back again every year. Don't get me wrong, the other shots are necessary yearly, but if given the IMRAB 3 the rabies is only necessary every 3rd year. So now that you know probably more than you wanted to...

All in all I was pleased with the vet. We talked about F.M. and the fact that she was over weight, even though that information wasn't offered - I asked. F.M. fits in so well with this family - we are all obese and can benefit from a healthy diet and exercise. We also talked about where I was from and how I got here - like most small towns go, he knew my husband well. It was interesting to me to find out he thought that F.M was not only part Red Healer and Chow, but possibly a retriever of some sort. That was neat. F.M. got a manicure and a pedicure and Foster helps me keep her ears cleaned out - so all went well, a great check up.

After I retire or become independently wealthy I have a new job idea that would be fun and interesting. I'd like to become a consultant for vet clinics. After being an office manager for a wonderful organized clinic, I feel that my knowledge could be utilized in other clinics. It's extremely important that the receptionist realize that they give off the first impression of the clinic. They are the first face customers see, they are the attitude that clients associate with whether it be in person or over the phone. Another factor is appearance - vet offices aren't always the best smelling places, it takes hard work and dedication to keep the environment healthy and clean and smelling good for not only the pets but the parents and the workers too. Running a clinic is a demanding job and takes great organization skills and requires attention to detail. Educating the front desk and vet techs is dire - they need to be aware of medicines, appointments, pet needs and great with people. When working for a vet you come across many calibers of people. My husband, who was selling cars at the time, asked me if we get a lot of disgruntled clients and the answer to that is not really. You have concerned clients and that is different. The people that come to a vet usually have the best interests of their pet in mind. It doesn't always matter the cost of the care because they want what is best for their family member. To some the cost does matter and can be a sensitive subject, but it is the responsibility of the vet and sometimes the receptionist to educate the owner. Another aspect that was clearly an issue today at the new found clinic was the atmosphere. You want a warm welcoming feel - a place that isn't gloomy and out of date. The appearance of the clinic is also a reflection of them. Out of date pictures, medical paraphenalia, equipment, wallpaper, and uniforms are just as important too.

Wow, how boring am I? Animals are my passion and any thing I can do to help in any way is important to me. Now - here is the question I have for you....how should I pursue this new consultant idea?