Veterinary Viewfinder Podcast

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