PetVet December 2020 January 2021

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VOL. 3 ED.1 • DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

WHAT IS MY

PURPOSE?

FINDING YOUR NEXT RIGHT STEP

Rethinking

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wellness

VET STUDENT

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DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

A Practical Guide for Pet Health Professionals

CONTENTS 4

PetVet Advisory Board

5

Veterinarian Life Advice

6

Has the Face of Client Services Changed Forever?

9

3 Pandemic Practice

Changes That Are Here

To Stay (Thanks to Technology!)

10

Are You Practicing Good Sleep Hygiene?

16

Get Them Moving: Mobility Management in Dogs

22

Rethinking Feline Wellness

28

When I Grow Up: What Kids Get Right (and Wrong) About the Profession

VET STUDENT

14

FOCUSES ON HER HEALTH & HAPPINESS

24

32 PetVet 10: 10 Things to Do

This Month

Copyright December 2020. PetVet Magazine is published bimonthly by Barkleigh Productions, Inc, 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. Postmaster: Send change of address to Pet Vet Magazine c/o Barkleigh Productions, Inc., 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Editorial offices: 970 West Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg PA 17055. (717) 691–3388 FAX (717) 691–3381 Email: info@barkleigh.com

PetVetMag

ON THE COVER: SHANNON GREGOIRE

Inquiries info@barkleigh.com (717) 691-3388

PETVET MAGAZINE

@PetVet_Magazine Editorial Advertising rebecca@barkleigh.com james@barkleigh.com

3

ADVISORY BOARD

Meet our EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD!

PetVet’s advisory board is here to help ensure quality content to motivate & educate Veterinarians and their staff.

Courtney A. Campbell DVM, DACVS-SA

Jenifer Chatfield DVM, Dipl. ACZM, Dipl.

ACVPM

“My passions ultimately drove me towards becoming a veterinarian, but when I was growing up I briefly flirted with the idea of becoming a magician. As a veterinarian, the ability to save lives, keep animals healthy, and strengthen the human–animal bond makes me realize there’s nothing more magical than that.”

“I have had the privilege of working with a variety of animals in my career and my passion has allowed me to be involved in teaching veterinary students, interns, residents and other veterinarians. I continue to enjoy going to work every day to help critically ill dogs and cats, and love the client interactions as well. I am proud to be a part of this advisory board to help teach and spread my love for this profession to others in the veterinary community.”

Julie Legred CVT

“People should be so lucky as to get to be a veterinarian. The broad-based education empowers us to be successful in multiple fields and affords us the opportunity to choose how we spend our professional time.”

“I have worked in many areas of veterinary medicine and veterinary technology over the last thirty five years, and it is amazing how far our profession has grown and paved the way for the betterment of animals' lives and happiness, as well as improving public health issues. It is an honor for me to be a part of this advisory board to offer additional education and opportunities to grow in our profession.”

STAFF

Executive Editor Rebecca Shipman

Publisher Barkleigh Productions, Inc.

Art Director Laura Pennington

President Todd Shelly

Senior Graphic Designer Jenn Barraclough Web Master Luke Dumberth

Vice President Gwen Shelly

Jill López DVM, MBA

Lisa Powell DVM, DACVECC

Chief Operations Officer Adam Lohr

Director of Marketing & Client Relations James Severs

“Do something every day to make an animal’s life better.”

4

PETVET MAGAZINE

Administrative / Marketing Assistant Karin Grottola Social Media / PR Coordinator Evan Gummo Marketing Consultant Alex Hammsla

“

VETERINARIAN LIFE ADVICE

Focus on what you do best.

Hire your weaknesses.

Ensure time for working on your business and on

your life .

Don’t just get caught

up in your business and surviving your life.

And, never

forget to smile and have fun .

“

Peter Weinstein, DVM, MBA, Executive Director, Southern California Veterinary Medical Association

PETVET MAGAZINE

5

client services

I

t seems that the old saying, “necessity is the mother of invention,” is in overdrive in veterinary hospitals around the world. Of course, there have been hiccups and disappointments along the way. And there were “ways” that wouldn’t work for one practice that another one found worked for them. But for all those attempts to do something new and different, the final success was sometimes a surprise and in some cases may be considered standard procedure moving forward.

Curbside

HAS THE FACE OF CLIENT SERVICES

CHANGED FOREVER?

By Louise Dunn

There is no use bemoaning the tough year that we have all just endured. Why not applaud our hospital teams’ creativity and fortitude as they implemented new ways to deliver excellent medical care and client service?

6

PETVET MAGAZINE

It was necessary to close access to lobbies and prevent close contact among veterinary healthcare team members and clients; however, it was also necessary to deliver medical care to pets—after all, diseases and emergencies do not take a vacation, even during a pandemic. Kudos to all those team members who braved the weather, dealt with frustrated clients and handled stressed-out pets to provide care.

At White Bear Animal Hospital in Minnesota, curbside services and prescription pick-up quickly became the norm, according to hospital owner, Dr. Stuart Dalton. Those services were so well received by the clients that Dr. Dalton foresees continuing aspects of curbside services because the clients appreciate the convenience, and the team has been able to deliver curbside services efficiently.

In addition to clients appreciating curbside services, some pets (especially fearful dogs) are also happy with outdoor exam areas which were created by many hospitals. Dr. Kathryn Primm of Applebrook Animal Hospital in Tennessee has decided to continue offering the service under her hospital’s covered area. Dr. Primm, a Fear Free certified professional, has continued using many Fear Free techniques in her “new”

exam area. Operating “new” does not mean toss out all the “old.”

Curbside service offerings were not without some difficulties. But again, veterinary teams worked at inventing better ways to get the job done. Going from the reception desk to the vehicle and back again to get client signatures and payments and give vaccine certificates and receipts quickly went digital to save time and avoid dealing with inclement weather. Some teams worked with clients to streamline drop-offs and pick-ups, with some practices having clients going to the front door while others sent a team member directly to the vehicle.

Perhaps the most common difficulty experienced with curbside service was communication. Distracted clients, problems with video chatting and the fact that clients were used to face-to-face communication with the veterinarian created a daily hurdle to overcome. Dr. Emily Robinson, owner of Animal Hospital of East Davie in North Carolina, found that the team had to deal with numerous clients calling back multiple times to ask questions about things communicated at the time of the exam via a phone call and written instructions.

Many practices have created two additional positions. One is to take history over the telephone to help the intake process. The second is a “runner” who helps facilitate the process. Both of these jobs can be filled in with less skilled team members. Their training is straight forward and they can be up and running quickly.

exposing everyone, should one team member test COVID-positive. The benefit is not having to shut down the entire practice should there be a positive employee, and many people enjoy working three long days and having four days off.

As with any new process, there is the flip side—communication can be difficult when the entire team is not scheduled together. Also, the number of appointments scheduled is reduced due to fewer veterinary personnel, and reduced hours worked can be problematic for individual team members.

Telemedicine Telemedicine is a significant change undertaken by many hospitals. For some, the effort was too tricky during this chaotic time. For others, finding the telehealth service

!

Many practices have created two additional positions. One is to take history over the telephone to help the intake process. The second is a “runner” who helps facilitate the process.

Splitting Teams Another change implemented by some practices is splitting the teams into groups to reduce the risk of

PETVET MAGAZINE

7

provider that best fit the practice goals was a hurdle worth undertaking. In comparison, others put together components for conducting virtual exams, communications and collecting payments in a truly DIY fashion.

The use of virtual care in veterinary medicine is growing. Dr. Dalton has found telemedicine appointments beneficial, especially for behavioral issues. Others like using it to check in with palliative patients, monitor stable chronic patients, assist with preventive care issues, conduct nutrition consultations, perform incision checks and address some dermatologic concerns. As use grows and expands in the coming months and years, so too will the roles of the entire team in order to play a more prominent role in providing virtual care.

As if 2020 wasn’t drastic enough, the impact of all the necessary and creative changes undertaken by veterinary practices will continue well into the future. As hospital teams navigate the pros and cons of a new way to deliver care, communicate with clients, schedule work shifts and support loved ones at home, a few “pearls” will emerge.

Many of these new undertakings will become routine hospital SOPs of the future. The challenge will be identifying what works for the practice team and what does not. We all must try, learn and adjust to deliver the best medical care and exceptional client service.

Outside the Practice Finally, the necessary changes required to deal with the pandemic and continue providing medical care have created unusual business challenges—some ethical, others logistical. Can the business control activities of the team outside of the work environment? Can the business require following specific protocols, such as wearing a face mask any time out in public and refraining from large gatherings, as a requirement for continued employment?

Can the business set up in-house child care? What about providing a teaching assistant to help team members’ children during remote or hybrid learning? Drastic times call for drastic measures.

Louise Dunn is a renowned awardwinning speaker, writer and consultant.

She brings over 40 years of in-thetrenches experience and her business education to veterinary management.

Louise is founder and CEO of Snowgoose Veterinary Management Consulting. SVMC works with veterinarians who want to develop a strategic plan that consistently produces results. Most recently Louise received many awards including the WVC Educator of the Year numerous times and VetPartner’s The Life Time achievement Award in January 2016. Besides all aspects of practice management and mentoring, Louise’s passions include her husband, Joel, her English mastiff Therapy dog, Zuri, her little sister, Annabelle, as well as kayaking, opera and New England Patriot’s football.

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PETVET MAGAZINE

3

PANDEMIC PRACTICE CHANGES THAT ARE

HERE TO STAY

day-to-day worklife within our practices was, well, an adjustment. While not every change we had to make will (fortunately) be required as we emerge from the pandemic

(THANKS TO TECHNOLOGY)

By Marian Rowland, CVPM

1

Adjusting to new regulations and a new

into an altered world, we did start doing three things differently during COVID-19 that we are keeping around.

2

WE’LL COME TO THE CURB.

Unlike businesses in some other industries, we were fortunate to be in a situation where we could offer curbside service. We were quick to implement cloud-based software, make sure credit card information was on file and ready to go, and give our staff remote headsets. (Yes, we looked a bit like a Sonic Drive-In at first, but the business continuity gains were well worth it.) Cloud-based software was an important variable here since we could access information from any device (in our case, staff at curb with iPads and headsets). Staff was able to access client data and get that information back to our inside staff. They, in turn, could quickly execute whatever reason that client was seeing us for (e.g., dropping off a pet, picking one up, or restocking food or medicine).

Curbside service was definitely not something we were planning on implementing prior to COVID-19, but it has (surprisingly) proved mutually beneficial for us and our clients.

I expect that even in a post-pandemic world, we’ll perhaps do around half of our business through curbside service.

3

VIRTUALLY.

Perhaps it was inevitable that telehealth made its way more deeply into the veterinary industry, but COVID-19 certainly expedited it—at least at our practice. We put cameras in a couple of our examination rooms and clients can log in via Zoom for virtual appointments.

Technology also made this process easier than we anticipated. Our vets were able to quickly identify these virtual examinations via our shared and color-coded calendaring software, pre-payments were handled with cards on file, and customer emails were used for approving payment and obtaining e-signatures. Since payment was added to the invoice following the appointments, this actually worked particularly efficiently—there was no need for the client to touch base again with a receptionist to close out their appointment.

While it’s hard to say how many of our appointments will be virtual in 2021 and beyond, but with the right processes in place to make it seamless, we’ve found we’re far more comfortable with how well they can work than we envisioned.

WE’LL PROVIDE ZERO TOUCH PAYMENTS.

We’re all bound to be a bit (or a lot) more aware of what we’re touching and how often we then touch our faces. As that hit its zenith in the early days of the virus, we were quick to make sure our payment practices weren’t going to be a deterrent to business.

For us that meant implementing contactless payments, getting rid of signatures and receipts, and ensuring payment terminals were sanitized after every use. Especially in those early days, demonstrating we were taking all precautions was crucial. But even as things

WE’LL SEE CLIENTS

return to normal, zero-touch payments will be here to stay for us.

A recent survey found that 45 seconds can be taken off every customer payment transaction when using a payment terminal and getting rid of physical signatures and paper receipts.1 Average 40 transactions a day, and that’s almost 13 hours saved every month—not a negligible amount. Integrated payment software also helps reduce manual mistakes, per the research, with 76% reporting the elimination of key errors.

Marian Rowland, CVPM, is the practice manager at Park West Vet in Charleston, South Carolina. From Charleston originally, she has been with Park West Vet since 2008. Marian has a degree in business management from Clemson University and CVPM certification from the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association. At home she has a tortoiseshell cat named Tilly.

REFERENCE: 1. https://blog.payjunction.com/ezyvet-time-savings PETVET MAGAZINE

9

lifestyle

are you practicing good

sleep hygiene?

F

By Renee Machel

riday, January 17th is National “Ditch Your Resolution Day.” We’ve all been there. But, 2021 can be different for you—and I’m going to tell you how you can turn your resolution into a lifestyle…starting with the “why.”

Sleep regulates so many of the functions your body needs to maintain optimal health and wellbeing, which translates to your day-to-day patient care, emotional balance, nurturing relationships and managing all the “things” in life. Sleep-related errors cost organizations billions of dollars yearly, and hundreds of thousands of deaths.

Insomnia is reported to be the most common sleep disorder, with 30% of adults struggling and 10% living with chronic insomnia. Nearly 40% of adults fall into the “short sleep duration” category by the standards set by the American Sleep Association.

But, there’s something more that you hear about less often, and that’s sleep quality. Falling asleep with ease, infrequently waking up during the night and the ability to fall back asleep within 20 minutes when you do wake throughout the night are all examples of good sleep quality. Just like in veterinary medicine, quality can be more important than quantity.

What does all this mean for you? Adopting sleep hygiene habits can transform not just your nights, but also your days. Our biological clock

10

helps regulate sleep patterns, feeding behavior, hormone release, blood pressure and body temperature. Therefore, mastering the formula for your sleep can translate to success in other areas of your life.

After I had my son in April, my friends reminded me about the importance of sleep and that sleep deprivation is actually used as a means of interrogation, and it is debated to be a form of torture. I needed no reminder, as I battled insomnia in my 20’s and it is the utmost priority for my wellbeing routines.

Common misconceptions fuel poor sleep habits, such as having an alcoholic beverage at the end of a hard day. It may bring the sandman earlier in the evening, but the quality of sleep is the price you pay, as it reduces REM sleep. And, scrolling through social media before bed confuses your brain, making it difficult to “shutdown.”

You may be aware of what poor sleep looks like in your life. If not, now is a great time to start connecting those dots. So, let’s do something about it so that you can operate at your optimum level. Here are some practical tips I’ve distilled from years of experience and study.

Structure Your Evening Routine with the 3, 2, 1 Wind-down No food three hours before bed. Give the GI

PETVET MAGAZINE

high alertness

12

fastest increase in blood pressure

FUN FACT: The 2017 Nobel Peace Prize was

6

cortisol release

best coordination fastest reaction times

lowest body temperature

highest body temperature

18

highest blood pressure

awarded to the scientists who discovered the molecular components of the

24

melatonin secretion

deep sleep

tract time to digest before bed—the term “meat sweats” is a real term for a reason. You can and should test this. Keep notes on how well you sleep as you move up dinner time. I send myself emails as a reminder of habit changes, whether the following day I am feeling better or worse by what I ate, or when I ate it.

Baby steps are crucial in creating lasting habit change. Limit food to minimal intake; better yet, choose fruit or foods that have melatonin content such as cherries and take very little energy to digest.

Two hours before bed, limit (baby step), and then completely eliminate, all work. That may mean no emails, no social media, no charting, and no discussing the family budget or other topics that will excite the brain and confuse the hormones needed to switch from being “on” and performing to “off ” and resting.

One hour before bed, align your body and mind to rest and prepare for sleep.

Meditation is a perfect way to do this to reconnect the mind and body while physically allowing your muscles to be at ease. Simply relaxing on the couch can be sufficient as well. If you must exercise in the evenings, aim for pre-dinner workouts.

Utilize “do not disturb” on your phone, as well as the phones of others in the house, starting a few hours before bedtime. Success is more likely when surrounded by positive support and like-minded individuals. Exercising gratitude when people support you in this is huge!

You have to find out what works for you. Start tracking how long it takes for your mind and body to begin relaxing. For example, I take longer than my

circadian rhythm.

significant other.

Sample routine; shower, eat dinner, shut down the house/prepare for the next day, relax, meditate, lay down.

Schedule “Mentally Taxing” Conversations This means anything that will make you start processing with your brain or elicit strong emotions, which can be draining yet invigorating. These conversations may take place with someone you live with, or even your self-talk. If you are going to reflect on a recent scenario for whatever reason, save it. Actually plan a time in your schedule to address it and stick to it, building trust with your own brain.

Pillow talk is not the time and place for problem solving. You will be far more effective at solving these issues with a good night of sleep. Having what starts as an innocent conversation at the end of a day when you and your spouse’s batteries are drained can quickly turn sideways. The same conversation the next morning can be far more fruitful and connect the two of you.

Establish a Bedtime Yep, I said it. We all thought as adults we were free from the dreaded “bedtime.” You can think you’re cool without one, but some of the most successful people in the world have a bedtime. You’ll notice a pattern of carving out specific times dedicated to specific activities along the road to being well. You don’t have to do the work of determining what should be done, suffering from decision fatigue day in and day out, you already know each day what the flow will be. Of course, there can be exceptions!

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Choose Your Spectacles Wisely During your evening hours when you are looking at screens, put on a pair of blue light glasses, which can be found on Amazon. And don’t wear sunglasses during the day at lunch. Your eyes are the gateway for sunlight to trigger your hormones which regulate the proper production for sleep and wake periods.

So, if you go for a walk outside at lunch, you are less likely to have a crash in the afternoon and more likely to get sleepy once the sun goes down—which can prevent you from reaching for the caffeine after lunch and further delaying your bedtime.

Turn the Temp Down Add this step to your nightly routine of shutting down the house (if you don’t have a programmable thermostat).

Optimal temp for sleeping is 68 degrees.

I know what it is like to live with another human who is not of the “flame on” variety, and instead looks for the thickest pair of sweatpants. So be reasonable with your thermostat, but aim for cool temps.

Support Your Physical Body Invest in a quality mattress that will support your aging body and help you

recover physically. Allow yourself multiple lumbar-sized pillows to support the space between your body and bed. Popular spots are between the knees, under the knees and ankles, behind your lumbar area or between your arms (one that your hand and wrist can lay over if your arm is under your head). This helps to promote circulation to joints. Pillows can hold in dust mites and trigger respiratory issues, also leading to disruptions of sleep, so make sure to wash and dry routinely.

Appeal to the Senses White noise, sleep music or binaural beats can help light sleepers drift off or stay asleep. Certain sounds can promote healing on a cellular level. Diffusing relaxing oils and opening the window to allow fresh air in can both aide in what our brains find conducive for relaxation.

Having clean, soft bedding help both touch and smell.

Contrary to popular belief, blackout curtains do not work in your favor. A dark room is necessary, but when the sun rises, the light cues hormone production to gently and gradually wake up your system. An abrupt alarm interrupts the current cycle that you are in, often resulting in a groggy feeling and being

om w fr e N

SOCIA L MEDIA RELEASE FORM Pet Name

Date

Your Pet is IMPOR TANT to Us!

I hereby authorize the use of photo s and/or information related to my pet’s experi ence at this establishment. I understand my pet may be used in publications includ ing electronic, audio visual, promotional literature, advert ising, community presen tations, letters to area legislators, media and/or in similar ways.

My consent is freely given as a public service without expec ting payment.

No longer struggle with the dilemma of posting your latest & greatest groom that just so happened to be on your client’s dog!

I release this estab lishment and their r espective employee and agents from s, officers any and all liabilit y which may arise news media stories from the use of such , promotional materi als, written article photographic image s, videos and/or s.

I grant permission

to use: (Please check one below) My pet’s name(s)/ima ges My pet’s and my last name/image s My pet’s and my fir st and last name/im ages Establishment Name Owner Name Owner Signature

#SMR-2 © 2020

Barkleigh Produc

tions, Inc. • 717.69

1.3388 • www.b

arkleigh.com

This simple form with space for client’s pet name, client’s name and signature is designed to make it clear to the pet parent their pet’s photo will be shared on social media.

www.barkleighstore.com 12

PETVET MAGAZINE

unprepared for work/school mode.

Mindful breathing and a performing a body scan are my number one recommendations for helping the sleep process along. That is accomplished simply by bringing your awareness to the breath and the sensations of breathing; being aware of where you feel the breath—at your nose or in your chest—and the rise and fall of your abdomen. Beginning at the crown of your head, do a scan, releasing muscle tension throughout the body, allowing the tongue to fall away from the roof of the mouth, your furrowed brow to rest and your shoulders to melt, and then notice the sensation of the blanket against your skin.

Do what you can in incremental steps to integrate these new habits into your daily life, peacefully. Forcing your way into relaxing by trying to implement new habits without being mindful of the benefits along the way can cause people to misunderstand cause and effect, get down on themselves for not being perfect and, therefore, give up.

By following these tips and starting from where you are, you will be well on your way to unlocking your greatest potential in restful and restorative sleep—not just for the new year—but for years to come. Renee Machel is a nationally recognized wellbeing speaker, certified life coach, CYT 200 yoga instructor, mindfulness, and meditation guide. As the co-founder of Get MotiVETed she aims to provide a positive impact on people’s wellbeing and enhance the culture within organizations of vetmed. She has spent nearly 20 years in the veterinary industry as a hospital leader and technician. She shares her personal story of overcoming wellbeing struggles along with key teachings in managing both personal and professional development.

PETVET MAGAZINE

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petvet profile

VET STUDENT

FOCUSES ON HER HEALTH & HAPPINESS Jill López DVM, MBA Photos provided by Shannon Gregoire

W

hen Shannon Gregoire first entered the hallowed halls of Western University in 2019, she never thought that her junior year would start off like an apocalyptic novel.

With the pandemic continuing to cause uncertainty across the U.S., Shannon is only sure of one thing—this year will definitely not go as planned.

But, that’s okay, because Shannon has got this!

Shannon grew up on a working farm in rural Massachusetts, complete with horses, farm-fresh eggs and an apiary.

Life on the farm gave Shannon a different type of outlook on life. She credits this with instilling in her a habit of early rising and a love for hard work.

Now having her new “normal” mixed with a chaotic vet school life, Shannon Gregoire makes her health and happiness a top priority. That means starting each day with meditation and making time for a visit to the gym or a hiking trail after school.

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PETVET MAGAZINE

“My advice for new grads would be to apply for leadership roles, negotiate for better pay and benefits, and find a supportive mentor. It is time for us to make a change in our profession.”

– SHANNON GREGOIRE For Shannon, she is very much looking forward to the future. She entered veterinary school with a plan to specialize in equine medicine, but now has decided to pursue other interests.

“I plan to focus my career on the business side of veterinary medicine,” says Shannon. “I want to lead the change and make a difference in our profession.”

While Shannon is considering MBA programs at this time, she does offer advice for other veterinary students; “My advice for new grads would be to apply for leadership roles, negotiate for better pay and benefits, and find a supportive mentor. It is time for us to make a change in our profession.”

Shannon will officially become “Dr. Gregoire” when she graduates from Western in 2022. She will be joining more than 1,500 new veterinary graduates from the 30 accredited U.S. schools—all of whom will be spending the semester in various stages of quarantine and isolation. 

You can follow the future “Dr.” Shannon Gregoire at www.linkedin.com/in/shannonpgregoiredvm/

PETVET MAGAZINE

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best practices

GET THEM MOVING: MANAGEMENT IN DOGS

Managemen

By Kara M. Burns, MS, MEd, LVT, VTS (Nutrition)

I

n dogs, as in humans, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of joint disease recognized. OA often leads to physical incapacity and pain, leading to a reduction in the pet’s quality of life. Veterinarians are uniquely positioned to discuss potential changes in mobility with pet owners.

OA is a slowly progressive condition characterized by two main pathologic processes: degeneration of articular cartilage with a loss of both proteoglycan and collagen; and proliferation of new bone. Furthermore, there is a variable, low-grade inflammatory response within the synovial membrane. In North America, age-specific prevalence values range from 20% in dogs older than one year and up to 80% in dogs older than eight years, based on radiographic and clinical data from referral settings.1,2 Goals for managing OA are multifaceted • Reducing pain and discomfort • Decreasing clinical signs • Slowing disease progression • Promoting repair of damaged tissue • Improving the dog’s quality of life Therapy for dogs with mobility issues include a combination of anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, disease-modifying osteoarthritis agents (DMOAs), nutraceuticals, weight reduction, exercise programs, physical therapy and therapeutic foods. Applying a personalized blend of these management options to each patient improves quality of life, which is the goal of therapy.

Obesity is epidemic in humans and in companion animals. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention found nearly 56% of dogs to be clinically overweight or obese.3 The CDC estimates that approximately 42% of

16

all adult humans suffer from arthritis.4 Similarly, 20% of the adult canine population is estimated to suffer from osteoarthritis (OA). One long-term study documented that the prevalence of osteoarthritis is greater in overweight or obese dogs compared to ideal weight dogs (83% vs 50%).5 Given these statistics, it’s reasonable to assume a significant portion of arthritic dogs will be overweight or obese and vice versa. Managing these co-morbid conditions presents a variety of challenges.

Assessment The veterinarian plays an extensive role in assessing and managing joint disease. Diagnosis of osteoarthritis involves a combination of history, physical examination findings and radiographic evidence of joint disease. Historical clues—although essential to creating an index of suspicion—may be elusive and clinical signs may be subtle on routine veterinary examination. Owners don’t always recognize pain or may attribute various signs of OA to normal aging. Thus, they often neglect to report them, unless the veterinarian prompts them during the history.

Signs Associated with Joint Disease The veterinary team should be aware of the most commonly reported clinical signs of joint disease: difficulty rising from rest, stiffness or lameness. However, a thorough history specific to joint disease may uncover

PETVET MAGAZINE

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Canine Mobility Questionnaire WHAT’S YOUR DOG’S INTERACTION LIKE WITH YOU AND FAMILY?

DESCRIBE THEIR EXERCISE REGIMEN. ANY CHANGES?

IS THEIR ACTIVITY ENJOYMENT LEVEL DIFFERENT? WHAT’S PREVENTING THEM FROM TAKING WALKS? FROM INTERACTING WITH YOU? DO THEY TIRE EASILY? ARE THEY LYING AROUND MORE?

HOW’S THEIR SLEEPING BEHAVIOR? HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT FROM BEFORE? ARE THEY FREQUENTLY ADJUSTING POSITION TO BE MORE COMFORTABLE?

WHAT CHANGES HAVE THEY DEMONSTRATED UNLIKE NORMAL BEHAVIOR?

HOW’S THEIR APPETITE? ANY CHANGES IN WANTING TO EAT? DO THEY FINISH THEIR MEAL?

WHAT’S YOUR HOME FLOORING & ARE THEY AVOIDING HARD FLOORS?

WHAT’S THEIR PLAY BEHAVIOR? ARE THEY LESS INTERESTED IN PLAYING/INTERACTING WITH FAMILY MEMBERS? HUMAN OR ANIMAL?

HOW DO THEY RISE FROM REST? IS THIS DIFFERENT?

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DO THEY ENJOY CAR RIDES? HOW DO THEY GET IN?

HOW MANY STAIRS IN YOUR HOME?

ANY CHANGES IN TOILETING?

BODY CONDITION SCORE

MUSCLE CONDITION SCORE

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evidence of subtle changes earlier; reluctance to walk, run, climb stairs, jump or play. Signs may be unassuming, like not keeping pace on walks. Pet owners are often unaware of the correlation between behavior changes and joint disease. Yelping or whimpering and even personality changes, such as withdrawal or aggressive behavior, may be indicative of the chronic pain of joint disease.

It’s important for veterinary teams to listen to owners as they describe their dog no longer wanting to walk on tile or hardwood floors, or go for rides in the car—once a favorite activity. This discussion lends clues to uncovering behavior that points to discomfort due to joint disease.

The veterinary team may also discover discreet signs that the owner didn’t notice, like longer nails indicating the dog isn’t walking or walking as much, resulting in the nails not being “worn” by hard surfaces; or abnormal fur patterns over joints, indicating the dog has been licking the area—a sign of joint pain. Consistent use of an owner questionnaire (LEFT) may facilitate early detection of osteoarthritis.

Diagnosing obesity may seem inconsequential when dealing with joint disease, but documenting obesity leads to diagnostic, curative and preventive strategies that are omitted in the absence of a diagnosis. The first step to diagnosing overweight or obesity is consistent recording of both body weight and body condition score. The body condition score (BCS) is a subjective assessment of an animal’s body fat percentage, accounting for the animal’s frame size independent of its weight. It’s important for the veterinary team to align on the BCS protocol and ensure all members are following the protocol. The BCS puts body weight in perspective for each individual patient.

In both human and veterinary medicine, timely identification of overweight or obesity by primary care providers remains the crucial initial step in their management.

Risk factors for canines to develop osteoarthritis include age, large or giant breeds, genetics, developmental orthopedic disease, trauma and obesity. Risk factors for overweight or obesity in dogs include age, particular breeds, neutering, consuming a semi-moist, homemade or canned food as their major diet source, and consumption of "other" foods (meat or other food products, commercial treats, table scraps).

The radiographic prevalence of canine hip

dysplasia, a leading cause of OA in dogs, has been reported to be as high as 70% in Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers.6 Veterinarians must be cognizant of the overrepresentation of obesity in certain breeds (Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Labrador Retrievers), and begin discussions about ideal body weight when these patients are young. Reiterate the fact that chubby puppies become overweight adult dogs and thus should be educated regarding the importance of lifelong weight management.

Studies show that dogs evaluated as overweight at nine to 12 months were 1.5 times more likely to become overweight adults.7,8 The incidence and severity of OA secondary to canine hip dysplasia can be significantly influenced by environmental factors such as nutrition and lifestyle.

Understanding the correlation between maintaining their dog at a healthy weight and decreasing the risk of disease may be a powerful motivator for many owners.

In humans, the epidemic of obesity is largely attributed to changes in the availability, quantity and composition of food, and the decrease in the amount of physical activity needed for daily living. Physical activity levels of dogs often mirror their human companions. Veterinary teams should educate dog owners—regardless of the owners’ body condition—that dogs’ needs are not a constant

request for food. If their dog approaches them while cooking, it’s not a plea for food, but attention. Pet, talk to or interact with the dog, but don’t give a food item for each interaction. Veterinarians have the ability to counsel owners on appropriate responses early in the dog’s life, and owners should be encouraged to respond with play activities or praise rather than food rewards.

Managing Mobility Nutritionally As with many diseases, nutrition plays a role in managing joint disease. Nutritional factors can potentially modify some of the underlying processes involved in arthritis, including modulation of the inflammatory response, provision of nutrients for cartilage repair and protection against oxidative damage. Nutritional management may also help reduce or eliminate the need for conventional drugs— some which are associated with adverse, secondary effects.

Nutrients & Their Role in Managing Joint Disease Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, play a role in the structure of tissues and organs in the body.

Methionine is a unique amino acid that produces several important molecules in your body which are essential

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for the proper functioning of cells. Methionine contains sulfur and can produce other sulfur-containing molecules in the joint, and is also involved in protein production.

Manganese is an essential nutrient involved in numerous chemical processes in the body, including bone formation.

Manganese supports the health and maintenance of bone and cartilage in joints. Manganese also supports collagen formation for joint strength. Methionine and manganese are building blocks for cartilage in joints.

A crucial amino acid which facilitates the body turning fat into energy is carnitine, which aids in maintaining muscle and transporting long chain fatty acids and their derivatives into the mitochondria of cells. The severity of joint disease may be lessened by strengthening skeletal muscle and turning fat into energy.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a principal component of synovial fluid. HA works in the joint to preserve joint viscosity, support lubrication of the joint and aid in shock absorption. Antioxidants and vitamins C and E neutralize free radicals to increase mobility. N-Acetyl D-glucosamine “shortcuts� the glycosaminoglycan pathway to maintain healthy joint structure and function.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to aid in the management of dogs with osteoarthritis. Studies show,

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foods with high levels of total omega-3 fatty acids and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) can improve the clinical signs of canine osteoarthritis.9,10 In normal canine cartilage, there’s a balance between synthesis and degradation of the cartilage matrix. Consequently, in arthritic joints, damage to chondrocytes stimulate a viscous cycle resulting in the destruction of cartilage, inflammation and pain.

Omega-3 fatty acids demonstrate clinical benefits, including the control of inflammation and the reduction of the expression and activity of cartilage degrading enzymes.

Cartilage degradation starts with loss of cartilage aggrecan followed by loss of cartilage collagens, resulting in loss of ability to resist compressive forces during joint movement. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) significantly decreases the loss of aggrecan in canine cartilage by inhibiting the up regulation of aggrecanases by blocking the signal at the level of messenger RNA. Omega-3 fatty acids result in a decrease in membrane arachidonic acid (AA) levels because omega-3 fatty acids replace AA in the substrate pool. This produces an accompanying decrease in the capacity to synthesize inflammatory eicosanoids from AA. Studies have documented that inflammatory eicosanoids produced from AA are depressed when dogs consume foods with high levels of omega-3 fatty

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acids. In addition to their role in modulating the production of inflammatory eicosanoids, omega-3 fatty acids have a direct role in the resolution of inflammation.

Shellfish supplements have been used to manage arthritis in humans, and, recently, interest has focused on the potential benefits of a nutritional supplement prepared from the New Zealand green lipped mussel, Perna canali culus. Green lipped mussel (GLM) is known to contain anti-inflammatory components and other nutrients which benefit joint health.

Heat processing of GLM has been shown to destroy its activity. Therefore, the processing of whole GLM and incorporation of the GLM product into food and supplement products require special care and processing techniques to avoid destroying any efficacy of the final product.

GLM has been shown to contain a unique omega-3 fatty acid, eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), which appears to act as a dual inhibitor of arachidonic acid oxygenation by both the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways.11 GLM is a rich source of nutrients, including glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as chondroitin sulfates, vitamins, minerals and omega-3 series PUFAs.

Managing joint disease in dogs successfully requires a comprehensive approach including preventive measures and a multimodal management program. Early diagnosis of OA facilitates early intervention which will likely improve the longterm outcome for the patient. It’s important for veterinarians to use a thorough, disease-specific history as this may raise awareness of subtle changes early in the course of joint disease, as well as communicate the importance of nutritional management in the successful management of joint disease. Kara Burns, MS, MEd, LVT, VTS (Nutrition) is a licensed veterinary technician with a master’s degree in physiology and a master’s degree in counseling psychology.

Kara is the Founder and President of the Academy of Veterinary Nutrition Technicians, and teaches nutrition courses around the world. She is a member of many associations and holds positions on many boards: American Academy of Veterinary Nutrition executive board; Western Veterinary Conference Technician Education Manager; NAVTA immediate Past President; Pride VMC board treasurer; etc. She is also a member of the YuMOVE ADVANCE 360 Veterinary Advisory Board, a hip and joint supplement for dogs.

REFERENCES 1. Johnston SA. Osteoarthritis - joint anatomy, physiology, and pathobiology. Veterinary Clinics of North America-Small Animal Practice. 1997;27:699–723. doi: 10.1016/ S0195-5616(97)50076-3.

2. Anderson KL, O’Neill DG, Brodbelt DC, et al. Prevalence, duration and risk factors for appendicular osteoarthritis in a UK dog population under primary veterinary care.

Scientific Reports. 2018. 8:5641, 1-12.

3. https://petobesityprevention.org/ accessed April 24, 2020.

4. Hales CM, Carroll MD, Fryar CD, Ogden CL. Prevalence of obesity and severe obesity among adults: United States, 2017-2018.

NCHS Data Brief No. 360, February 2020.

5. Kealy RD, Lawler DF, Ballam JM, et al. Evaluation of the effect of limited food consumption on radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis in dogs. JAVMA 2000;217:1678-1680.

6. Paster, E. R., E. LaFond, et al. Estimates of prevalence of hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers and Rottweilers and the influence of bias on published prevalence figures. JAVMA, 2005, 226(3): 387-392.

7. Eby J, Colditz G. Obesity/Overweight: Prevention and Weight Management. In: Quah S, Heggenhougen K, eds. International Encyclopedia Of Public Health St. Louis: Elsiver, 2008:602-609.

8. Kienzle E, Bergler R, Mandernach A.

A comparison of the feeding behavior and the human-animal relationship in owners of normal and obese dogs. J Nutr 1998;128:2779S-2782S. 9. Roush JK, et al. Multicenter practice assessment of the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on osteoarthritis in dogs. JAVMA, 2010; 236 (1): 59-66.

10. Fritsch D, Allen TA, Dodd CE, et

al. Dose-titration effects of fish oil in osteoarthritic dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2010;24:1020-1026.

11. Treschow AP, Hodges LD, Wright PF, et al.

Novel anti-inflammatory omega-3 PUFAs from New-Zealand green-lipped mussels, Perna canaliculus. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2007;147:645–656.

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business trends

Rethinking

P

Feline Wellness

opular culture champions the dog as “man’s best friend,” and as a result, information and products aimed to help people give their dogs a better life abound. Dog owners will happily invest in doggy daycare, training classes, toys, puzzle bowls and a host of other enrichment items to ensure their dogs are entertained and have fulfilling lives.

On the contrary, cats have traditionally been seen as “easy” pets, requiring little to no effort from owners. Why, then, do we spend so much of our time in the veterinary clinic addressing litter box issues, destructive or disruptive behaviors, and inter-pet aggression in our feline patients? The animal care world is beginning to wake up to the fact that mental health in our indoor cats is not only as important as, but directly related to, their overall wellbeing.

As veterinary professionals, we recognize the role stress plays in the physical health of our feline patients. The most notable stress-related condition veterinarians and owners battle is feline interstitial cystitis, or FIC. While FIC is not fully understood, environmental stress is generally considered to be a major factor contributing to the disease.

A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in 20111 showed cats diagnosed with FIC exhibited a reduction in signs of disease with the addition of environmental enrichment, such as a consistent schedule, human interaction, classical music, catnip, treats and new toys.

Conversely, “healthy” cats (not previously diagnosed with FIC) participating in the study developed sickness behaviors, including urinary changes, when enrichment was withheld.

Cats who consistently have issues using their litter box are frequently at risk of being surrendered or euthanized. Other behaviors that can lead to cats losing their home include destroying furniture, excessive energy or vocalization, and/or conflict with 22

other pets or human members of the family. According to Tori Peterson, a dog and cat trainer and behavior consultant from Verona, Wisconsin, these issues often have a common foundation. She explains many perceived behavioral problems in indoor cats stem from one or more of the following causes of stress: territorial stress, boredom and/or frustration.

Territorial Stress Indoor cats may experience territorial stress from sharing space with another cat or having inadequate or inappropriate space for essential activities (eating, sleeping and eliminating).

According to the International Society of Feline Medicine, most cats prefer their food and water be offered in 2-3 locations throughout the home, separate from areas housing litter boxes.

Food should not be kept near plug-ins, scented cleaners or candles. Feline behavior studies suggest cats prefer to eat without other cats present, even if they cohabitate well in general. Each cat in a household should have its own food and water dishes and litter boxes to reduce resource-related territorial stress.

Behavior consultant Tori Peterson also recommends making sure cats have enough vertical space in their environment, particularly if multiple cats share a home. Vertical space can include cat trees, securely-fixed shelves or furniture that allows a cat to escape the ground level and preferably travel from one location to the next without leaving the security of a higher elevation. This is especially important in bottleneck areas such as doorways and halls. Dividing highly-trafficked spaces into different “lanes” allows cats increased freedom of movement without the threat of confrontation or conflict.

Boredom While some cats may seem content sleeping all day and

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keeping to themselves, many likely desire more attention and stimulation than previously assumed. A well-known study published by Dr. Kristyn Vitale in 2017 showed that cats who were offered food, scent and human interaction most frequently chose human interaction as the preferred diversion.2 Hallmarks of a bored cat include knocking things off shelves, walking on or in front of objects their owners are using, or exhibiting destructive behaviors only when in view of their owners. These cats are seeking attention, and even negative attention is preferable to being ignored.

Positive interactions with a cat can include petting, talking and play. Cats typically prefer being petted when in a relaxed state. Attempting to pet an excited cat can lead to play-biting, scratching or overstimulation. Many cats respond to being talked to, and some behaviorists believe meowing is an attempt by domestic cats to communicate with people as vocalization is rarely seen between cats or in the wild. Playing with a cat can include human interaction by using a toy such as a wand or even playing fetch with stuffed cat toys. A surprising number of cats even enjoy positive-reinforcement training as a form of play, combining mental stimulation and time with their owners.

Cat owners can also combat boredom by enriching a cat’s environment. Tori Peterson emphasizes engaging all five of a cat’s senses as much as possible.3 Having cat grass in the house gives cats something

other than their food to taste, and safely screened, open windows can provide smells and sounds from outside. Bird feeders outside windows, secure fish tanks and “cat TV” offer stimulating sights. A variety of scratching post textures such as sisal, carpet and wood should be available, and both horizontal and vertical options should be at least six inches longer than the cat is tall to allow for a complete stretch. All enrichment items should be regularly rotated so the cat has access to new and interesting experiences.

Frustration Solving frustration in a cat is less about entertainment and more about allowing expression of natural behaviors. One of the key areas where indoor cats are likely to be unsatisfied is in their eating habits.

A study published by the International Society of Feline medicine found that wild felines most closely related to domestic cats spend approximately 69% of their day hunting and foraging for food, in sharp contrast with the meager 1% spent by indoor pet cats. Additionally, a wild cat would typically eat 10-20 small meals per day rather than the 1-2 larger meals often made available to pet cats.

Owners can simulate a more natural feeding routine for their cats by using puzzle feeders. It is best to offer a variety of puzzle feeders that require different strategies (pawing, biting, kicking) to get the food inside. Cats accustomed to receiving food in a dish can become frustrated with puzzle feeders, so it is important to start

with easier puzzles and slowly increase difficulty to the cat’s level.4 Tori Peterson believes mimicking the hunt-eat-groom-sleep cycle is the foundation of preventing indoor cat frustration.5 To effectively recreate this cycle in a home environment, an owner should first understand a cat’s need to play. The relatively low success rate of wild cats’ hunts drives an instinct to pursue prey even when not hungry, a behavior we see reflected in our own pet cats as play. Play should ideally last a minimum of 15 minutes and require a variety of movements natural to cats including stalking, jumping, pouncing and short bursts of running. Immediately following play, cats should receive a small meal, rewarding them for their “hunt” with the captured “prey.” Cats are then able to groom and sleep, having expended their energy and satisfied their hunger. Completing this cycle 2-3 times throughout the day—especially shortly before the people in the house go to bed—can reduce the incidence of cats waking their owners at night or early in the morning, and greatly increases an indoor cat’s sense of fulfillment.

When we consider the emotional health of our feline patients to be an important part of their wellness, we become more effective veterinary professionals.

By educating clients about indoor cat enrichment, we can address both medical and behavioral issues, improving the lives of cats and those who love them. 

references 1. Stella JL, Lord LK, Buffington T. Sickness behaviors in response to unusual external events in healthy cats and cats with feline interstitial cystitis. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

2011;238:67-73.

2. Vitale Shreve KR, Mehrkam LR, Udell MAR. Social interaction, food, scent or toys? A formal assessment of domestic pet and shelter cat (Felis silvestris catus) preferences. Behavioral Processes. 2017;141:322-328.

3. Peterson T. Staying busy not bored: cat enrichment ideas. Space Cat

Academy. https://www.spacecatacademy.com/articles/2018/2/3/ cat-enrichment. Published February 10 2018. Accessed March 15, 2020.

4. Ryan L. Feeding cats for the future: an opportunity for creativity. Feline Focus. 2020;6:61-68.

5. Peterson T. Keeping your cat satisfied: the cycle of daily needs. Space Cat Academy . https://www.spacecatacademy.com/articles/2019/9/6/ keeping-your-cat-satisfied-the-cycle-of-daily-needs. Published September 6, 2019. Accessed April 7, 2020.

Elycia Degenhardt is a certified veterinary technician working at an AAHA accredited general practice in Wisconsin.

She joined the veterinary profession after four years as a high school teacher and remains passionate about education.

Elycia earned degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Madison College and continues to learn new things every day through her career and life experiences.

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BEYOND THE STETHOSCOPE

Finding Your Next Right Step

By Angela Demaree, DVM, MPH, CHPC

A

s we head into a new year, a new career path or a new stage in life, we might be wondering what our purpose in life is.

I often get asked, “How do I find my purpose in life? How do I know what that is?” It's unlikely that we wake up one day and magically know what this answer is. But at every fork in the road, don't we have that feeling in our gut of what the next right step is or might be? When we are tuned into ourselves and paying attention, it's obvious what our purpose or next right step is at that moment.

The most important question I ever asked myself to start to figure this out was, “How can I have more fun?”

If you wonder how you will climb that mountain of work, aspiration or ambition in front of you, you might find the answer by asking, “How can I have more fun here? What's the next step?”

Perhaps you've noticed some of our colleagues who have similar jobs and similar work hours, and yet, they are happier, having more fun and seem to be effortlessly 24

gliding through life—while we are left wondering what their secret is. What if it's just that they are focused on having more fun or on that simple next step?

Let's first consider another perspective and look at how far we've come. We might be standing on top of a mountain, and from our current vantage point, we can see a series of stepping stones, which are the tops of mountains that we've already climbed. So, rather than needing to climb Mount Everest over and over again, are there a series of stepping stones that will help you effortlessly step across that divide and safely reach your destination with less hardship, challenge and frustration?

Is there an elevator that can take you to the top without having to climb fifty flights of stairs or carve footholds on the side of that treacherous mountain?

What other opportunities might also get us to our desired destination with less frustration, hardship and struggle, all while having more fun?

Sometimes the elevator in front of you is your

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team, who lift you up and guide you along the way. You may be the leader, but they make it all possible and add more joy to the journey.

Sometimes the least resistant path is taking the scenic route to walk a fun path and spiral around the mountain to the top.

Sometimes it just takes more clarity to know what you are looking for and asking, “How can I? How is it possible?”

Imagine if one of your mentors showed up and asked you, “What if you took this opportunity? Won't it get you one step closer to your goal?” Rather than saying, “No, it's not direct or fast enough;” perhaps you investigate it further and start asking, “How can I get there from here?” Spend less time thinking statements like, “Because it's not possible,” “Because I have this set of circumstances,” or “Because I've painted myself into this corner,” and on and on our excuses go.

When we pay attention to the language we use and the stories we tell ourselves, we might be surprised at what we hear. These statements are ways of throwing up roadblocks and hurdles to prove we were right or add more challenge and struggle to our already busy lives.

Instead of using defeatist or self-deprecating language when describing your dreams, purpose and goals in life, or brushing them off like they aren't that important, what if you shared them without shame, fear or guilt? Or with the joy in your heart and the

Sometimes the least resistant path is taking the scenic route to walk a fun path and spiral around the mountain to the top.

www.rememberapet.org

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excitement in your voice that you feel?

What if you started sharing your true self with others, including your hopes and dreams, and discovered you had a mentor who was lighting the way to a secret passage with an elevator to the top of a neighboring mountain? Once you arrived at the top, you then learned that all you had to do was walk across a bridge to the top of the mountain you wanted to climb? Or perhaps zipline across for that rush of adventure you so desire?

We often forget the series of steps that led us to where we are today and are in a hurry to leap to the top of the mountain when that achievement isn't our purpose and won't make us happier. The journey is where the joy, happiness and adventure live and allow us to serve our unique purpose every day. Sometimes we need a moment to be still and take a moment for gratitude and appreciation to see the abundant opportunities.

As we find ourselves in an unstable time amidst a pandemic, how do we find the time and solace to live fully into our purpose in life? Sometimes, the most incredible opportunity lies in chaos and uncertainty because it finally permits us to ask those big scary questions.

Four years ago, I hit rock bottom after work eliminated my position—the one that I climbed the proverbial career ladder to achieve; one of only a handful of roles in the entire country and where I thought I'd serve the remainder of my career. At that moment, I started asking, “What did I want in life? How did I want to feel?” I wanted to be painfree after multiple surgeries and have more fun.

That simple question and answer led me to put on my workout shoes and move for ten minutes every morning.

That one simple act of putting on my shoes led to a series of actions and opportunities that led me to start living the life of my dreams and accomplish more in the last four years—and accomplish what others said was impossible. It is possible to pay the bills while working only two to three days

Dr. Angela Demaree is the CEO and Principal Consultant for PAWS Consulting, a public health and political consulting firm.

Angela recently retired as a Major in the United States Army Reserves, is a Certified High Performance CoachTM and the host of Beyond the Stethoscope, the podcast for veterinarians and busy professionals who want actionable, implementable solutions surrounding work-life balance, accomplishing your goals and living your dreams. She spends her free time with her horse, Tommy and teaching her Quaker Parrot the Purdue Fight Song. You can connect with Angela on Twitter and LinkedIn @DemareeDVM.

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a week and spend the rest of the week pursuing those big, crazy dreams of mine and riding my horse whenever I want.

Here are ten questions you can ask yourself to learn what your next right step might be along your unique path: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

What is the lifestyle that I want?

How do I want to feel?

What would my dream life look like each day or week?

What can I accomplish?

What action can I take?

What other opportunities might get me closer even if it seems that I'm moving further away?

How can I have more fun and get one step closer to my goals and dreams?

Who can I enlist to help me?

What can I automate or delete to free up more time?

What is one action I can take that is one step in the right direction?

If this exercise feels overwhelming, answer just one or two of the questions. We rarely know what we will accomplish in life or the amazing ways it will all unfold. Keep taking the next right step for you and take time to have some fun along the way, and your purpose will appear in all the decisions along the way.

After all, it wasn't my lifelong goal or aspiration to be where I am today. I'm living the life of my dreams because I asked myself how I wanted to feel and how I could have more fun. Those two seemingly insignificant questions gave me the courage to put on my shoes and take that next step.

These questions might lead you to see your purpose more clearly and live into your purpose more fully each day with more joy in your heart and pep in your step than you ever thought possible.

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Industry News

WHEN I what kids get right (and wrong) about the profession By Brendan Howard

M

any kids dream of becoming veterinarians, but few actually will. Animal-loving kids, though, can become great pet owners and clients if veterinary medicine does not turn out to be the right path for them. Three veterinarians sound off on what kids and teens get right (and wrong) about what it means to work as a veterinarian.

Kids need to really, really want it.

People become veterinarians for lots of reasons, but Sarah Wooten, DVM, says when she thinks back to her own journey, there were hurts that that she hoped to heal and things she hoped the career would win her. “[As a child,] I spent most of my time with animals because I had a huge imagination and a lot of social anxiety—people didn’t really get me, but animals did,” Dr. Wooten says. “Unlike most vets, I didn’t know I wanted to be a veterinarian my whole life. But being a veterinarian seemed to be the road to financial stability and social status and respect—two things I lacked as a kid and really wanted above all else.”

Today, as she bops around her work life and children’s lives, she encounters different kids, and many of them seem to have a clearer idea than she did way back when about what the job entailed.

“My best friend’s daughter is high school age and

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“So much of the job is bad smells, weird fluids and a fair share of ‘gross.’”

Melissa Detweiler, DVM

wants to become a veterinary surgeon,” Dr. Wooten says. “She spends her free time watching YouTube videos on surgery and is super driven and clear about what she wants.”

She talked to her friend’s daughter about how expensive veterinary school can be and how that compares to starting salaries, but it didn’t make a dent.

“Good,” she thought.

“She would not be swayed, which means she really, really wants it—and to be a good veterinarian who sticks in the profession, you need to really, really want it,” Dr. Wooten said.

If kids can manage the cleaning up, the blood and the euthanasias…

Melissa Detweiler, DVM, was around animals from day one as a kid.

But in third grade, her veterinarian’s euthanasia of her sick family dog almost put her off the career.

She says the reality of euthanasia and

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the behind-the-scenes work is something that turns off some teens with summer jobs at her veterinary practice today.

“The high school kids help clean kennels and help with boarding dogs,” Dr. Detweiler says. “They apply for the job because they think they want to be veterinarians, but it’s no glamor role.”

Of the ones who leave the job early, Dr. Detweiler says some decide they want jobs in human medicine. Another high schooler realized she couldn’t get over the sight of blood.

She and the rest of the team joke that the biggest red flag is when the first words out of an applicant’s mouth are, “I just want to do this because I love animals so much.”

“So much of the job is bad smells, weird fluids and a fair share of ‘gross,’” Dr. Detweiler says.

Some children (and adults) who gravitate to jobs in veterinary medicine also like animals more than people, “but pets don’t come in by themselves,” she says.

“I counsel the kids on learning how to communicate and being comfortable with people,” Dr. Detweiler shares. “If that’s not an introvert’s natural tendency, it’s not that it can’t be done, it just takes work.”

Death is also a rough part of medicine for young employees—something especially hard on idealistic animal lovers. TV shows from Animal Planet and National Geographic glorify the fun, joy and excitement of saving lives, but the harsh reality is, sometimes animals can’t be saved. And that’s hard for some animal lovers to swallow.

In Dr. Detweiler’s rural Kansas town, a lot of the kids who seem to understand the reality of life and death the most are those with an agriculture background.

“Kids from farms kind of understand the bigger picture of the profession,” she says. “Maybe they’re not as emotionally vested in every case, and they have a healthier boundary; a healthier viewpoint.”

“These kids from rural and semi-rural communities love and appreciate pets,” Dr. Detweiler explains. “But they don’t get as frustrated with clients who don’t follow all the recommendations. They don’t take it personally if clients don’t accept the best, most expensive treatment plan.”

Dr. Detweiler doesn’t try to talk kids out of veterinary school, but she tries to share the good with the bad.

“It sounds weird, but of the teenagers who leave their jobs early in my hospital, maybe we save them,” she says.

“Let’s show the cool surgeries to them, but also not hide the ugly parts of the job. I don’t want to see people give their lives to a profession they’re not suited for.”

“There are many ways for animal lovers to live lives invested in animals and caring for them without going to veterinary school,” Dr. Detweiler shares. “A rich life full of pets, farm animals, rescues and fosters might work fine for some.”

Don’t waste teachable moments!

When Chris Carpenter, DVM, surveyed practicing veterinarians, 65 percent of them said they’d decided to become animal doctors before they were 13. That means the elementary, middle and high school students who come to his website, www.vetsetgo.com, to learn about becoming veterinarians might not have all the information about the career path, but they’ve got lifelong passion to make it happen.

Dr. Carpenter considers it a gift when a young, aspiring doctor winds up in a hospital and a veterinarian is there to make the most of it.

“Don’t lean on bland advice like ‘study science and get animal experience.’ Instead, invite interested tweens or teens to shadow you for a day. Handle this encounter right, and you’ll gain their parents’ goodwill for life,” Dr. Carpenter says.

“And, you might be training the next generation of excellent, thoughtful pet owners, too, who understand the issues of animal medicine, even if they don’t choose a career there.”

“While some of them will become animal doctors, most will not,” he says. “However, they will all become something else: pet owners. If we reach out to them today, build a strong connection with them, and educate them on animal health, we will have well-educated future clients with a close connection to our profession.”

For those whose dream is to doctor animals, veterinarians like Drs. Wooten, Dr. Detweiler and Dr. Carpenter welcome them aboard.  Brendan Howard is a freelance writer in Olathe, Kansas. He’s worked on cool content, audio and video with veterinarians and veterinary professionals for more than 13 years.

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PETVET TOp 10

Ten things to DO

1 Looking for a fun way to

give back to the profession?

Pawsibilities Vet Med is a nonprofit organization that aims to improve the recruitment and retention of underrepresented groups into the veterinary profession. Sign up at pawsibilitiesvetmed.com

2 Earthing

3 Has the pandemic affected your

midsection?

Don’t worry, Dr. Jessica Borne Turner, veterinarian and personal trainer, is ready to help! Sign up for her free Facebook Group, DVMoms: Virtual Gym, and get advice and lots of support while you work yourself back into shape.

4 Get COLORFUL!

Surrounding ourselves with specific colors can change how we feel. Green is one of the best colors for mood boosting, and is the color of growth and healing. Orange represents adventure and can be very uplifting, making you feel more energized and also more creative.

is the practice of sitting or standing barefoot on a natural surface. It has been touted as having health benefits, including improving sleep and decreasing anxiety.

Take off your shoes and try it for yourself !

5 Want to up youR

cat credentials?

The American Association of Feline Practitioners recently launched their Cat Friendly Certificate Program. This program was created to address the needs of individuals in the veterinary community in order to increase their personal feline knowledge and skills. To learn more or enroll, visit catvets.com/certificate

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PETVET MAGAZINE

this month

Get ready for a fun new podcast! Check out

7

6

Have you tried

Manuka honey?

VET CANDY IRL

From the minds and mouths of three veterinary students, the new show is all about #vetstudentlife. It is produced by Pet Life Radio and available on most podcast platforms.

8

The value of honey’s medical potential is being rediscovered, and using medicinal honey for wound

Need an idea for your New Year’s RESOLUTION?

management is becoming more commonplace today. In the age of

“

rising antibiotic resistance, honey’s antimicrobial properties are

Number three on a recently posted list suggested,

another great reason to try it out.

C O MP MPLL A I N I N G .

9 Live vicariously through

Dr. Sheridan Lathe

Resolve to stop complaining for the month of January and see how you feel. Even just 30 days of a more positive mindset can help your life feel more comfortable and help you feel at peace.”

10

Known more by the moniker “Dr.

Looking for a smart

show to stream

on Netflix?

Our pick this month is Enola Holmes. If you liked Millie Bobby Brown in Stranger Things, you will love her as she plays Sherlock’s little sister on a mission to find their mother. 

Sheddy,” she is a native of Queensland, Australia and travels the world on her sailboat, the Chuffed. Subscribe to her YouTube channel to stay up to date with her many adventures: Vet Tails’ Sailing Chuffed.

PETVET MAGAZINE

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PETVET MAGAZINE

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