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Buying and Selling

Photo gallery: 10 trucks for today's equine veterinarian

Compare 2011 and 2012 models and learn whether the extra space for your veterinary drugs and gear in an extended bed means a drop in fuel MPG.

Q&A: How to switch roles in veterinary practice and salaries

Time to reevaluate your position in the practice. Here's how to make the transition a smooth one.

Rural woes don't reflect overall practice sales market, brokers say

National Report — Kanab, Utah, just got its second stoplight. And most people living in the community leave their doors unlocked.

By the numbers: Why veterinary practice sales have suffered and why they could be on the rise

Three dozen attorneys, lenders, accountants, brokers, consolidators, and consultants who are actively involved in buying and selling veterinary practices weigh in on the future of veterinary practice sales.

Should I sell my veterinary practice now?

You can shake your Magic 8 Ball as hard as you want, but even that can't tell you for sure whether you should sell now or hold out. But here are a few indicators that the veterinary practice sale market is poised for growth.

Control your emotions during the sale of a veterinary practice

Don't let your emotions get the best of you—whether you're a buyer or a seller

My veterinary practice survived a land grab

It started as a rumor. It turned into a battle for survival to save my practice against development.

5 ways to boost your chances for a veterinary practice loan

It's never too early to prepare for veterinary practice loan application. Follow these tips and avoid roadblocks on your road to ownership.

Videos: Associate fears about veterinary practice ownership

Three Veterinary Economics Editorial Advisory Board members share their thoughts on why associates fear to buy and how practice owners can help change that.

Client Communication

3 ways veterinarians have got human doctors beat

When it comes to the client experience, there's no contest.

7 ways to give veterinary dental recommendations

Feeling tongue-tied when veterinary clients refuse dental treatment for their pets? Here's a mouthful of ideas on how to emphasize the importance of complete oral care.

4 ways to provide culturally competent veterinary care

Can you communicate with all of the potential veterinary clients in your community? Attract more business by bridging the communication gap and broaden your horizons.

Q&A: How deposits can save veterinary profits

Q: What should we do when veterinary clients accept a treatment plan with an estimate and then, after the procedure is done, reveal that they can?t pay the bill?

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Caring about others: Drug shortages

How do our clients recognize that we care?

Are you sure your veterinary clients can hear you?

You can scream and shout, but until you work your communication muscles, you'll never get through to your pet-owning clients.

Lead the way: 7 steps to boost acceptance of your medical recommendations

Try these 7 steps to boost acceptance of your medical recommendations.

Editors' Guest: There isn't much of a market for buggy whips

Today's veterianry practice needs an overhaul, much like when the internal combustion engine changed practice in the past.

Client Education

Client handout: What's in your cat's mouth?

Here's a veterinary handout that will gross out—and educate—clients about feline dental care.

It's OK to gross out veterinary clients

When it comes to feline dental care, a photo helps your message hit home.

Work the veterinary drug ring

Boost goodwill and veterinary visits by helping clients dispose of unused meds.

Bite into these veterinary resources

These dental sites will help you and your veterinary clients.

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Cats: Hidden veterinary patients in waiting

Grow your feline practice.

CAPC to direct efforts to consumer education

Bel Air, Md. — The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC) believes revamping its parasite prevalence maps with real-time, localized information can help practitioners drive pet owners back into their clinics and reclaim their position as the experts on animal health.

Pet food: What's in a name

Does a "chicken" by any other name taste as sweet?

4 holiday hazards to warn veterinary clients about

Advise pet owners to hide these household hazards and protect your patients this holiday season.

Client Relations

3 ways veterinarians have got human doctors beat

When it comes to the client experience, there's no contest.

Client handout: What's in your cat's mouth?

Here's a veterinary handout that will gross out—and educate—clients about feline dental care.

7 ways to give veterinary dental recommendations

Feeling tongue-tied when veterinary clients refuse dental treatment for their pets? Here's a mouthful of ideas on how to emphasize the importance of complete oral care.

4 ways to provide culturally competent veterinary care

Can you communicate with all of the potential veterinary clients in your community? Attract more business by bridging the communication gap and broaden your horizons.

Bite into these veterinary resources

These dental sites will help you and your veterinary clients.

Work the veterinary drug ring

Boost goodwill and veterinary visits by helping clients dispose of unused meds.

It's OK to gross out veterinary clients

When it comes to feline dental care, a photo helps your message hit home.

Market Watch: What do you want from me?

Try these 11 tips to ensure your practice is exceptional.

Q&A: How deposits can save veterinary profits

Q: What should we do when veterinary clients accept a treatment plan with an estimate and then, after the procedure is done, reveal that they can?t pay the bill?

Client Service

Market Watch: What do you want from me?

Try these 11 tips to ensure your practice is exceptional.

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Cats: Hidden veterinary patients in waiting

Grow your feline practice.

Cover all the feed-store angles

Get veterinary clients out of retail and back to your practice with a little marketing know-how and communication finesse.

The errand: How to make sure your veterinary practice doesn't get crowded out of clients' busy lives

There aren't a lot of second chances in veterinary medicine.

7 howl-worthy strategies from top-performing veterinary hospitals

As you ring in the new year, take a cue from practices that are seeing increased veterinary visits during a time when most others have experienced the opposite. This article reveals their secrets.

The checklist manifesto: Sample veterinary checklist

An example of how checklists can transform a luke-warm veterinary client experience into a great one.

Setting the spirit free

By choosing the ideal resting place for a beautiful conure, this veterinarian lifted a burden of sadness from his veterinary clients' hearts.

The benefits of real-time care in your veterinary practice

An advantageous approach to client care.

Client communication for managers

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Client communication for techs

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Client education for managers

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Client education for techs

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Client service for managers

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Communication strategies for managers

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Doctor Communication

Referral form

Avoid miscommunication and use this referral form to help improve patient care.

How to manage your team members' emotional outbursts

Dealing with the emotions of others starts with handling your own.

Ask Shawn: Dealing with a smoking veterinarian

Q. Our doctor is a heavy smoker, and his smoke breaks are getting in the way of patient care. What should I do?

Have a heart: Focus on veterinary cardiac medicine

Don't wait until it becomes a more serious problem. Start educating your clients about heart disease today.

Is your veterinary team faking job satisfaction?

Just because you've never heard complaints doesn't mean everyone is happy. Find your fakes and listen to what your team has to say.

Survey: Tell me about your veterinary job

Survey your staff and see what your team really thinks about your practice.

Quick survey: What do you think about your veterinary job?

Here's a shorter version of an employee survey designed to explore employee morale and job satisfaction.

How associate veterinarians can ask for paid CE

Talk to the boss with a plan in hand for turning your CE into better patient care or practice management.

Women in veterinary leadership: An uphill battle?

A new study shows that leadership is still seen in masculine terms.

Expenses

Paying it forward with wildlife cases

National Report—Most veterinrians have treated injured wildlife brought into their clinics.

Lost cemetery proves costly for DVM in building new practice

Dr. Steve Dullard didn't expect to find a cemetery when he broke ground on his new veterinary practice.

Looking at a veterinary loan?

Consider a variable rate

Q&A: How deposits can save veterinary profits

Q: What should we do when veterinary clients accept a treatment plan with an estimate and then, after the procedure is done, reveal that they can?t pay the bill?

Need to cut expenses? Here's where to look first

Analyze these key areas of your practice finances and identify potential savings.

10 banking mistakes that can cost you or your veterinary practice big

Keep these 10 banking errors from chipping away at your net income

Live from the CVC in Kansas City: 3 ways to control expenses

In many practices, increased costs are often due to inventory costs, says CVC speaker Denise Tumblin.

New damage laws will impact your wallet

When I get together with friends who work in other healthcare professions, the conversation often turns to malpratice insurance coverage.

How to decide what veterinary equipment is right for your practice

Three questions to ask yourself before buying a new piece of veterinary equipment.

Growth Center

Why gift cards are better than cash

Looking for an easy way to lure in new clients? Here's a small token of appreciation that shows off your practice.

Long-term drug monitoring made easy

Get your patients taking long-term meds on a plan for rechecks.

Fee-setting tool: Long-term analgesic testing

Are your exam fees in line with high-performing hospitals?

How to ease cat pain. Bonus: It pays.

Help cat owners provide a pain-free existence for their feline friends.

Talking teeth with timid clients

What you can do to get clients on board with your dental recommendations.

Look but also touch

Seeing is believing for clients when it comes to pet dental health at Falmouth Veterinary Hospital in Falmouth, Maine. Video touchscreens in exam rooms show clients how quickly damaging plaque can build and harden. The screens also let clients type in their e-mail address and request that the information or Web site address for the video be sent to their home. After every dental cleaning, clients watch a video on brushing.

Educating clients about parasites

A list from the Veterinary Economics archives.

Worm your way into wellness visits

Biannual deworming protects patients and encourages regular wellness visits.

Providing pet insurance

It doesn't hurt Dr. Craig Prior's feelings when a client is hesitant to take out a pet insurance policy: "I tell them, 'Try it for a year. If you don't like it, cancel it. I won't mind.'"

Hiring and firing

Why you should consider hiring veterans

Find out how this new bill can help servicemen and women—and your veterinary practice.

Jobs outlook for 2012

As competition heats up on the costs, Midwestern veterinary graduates may be the target of recruiting efforts.

Women gaining more jobs than men, study finds

It's been a slow recovery for most American employees, but new signs of hope have emerged.

The most unusual resume mistakes job candidates make

You've probably had some, ahem, unique resumes come across your desk. Here's a look at what hiring managers across the country deal with on a daily basis.

Shield your veterinary practice from unemployment claims

You want to protect your practice—and safeguard veterinary team members' rights. Here's what you need to know about unemployment claims, including a step-by-step guide to when and how to challenge a claim.

20 easy steps to better veterinary team members

The very best veterinary team members—and job applicants—do these things

Keep your eyes on the veterinary practice interview: How women differ from men in the hiring process

If you have trouble with constant veterinary team turnover and filling open positions, take stock of your communication

How to hire veterinary team members who fit your practice culture

Knowledge and skills aren't always enough.

Saying goodbye: Terminating a long-time veterinary employee

It's never easy to let go of someone who's been by your side from the beginning at your veterinary practice. But sometimes it's the only option left. Here's how to do it with grace.

I Survived!

I survived a veterinary practice merger

We experienced headaches, setbacks, and eventually practice success.

9 strategies for disaster preparation

Can your veterinary practice withstand the elements?

Trial by fire: coping with disaster

This veterinary practice survived a devastating blaze that killed 16 patients and destroyed the building.

I survived an outbreak of virulent feline calicivirus

I'll never know for sure which cat first brought the disease to my clinic. But I know where I saw it first.

A million-dollar growth spurt

It wasn't an easy transition—half of the team quit, but profits went up.

Industry Issues

How to stay profitable during a difficult economy

Be smart about money & medicine and weather the storm.

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Cats: Hidden veterinary patients in waiting

Grow your feline practice.

Bayer study, part 2: Half of veterinarians seeing fewer patients

Profession confirms, expands on findings of previous pet owner survey.

Why are veterinary visits declining, and what can I do about it?

Chapter 4 of a nine-part video series about the Veterinary Care Usage Study by Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues.

Slideshow: Top 5 most expensive cat breeds

Over a cat's lifetime, the costs can add up. Here are the most expensive breeds, based on industry data.

Pet insurance: Veterinary coverage that cares

Veterinary clients with pet insurance are willing to spend more to care for their pets.

Video: Is the veterinary industry recession-proof?

Veterinary consultant Mark Opperman, CVPM, discusses the industry's outlook.

Hairy women a sign of a tough economy

The beauty industry—once considered recession proof like the veterinary industry— is taking a hard hit.

Leadership Strategies

Fit to practice: 8 ways to eat healthy when life is hectic

Stop unwrapping your meals. Learn how to eat better to feel better—even when your schedule is swamped.

A call to protest

Veterinarians converge on Mississippi shelter to address competitive pressures.

When practice business entities go wild

Keep business paperwork on a short leash, or you may find your LLC or corporation is out of your control

Ethical dilemma: Seeing through a susceptible pet's seizure

This new column on ethical dilemmas opens with a difference of opinion about medication

Lameness exam hijinks

When lameness exams multiply, attention to details dwindles

How to manage your team members' emotional outbursts

Dealing with the emotions of others starts with handling your own.

Fit to practice: Save your life with a smoothie (or at least lose a couple of pounds)

Load up the fruits and veggies, break out the smoothie. It's time the win the Battle of the (Belly) Bulge one smoothie at a time.

How to handle cytotoxic drugs at your veterinary practice

Advanced medicine gives pets a chance in the fight against pet cancer, but it's important to protect yourself and your employees when dealing with these dangerous drugs.

Wanted: New faces on our Veterinary Economics advisory board

Veterinary Economics wants new members for its Editorial Advisory Board.

Legal Ease

Medical records checklist

Don't find yourself with inadequate patient medical records. Use this checklist to audit your records.

How to gauge your rent payment

What are the rules regarding veterinary practice rent?

Make Crocs extinct

Are the popular shoes safe for your employees to wear to work?

Salary vs. hourly pay

You might be entitled to overtime pay even if you hold a degree or have "supervisor" in your title.

Leftovers and lab samples

A veterinary break room is no place for urine samples and chemicals.

Nailing down a noncompete

What time frame is valid for a noncompete clause in an associate's contract? What distance from my practice do I use as a boundary?

A look at the law on smoking at veterinary clinics

How business owners must balance the rights of smokers with those of nonsmokers.

Does a team member on mood medication need a doctor's note?

Can I question my employee who's revealed a history of mental illness and prescribed medications to control it?

Rethink respirators

Should our pregnant associate use a respirator during surgeries to avoid inhaling anesthetic gases?

Managing Smart

How to manage your team members' emotional outbursts

Dealing with the emotions of others starts with handling your own.

How to stay profitable during a difficult economy

Be smart about money & medicine and weather the storm.

Cats: Hidden veterinary patients in waiting

Grow your feline practice.

Your guide to human resources: December 2011 checklist

Perform these tasks before the end of the year to make sure your veterinary practice is in good shape for 2012.

Veterinary wellness plans: Your top questions answered

Expert advice on a progressive idea.

Why are technician appointments a good idea in the veterinary clinic?

Getting the most out of your staff helps all involved.

Wondering what your clients think of you? Ask them

Get useful feedback with ease by listening to some of the greatest experts on your clinic: Your customers.

6 ways to prevent embezzlement at your veterinary practice

Your clinic will always be a target for embezzlement, whether you realize it or not. Take action now to avoid problems in the future.

Need to cut expenses? Here's where to look first

Analyze these key areas of your practice finances and identify potential savings.

Managing clients

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Managing the money

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Marketing

How to market your veterinary practice for the future

The times are changing and so are your veterinary clients. Take these marketing risks to keep your practice ahead of the game.

4 ways to encourage team member referrals to your veterinary practice

The best sources for new veterinary clients could be right under your nose.

Equine practitioners: Beat feed stores at their own game

A little marketing know-how (it's not a bad word!) and communication finesse can put you over the feed stores and get clients calling you first.

Case study: How marketing trends in the dental world could work for your veterinary practice

Take a proactive approach to reaching your clients to help regain the business you've lost during the recession.

Boost business in your veterinary practice by using signage

A recent study finds that shoppers make important decisions based on visual cues.

6 ways to fight the veterinary competition—without fighting

Take a deep breath, hang up the gloves, and take a good look at these tips. They'll help you handle interclinic aggression without stooping to your competitor's level.

Market Watch: Parasites and their impact on the human-animal bond

Parasites have always existed, but owner awareness has greatly increased as the human-animal bond has expanded.

Live from CVC San Diego: Managing negative reviews of your veterinary practice

Dr. Jeff Werber shares strategies for dealing with online complaints.

Hanging with Hafen: 3 things veterinarians can learn from the retail world

Sometimes it helps to take a step back and look at the trends in other industries. Here's how retail design can be applied to your building project.

Money matters for techs

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Office Efficiency

Put a cap on your veterinary syringe fund

Save money with this DIY practice project.

Tell veterinary clients to "zip it"

Tie up loose ends with this tip.

Team handout: What to do when there's nothing to do

Share this handout with your team and cure staff boredom forever.

How checklists help veterinary clients and save pets' lives

Make your veterinary practice better, one step at a time, by implementing a way to track systems, procedures, and client preferences.

The benefits of real-time care in your veterinary practice

An advantageous approach to client care.

Online roundup: The best inventory management articles around

Turn around your equine practice inventory troubles with this trio of editor-picked articles.

The business of better diabetic veterinary care

Carrying diabetes products at your veterinary practice is more than a convenience to clients—it's vital to treating the patient immediately before the condition progresses.

Why are technician appointments a good idea in the veterinary clinic?

Getting the most out of your staff helps all involved.

How technology can enhance value for your veterinary clients

The human touch gives your practice a heart, but technology is the brain that helps you function efficiently. So kick back, relax, and let these tools do the lifting.

Ownership Issues

How to develop strong leaders in your veterinary practice

Look for a strong associate on your veterinary staff—and be prepared to dole out a little tough love.

How multi-practice owners and managers can succeed

In the correct situation, a multi-practice manager can be a major asset to an owner, provided everyone is on the same page.

5 things to consider before entering a business partnership

Ask yourself these important questions to see if you're ready to take the plunge into ownership.

4 things your practice can do while you wait for the recovery

Don't just sit around waiting for good things to happen. Go out and make your own luck.

Making the most of a practice manager

The issue of maximizing managers' contributions is the second in a dvm360 series on critical changes facing practices. What does a great manager do? What should the practice provide to get those results? This package gives the answers.

BizQuiz: Do you have a clue about doctor pay?

Here are the top five mysteries about compensation exposed and solved.

Marketing data and solutions (part 1)

Analysis of veterinary market data shows the toughest competitive factors, the most popular marketing strategies, and the move to online marketing solutions.

BizQuiz: Is it sexual harassment?

Test yourself to see if your policies are ready for potential sexual harassment problems before they reach the court.

Employee involvement leads to workplace diversity

Offering programs to increase efficiency can result in a varied culture at your practice.

Patient care for techs

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Patient welfare for techs

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Personal Finances

Next generation can retire—with planning

If you joined the workforce in the past 10 years, you've probably heard a lot of doom and gloom about your retirement outlook.

Veterinary wellness plan contract highlights

You should always read the fine print.

5 negotiation tips to take to the bank

Planning to make a large purchase for your veterinary practice? Don't ignore the important act of sweet-talking.

Just 24 percent of Americans have a six-month emergency savings cushion

How full is your emergency savings account? If you're like most Americans, you probably aren't saving enough.

3 tips to help you analyze your income

Veterinarians: You look forward to that paycheck, but do you look at anything but the amount? It's time to study your salary before you spend it.

Americans struggling to turn retirement savings into income

Whether you're fresh out of veterinary school or approaching retirement, it's important to keep a close eye on your savings.

Q&A: Should I give my veterinary team members financial feedback?

Q: How much should my team members know about my practice's finances?

5 things to consider before entering a business partnership

Ask yourself these important questions to see if you're ready to take the plunge into ownership.

Veterinarians: Are you the next Donald Trump?

Do you have what it takes to create your own successful side business?

Personal Growth

Fit to practice: A new blog from Dr. Ernie Ward

Check out the latest offering from Veterinary Economics' Personal Wellness Editor.

Why are technician appointments a good idea in the veterinary clinic?

Getting the most out of your staff helps all involved.

A look back: Hurricane Katrina destroys veterinary practice

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina landed in New Orleans, causing $81 billion in property damage. One of those properties was Dr. Scott Griffith's clinic.

Americans struggling to turn retirement savings into income

Whether you're fresh out of veterinary school or approaching retirement, it's important to keep a close eye on your savings.

Video: Talk to your team to make change less challenging

Team members will feel more involved with change if made aware of the background processes.

How to stay optimistic in 2009

Here are seven strategies for staying positive in the gloomy economy.

Catching more zzzz's will help keep colds away

If you don't get enough sleep, you're more likely to get sick.

Effective communication strategies for women—and men

Men use banter, joking, and playful put downs to establish authority. Women try to maintain an appearance of equality, downplaying their own authority while taking the other person's reactions into account. These rituals play out with both positive and negative outcomes for veterinarians.

Are women tough enough?

The gender earnings gap: It's difficult to talk about. But talking—with authority—is what female vets must do to earn more.

Personnel Management

Why you should consider hiring veterans

Find out how this new bill can help servicemen and women—and your veterinary practice.

Don't let veterinary team member raises raise your blood pressure

Be smart about the costs of employing veterinary team members and make sure you can pay for what you promise

How to manage your team members' emotional outbursts

Dealing with the emotions of others starts with handling your own.

Veterinary technicians: 15 ways to wow equine veterinarians

Top tips for technicians looking to excel and for equine practitioners looking for star staff.

Team handout: What to do when there's nothing to do

Share this handout with your team and cure staff boredom forever.

The worst job in the veterinary hospital

On bad days, everybody's got it tough, but I say veterinary receptionists' duties take the prize.

10 things to do at your veterinary hospital (when there's nothing to do)

Clients don't come to those who wait. Have your veterinary team members tackle these tasks on the slow days and soon they'll have more than enough to do.

New York outlines CE requirements for DVMs, technicians

Albany, N.Y. — Veterinarians in New York may soon be required to complete a minimum of 45 hours of continuing education (CE) every three years, according to a proposed amendment to the state's education regulations.

Jobs outlook for 2012

As competition heats up on the costs, Midwestern veterinary graduates may be the target of recruiting efforts.

Personnel Solutions

Women gaining more jobs than men, study finds

It's been a slow recovery for most American employees, but new signs of hope have emerged.

How to develop strong leaders in your veterinary practice

Look for a strong associate on your veterinary staff—and be prepared to dole out a little tough love.

Why are technician appointments a good idea in the veterinary clinic?

Getting the most out of your staff helps all involved.

A look back: Hurricane Katrina destroys veterinary practice

In 2005, Hurricane Katrina landed in New Orleans, causing $81 billion in property damage. One of those properties was Dr. Scott Griffith's clinic.

Back to the bayou: Doctor starts veterinary practice in New Orleans' French Quarter

This burned-out doctor found the pulse of his new practice in the heart of his hometown.

Rural employees lack sick leave, study finds

Everyone gets sick, but many rural employees are out of luck if they want to take a paid sick day.

3 strategies for offering raises to team members

Every one of your team members might work hard, but taking a one-size-fits-all approach to doling out raises isn't fair to your best performers. So pump up your superstars' salaries by using one of these proven strategies instead.

7 deadly veterinary practice management sins

If you're the boss, be aware of how your behavior affects your employees' productivity.

Your practice's most wanted

You may trust your employees, but are you certain there are no thieves among your staff? Here's a look at how veterinary practices are dealing with theft—and the warning signs you should look for.

Practice Finances

Paying it forward with wildlife cases

National Report—Most veterinrians have treated injured wildlife brought into their clinics.

Looking at a veterinary loan?

Consider a variable rate

Lost cemetery proves costly for DVM in building new practice

Dr. Steve Dullard didn't expect to find a cemetery when he broke ground on his new veterinary practice.

Q&A: How deposits can save veterinary profits

Q: What should we do when veterinary clients accept a treatment plan with an estimate and then, after the procedure is done, reveal that they can?t pay the bill?

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

5 case studies of prepaid wellness plans

If the cost of wellness care keeps pet owners away from veterinarians, then prepaid preventive plans may be the answer to bringing them back.

Stretch to include rehabilitation services at your practice

Are you doing all you can to help veterinary patients recover from injuries and regain mobility?

BEP your way through the lingering recession

We know the real story, even though the pundits are telling is that the recession is over.

Next generation can retire—with planning

If you joined the workforce in the past 10 years, you've probably heard a lot of doom and gloom about your retirement outlook.

Practice Management Q&A

Q&A: No deal on a professional discount

My practice regularly refers cases to a nearby specialty practice. Recently my own dog became sick, and the clinic offered me a disappointingly meager discount for its services. Am I expecting too much? Is there a standard for professional discounts?

Q&A: Recognize your hard workers

Other than bonuses or financial incentives, how can I reward team members for a job well done?

Q&A: Find the leaders in your practice

Finding the leaders within your staff can benefit your practice's efficiency and profitability.

Hablamos Espanol aqui?

What can I do to be sure my practice is accommodating the needs of the Hispanic population?

Q&A: Internet search and rescue

My practice's Web site isn't showing up on Internet search engines. Why?

Q&A: How two practices become one

I'm considering a merger with another local practice. How do I go about it?

Q&A: Rolling over a 401(k)

Handling investments after a job switch.

Q&A: Questions on compensation

How to deal with difficult salary issues.

Dental disinterest of new associates

Q. It seems like recent veterinary school graduates aren't interested in dentistry. Why this lack of interest among my associates, and how do I overcome it?

Revenue

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

5 case studies of prepaid wellness plans

If the cost of wellness care keeps pet owners away from veterinarians, then prepaid preventive plans may be the answer to bringing them back.

BEP your way through the lingering recession

We know the real story, even though the pundits are telling is that the recession is over.

Stretch to include rehabilitation services at your practice

Are you doing all you can to help veterinary patients recover from injuries and regain mobility?

Case study: A strategic planning conference for a veterinary practice

Think you don't have time for strategic planning? Check out this case study, which shows how one practice used a year-end review to plan for next year's success. You just might find the time after all.

2012 and beyond

Economic outlook clouded by a myriad of new challenges for veterinary practices.

Q&A: Play the veterinary price match game

Find out if your veterinary practice can afford to price-match.

We veterinarians need to be sued

Client visits are down. Get your lawyer visits up, and watch our industry's revenue skyrocket.

Veterinary wellness plans: Your top questions answered

Expert advice on a progressive idea.

Student news

The most unusual resume mistakes job candidates make

You've probably had some, ahem, unique resumes come across your desk. Here's a look at what hiring managers across the country deal with on a daily basis.

New workers lack qualities employers deem important

Are you looking to hire new veterinary team members? You may have trouble finding qualified applicants.

Students: Get some sleep to get ahead

You may be tempted to sacrifice shut-eye for schoolwork. But doing so may only hinder your chances for success.

Students: Turn an internship into a job

Students who complete internships tend to make more money than those who don't. Here's how you can cash in.

Team Communication

The worst job in the veterinary hospital

On bad days, everybody's got it tough, but I say veterinary receptionists' duties take the prize.

13 wacky workplace blunders

A new survey asks workers to share the worst etiquette blunders they've witnessed in the workplace. Have you seen worse in your veterinary clinic?

Can your veterinary clients hear you now?

In our high-tech world of e-mail, Facebook, and smartphones, it's getting harder every day to grab the attention of the people you work with—and people you serve. Consider these tips to make sure veterinary clients and co-workers hear your message every time.

Q&A: Accepting transgendered veterinary team members

Learn how to respond to questions and complaints and make sure the whole veterinary team is on the same page.

Gen Y demands new workplace benefits strategies

Younger workers have a different set of workplace wants and needs than their elders. How is your veterinary practice responding to the challenge?

Is your veterinary team faking job satisfaction?

Just because you've never heard complaints doesn't mean everyone is happy. Find your fakes and listen to what your team has to say.

Quick survey: What do you think about your veterinary job?

Here's a shorter version of an employee survey designed to explore employee morale and job satisfaction.

5 simple ways to celebrate veterinary technicians

Oct. 9-15 is National Veterinary Technician Week. How will you celebrate?

Should you monitor employees' social media activities?

Your goal of improving workplace productivity may be noble, but team members might interpret social media monitoring as a lack of trust on your part.

Technology

What goes into a good Web site

How do I build an effective Web site for my practice?

The benefits and challenges of paperless practice

What to consider before going electronic.

Paperless practice at Banfield, The Pet Hospital

Dr. Kerri Marshall, MBA, knew the moment she caught of a glimpse of it that she was a fan.

Tips for transferring written medical records to electronic files

A how-to for moving paper records to your hard drive.

The paperless plunge

The only thing that anyone can count on for sure in the arena of paperless veterinary practice is that the experience is different for everyone.

Using software for consistent care

Dr. David McGrath is owner of seven practices, and at one time they used four software programs between them. Now they all use the same system. This has allowed them to try new ideas to boost compliance, which so far have resulted in gross revenue increases of up to 50 percent. Take Dr. McGrath's lessons into account as you evaluate your own practice software—and what it can do for you.

Lights! Camera! Meet!

Our 24-hour clinic has a main office, three satellite facilities, 14 veterinarians, and 80-plus team members, so staff communication is always a challenge. In addition to a weekly newsletter, we have monthly meetings for each department and a monthly staff meeting for everyone.

Solar panels save on energy costs

Skyrocketing energy prices and concerns about global warming prompted the owner of Middlebury Animal Hospital in Middlebury, Conn., to invest in solar energy.

The worst-case scenario survival handbook: Veterinary edition

Hurricanes. Embezzlers. Lawsuits. If you put the proper safeguards in place, you can stay out of trouble.

Training and motivation

Team handout: What to do when there's nothing to do

Share this handout with your team and cure staff boredom forever.

Veterinary technicians: 15 ways to wow equine veterinarians

Top tips for technicians looking to excel and for equine practitioners looking for star staff.

New York outlines CE requirements for DVMs, technicians

10 things to do at your veterinary hospital (when there's nothing to do)

Clients don't come to those who wait. Have your veterinary team members tackle these tasks on the slow days and soon they'll have more than enough to do.

Fit to practice: A new blog from Dr. Ernie Ward

Check out the latest offering from Veterinary Economics' Personal Wellness Editor.

Is your veterinary staff's unhappiness showing?

You might be surprised by the influence unhappy team members have on your veterinary clients. Make sure your staff is satisfied—your clients will notice the difference.

Enhance your team's medical development responsibilities

Make sure your team is prepared to handle every case that presents to your clinic.

How to develop strong leaders in your veterinary practice

Look for a strong associate on your veterinary staff—and be prepared to dole out a little tough love.

10 tips to improve productivity and morale

National Report — Training: It's time consuming, some times costly, and it remains a constant frustration for most practice owners.

Vetcetera

No flukes? No problem

Mechanical tail and physical therapy do wonders for a Florida aquarium's star marine attraction.

Your team's take on you

Chances are your team is pleased with your managerial style.

Hairy women a sign of a tough economy

The beauty industry—once considered recession proof like the veterinary industry— is taking a hard hit.

Veterinarian trains puppies with the help of teens

This veterinarian gathers teens to train puppies at the shelter.

Poster shows health of lean-fed dogs

Nestle Purina PetCare is sharing the results of a canine life span study on a poster you can get free of charge.

Swiss law orders pet buddy system

A new law in Switzerland taking effect Sept. 1 widens animal rights laws in revolutionary ways. Consider the law's fine print:

More than 80 percent of employees take mental health days

Top five reasons for needing a breather from work.

AAEP promotes annual dental exams for horses

The American Association of Equine Practitioners launched an equine dental awareness campaign in April to run throughout 2008.

I wannabe a vet!

There's a dog on a surgical table and another on an exam room table—just like at your hospital. The difference is the dogs aren't real and the doctors are kids.

Veterinary Market Data

Why so stressed? Triggers and treatments for veterinary workplace stress

Your high anxiety is due to more than just the economy, although that's a big part. See what pushes your buttons and how you can lower your stress levels.

The great OTC debate: Flea and tick product sales

Many veterinary practices are worried about parasite product sales slipping, thanks to some products going over the counter. So, is this a good thing or a bad thing? Depends on who you ask.

Do you do digital?

A new study finds that most veterinarians still use film-based radiography, but digital radiography is up and coming.

Keeping veterinary care affordable

Helping clients pay is about more than just the bottom line. It's about building bonds and providing pets with the care they need.

Pet insurance: Veterinary coverage that cares

Veterinary clients with pet insurance are willing to spend more to care for their pets.

Veterinary practice ownership: Who will be in charge?

See our latest survey data on the gap in dreams of veterinary practice ownership between women and men veterinary associates.

The veterinary compensation conundrum

How pay affects the job satisfaction of associates and others. Flexibility is a factor, too.

Recession: Same ol' song and dance

Here's a look at how the economy has affected your veterinary practice, your clients, and your patients.

Take time for veterinary team training

The benefits of continuing education—a more qualified team and motivated employees are among them.

Video

The most significant trend in veterinary hospital design

Architecture has been touched by the slow economy.

How to manage your team members' emotional outbursts

Dealing with the emotions of others starts with handling your own.

How to stay profitable during a difficult economy

Be smart about money & medicine and weather the storm.

The No. 1 odor control mistake in most veterinary hospitals

Robust mechanical systems are a must.

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Cats: Hidden veterinary patients in waiting

Grow your feline practice.

Losing product sales to other channels? What to consider

Coping with the evolving marketplace.

The No. 1 hospital building cost veterinarians overlook

Don't forget to budget for this expense when you're planning your new veterinary facility.

The benefits of real-time care in your veterinary practice

An advantageous approach to client care.

Web Daily

The most significant trend in veterinary hospital design

Architecture has been touched by the slow economy.

Fit to practice: 8 ways to eat healthy when life is hectic

Stop unwrapping your meals. Learn how to eat better to feel better—even when your schedule is swamped.

Hanging with Hafen: 10 award-winning veterinary hospitals revisited

Fasten your seatbelt and hang on to your hat—we're going back in time to trace the evolution of our Veterinary Economics Hospital Design Award winners, courtesy of the Animal Arts archives.

How to manage your team members' emotional outbursts

Dealing with the emotions of others starts with handling your own.

Equine veterinarians: Sell your records and ride into the sunset

Medical records are worth more than the paper they're printed on. When it's too hard to sell your equine practice outright, consider selling your best asset—your clients.

Q&A: How deposits can save veterinary profits

Q: What should we do when veterinary clients accept a treatment plan with an estimate and then, after the procedure is done, reveal that they can?t pay the bill?

How to stay profitable during a difficult economy

Be smart about money & medicine and weather the storm.

2012 Veterinary Economics Hospital Design People's Choice Awards

Sixteen veterinary hospitals have entered the 2012 Veterinary Economics Hospital Design Contest. Our judges will name the winner, but only you can crown the People's Choice champion.

The No. 1 odor control mistake in most veterinary hospitals

Robust mechanical systems are a must.

Web Exclusives

All about the calories: a client handout

Print this multi-page PDF to educate clients about ideal pet weights, pets' caloric needs, and the caloric content of common treats

Veterinary receptionist interview questions

Use these questions to interview candidates for your receptionist position. These questions will hit on qualities critical to a veterinary receptionist performing his or her job successfully.

Practice Management Overhaul forms

Download the tools you need to transform your practice.

Create an effective marketing plan

Veterinary consultant Dr. Amanda Donnelly, MBA, outlines the first steps toward creating a successful marketing plan.

Wayne Usiak: 3 questions you need to answer

BDA Architecture founder shares three critical questions to ask as you proceed through a veterinary design project.

Pampered pets: Owners aren't likely to switch brands to save money

Market data shows consumer spending on pet products holds steady compared to other key categories.

Plan for your practice's future today

Whether you're looking to sell your practice or reposition it for the long haul, you'll find the advice you need at Veterinary Economics' Progress in Practice seminars Nov. 4-5 at CVC San Diego.

Veterinary Economics brings home the hardware

Veterinary business magazine picks up national and regional awards for editorial and design excellence.

Want to earn $50? Submit a Practice Tip

Share your ingenious ideas with the readers of Veterinary Economics and dvm360.com.

Working with clients

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.

Working with clients - technicians

How to increase veterinary client visits in this economy (8-part video series)

In this eight-part video series from Dr. Karen Felsted, CEO of the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, you'll learn how to increase veterinary client visits.