In this powerful episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, sit down with Matt Krentz and Andy Bond, the co-founders of BestyBnB.com, a groundbreaking platform designed to protect pets when their owners face crises such as domestic violence, illness, or homelessness.

The discussion reveals shocking statistics—50% of people in crisis refuse lifesaving services because they can't bring their pets, and 70% of pets left behind suffer abuse or worse. Matt and Andy share how their innovative technology connects social service agencies with foster homes, ensuring pets stay safe and are reunited with their owners.

In this episode of “The Veterinary Viewfinder,” hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, tackle the growing influence of AI tools like ChatGPT on veterinary diagnostics. With clients increasingly turning to AI for pet health advice, veterinarians are facing new challenges: handling clients who arrive with a list of recommended tests from ChatGPT and striking the right balance between over-testing and under-testing. The discussion highlights the importance of clear communication, trust-building, and the need for veterinarians to confidently guide clients through the diagnostic process. 

The hosts explore the parallels between human and veterinary medicine, citing studies on the overuse of diagnostic tests in healthcare and the financial pressures clients face. They emphasize the value of a thorough physical exam and the dangers of relying too heavily on technology, whether AI recommendations or a veterinarian’s dependence on excessive testing. Dr. Ward and Beckie also discuss the potential for ChatGPT/AI to create conflict in the exam room, as clients may demand specific tests without understanding the whole clinical picture. 

The episode concludes with practical advice for veterinarians: leverage AI for client education while prioritizing interpersonal communication and trust. By finding the "Goldilocks zone" of testing—neither too much nor too little—veterinarians can provide the best care while maintaining client confidence in an era of rapidly evolving technology.

In this episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, tackle a hotly debated topic in veterinary medicine: professional appearance. 

While dress codes in the clinic have long sparked discussion, what about virtual or telemedicine visits? How should veterinary professionals present themselves in an online setting, and how does appearance tie into career growth, raises, and promotions?

Dr. Ward reflects on the controversy surrounding professional appearance standards—dating back to the 90s when he first advocated for structured dress codes. 

Beckie highlights the tension between self-expression and clinic expectations, particularly among veterinary technicians and support staff, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal and professional branding. They discuss the evolving landscape of veterinary professionalism, from tattoos and piercings to lab coats and scrubs, and how these factors influence client trust and workplace dynamics.

Whether you're navigating telehealth, preparing for an interview, or considering how your style impacts your career, this episode provides practical insights on balancing individuality with professional expectations. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on presenting your best self while maintaining authenticity in veterinary medicine!

On this week’s episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, welcome the remarkable Dr. Rick LeCouteur, a trailblazing veterinarian who has redefined what it means to make an impact after a successful veterinary career. Originally from Australia, Dr. LeCouteur’s journey spans continents and careers, from being a renowned veterinary neurosurgeon and neurologist to leading major veterinary conferences like NAVC (now VMX). Now, he’s forging a new path as a conservation advocate and children’s book author.

Listeners will hear Dr. LeCouteur share his inspiring story of reinvention, starting with his childhood in Australia, his career milestones in Canada, Colorado, and California, and the pivotal moments that led him to a fulfilling post-veterinary life. Whether you're a veterinary professional pondering your next chapter or seeking motivation to explore new passions, this episode offers invaluable insights into how one can leverage a veterinary background to leave a lasting global legacy.

This week on the Veterinary Viewfinder, co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, welcome Gene O’Neill, CEO of the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) and VMX, the world’s largest veterinary continuing education conference. Gene shares insights into the incredible efforts behind organizing VMX and what attendees can expect this year. #vmx #vmx2025

In this week’s episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, discuss the challenges of starting a new year amid personal, professional, and global upheaval. 

From political controversies to natural disasters, the duo discusses how these events affect the veterinary community and share strategies to maintain positivity and mental well-being during trying times.

Reflecting on past discussions from January 2016 and 2020, Ernie and Beckie revisit the importance of resilience and self-care, emphasizing the need to recognize hardships, both for ourselves and those around us. 

They explore actionable ways to foster a supportive environment, embrace reflection, and engage meaningfully with others to navigate adversity.

This episode is a reminder that it’s okay to pause, take stock of your emotional well-being, and connect with those who might also be struggling. 

Tune in to hear how intentional conversations and small acts of kindness can inspire hope and fortify your resolve to face whatever challenges 2025 may bring. 

Don’t miss this engaging and uplifting conversation that keeps you grounded and focused.

It’s the time of year when veterinary clinics revisit their staff policies, but how do you implement them without creating chaos or resentment? In this week’s episode of “The Veterinary Viewfinder,” Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, dive into the challenges of rolling out new rules, such as sick leave policies, PTO usage, and vacation time, in a way that ensures fairness and team cohesion.  

The co-hosts explore common pitfalls in policy implementation, such as reactionary rule-making after isolated incidents such as “sick-outs” and chronic absenteeism, and explain why sudden, poorly communicated policy changes can erode trust. They also discuss the importance of balancing structure with empathy and emphasize collaborative approaches to decision-making that involve the entire team. 

The episode also unpacks why policies requiring sick employees to provide doctor’s notes can send a harmful message of distrust and why flexible, inclusive guidelines create a healthier workplace culture. Dr. Ward and Beckie share real-world stories of successful—and unsuccessful—policy rollouts, offering actionable tips to help veterinary managers make thoughtful, equitable decisions.  

If you’re a practice owner, manager, or team member, tune in to learn how to create policies that support your team while keeping your clinic running smoothly. Let’s make 2024 the year of fair, effective policies in veterinary medicine! 

As “The Veterinary Viewfinder” podcast enters its ninth year, co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, reflect on what’s ahead for veterinary medicine in 2025. In this special year-end episode, they highlight emerging trends and topics poised to shape the profession.

The duo discusses the groundbreaking passage of Colorado’s Proposition 129, introducing mid-level veterinary practitioners known as Veterinary Professional Associates (Veterinary PAs) and its implications nationwide. They also explore the expanding role of artificial intelligence in diagnostics, exam conversation transcription, client communications, and patient monitoring, emphasizing its potential to enhance—not replace—veterinary professionals.

Other key topics include emerging controversies over monoclonal antibody therapeutics and new monoclonal antibody drugs entering the dermatology and pain management markets, wearable pet technology advancements, and the evolving landscape of veterinary continuing education. The hosts address how shifts in conference attendance and online CE access are transforming professional development.

Tune in for a concise, engaging look at the issues that will dominate veterinary conversations in 2025. Whether you’re curious about AI, new legislative movements, or the future of veterinary pharmaceuticals and educational conferences, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay ahead in your practice.

Welcome to an annual ritual on “The Veterinary Viewfinder,” where we pause from tackling tough topics to celebrate the holidays with humor, creativity, and heart! This week, co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, share a special tradition: a veterinary-themed rendition of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

Beckie’s original poem captures the spirit, dedication, and sacrifices of veterinary professionals while sprinkling in some lighthearted nods to chocolate ingestions, holiday emergencies, and the camaraderie that defines the profession. From vet techs, receptionists, assistants, and managers to oncologists, orthos, and GPs—this poem celebrates everyone in the veterinary community.

Through laughter and real-life reflections, this episode is a love letter to veterinary teams everywhere. It’s a reminder of the magic you create, the lives you save, and the joy you bring to pets and their families, even during the busiest holiday season.

Take a break from the hustle, enjoy some holiday cheer, and know how deeply appreciated you are. Tune in for this lighthearted tribute that will leave you smiling and inspired. Happy Holidays from the Veterinary Viewfinder!

The holidays are here, but not all the cheer makes its way into the workplace. This week on “The Veterinary Viewfinder,” hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, tackle a sensitive yet often overlooked issue: exclusion during the festive season.

Imagine this: a colleague brings invitations for a holiday gathering, handing them out in full view of someone who’s not invited. For veterinary team members already feeling left out, these moments can cut deep and damage workplace morale. Dr. Ward and Beckie dive into the tricky dynamics of managing social interactions within clinics. From addressing cliques to deciding if management should intervene, they explore how to foster inclusivity and harmony—especially during the holiday season.

The episode also covers related dilemmas of exchanging holiday cards and gifts and participating in external parties and events. Beckie and Dr. Ward share real-world examples of workplace exclusion, highlighting how subtle behaviors can escalate into significant morale and team problems.

Join this insightful discussion to ensure the holidays bring joy, not drama, to your clinic. Don’t miss practical advice for navigating these seasonal challenges and creating a culture of respect and inclusion.

For the first time in over 140 years, a pug has won the National Dog Show! While this historic win brings joy to pug lovers worldwide, it also raises critical questions for veterinary professionals. In this week’s episode of “The Veterinary Viewfinder,” Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, dive into the implications of this historic win for veterinary professionals and pet owners alike.  

As a breed often associated with significant health challenges, the sudden spotlight on pugs raises questions about a potential surge in their popularity—and the veterinary responsibilities that follow. In this episode, Ernie and Beckie explore the potential consequences of heightened pug popularity, from increased demand for this breed to the ethical dilemmas surrounding brachycephalic health issues. 

They revisit the ongoing discussions about breed bans, which have targeted pugs in several countries, and examine what this victory could mean for the future of breed-specific legislation.  

Join this engaging discussion as veterinarians worldwide address the balance between celebrating canine achievements and advocating for the long-term welfare of pets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the intersection of pet health, breed trends, and veterinary care!

The holiday season is a time for giving, and this week on The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and co-host Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, spotlight an incredible initiative that helps veterinary professionals in need: the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree.

In this heartfelt episode, Beckie shares the origin story of her nonprofit organization, which she founded to provide financial and emotional relief to colleagues struggling during the winter holidays. Whether covering unexpected bills or simply easing the burden of the season, the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree connects donors with veterinary professionals in need.

Dr. Ward and Beckie discuss why the holidays can be especially challenging for veterinary teams, with increased emotional stress, financial strain, and the unique demands of the profession. They explore how small acts of kindness can create a big impact, inspiring listeners to participate in this year’s Veterinary Industry Giving Tree.

Don’t miss this uplifting conversation filled with hope, community spirit, and actionable ways to support your peers during this special time of year. Tune in to learn how you can lend a helping paw to our colleagues in need!