The Veterinary Viewfinder was founded in 2016 to “tackle the toughest topics in veterinary medicine.” One of the tough topics we’ve covered repeatedly is the growing movement to ban non-therapeutic, non-preventive procedures such as feline digit amputation, often referred to as “declawing.” This week we’re excited to introduce you to the Canadian Animal Health Technician (same as US RVT/CVT/LVT) who succeeded in the enactment of a law banning declawing in the Province of Quebec. If you’re wondering, Quebec is the second-most populous province with a population of over 8 million. Not bad for a vet tech!

Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT are thrilled to bring you a master class in how one person can bring about big change. Leading the class is the amazing vet tech (animal health technician in Canadian-speak) Alexandra Yaksich, BSc., AHT. Alex wears many hats. She is currently working as a freelance writer, communications consultant, content creator, and relief animal health technician.

The story we share this week is about how anyone can overcome their doubts and fears to create change. Viewfinders, prepare to be inspired!

Alex is a loyal podcast subscriber and decided to email us at veterinaryviewfinder@gmail.com and tell us she had a story to share! (You can, too!)

If there’s something in your world you want to improve or change, Alex lays out a practical, logical, and systemic approach.

Whether it’s animal welfare, social justice, LGBTQ+, worker rights, or anything you feel is wrong or less than ideal, we believe this episode will not only inspire, but offers a pathway for change. Viewfinders, this is a good one!

Follow Alex on Instagram (@alexandra.yaksich) or connect with her via LinkedIn at https://bit.ly/3znSCoZ.

Pet parents and veterinary professionals are increasingly getting their news, information, and even medical advice from social media. With the trend toward shorter forms of content, is this helping or hurting pet care and veterinary professionals?

This week our co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the impact Tik Tok, Instagram, Snapchat are having on the veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and pet parent. What effect is this global “social experiment” of social media having on the quality of life, health, and overall wellbeing for both people and pets?

The pair offer solutions for veterinary professionals interested in learning more about what pet parents are asking about online (Dr. Ward describes how he uses “social listening”) and Beckie explores the pros and cons of super-speedy scrolling and “meme learning.”

Viewfinders, this is a candid conversation about a topic that continues to affect the world. How are you using social media, especially short-form media in your practice? What do you think about veterinary professionals and pet parents using these platforms as their primary means of information? What are some of your favorite - and unfavorite - influencers?

Viewfinders, thank you again for your loyal listening as we near our FOUR YEAR ANNIVERSARY!! Stay safe and give your pets a hug from us! See you next Wednesday!

COVID-19 has been emotionally, physically, and spiritually rough for many veterinary professionals. Many of us find ourselves in a “pandemic misery rut.”

This week hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT get real about self-care and building mental and emotional fortitude to deal with the onslaught of confrontational veterinary clients, long hours, and the total chaos that we are calling the “next normal.” It gets better.

Our duo dive deep into the simple daily habits they rely on to stay focused and remain positive during these challenging times.

Restorative rest, sleep tracking, healthy hydration and nourishing nutrition strategies, exercise hacks, and why your personal relationships matter more than ever to your well-being are all part of today’s conversation.

If you’re struggling to find the silver lining in today’s pandemic, give this episode a listen (or twice!). If you know a friend or colleague looking for help, share this week’s podcast.

Reach out to us on social media @VeterinaryViewfinder.

Thanks again, Viewfinders, for helping us make it to episode 196! Stay safe - and positive - out there! See you next Wednesday!

As people begin to return to work and resume the “new normal” of daily life, many veterinary professionals worry if we are communicating adequately with millions of new “pandemic pet parents.”

This week, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, RVT tackle the topics of how to ensure pet parents don’t miss essential veterinary care and services, socialization and training tips, and how to stay connected with your team during these stressful times.

The pair share stories from veterinary clinics around the country (good and not so good), offer advice on conducting online puppy socialization classes, tips for hosting Pandemic Pet Parent live webinars and “pawty’s,” and why you should offer dog training programs during this time.

The hosts also discuss the importance of paying close attention to the emotions of your team during the recovery period. Dr. Ward shares a recent story of the disconnect between a veterinary practice owner’s cheerful assessment of team morale and the harsh reality presented by the Practice Manager. Beckie provides guidance on creating a workplace where staff members can feel safe discussing their true feelings and concerns.

This is a wide-ranging an inspirational conversation packed with practical advice for any general veterinary practice.