0:00
Update on Studies and Work Developments
4:15
Exploring Career Changes and Mobile Veterinary Services
Hannah Pollard shared her intention to stop working weekdays, citing her struggles with balancing her current job and her veterinary behavior review work. She expressed a desire to devote more time to her business and mentioned the importance of marketing herself and managing her workload. Danielle Beck supported Hannah’s decision and discussed the potential benefits of mobile veterinary services.
27:22
Innovative Approaches to Cooperative Care and Client Engagement
Danielle Beck proposed incorporating live animal demonstrations in Lunch and Learn sessions to teach cooperative care techniques, suggesting that staff dogs could be utilized for this purpose. Gemma Stephen recounted her success in building rapport with veterinarians by chaperoning clients during vet visits, which helped alleviate their dogs’ stress. Both emphasized the importance of word-of-mouth referrals in growing their businesses.
38:52
Strategies for Building Client Connections through Authenticity
Danielle Beck highlighted the value of being open about personal experiences with reactive dogs to build trust with clients. By sharing her journey with her dogs, she aims to create a relatable narrative that makes clients feel less judged and more comfortable seeking help. This approach not only enhances client connections but also serves as a marketing tool to attract the right clientele.
46:25
Handling Client Inquiries and Behavioral Concerns
Nikki McLeod raised a question about how to respond to a client who expressed doubts about pursuing behavioral help for their nearly nine-year-old dog. Danielle Beck emphasized the need to reassure the client that older dogs can still learn and that behavioral issues can be addressed, while also acknowledging the potential financial concerns. The conversation underscored the difficulties practitioners face when clients may not fully commit to the recommended plans.
1:09:00
Cat Allergies and Skin Sensitivities
Gemma shared her experiences with her cat’s skin sensitivities, which she believes may be due to allergies. She observed that the cat’s condition worsens when flea treatment is delayed, leading to increased itching and bald spots. Although changing the cat’s food has provided some relief, the issue persists, particularly with one specific area.
1:12:58
Discussion on Dermatological and Behavioral Issues in Pets
Danielle Beck raised a question about the full dermatological work-up for pets and how to handle situations when referring vets are hesitant to conduct it. Hannah Pollard referenced a study showing that a significant percentage of cases referred for behavioral issues were actually linked to dermatological problems. She stressed the importance of recognizing the connection between stress and skin conditions, noting that behavior is a form of communication rather than a diagnosis.
1:20:52
Neighborhood Wildlife and Pet Interactions
Gemma Stephen recounted her experiences with her neighbor feeding hedgehogs, which has led to her cat becoming overweight due to the extra food available. Danielle Beck shared her reluctance to put food in her garden due to potential rat issues. The conversation included light-hearted moments about Gemma’s cat’s antics and training.
1:24:23
Discussion on Pet Health and Dietary Concerns
Danielle Beck shared her experiences with her cat Seifer, who is undergoing dietary changes to address stomach issues. She expressed concerns about the cost of veterinary care and the need for further investigations to determine the cause of Seifer’s discomfort. Gemma Stephen contributed by discussing her own pet’s skin issues and the challenges of finding effective treatments.
1:33:39
Discussion on CPD and Volunteer Opportunities
Danielle Beck highlighted the importance of CPD and her struggle to keep up with webinars from Fensi dog sports. Hannah Pollard shared her upcoming participation in the Clicker Expo and the APBC conference. Danielle also called for more volunteers to join the board, emphasizing the need for fresh perspectives and support for various initiatives, including events and vet-related materials.
1:41:44
Discussion on APBC Structure and Community Engagement
Danielle Beck explained the APBC’s shift to a board of directors and the proposal to become a Community Interest Company (CIC) to improve funding opportunities and community engagement.
1:51:44
Career Paths in Animal Behavior and Training
Gemma Stephen discussed her interactions with schoolchildren who were astonished to learn that working with animals could involve roles beyond being a vet or vet nurse.
1:59:00
Opportunities for Committee Involvement
2:09:04
Discussion on Project Funding and Event Participation
Danielle Beck outlined the funding structure for projects, noting that while general business operations do not receive payment, significant projects can be funded with committee approval.
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