By Katy Ellison MA VetMB MRCVS on behalf of Select Healthcare from NVS
Part one of the series Supporting canine & feline gastrointestinal health (part one) – a guide to managing clinical cases included a comprehensive guide to managing clinical cases. This second part offers top tips for talking to your clients about the gastrointestinal health of their pets.
#1 Outline the treatment plan at the outset
Clear and effective communication with clients is critical, particularly when managing expectations around antibiotic use. Start by outlining the treatment plan at the outset. This initial step helps meet expectations and sets the groundwork for what to expect moving forward.
#2 Include a ‘Plan B’
Incorporate a ‘Plan B’ if the clinical signs do not resolve as expected. Including an alternative course of action fosters confidence and trust, ensuring clients that there’s a contingency plan to address potential issues.
#3 Acknowledge the owner’s perspective
It’s essential to acknowledge and understand the client’s perspective. Taking the time to listen and affirm their concerns helps build a better client-provider relationship, making them feel valued and heard.
#4 Explain the rationale behind avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use
Take time to explain the rationale behind avoiding the unnecessary use of antibiotics. Educate clients on why reducing antibiotic use is important, both for the health of their pet and for broader public health concerns.
#5 Highlight the importance of supporting the microbiome
Highlight the importance of supporting the gut microbiome. Explain how maintaining a healthy microbiome can benefit their pet’s overall well-being and can often mitigate the need for antibiotics.
#6 Finish with a clear recommendation
In human healthcare, up to 80% of medical information provided by healthcare providers is forgotten immediately.9 Concluding with clear advice and a brief summary of key points aids recall and increases adherence to the proposed treatment plan. In one study, pet owners were seven times more likely to stick to a treatment plan when given clear recommendations.10
More about the author:
Katy Ellison, Companion Consultancy
Katy, MA VetMB MRCVS, has worked in veterinary practice for over 20 years and enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine and surgery. She began her career in mixed practice before joining a small animal practice in Suffolk in 2003. Since 2021 she has combined her love of clinical work with her role at Companion Consultancy, where she relishes the opportunity to use her veterinary skills in a different way, while continuing to work in practice part-time.
The article was originally posted in The Cube magazine, October 2024 issue. Click here to read the magazine.
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