A 2011 survey by Bayer Healthcare revealed:
- 50% of veterinarians had fewer patient visits during 2010 vs 2009
- 24% of pet owners believe that routine checkups are unnecessary
- 56% of pet owners said that their veterinarians do not clearly explain when they should bring their pets in for various procedures or tests
In response to these issues, the American Veterinary Medical Foundation formed Partners for Healthy Pets to assist veterinarians by giving them tools and resources needed to help pet owners understand the importance of routine care and the critical role of the veterinary professional. The online toolbox includes:
- On online survey tool that practice owners can use to help understand their clients needs
- A set of preventative care guidelines and a healthcare plan that are easy to share with pet owners
- Step-by-step video instruction on using internet marketing and social media
- A series of videos on how to have successful conversations with clients
The OSU College of Veterinary Medicine recently joined this effort by becoming an associate member of the Partnership for Preventative Pet Healthcare and making a commitment to further adapt the curriculum to include more instruction on these issues.
