My Pet World: Bonding with your veterinarian is good for your pet's health!
TAMPA, FLA. -- What do pet owners want from their veterinarians? According to a 2014 survey, they disdain medical jargon they don't understand, want tests results shared, and expect full transparency regarding their pets' care.
"In other words, pet owners want to be treated as partners," said American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) CEO Dr. Michael Cavanaugh at a "State of the Industry" meeting March 13 during the American Animal Hospital Association Conference in Tampa.
The survey polled just over 1,000 pet owners, and was conducted by IDEXX, a diagnostic provider and innovator in veterinary medicine.
Nearly every owner surveyed suggested that their bond with their veterinary practice was paramount (93 percent). In reality, of course, people don't bond with practices, per se, but with people -- the veterinarians and veterinary technicians on staff.
Technology has dramatically changed veterinary medicine over the past few decades. These days, pretty much anything a medical doctor can do for you, your veterinarian can do for your pet. For example, if your doctor detects a heart irregularity in you, the next step is often an ultrasound. Dogs and cats can also develop heart disease and the same ultrasound equipment can also be used them.
Another example is after-care for knee or shoulder surgery. Today, rehabilitation is considered the standard of care for people, and increasing also for pets.
Yet another innovation is the use of specialists. These days, it's not just the general veterinarian down the street who may care for your pet; an array of specialists can be consulted, including but not limited to experts in cardiology, neurology, dentistry, oncology, behavior and internal medicine. If you have a pet bird or lizard, there are even veterinarians specifically trained to treat those species.
Without doubt, people want the best for their pets. Several studies confirm that over 90 percent of pet owners consider their pets members of the family.
Still, it turns out that what people seek most from their veterinarians is the same as it's always been: professional service from someone who is caring, friendly, trustworthy, kind and compassionate.
"Veterinarians continue to hold a very special place in the medical community," Cavanaugh said. "It really is about trust, and all those other good words."
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