Technicians
Why do dogs and cats eat grass?
Dogs and cats are often observed eating grass and other plants of no apparent value.
How to cope when disrespect hurts
Three ways to cope with disrespect on the job at a veterinary hospital.
Angel pins help pets and people
Team members at the Stanglein Veterinary Clinic in Northampton, Pa., attach angel pins to critical patients' kennels, along with a note explaining the gift.
5 reasons to go out on a limb
The coming new year offers the perfect time to go out on a limb-even if you fall flat. Here are five phenomenal ways your setbacks help you climb to the top.
Putting the freeze on parasites
Many clients don't realize flea, tick, and heartworm prevention continues to be necessary even when the temperature dips. Here are some ideas on how to jump-start an educational conversation.
Mangled mats get brand-new life
The Davis Animal Hospital in Naples, Fla., uses rubber mats in every large cage to provide pets with padding and stability.
Gift cards make re-draws a treat
When results from an outside lab or in-clinic equipment show errors with blood samples, clients must bring their pets back in for a re-draw.
Handing out handmade hugs
When a team member is out sick or experiences a difficult time, the staff at the Waynesville Veterinary Hospital shows it cares by sending hugs-of the personalized paper variety.
How by-the-bootstraps veterinary technicians can get ahead
No credential doesn't mean no future for veterinary assistants and technicians with experience.
Rehab client education handout
Download this PDF handout with all the owners about pet physical rehabilitation.
Is your dream job just a fantasy?
Five myths to forget before you find the perfect position.
7 things to look for in a great veterinary technician position
It's not all about salary, if you want a job that makes you happy and balances work life and family life.
8 ways to earn the respect you deserve
Try this approach to reaching big-dog respect levels. It can help you love your veterinary hospital job-and the people who come with it-again.
How to end long-term conflict with a co-worker
You don't have to be friends, but you do need to be friendly at work.
Keep veterinary clients coming back
Watch Dr. Kramer explain his top tip for client retention.
People Problems Are System Problems
In this on-demand AVMA course by Dr. Carin Smith, learn how to improve work systems and thus improve interpersonal communication. (1 CE credit)
November Firstline Challenge topic: Patient care
These Firstline Challenge activities will help you keep pets healthier.
A dog walk a day keeps old age at bay
Seniors who walk regularly with dogs reap many benefits.
4 ways to show clients the value
A tightly honed message helps ensure clients see the value of your care.
Hello? It's your parasite preventive calling
Cellular reminders increase client compliance.
California considers banning declawing cats
Opinions clash over the controversial proposed ban on declawing cats.
How to start a successful behavior program
This case study shows how to strengthen your relationships with clients, build their bonds with their pets, and grow your practice.
DogQuiz 2: A flaky co-worker calls you with an emergency and asks you to cover her shift-again. It would be on your only day off. Do you fill in?
Question 8
Behaviors suggestive of postoperative pain in cats
In people, pain is what the patient says it is. But in animals, it's what we say it is. To better recognize acute pain in cats, observe patients for the behavioral changes described here.
Santa and his elves give prime pet health
Harness the holiday spirit to educate clients on pet health.
3 team excuses exposed
Check out common cop outs team members use and why they're no good.
For the love of pets: new clinical articles
Firstline welcomes new clinical content.
Time-off request form
Simplify scheduling requests with this sample time-off sheet.
DogQuiz 2: What breed would you be at work?
Sniff out the canine that best suits your work ethic with this quick and fun quiz.
Can my pet get H1N1?
Answer clients' biggest flu question with confidence.