The Veterinary General Practice Shift: Managing the Surge of Sick and Urgent Care Visits
Veterinary general practice is undergoing a dramatic transformation. What used to be a steady stream of wellness check-ups and minor issues has shifted into a relentless wave of sick pets, urgent care needs, and same-day emergencies. Across the country, clinics are feeling the pressure, and many teams are struggling to keep up.
In this week’s episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, break down why this shift is happening and how practices can adapt before burnout sets in. They explore how urgent, unpredictable cases disrupt scheduling, overwhelm support staff, and create an emotionally charged environment that’s exhausting for everyone, from veterinarians to client service representatives.
The hosts share practical strategies to regain control, starting with improved team communication: daily huddles to align priorities, triage systems to manage the rush, and debriefs to help staff process tough cases. They also discuss the importance of educating clients and setting realistic expectations to reduce chaos and improve workflow.
Whether you’re a practice owner, manager, or team member, this episode offers a clear roadmap for navigating today’s urgent-care-driven landscape. Success isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter together to protect your team, your patients, and your passion for veterinary medicine.
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