VETchat by The Webinar Vet

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Dave Nicol, CEO & Founder of VetX International, Author of 'The Yellow Pages Are Dead' & "So You're A Vet...Now What?", and host of the Blunt Dissections Podcast.

In this episode, Anthony and Dave discuss Dave's journey from a vet to a consultant and trainer, his work in the UK, and their shared interest in technology. Dave shares his experiences working in Southeast London, moving to Australia, writing a book on social media for vets, and eventually returning to the UK to start his own practice. He talks about the challenges of owning a practice, the importance of learning, and the struggles in the veterinary profession. The conversation highlights the need for support, peer networks, and managing stress. They also discuss imposter syndrome and the value of mentors. Dave emphasises the vocational nature of veterinary medicine, the importance of skill development, and managing stress. They explore coping mechanisms and the importance of lifelong learning and reflection.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Russell Chandler, Referral Surgeon at Mount Pleasant Veterinary Clinic, Singapore.

In this episode, Anthony and Russell discuss Russell's decision to move to Singapore, the differences in veterinary practice between the two countries, and the challenges and opportunities he has encountered. They also touch on topics such as osteoarthritis care, antibiotic stewardship, and the wildlife in Singapore. Russell emphasises the importance of adaptability, humility, and asking for help when working in a new environment. Overall, the conversation highlights the unique experiences and perspectives of practising veterinary medicine in different parts of the world.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Karen Meager, Co-Founder and COO of Monkey Puzzle Training, and co-author of Rest. Practise. Perform.

In this episode, Anthony and Karen discuss the concept of rest, practice, and performance concerning elite athletes and business professionals. She explains how elite athletes have a rhythm that allows them to sustain high-level performance without burning out. Karen also highlights the importance of finding a balance between work and rest, and the need for individuals to stretch themselves outside of their comfort zones. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities of remote work and the impact of the pandemic on team performance.

This VETChat episode is part of our series on supporting and empowering women in veterinary, hosted by Kathryn Bell. Joining Kathryn today is Marlou Cornelissen, Founder of Period Reality.

In this episode, Kathryn and Marlou discuss the menstrual cycle. Marlou shares an overview of the four phases of the menstrual cycle, what inspired her to found Period Reality, and the importance of cycle tracking. Kathryn asks what initiatives or projects Period Reality are currently working on and what the common misconceptions about menstruation are.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Duffy Jones, Veterinarian and Co-Founder of dvmSuccess Vet Group.

In this episode, Anthony and Duffy discuss the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in veterinary practice. They cover how AI can improve efficiency and quality of life for veterinarians, the challenges in veterinary care, and the importance of continuing professional development. Duffy shares examples of AI tools developed by DVM Success, such as recording and summarising client interactions and phone conversations, as well as integrating lab results. These tools aim to enhance client communication and save time for veterinarians.

This VETChat episode is part of our series on supporting and empowering women in veterinary, hosted by Kathryn Bell. Joining Kathryn today is Marissa Robson, a Race Equalities Advocate, Speaker, and co-founder and trustee of the British Veterinary Ethnicity & Diversity Society (BVEDS).

In this episode, Kathryn and Issa discuss the critical aspect of courageous conversations within the veterinary field. Issa shares what inspired her to delve into the realm of courageous conversations within the veterinary field, what some common challenges veterinarians face when engaging in difficult conversations with clients or colleagues are, and she notes times when courageous conversations contributed to improved client compliance and patient care outcomes. Issa also offers some advice for those who may feel apprehensive or anxious about initiating these conversations. Finally, they discuss the upcoming Courageous Conversations Conference in April 2024.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Louise Toal, Owner and Founder of Furr Boost. Furr Boost is a hydration drink for dogs.

In this episode, Anthony and Louise discuss the development and benefits of her hydration drink for dogs. With a background in food technology and a love for her own dog, Louise created Furr Boost to address her dog's health issues. Louise shares how the drink contains whole muscle meat, fruits, vegetables, and nutraceuticals to provide hydration and support digestion, skin and coat health, immunity, anxiety, and metabolism. They also discuss Louise's experience of appearing on Dragons' Den, a popular entrepreneurial program, and the future it may bring for her business.

Thank you to Furr Boost for sponsoring this episode.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Filipa Bernardino, CEO of VetExpertise.

In this episode, Anthony and Filipa discuss VetExpertise and telemedicine. Filipa shares her career to date, they discuss the importance of technology in veterinary medicine and how digital tools, such as VetExpertise, can lighten the workload for veterinarians. Filipa shares the positive impact that teleconsultation/telemedicine has on the veterinary profession's mental health and why this is one of her reasons for setting up VetExpertise. They also emphasise the need for lifelong learning and the role of teleconsultations in providing guidance and education. Additionally, they address the language barriers in veterinary medicine and the importance of confidence and self-esteem in the profession.

Thank you to VetExpertise for sponsoring this episode.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Stacey Parker, Referral Veterinary Anaesthesia & Dental Nurse.

In this episode, Anthony and Stacey discuss the importance of veterinary dentistry, challenges and tips for anesthetising older patients, the role of veterinary nurses in dental procedures, and the launch of Burty's Boutique, Stacey's new business. They also touch on the topic of sustainability in veterinary dentistry and the value of practical and useful CPD.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Ivan Crotaz, R&D specialist for Bonovate.

In this episode, Anthony and Ivan discuss Ivan's career journey and his passion for problem-solving. Ivan shares his experience in developing ergonomic dental instruments and the importance of thinness in dental instruments. They also talk about the significance of training and technique in dental instrument use, as well as anaesthesia and pain management in dentistry. The conversation highlights the importance of radiography in dentistry and the need for continuous education and practice in the field.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Virginie Goffaux, Founder and CEO at AnimEd Solutions.

In this episode, Anthony and Virginie discuss chronic illness. Virginie shares her background in veterinary medicine and her work in pet owner education. She tells us about her experience with chronic illness and her journey to finding a diagnosis and treatment. They discuss the increase in chronic illness and the challenges of diagnosing tick-borne diseases, and Virginie emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and navigating the healthcare system for those suffering from chronic illness.

This VETChat episode is part of our series on supporting and empowering women in veterinary, hosted by Kathryn Bell. Joining Kathryn today is Emily Singler, Author of 'Pregnancy and Postpartum Considerations for the Veterinary Team'.

In this episode, Kathryn and Emily discuss navigating pregnancy and parenthood while working in Veterinary Medicine. Emily shares her personal experience, offers advice on when to tell an employer you're pregnant, and shares some common misconceptions or stigmas surrounding pregnancy in the veterinary workplace. They also discuss workplace hazards, such as drugs to avoid, and how to offer support to those returning to work following maternity leave.

oining Anthony for this episode of our sustainability series on VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Arielle Griffiths, Founder of Just be Kind Dog Food.

In this episode, Anthony and Arielle discuss the benefits of plant-based diets for dogs. Arielle shares her background as a vet in South Africa and Zimbabwe before moving to the UK. She then delves into her transition to plant-based diets and the research supporting their health benefits for dogs. They discuss how problems such as dermatology issues can be solved by a change in diet, Arielle explains how her food comes from sustainable sources, she highlights the importance of nutritional balance, and she shares what ingredients are in her recommended pet diet.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Alan Robinson, Director at Vet Dynamics UK Ltd

In this episode, Anthony and Alan discuss Alan's background, his transition to business consultancy, and his work with Fort Dodge. They also talk about the importance of building a veterinary community, collaboration, and the significance of awards. They cover the Vet Trust Awards' importance and where to watch them this year. Alan shares his insights on sustainability in veterinary practice and the Veterinary Green Awards.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Ben Sweeney, Founder of VidiVet. VidiVet is a telehealth service offering app-based triage advice from vets to provide a 24/7 digital team extension to your practice without adding a burden to the team.

In this episode, Anthony and Ben discuss topics around veterinary health plans. They talk about the evolution of VidiVet and its role in the digital transformation of veterinary practice, the importance of operational efficiency and the integration of digital tools in veterinary practice, and the evolution of the health plan. Ben shares his thoughts on what can we expect to see from health plans in 2024 and beyond.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Henry Lamb, BVA's Young Vet Of The Year 2023 and poultry veterinarian.

In this episode, Anthony and Henry discuss the poultry industry and Henry's interest in poultry and population medicine. Henry gives us an update on what is happening with bird flu and the newer highly pathogenic version that has come about over the last couple of years, discussing its impact not only on the bird population but the mental health impacts of those whose livelihoods are involved. Henry also shares his work with YANA rural mental health support and his practice's efforts in sustainability, including reducing single-use plastic and implementing digital systems.

Joining Anthony for this episode of our sustainability series on VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Maite Pardo Barragán, Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon, Climate Activist and Greenpeace Speaker.

In this episode, they discuss Maite's career path, how she finds working as an ambulatory vet, and her involvement with Greenpeace. Maite shares the changes she has made in her personal life to be more sustainable, such as buying second-hand clothes and reducing her carbon footprint. They also discuss the importance of government and corporate action in addressing climate change and the role of individuals in leading by example. Maite also shares how she is actively involved with Vet Sustain.

Follow Maite on Instagram: @sustainablevet

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Lauren Tracht, a Veterinarian specialising in Marketing, Sales and Branding.

In this episode, Anthony and Lauren discuss alternative proteins. They consider the advantages and limitations of plant-based diets for pets, including the potential benefits for animals with allergies and obesity. They also explore the possibility of feeding vegetarian and vegan diets to cats, considering the need for proper supplementation. The conversation delves into the emerging field of cultivated meat as an alternative protein source and touches on the use of fungal-based diets and the potential of insect-based diets in the pet food industry. The importance of sustainability and circular economy practices in the pet food industry is highlighted, along with the role of veterinarians in educating and guiding pet owners in their dietary choices. The episode concludes with a discussion on utilizing waste products in pet food.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Gavin Durston, Veterinary Surgeon and Director at Thrums Vets.

In this episode, Anthony and Gavin discuss various topics from solar panels to the rise of independent practices. Gavin shares his experience with adding solar panels to the practice roof and how much he is enjoying them. They consider how focusing on one practice improvement at a time and implementing it properly can lead to better client and patient outcomes, whether Gavin sees a shift back to more independent practices happening, and the rise of membership-based models for practices. Gavin also explains how his practice is part of XL Vets and shares some of the benefits of this, such as peer-to-peer learning.

This VETChat episode is part of our series on supporting and empowering women in veterinary, hosted by Kathryn Bell. Joining Kathryn today is Sarah Jayne Evans, Veterinary Nurse and Member of the Red Rose rafting team.

In this episode, Kathryn and Sarah discuss Sarah's journey of navigation being an RVN and an Athlete. Sarah shares how she got involved in competitive rafting, how she manages her time effectively to excel in both areas and her experience at the European Championships in the Czech Republic. She explains how her training fits into her schedule and offers advice for those looking to have a dual career in veterinary. Finally, they look ahead at Sarah's goals and aspirations in both veterinary nursing and rafting.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Paul Dunn, Co-Founder of B1G1. B1G1 helps thousands of businesses around the world make a tangible impact every day by blending technology with sustainability and community. You can give to a large variety of vetted, high-impact B1G1 Projects to make a difference to issues you care about, 100% of your giving is passed on to the projects you choose because of the unique B1G1 membership model.

In this episode, Anthony and Paul discuss the many big C's in life and business; such as Celebration, Connection and Community. They discuss the birth of B1G1 and its mission to make giving a habit for businesses and individuals. Paul shares the power of small actions and how they can create a significant impact. They also explore the importance of creating a giving culture and the role of partnerships in expanding the reach of B1G1. The conversation concludes with gratitude for the impact B1G1 has made and a call to action for listeners to join the giving movement.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Nick Thompson, Founder and Senior Nutritionist at Holisticvet Ltd.

In this episode, Anthony and Nick discuss holistic veterinary medicine and Nick's opinions on the benefits of raw food diets for pets. Nick shares his career to date and they cover the importance of communication and history taking in veterinary consultations, as well as the value of extended consultations. Nick emphasizes the role of diet in dermatology and the treatment of obesity and arthritis in dogs. He also highlights the use of chiropractors and osteopaths in veterinary medicine. They discuss the controversy surrounding raw feeding and the concept of balance in pet diets. In this, Nick covers the topics of benefits, bugs, balance and bones and why he thinks people should take raw feeding more seriously. Finally, they talk about the benefits of a holistic approach to veterinary medicine, where the focus is on treating the whole patient and working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals.

Nick's Email: nickthompson@holisticvet.co.uk

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Lindsay Thomas, Lecturer at the Harper & Keele Veterinary School.

In this episode, they discuss zoos and the Harper & Keele Veterinary School. Lindsay shares her career to date, her experience working in a zoo during the pandemic, and how she has settled into lecturing at Harper & Keele Veterinary School. They cover how easy it is to spread infections between humans and animals and how Lindsay sees zoos fitting into conservation. For instance, Lindsay highlights zoos being used for endangered species, education, and research.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet are Cat Henstridge, Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon and Social Media Influencer as 'Cat the Vet' and Kelly Kessen, Advisory Veterinarian at Dier&Recht.

In this episode, they discuss brachycephalic dogs and cats. They cover their common health issues and the laws and regulations that are starting to be put in place against these animals. Kelly explains the new law in The Netherlands that bans the breeding of dogs with a flat-face under the new 'traffic light' criteria. This criteria requires that the muzzle is at least as long as half of the skull. Cat shares her experience with trying to create this change in the UK, and how important it is that we change public opinion of flat-faced animals. They also discuss banning the use of flat-faced animals in advertisements, the potential upcoming trade ban in The Netherlands, and how you can get involved with the campaign.

Joining Anthony for this episode of our sustainability series on VETchat by The Webinar Vet are Mike Curran, Chief Executive at XLVets Ireland, and Kieran Devany, Director at Ormonde Veterinary Hospital.

In this episode, they discuss XL Vets Ireland and their sustainability journey. Mike shares some information on their recent sustainability report and how Kieran's practice was the first to be awarded the EcoMerit certificate in Ireland. Kieran discusses what they have done in his practice to help reduce emissions, noting how a sustainability audit really helped to guide them in the right direction. They cover how small changes can make a difference, the money-saving benefits of being sustainable, switching to electric cars, and the impact of solar panels. Finally, they also offer some of their tops for practices that are looking to start their own sustainability journey.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Suzanne Cannon, Co-Founder of VetBilling. VetBilling’s client payment solutions allow veterinary clinics to deliver affordable relationship-centred care.

In this episode, Anthony and Suzanne discuss the financial difficulties associated with veterinary practice. Suzanne shares her career to date, including her background as a pastoral counsellor. She shares her experience with burnout at work and how she can relate to the busy nature of the profession. They also discuss Suzanne's personal story of her pet Lieber, a Schnauzer who got pancreatitis, which resulted in a vet bill that she was not able to cover and how this inevitably led her to set up VetBilling to help those who may be declined for credit. They talk about how VetBilling helps practices have reassurance for payment plans and how it stops the need to constantly chase payments.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Steven Garnett, Veterinary Surgeon and Veterinary Advisor at Vet Measure.

In this episode, Anthony and Steven discuss Vet Measure's MeasureOn! Wearable. MeasureOn! is a wireless monitor for use in dogs that continuously measures and records temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate along with activity level while in use. They talk about how it is an easy way to get accurate vitals and monitoring whilst not stressing out the patients and how it takes some variables out of the equation. Anthony asks if this is something that can used long-term for at-home monitoring and suggests how referral hospitals use it for improving patient wellbeing with overnight care. Finally, Steven talks us through how easy the device is to use, the different harness sizes, the battery life, and where to purchase one.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Carolina Avilés Fernández, Forensic Psychologist, Veterinarian´s Mental Health Advocate, and Executive Director of Adfinitas Corporation. Adfinitas Corporation is a nonprofit organization born with the interest of building environments in which we are aware and responsible for our connections, whether they are among different species or the environment that surrounds us. They work to generate a psychosocial support ecosystem for veterinarians and veterinary clinics to promote a culture of mental health care, prevent risks in critical situations, build networks, and strengthen the veterinary community.

In this episode, Anthony and Carolina discuss mental health in the veterinary profession. Carolina shares her experience and career to date, along with what led her to work so closely with the veterinary profession. She shares the reasons behind the setting up of Adfinitas Corporación and what they do. They discuss the mental health situation in Chile, especially within the veterinary profession, and how the accelerated growth of pet ownership is causing stress and overworking of veterinary professionals. Hard topics such as animal abuse and non-accidental injury are also covered. Finally, Carolina shares why self-care strategies are good, but emphasises the importance of learning how to take care of your team and be there to support each other.

This VETChat episode is part of our series on supporting and empowering women in veterinary, hosted by Kathryn Bell. Joining Kathryn today is Sam Williamson, Founder of Samaxia Ltd. Samaxia Ltd. provides pet healthcare products throughout the UK

In this episode, Kathryn and Sam discuss navigating business start-up life. Sam shares her personal journey with starting her business and explains what Samaxia is. They talk about what Sam's main motivations were, the challenges that she has faced so far, and key skills/traits that Sam believes are essential for success. They also cover time management tips and the benefits of mentors and share resources that Sam recommends.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Fiona MacGillivray, director of MacVet Cattle Communications Limited and Host of The MacVet Podcast. MacVet supports vets to work as well with PEOPLE as they do with ANIMALS.

In this episode, Anthony and Fiona discuss farm communication tips. Fiona shares her career to date and shares what they discuss on 'The MacVet Podcast'. They talk about how some vets can find communicating with farmers difficult, but explain the importance of being open-minded to ensure someone feels listened to in order to achieve better communication. Fiona shares some tips, such as motivational interviewing and open questions. They also cover bits on team psychometric testing and the government ELM scheme.

Joining Anthony for this PodCAT episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Emelie Fogelberg,

Veterinary Advisor at Ceva Animal Health Ltd.

In this PodCAT episode, we focus on dermatology topicals on cats, specifically the Douxo S3 range. Emelie shares her career to date, before going into an overview of what the Douxo S3 range offers. They talk through the different lines, including Douxo S3 CALM, Douxo S3 PYO, Douxo S3 SEB and Douxo S3 CARE. Emelie explains when each product should be used, how they should be used and what ingredients they include. They also cover topics such as the multimodal approach to treating atrophy, fungus treatment and the importance of cytology.

Joining Anthony for this episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Natalie Arrow, Veterinary Surgeon and Head Veterinary Consultant at the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR). The BDMLR is a charity that provides assistance to marine mammals and other species in need of help.

In this episode, Anthony and Natalie discuss all things seals and cetaceans. Natalie shares her career to date and what led her to her current position and work with BDMLR charity. They talk about what it's like to work with cetaceans, how hard stranded cetaceans are to rescue, and the most common animals Natalie is seeing on the UK coast. They also cover topics of sustainability, such as the bycatch and entanglement of marine animals in plastic pollution. Natalie also advises on how the fishing industry can help reduce this problem with acoustic deterrents and education.

Joining Anthony for this PodCAT episode of VETchat by The Webinar Vet is Sarah Heath, a Veterinary Specialist in Behavioural Medicine.

In this PodCAT episode, we focus on cat behaviour and the FELIWAY brand. Sarah shares her background in behavioural medicine, explains how behaviour and environment are interlinked with the wellbeing of the cat, and notes how an ideal feline environment is different to a human one. They talk about the responsibility of owning a pet and the responsibility of the veterinary profession to educate owners on appropriate ownership. Sarah talks us through the history of the FELIWAY brand and the range of products, including FELIWAY Classic, FELIWAY Friends, FELIWAY Optimum and the new FELIWAY Help! Explaining the science behind each one, Sarah shares how each product can help meet a cat's environmental needs and how they should be used.