Veterinary Viewfinder Podcast

Dr. Ernie Ward & Beckie Mossor, RVT

Weekly podcast dedicated to "tackling the toughest topics in veterinary medicine." Hosted by veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mossor. Candid, irreverent, provocative, educational, and occasionally funny conversations about issues that impact the veterinary profession. Non-stop since 2016. read less
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Episodes

Natural Disasters and Veterinary Heroes: How You Can Help in Times of Crisis
09-10-2024
Natural Disasters and Veterinary Heroes: How You Can Help in Times of Crisis
In this episode of “The Veterinary Viewfinder,” Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser discuss one of the most challenging and emotional issues facing veterinary professionals—natural disasters. With Hurricane Milton barreling toward Florida and the aftermath of Hurricane Helene still being felt across the southeastern U.S., veterinary clinics and communities are in urgent need of help.  Ernie and Beckie share firsthand experiences of the devastation and the inspiring response from the veterinary community and volunteers. They highlight how veterinary professionals are stepping up to offer assistance, from organizing resource drives to volunteering on the ground. Whether you're a veterinarian or a vet tech, there are numerous ways you can get involved to support colleagues and pets affected by these disasters. Tune in to learn about the incredible work being done and discover how you can help provide relief in times of crisis.  Beckie also shares the work done by veterinary technician Sarah Parsons and her Project Golden Vet, as well as their collaboration with The Veterinary Industry Giving Tree.  Don't miss this insightful discussion on the critical role veterinary professionals play in disaster relief and recovery efforts. Veterinary Professionals, sign up for the Pet Obesity Prevalence Survey here:  https://bit.ly/APOPsignup The Veterinary Industry Giving Tree: https://www.veterinarygivingtree.com/ Project Golden Vet: https://vettechsarahparsons.com/project-golden-vet Hurricane Helene Relief organizations: Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) https://www.nvoad.org/ NC Disaster Relief Fund https://pay.payitgov.com/ncdonations American Humane Society https://www.humanesociety.org/hurricane-helene-response #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
World Pet Obesity Week Special: Expert Insights on Obesity, Nutrition, and Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
02-10-2024
World Pet Obesity Week Special: Expert Insights on Obesity, Nutrition, and Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
This week, we focus on two critical issues. First, it’s World Pet Obesity Awareness Week, October 7–13, 2024, and we need your help, veterinary professionals, to participate in our biennial Pet Obesity Prevalence Survey by signing up at PetObesityPrevention.org. Joining us this week is board-certified veterinary nutritionist Martha Cline from Purina to dive into the communication challenges surrounding pet obesity, discuss spectrum of care issues with nutrition and obesity, and explore cutting-edge research on metabolomics and its relevance to joint disease and obesity treatment. But that’s not all. We’ll also address the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated parts of the Southeast, including parts of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Registered Veterinary Technician Beckie Mosser will share ways you can help, as well as some local relief efforts that are making a difference. Links below. Join us for this important episode, packed with expert advice, essential resources, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on pets and communities in need! Veterinary Professionals, sign up for the Pet Obesity Prevalence Survey here:  https://bit.ly/APOPsignup Hurricane Helene Relief organizations: Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) https://www.nvoad.org/ NC Disaster Relief Fund https://pay.payitgov.com/ncdonations American Humane Society https://www.humanesociety.org/hurricane-helene-response
Avoiding Vet Clinic Drama: Boundaries and Professionalism on Office Message Platforms
25-09-2024
Avoiding Vet Clinic Drama: Boundaries and Professionalism on Office Message Platforms
In this week's episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser tackle a modern issue affecting veterinary professionals worldwide: communication on messaging platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams. While these tools are essential for team collaboration, they can also blur the lines of professionalism, leading to "salty" exchanges that could impact your career. Dr. Ward and Beckie dive deep into the nuances of maintaining professionalism while using these platforms, offering practical tips for staying courteous, even when tempers flare. They also explore what happens when these tools interrupt your personal time and discuss strategies for setting healthy boundaries.  More importantly, the episode uncovers the hidden side of these platforms — what your employer can monitor and what you're responsible for when communicating digitally. Join the conversation as Dr. Ward and Beckie share personal experiences, advice, and recommendations on navigating these modern communication challenges while keeping your reputation intact. Whether you're a vet tech or a practice owner, this episode is packed with must-know insights for managing team dynamics online! World Pet Obesity Week is October 7-13! Remember to sign up your clinic to participate in the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention's (APOP) biennial pet obesity prevalence survey. Visit PetObesityPrevention.org today. Participants will be eligible to win Yeti coolers, iPads, and loads of other prizes! If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues. We'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Please share your thoughts with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder or VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
Are You Licensed? Answering Clients' Toughest Questions About Veterinary Credentials
18-09-2024
Are You Licensed? Answering Clients' Toughest Questions About Veterinary Credentials
In this episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, RVT, MPA, tackle a potentially rising concern in veterinary clinics: clients questioning whether their veterinary professionals are licensed. As public awareness around veterinary credentials grows, more pet owners are asking whether the person caring for their pet is licensed to perform certain tasks. This shift brings new challenges and sometimes uncomfortable conversations with clients. Join Dr. Ward and Beckie as they discuss strategies to handle these questions confidently and professionally. From how to properly equip your veterinary team with the right responses to navigating these sometimes tricky interactions, this episode provides essential tips for maintaining trust and transparency in your practice. Whether you're a veterinarian, credentialed veterinary technician, practice manager, veterinary assistant, or support staff, this conversation will help you prepare for this evolving client expectation. Tune in to stay ahead of this trend and ensure your team is ready! World Pet Obesity Week is October 7-13! Remember to sign up your clinic to participate in the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention's (APOP) biennial pet obesity prevalence survey. Visit PetObesityPrevention.org today. Participants will be eligible to win Yeti coolers, iPads, and loads of other prizes! If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues. We'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Please share your thoughts with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder or VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
Corporate Layoffs in Vet Med: Is the Grass Greener?
11-09-2024
Corporate Layoffs in Vet Med: Is the Grass Greener?
In this episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser tackle a surprising new challenge in the veterinary profession: corporate layoffs. Once confined to tech companies and big businesses, layoffs have begun to impact veterinary professionals, raising questions about job stability in corporate settings versus private practice. Dr. Ward, with over 30 years of veterinary experience, reflects on the seismic shift, offering insights into how to prepare for potential job losses and whether the corporate world really offers greener pastures compared to traditional, independently-owned private practice. Together, Ernie and Beckie explore how these changes affect not just the profession but also the individuals who dedicate their lives to animal care. Tune in to discover strategies for navigating this new corporate reality, questions to ask before accepting a new job, and protecting your career in an ever-evolving veterinary landscape. If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Please share your thoughts with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder or VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
Why Climate Change Should Be Part of Veterinary Education: Lessons from Human Medicine
21-08-2024
Why Climate Change Should Be Part of Veterinary Education: Lessons from Human Medicine
In this episode of the Veterinary Viewfinder, co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser tackle a critical but often overlooked issue in the veterinary profession: climate change.  -- As human medical schools in the United States and worldwide begin to integrate climate change into their curricula, the veterinary field needs to catch up. Dr. Ward and Beckie discuss the growing importance of addressing climate change within veterinary education and continuing professional development.  -- They explore how environmental changes are already impacting animal health and what the veterinary community can learn from advancements in human medicine. This conversation challenges veterinary professionals to consider the future of our profession - and planet - in a rapidly changing world and the steps needed to prepare for tomorrow's health challenges.  -- Join us this week to understand why climate change should be on every veterinary agenda and how to advocate for its inclusion in veterinary curricula. -- If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic! -- Please share your thoughts with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder or VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. -- Medical Schools Are Updating Their Curricula as Climate Change Becomes Impossible to Ignore - https://bit.ly/3AwVuUI -- Dr. Ward’s book on Climate Change and the Pet Food Industry’s Contributions - https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Pet-Food-Revolution-Better/dp/1590566025 -- #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
From the Podium to the Practice: Olympic Inspiration for Veterinary Professionals
14-08-2024
From the Podium to the Practice: Olympic Inspiration for Veterinary Professionals
In this episode of "The Veterinary Viewfinder," veterinarian Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser explore the inspiring world of Olympic athletes and the valuable lessons they offer for veterinary professionals.  As the Olympic Games have come to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on the extraordinary performances and personal stories that captivated the world. But what can veterinarians and their teams learn from these elite athletes?  Dr. Ward and Becky dive into the principles of perseverance, discipline, and resilience that define Olympic champions and discuss how these traits can be applied to improve both your veterinary practice and personal life.  Whether you're striving for excellence in your clinic or looking to enhance your well-being, this episode offers practical insights drawn from the world's top athletes. Tune in to discover how you can bring the mindset of an Olympian to your everyday work and achieve your own gold medal moments in veterinary medicine. If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues. We'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Please share your thoughts with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder or VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
Revolutionizing Veterinary Diagnostics: In-Home Testing with QSM Diagnostics' Ed Goluch, PhD
07-08-2024
Revolutionizing Veterinary Diagnostics: In-Home Testing with QSM Diagnostics' Ed Goluch, PhD
In this episode of the Veterinary Viewfinder podcast, we delve into the future of veterinary diagnostics with our special guest, Ed Goluch, PhD, CEO and founder of QSM Diagnostics. Join co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and registered veterinary technician Beckie Mosser as they explore the innovative in-home diagnostic testing technology developed by QSM Diagnostics and its potential to revolutionize veterinary medicine. Dr. Goluch shares insights into how their cutting-edge technology works, making diagnostic testing more accessible and efficient for veterinary practices. This episode addresses a common challenge in clinical medicine: the difficulties of obtaining timely diagnostic tests and ensuring consistent follow-up testing. Dr. Goluch explains how in-home diagnostic solutions, entirely controlled by the veterinary healthcare team, can streamline these processes, leading to improved patient care and better outcomes for pet patients. Viewfinders, in this podcast, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the benefits of in-home diagnostic testing, including enhanced efficiency, reduced stress for pets and owners (and staff!), and more accurate and timely diagnoses. This episode is a must-listen for veterinary professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve in diagnostic technology and elevate the standard of care in their practices. Tune in to discover how QSM Diagnostics is paving the way for the future of veterinary diagnostics. Thank you, Dr. Goluch, for sharing this information with the Viewfinders! To learn more, visit qsmdiagnostics.com. #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
Historic Win for Vet Techs: Minnesota's New Veterinary Practice Act with Kim Horne, CVT, VTS
17-07-2024
Historic Win for Vet Techs: Minnesota's New Veterinary Practice Act with Kim Horne, CVT, VTS
In this episode of the Veterinary Viewfinder, we dive into a historic achievement for veterinary technicians: their inclusion in the Minnesota Veterinary Practice Act. This monumental change, a result of nearly two decades of advocacy, means that the term "veterinary technician" will be protected by the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine (MBVM), along with an interesting pathway for licensureWe'll talk with one of the key architects of this groundbreaking legislation, Kim Horne, AAS, CVT, VTS (Dermatology), about its implications for veterinary professionals in Minnesota and beyond. Discover how this new law, signed into effect as part of a 1430-page omnibus package, sets a precedent for other states and elevates the veterinary technician profession. Join hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mosser, MPA, RVT, as they explore the journey to this victory, the upcoming licensure process, and what it all means for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Please share them with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder or VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. Thank you to Kim Horne, AAS, CVT, VTS (Dermatology) Charter Member, for joining us! She is a Co-Founder of the Academy of Dermatology Veterinary Technicians and worked at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center.
Hot Topics from Austin: Ethical Debates at the AVMA Convention
26-06-2024
Hot Topics from Austin: Ethical Debates at the AVMA Convention
This week, our hosts travel to the annual American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) convention in Austin, Texas. Discover the heated debates and critical updates on veterinary medical ethics arising from the AVMA’s House of Delegates approval of a recently revised Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics (PVME). Join hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Becky Mosser, MPA, RVT, as they delve into some of the changes to the PVME that they believe will affect many veterinary professionals. Our duo starts by discussing the newly-introduced ethical usage by veterinarians of the term “veterinary technician,” some significant changes to the ethical definition of “evidence-based medicine,” why the omission of a single one matters to them, and the controversial topic of animal depopulation and ventilation shutdown (VSD+) receives an ethical okay from the AVMA HOD. Viewfinders, we hope these conversations continue to propel our profession forward. We want to thank our colleagues at the AVMA Executive Board and HOD for their work, regardless of their opinions, and welcome the opportunity to share different perspectives on the issues that affect the veterinary profession. If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues! We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Please share them with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder or VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. To read the revised AVMA PVME, click here: https://www.avma.org/sites/default/files/2024-05/2024S_Resolution8_PVME_attch-1.pdf 🎤🐶😺🎤👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️🐶😺👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️ #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
Veterinary Errors: Financial Accountability and Ethical Dilemmas
19-06-2024
Veterinary Errors: Financial Accountability and Ethical Dilemmas
Medical mistakes happen in veterinary practice, but who pays the price? This week on the Veterinary Viewfinder, we discuss the tough topic of financial accountability in veterinary practice. From malpractice and negligence to honest mistakes and simple errors, we unpack the ethical and financial considerations that determine who pays the bill. Viewfinders, this is a thought-provoking discussion that every veterinary professional should hear. 🎤🐶😺🎤👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️🐶😺👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️ Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, share their experiences and tips for communicating veterinary medical mistakes with pet owners. The duo covers post-op infections, unexpected infections, equipment failures, and oversights. This is one podcast that is sure to spark conversations - and hopefully checklists - in your clinic! 🎤🐶😺🎤👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️🐶😺👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️ If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues! 🎤🐶😺🎤👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️🐶😺👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️ We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Share them with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder, or email us at VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. 🎤🐶😺🎤👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️🐶😺👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🩺🎙️ #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast
Licensing Loophole: Florida's Veterinary CE Exemption - How Did It Happen?
05-06-2024
Licensing Loophole: Florida's Veterinary CE Exemption - How Did It Happen?
In this episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, we dive into the recent legislative change in Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 382, exempting the Board of Veterinary Medicine from continuing education requirements. Co-hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, discuss the implications of this decision, how it could impact veterinary professionals across the country, and the lessons we can learn. Tune in to explore the potential effects on veterinary practice and the broader industry, and join the conversation about maintaining standards and staying informed in a rapidly evolving field. On May 17, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 382 into law, exempting certain licensees, including the Board of Veterinary Medicine, from continuing education requirements. While Florida lawmakers have promised to address this issue in the next session, what does this mean for the entire country, and what lessons can we learn? Hosts Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, tackle the tough topic of recent legal changes affecting the veterinary profession in Florida. Anytime there are changes or threats to our professional licenses, we’re going to talk about it, and that recently happened in Florida. In this episode, we discuss how this controversial legislation potentially impacts all veterinary professionals and the lessons we should learn. Effective July 1, 2024, all Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation licensees, including the Board of Veterinary Medicine, who meet certain requirements, will be exempted from their current continuing education requirements. Should veterinarians be exempt from CE in Florida? Beckie responds, “Oh, Florida, just when we thought you couldn't do any better. Ugh, here you are. Welcome to the Veterinary Viewfinder!” If you enjoy our podcast, please leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred platform. Your support helps us connect with more veterinary colleagues! We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share them with us on Facebook or Instagram at @VeterinaryViewfinder, or email us at VeterinaryViewfinder@gmail.com. Link to the new Florida Law: https://public.lobbytools.com/index.cfm?type=bills&id=65479&utm_source=publisher&utm_medium=js&utm_campaign=content_share #veterinary #veterinarytechnician #veterinary #podcast #veterinarypodcast #vettechpodcast #vetpodcast