50th anniversary Q&A: No smoking-no ashtrays?

Editor's note: This year marks our 50th anniversary—the first issue of Veterinary Economics was published in July 1960. To celebrate the milestone, we're taking a look back at issues past. Here's an excerpt from the very first Practice Management Q&A, published in October 1982. Do you remember when smoking was allowed in veterinary clinics?

I discourage clients from smoking and have posted "No Smoking" signs in client areas.

To emphasize the point, I've taken away the ashtrays, but a colleague says this may result in a fire. Should I heed his warning?

Yes, according to most of our consultants. Says one: "A client who sneaks a smoke despite your sign may dispose of his cigarette in an unsafe manner—behind a sofa cushion, for example." Another recommends a compromise: Put an ashtray in a hall away from your reception room and treatment areas.