Tips and tricks on talking dermatology with your veterinary clients

Talking to clients about their pets’ dermatology conditions can not only be frustrating for them but also time-consuming for veterinary professionals. To help ensure these conversations are seamless and productive, Ashley Bourgeois, DVM, DACVD, offered a few pointers during an interview with dvm360^® to help team members efficiently communicate, educate, and empathize with clients.

“I understand [veterinary professionals] are busy and it is hard to sit down and have an hour-long spiel about allergies with every client. [So] having great handouts, discharge instructions, [and] training your staff well to communicate with owners [can help],” Bourgeois informed dvm360^®.

Bourgeois then turned her focus to the importance of empathy during client conversations and how it can help curate a smoother and more efficient discussion, thus improving the relationship between the veterinarian and owner.

For example, Bourgeois uses a personal anecdote to better relate to clients. “I have an allergic dog myself and I am a dermatologist. I [understand] that it is frustrating, it is expensive [and] there are lots of things we are doing,” Bourgeois disclosed.

“If [your clients] are frustrated say, ‘It is frustrating, it is expensive, [and] I totally get it. Let’s get a plan together that works for you [and] your pets,’” she continued.

To learn more, watch the full interview below.