In this episode of the Endless Journeys podcast, hosts Michelle and Jen discuss the unique experiences of veterinary technicians, particularly during the holiday season. They reflect on the emotional challenges of working in veterinary medicine, the importance of client education, and the benefits and drawbacks of relief work. The conversation also highlights the significance of community support among veterinary professionals and the necessity of establishing clear contracts to ensure fair compensation. Additionally, they address the question of starting a veterinary business and share inspiring stories from their peers. In this conversation, Jennifer Kretz and Michelle Crew discuss their experiences as veterinary technicians, particularly focusing on the challenges and emotional toll of working during the holidays. They share insights on managing client expectations, the importance of cancellation policies, and the benefits of using apps for mileage tracking. The discussion also touches on the transition from working in corporate settings to owning their own businesses, highlighting the newfound freedom and challenges that come with it. They reflect on the joy of celebrating holidays and the importance of prioritizing health and family over work commitments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Snuggle Day Vibes

02:59 Holiday Episode: Reflections on Work and Celebrations

05:38 Work Experiences: Challenges and Triumphs

08:47 Client Education and Preventative Care in Veterinary Medicine

11:52 The Emotional Toll of Veterinary Care

14:51 The Importance of Listening to Veterinary Advice

17:49 Navigating the Challenges of Pet Ownership

20:33 The Freedom of Non-Traditional Veterinary Careers

23:05 The Stigma of Relief Work in Veterinary Medicine

26:01 Choosing Freedom Over Status in Veterinary Careers

31:10 Mindset Shifts in Veterinary Medicine

33:44 Community Connections and Celebrations

36:29 Highlighting Veterinary Technicians' Achievements

38:19 Navigating Business and Scheduling Challenges

52:09 Reflections on Holidays in Veterinary Practice

01:06:04 Navigating Holiday Work Stress

01:12:52 Corporate Culture and Holiday Work

01:18:11 Reflections on Past Work Experiences

01:22:26 Balancing Business Ownership and Personal Life

01:28:44 Client Relationships and Holiday Gratitude

01:32:39 Looking Forward to Future Holidays

Show Links:

Michelle’s candle –

https://www.gorillacandles.com/collections/no-2-spray/products/dog-paws

Jen’s Milage Tracking App –

https://mileiq.com/

Vet Tech To Go TikTok –

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTrHdd6Pm/

Sharon’s Book-

https://www.amazon.com/I-Got-Pet-Now-What/dp/B0G3ZQDM5J

Our Links:

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

veterinary, podcast, veterinary technicians, relief work, client education, preventative care, emotional toll, contracts, community support, business, veterinary, holidays, business owner, work-life balance, emotional health, cancellation policy, mileage tracking, client expectations, corporate culture, personal experiences