Allowing clients to stay with their pets does have benefits.
The veterinary team will gain understanding of and competence in the various procedures as well as improve their communication and listening skills when they regularly explain procedures to owners.
With owners frequently present, the practice culture will shift toward team members consistently presenting themselves as professionals in their work ethic, their own cleanliness and that of the practice, and during patient care and client interactions. Owner absence should not affect any of these factors; however, owner presence will better ensure accountability.
Veterinary team‒client interactions help make veterinary care personal (eg, a veterinary nurse who introduces him- or herself and explains his or her role will make an individual connection that will allow the owner to better recognize the various team roles).
Owners will become familiar with team members and become more invested in their pet’s care when they feel part of the team, and the transparency, competence, and confidence will solidify trust.
Initiatives focusing on alleviating patient stress (eg, Fear Free) advocate that owner presence in the practice promotes better medicine.
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