Chat with your vet

As a pet owner, ensuring that your furry friend receives the best possible care is a top priority. The National Pet Advocacy and Welfare Society (NPAWS) Pet Positive Veterinary Facility Certification is a valuable recognition program that recognizes a veterinary practice's commitment to providing a pet-positive environment that does not include non-therapeutic invasive procedures, such as declawing, ear cropping, and more. Here are some effective ways to discuss the Certification with your vet.

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1. Do Your Research: Before approaching your veterinarian about NPAWS Pet Positive Certification, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the Pet Positive Movement and the Pet Positive Veterinary Facility Certification program. This knowledge will help you articulate your thoughts and concerns more effectively during the discussion.                     

2. Choose the Right Time: Select an appropriate time to discuss the topic with your vet. Avoid bringing it up during a busy appointment or when your vet is rushing between patients. Instead, request a separate appointment or find a moment when the clinic is less busy. This will ensure that both you and your vet have enough time to have a meaningful conversation.  

3. Express Your Interest in pet well-being: Open the conversation by expressing your genuine interest in ensuring your pet's well-being. Explain how important it is for you to find a veterinary practice that aligns with your values and prioritizes a Pet Positive environment.                                                                  

4. Present the NPAWS Pet Positive Veterinary Facility Certification: Introduce the NPAWS Pet Positive Veterinary Facility Certification to your vet. Explain that this certification recognizes veterinary practices committed to providing a Pet Positive environment free from non-therapeutic invasive procedures like declawing and ear cropping. Emphasize that it encompasses practices that encourage positive reinforcement training as an alternative to address destructive behavior and offers counsel to discourage non-therapeutic invasive procedures. Be sure to share the link: https://www.npaws.org/petpositivevet                                                                                         

5. Discuss the Benefits of Pet Positive Care: Highlight the numerous benefits associated with a pet-positive approach in veterinary care. Share information from the NPAWS website about the positive impact a Pet Positive environment can have on pet well-being, reducing stress, enhancing trust, and improving overall patient outcomes. Emphasize the potential for increased client satisfaction and loyalty, as well as the opportunity to be part of a network of professionals dedicated to Pet Positive practices. Your veterinarian’s participation will also serve the greater good by fueling the Pet Positive Movement to end these normalized pet cruelties across the country.                                                             

6. Address Questions and Concerns: Give your vet the opportunity to ask questions or express any concerns they may have regarding the certification. Be prepared to address their inquiries based on the information available on the NPAWS website. Offer additional resources or suggest they explore the NPAWS website to gain a deeper understanding of the certification's principles and benefits. Suggest that they contact hello@npaws.org if they have additional questions.                                                             

7. Encourage Collaboration and Continued Learning: Promote a collaborative approach by expressing your willingness to support your vet in their journey towards providing a Pet Positive environment. Highlight the potential for expanded client acquisition and an increased vet/client bond as a result of becoming certified.                                                      

8. Seek Referrals, if Needed: If your veterinarian is not currently certified by NPAWS or is hesitant to pursue the certification, respectfully inquire if they can recommend any colleagues who have obtained it. Request referrals to other veterinarians who prioritize a Pet Positive approach. This approach allows you to explore alternative options while maintaining a respectful relationship with your current vet.                                                                              

Initiating a conversation with your vet about the NPAWS Pet Positive Veterinary Facility Certification demonstrates your dedication to ensuring a Pet Positive future for America’s furry companions. By conducting thorough research, scheduling a dedicated meeting, expressing your interest in pet well-being, discussing the certification's details, highlighting the benefits of pet-positive care, addressing concerns, and promoting collaboration, you can effectively engage your vet in a meaningful dialogue about the NPAWS Pet Positive Veterinary Facility Certification.