Ready to discover the secret superpower behind every thriving veterinary practice?

This week on the Paws & Effect Podcast, we welcome the wonderful Melinda Van Der Vlugt, a graduate of the Veterinary Office & Animal Care Programme and the ultimate champion of veterinary receptionists!

In this high-energy, feel-good episode, Melinda dishes on:

• How superstar receptionists are the true heartbeat of every clinic
• The real-life “reception iceberg” (spoiler: there’s way more than phones and diaries!)
• Essential training tips to turn chaos into calm and keep your team smiling
• Her Positive Reception philosophy that’s transforming support roles and boosting clinic culture
• Simple strategies to create an empowered, happy, and stress-free front desk

Whether you’re a vet practice owner, aspiring receptionist, or animal lover, this episode is packed with fresh ideas to help your clinic shine from the inside out. Melinda’s infectious enthusiasm and practical know-how will inspire you to rethink the entire client experience, starting at the front door!

Jump in now and see how levelling up your reception game could be the ultimate game-changer for pets, clients, and your whole team!

Pawesome practices start here!

SPONSOR: Ultra Pet

Check out Ultra Pets New range for Brachy breeds here: https://ultra-pet.co.za/product/premium-recipe-for-short-muzzled-adult-dogs/

Connect with Dr Carra:

Website: https://drcarra.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultrapetvet/

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcarra/

Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital: https://hillcrestvets.co.za/

Connect with Melinda

Website: https://www.pawsitivereception.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawsitive.reception?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Email: www.pawsitivereception@gmail.com

Podcast Production:

This Podcast is produced by Kythe Creative and filmed onsite at Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital.

Kythe Creative : https://kythecreative.co.za/

THIS EPISODES SPONSORS:

Ultra Pet:

This episode is sponsored by Ultra Pet, who has been scientifically formulating premium pet food for over 25 years. If you want to take the guesswork out of feeding your furry friends, give Ultra Pet a try. Check them out here at www.ultra-pet.co.za

Justforpets:

JustForPets is proud to sponsor this episode of the Paws and Effect podcast. Visit their website for all your pet needs and find everything from toys to food and much more. The team over at Just For Pets believe that every pet deserves the best care possible, and that's why we offer a wide range of products to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy - Check them out at https://www.justforpets.co.za/

FOR SPONSORSHIPS AND GUEST APPEARANCES, Email us at drcarra@pawsandeffect.co.za and we'll get in touch with you.

Don't forget to LIKE this if you found it helpful, SUBSCRIBE for more episodes and content like this.

-------------------------------------------------------------

00:00 Veterinary Receptionist Maternity Leave Challenges

05:39 Empowering Receptionists as Superheroes

07:13 Building Confidence in Client Interactions

10:57 Receptionist Training and Empowerment

16:06 Effective Surgical Booking Checklist

19:47 Pet Deworming and Preventative Care

23:11 Effective Debriefing and Issue Management

25:39 Cultivating a Positive Team Culture

29:17 Guide Modules Coming Soon

31:06 Receptionists: Key to Veterinary Practice

36:33 Navigating Compassion Fatigue Challenges

37:24 Balancing Pet Care and Parenthood

40:58 Pause and Effect Podcast Thanks