What you need to start a vet practice

Veterinarians are responsible for treating, diagnosing, and researching the diseases and injuries sustained by our favourite non-human friends. Take a look at what it takes to start a successful vet practice below.

Vet Prerequisites

Education

- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree
- 4 year program

License and Certification

- License required
- Graduation from accredited veterinary program
- Certification in 40 different specialties, including: Internal medicine, Surgery, Microbiology

Necessary Qualities

- Compassion
- Dexterity
- Management
- Decision-making and problem-solving abilities
- Interpersonal skills

Tools of the Trade

Routine

- Stethoscopes
- Microscopes
- Syringes
- Autoclaves

Diagnosis

- Endoscopes
- Ultrasound
- Doppler machines
- Pathology testing machines
- Fluid pumps
- Radiographs (x-rays)

Surgery

- Scalpels
- Forceps
- Needles

Here are some helpful TIPS to keep in mind…

1. Embrace technology. Software can simplify processes and keep paperwork clutter to a minimum. Tablets and iPads can improve communication and efficiency.

2. Have your equipment professionally tested and calibrated at least once a year.

3. Manage your inventory using barcodes to eliminate inventory mistakes and ensure proper pricing.

Building a Team

Your veterinary staff should include:

Veterinary Technicians – Vet techs work under supervision of the veterinarian and perform a wide range of duties, including: Handling anesthesia procedures, Exposing and developing x-rays, preparing animals and equipment for surgery.

Veterinary Assistants – Assistants are responsible for helping veterinarians or technicians in a variety of advanced technical procedures.

Kennel Assistants – Kennel Assistants ensure that kennels are clean and well-stocked, learn basic animal handling and restraining, and observe patients.

Receptionists – The face of the practice, receptionists are the first person your clients interact with.

Office Managers – Office managers ensure smooth day to day operations in the clinic, taking charge of scheduling, hiring and training.

Find all the right veterinary equipment for your veterinary practice at Supply Doctor’s online medical store!

What equipment do you need for a veterinary clinic?

Did you know that a veterinary hospital is very similar to a human hospital? An animal hospital requires equipment used by radiologists, ultra-sonographers, dentists, orthodontists, pathologists, ophthalmologists, dermatologists, surgeons including orthopaedic surgeons.

Here are some of the things you will find at a regular practice.

Autoclave
An autoclave is used to sterilise surgical instruments. These instruments are very similar to those used in human surgery.

Dental Base for Scale and Polishing
This is used to scale and polish your pet’s teeth just like the dentist would do for you.

Doppler Machine
A Doppler is a machine that can measure a patient’s blood pressure as well as being used to assist in monitoring a patient’s anaesthetic.

Endoscope
The endoscope enables vet’s to look down into the oesophagus and stomach as well as the trachea.

Fluid Pumps
Did you know that if your pet is put on intravenous fluids, it is the same kind of fluid used for humans.

Pathology Laboratory
Vets are able to perform various pathology tests, such as blood and urine tests using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.

Blood Pressure Meter
The measurement of an animal’s blood pressure (BP) has a wide range of applications in veterinary medicine.

Radiography Machine
Radiographs or x-rays are a non-invasive way to look at your pet’s tissues, bones and organs.

If you’re starting a new veterinary practice, expanding your clinic or just taking things to a new level, 

you need to know exactly what equipment you need and why you need it.

Need a reliable online medical supplier? Contact Supply Doctor and place your order today! We can provide you with anything from general medical equipment to ECGs and BP meters.