Archive for April, 2009

Pet Obesity Can Shorten Lives While Emptying Wallets

Boston, MA – April 13, 2009 – It’s no secret America’s in a fight against fat. But, these days, humans aren’t the only Americans being affected by our obesity epidemic–our pets’ waistlines are bulging too. In fact, approximately 40% of our nation’s dogs and cats are overweight or obese, according to a study by the American Journal of Veterinary Research. Being heavy isn’t cheap either. Research shows Americans shelled out tens of millions of dollars last year in obesity-related veterinary costs alone. (more…)

We’re pleased to congratulate Carol Michelfelder from High Peaks Animal Hospital as our team member of the month!

Carol filled a vacancy in the tech department last year, after having worked in our kennel for periods in the past. She always has a positive attitude, and is willing to learn new things. She has quickly learned many skills through “on the job training,” and does everything asked of her with a smile.

She also has a great demeanor with clients, whether their needs are simple or more complicated. Her concern for animals and their owners shows in all of her interactions. When needed, Carol will also fill in when we are short on kennel staff. Carol really does her part and more to give the clients, and her co-workers, a positive experience at High Peaks Animal Hospital.

Congratulations Carol and thank you for all that you do!

As CEO of Pet Partners, it is my pleasure to welcome you again to the “Partner’s Blog” section of our Web site. Here, you’ll find the latest information about our company and our people, our thoughts on the direction of the industry, plus other tips and information.

I, along with everyone at Pet Partners, recognize that the decision to sell your practice is a very personal decision, based on the personal work and sacrifice you’ve made to grow your business. I hope that this blog gives you a sense of our personality, culture and commitment to our business, and I look forward to beginning a conversation with you about your practice, your patients and your people soon.

As I speak to you and colleagues like you I find that we are living in the most interesting of times for our profession and our business.  It is obvious to me that there are veterinary practices that are struggling with the economy.  There are also practices that appear to be surging forward.  And the reasons for the differences appear to be varied and multiple.  At the end of the day our clients know we are good at what we do.  They accept our medicine as “high level”.  What they are looking for is a way to separate us based on client service.  Therein lies the differences I am seeing and attention to communication and client service make a huge difference between struggling and surging with the realization that there are other influential variables.  It is all about people!

We at Pet Partners would like to welcome the Albemarle Veterinary Health Care Center and Dr. Richard Freedman to our family.  This lovely hospital in Charlottesville, Virginia is our latest affiliate and we are most pleased at how they have all processed the changes and support of the Pet Partners team.  A big Hoo! Haa! For everyone at Albemarle.

I also want to acknowledge Carol Michelfelder, our Employee of the Month from High Peaks Animal Hospital in the Lake Placid region of New York.  Carol is one of those esteemed employees who comes to work with a positive attitude and carries that through whatever she does and whomever she contacts.  She has worked hard to better herself and her position at High Peaks with a diligent work ethic, great demeanor with clients and a positive interaction with her co-workers.

Best, Ted A. Sprinkle, Jr., DVM CEO & Cofounder Pet Partners, LLC