So, how caught up are you on recent changes in the veterinarian field? Due to overhauls in national policy and the increasing demands of an ever-changing populace, technology only continues to change and evolve in ways we never thought possible. Simple appointments can identify complex problems and many over-the-counter medications can cure debilitating issues in cats and dogs alike. When it comes to taking care of the furry friends that make our lives a happier place, quality veterinary equipment is essential to make sure check-ups and surgical procedures are carried out accurately and efficiently when worst comes to worst. Unfortunately, many veterinarians are struggling to make ends meet and affordable equipment has become more necessary than ever. Let’s take a look at the veterinarian industry at large and how we can make the most of the technology available to us.
Pets In America
It’s rare to find a family that doesn’t own a pet (and even those that live in apartment complexes with no-pet rules often wish they had one!). Surveys have shown nearly 40 million households owning at least one cat, with 46 million owning a dog. This adds up to 62% of American households owning a pet, meaning the work of veterinarians is truly cut out for them! According to recent studies by the American Pet Products Association, pet owners spent a stunning $55 billion on pet care in the year 2013 alone — this can include everything from check-ups to dog walking services to grooming. What does this mean for cats and dogs as well as the medical industry?
Veterinarian Schooling
Being a veterinarian isn’t easy. Recent studies by the American Veterinary Medical Association saw over 90% of veterinarian school graduates beginning their careers with staggering debt, much of which can last for years. Continuing surveys into the struggles of veterinarians revealed that well over half aren’t using financial concepts to run their businesses, as well, with the majority not reviewing key metrics and figures on a routine basis. Due to these financial barriers, finding useful ways of cutting down on veterinary equipment costs while still delivering quality care is high on many priority lists.
Common Health Issues
Veterinarians deal with problems of every size, shape and scope imaginable — veterinary care accounts for nearly $15 billion of the total money spent in the past year alone. Sometimes they need to do a simple nail trim and look-over, while other times they’ll investigate a dry nose or labored breathing that could be the sign of a larger problem. While the job of a veterinarian is to take care of the cats and dogs given to their care, they also devote time to educating owners to discourage neglect or ignorance on the part of their pets. One of the most common sources of vet visits is due to feeding pets incompatible food or exposing them to seemingly harmless chemicals. According to a study conducted by Dr. Karen Felsted, cats now represent 80% of clinical growth potential, despite visiting clinics less than dogs on average.
Quality Medical Equipment
If you’re looking to buy used medical equipment and refurbish your supply, seek out a reliable supplier and see what they can offer you on a consistent basis — building a professional relationship with a specific business will go a long way in making sure you’re up to speed on what you’re buying. Due to mounting costs for both veterinarians and their clinics, used medical equipment sales have been on the rise for their combination of affordable prices and consistent quality. Used veterinary exam tables and refurbished veterinary equipment like cage banks and surgical lights are just as good as their brand new counterparts and can see you saving money in the long-term. Next time you’re reviewing your monthly expenses, look into some used veterinary equipment and see how your figures can change for the better.
