We’ve all heard it: “One dog year equals seven human years.” But it’s wrong - and in this episode of The Consult Room, I explain why.From the rapid aging dogs experience in their early years, to the role of breed, size, genetics, and even new anti-aging research, this episode explores what really determines a dog’s lifespan. Most importantly, it’s about how knowing your dog’s true biological age can help you give them the best care at every stage of life.In This Episode:Why the 7-to-1 rule doesn’t workHow dogs age differently depending on size and breedThe science of epigenetic clocks and agingThe extraordinary cases of Bluey and BobieWhy weight management is the single biggest factor in longevityWhat senior dogs need compared to younger dogsKey Takeaways:Dogs age rapidly in their early years, then more slowlySmall breeds often live far longer than giant breedsGenetics and environment both shape lifespanKnowing your dog’s life stage helps tailor their careHealthy weight = healthier, longer lifeResources and More Info:🌐 Visit theconsultroom.co.uk for more advice and resources📊 Learn more about Loyal’s research into canine longevity: http://loyalfordogs.com🐾 Follow @DrPaulTheVet for daily insights and updates🎙️ Enjoyed the episode? Follow and review The Consult Room wherever you get your podcasts.
Do we love our pets too much, and could it be harming them?In this episode of The Consult Room, I explore the dramatic shift in how we view our pets - from animals that fit into family life to “fur babies” at the heart of it. We’ll look at the benefits of closer bonds, but also the hidden welfare risks when pets are treated like humans.From the rise of “pet parents” to why I now call myself a “guardian,” this episode is about finding a balance between love and species-specific care.In This Episode:How pet ownership has changed over timeThe welfare risks of over-humanising petsWhy anthropomorphism can lead to behavioural problemsThe role of language in shaping owner attitudesWhy “guardian” might be the healthiest mindset for pets and peopleKey Takeaways:Pets are not property — but they’re not children eitherAnthropomorphism can compromise both physical and behavioural healthWords matter: they shape how we think about and care for animalsResources & Links🌐 Visit theconsultroom.co.uk for more pet health advice and resources📊 Read the UK survey from Purina: Purina Pet Ownership Survey📚 Learn more from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute: https://habri.org/🐾 Follow @DrPaulTheVet for daily insights and updates🎙️ Enjoyed the episode? Follow and review The Consult Room wherever you get your podcasts.
In this episode of The Consult Room, I’m joined by Ronan Fitzgerald, a veterinary technical advisor with a specialist interest in nutrition. We’re talking all things fibre, and why it might just be one of the most underrated tools in pet health.From the differences between soluble, insoluble, and fermentable fibre to the growing science of the gut microbiome, we explore how fibre supports digestion, immunity, weight management, and even behavioural health. We also look at how fibre interacts with prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, and why quality and gradual introduction are key when choosing a supplement.Whether you're a vet, a pet owner, or just fibre-curious, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of why gut health really matters, and how a scoop of fibre might make all the difference.In This Episode:How fibre works in the body, and why it’s not one-size-fits-allWhy fermentable fibre supports beneficial gut bacteriaThe role of fibre in managing diarrhoea, anal glands and weightDifferences between dog and cat fibre requirementsWhat to look for when choosing a fibre supplementKey Takeaways:Fibre plays a vital role in digestive and overall healthPrebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics all support gut balanceCats have different needs and tolerate fibre differently to dogsNot all fibre is equal! Source, solubility and fermentability matterSupplementation should be gradual to avoid digestive upsetResources & Links:Learn more at Protexin VeterinaryFor pet health support, visit theconsultroom.co.ukFollow @DrPaulTheVet for more episodes and updates💬 Got a question about fibre or pet nutrition? Drop it in the comments or tag me on social media.📲 If you enjoyed the episode, follow and leave a review, it really helps more people find the podcast.
This episode of The Consult Room is a story of resilience, hope, and the extraordinary bond between a vet student and her assistance dog.I’m joined by Jade, a veterinary student living with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), a condition that caused her to collapse without warning, forcing her to leave vet school and putting her dreams on hold. That is, until she met Jules, an alert assistance dog trained by Medical Detection Dogs.Jules gives Jade minutes of warning before an episode strikes, allowing her to stay safe. Since being matched with him, Jade hasn’t had a single injury or hospital admission. Together, they’ve returned to vet school, and Jade is pursuing her dream again - with Jules at her side every step of the way.This is an inspiring conversation about the life-changing power of support animals, the impact of invisible illness, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going when everything feels impossible.In This Episode:Living with undiagnosed POTS and the struggle to be heardThe toll of repeated injuries and social isolationHow Jules predicts fainting episodes—and how he communicates themThe impact of assistance dogs on mental health and independenceReturning to vet school and rebuilding a life with purposeKey Takeaways:POTS can be life-limiting, especially when resistant to treatmentJules has given Jade not just safety, but her confidence and freedom backMedical alert dogs are trained to respond to an individual's unique scent patternsVeterinary students with disabilities face hidden challenges - but also break barriersAnimals aren’t just companions - they can be lifelinesResources & Links:Learn more about Medical Detection Dogs: medicaldetectiondogs.org.ukFor mental health support, visit VetlifeFollow @DrPaulTheVet for more episodes and updates💬 Has a pet changed your life in an unexpected way? Share your story in the comments or tag me on social media.📲 Don’t forget to follow and leave a review—it helps more people discover these important conversations.
Redundancy has never really been part of the veterinary conversation - until now.In this episode of The Consult Room, I’m joined by veterinary nurse Annie Clark, who shares her deeply personal experience of being made redundant. We talk about the emotional toll, the changing realities of job security in our sector, and what these shifts could mean for animal care, team wellbeing, and the future of the profession.I also offer my own reflections on the broader landscape, from workforce shortages to financial pressures, and explore how we can better support colleagues going through this difficult process.In This Episode:Annie's first-hand account of being made redundantWhy redundancies feel so foreign — and painful — in veterinary careHow job cuts affect team morale, patient care and mental healthThe rise of corporate cost-cutting and what it means for job stabilityWhy open communication and support systems are more important than everKey Takeaways:Redundancies are becoming more common across the veterinary professionExperienced team members are being lost, and not always replacedThe emotional fallout affects both those who leave and those who stayFinancially driven decisions may undermine long-term care qualityThere are support systems out there - and it’s vital to use themResources Mentioned:Vetlife – Mental health support for the veterinary communityACAS – Guidance on employee rights and redundancyBVU – British Veterinary Union – Advice and representation for veterinary staff💬 Have redundancies affected your team? Let us know in the comments or tag @DrPaulTheVet to share your experience.
Dog bites are on the rise in the UK and many owners have no idea their dog could land them on the wrong side of the law.In this episode of The Consult Room, I speak with Gemma Taylor, an experienced animal welfare expert from Blue Cross. We explore what’s really behind the increase in dog bite incidents, the complex laws that apply, and what every dog owner should know to keep their dog (and the public) safe.Gemma also shares insights from the Responsible Dog Ownership Course (RDoC), a police-referred programme that is changing the way we educate owners—and reducing reoffending rates to zero.Whether you're a new dog owner or a lifelong pet parent, this is an essential listen.In This Episode:Why dog bites have increased since the COVID-19 pandemicThe surprising legal definition of a “dangerous dog”Common mistakes that land owners in legal troubleHow breed, recall, and lead use affect riskWhy responsible ownership starts with training and awarenessHow the Blue Cross RDoC course is transforming outcomesKey Takeaways:One in four people will experience a dog bite in their lifetimeThe law doesn’t require a bite—just fear—to deem a dog dangerousOwners can be held liable even if their dog was provoked or didn't cause injuryProper training, control, and socialisation are essentialBlue Cross’s education-first approach is working—with 0% reoffendingResources and More Info:Visit bluecross.org.uk and explore the Advice section for dog safety and training tipsWatch practical guidance on the Blue Cross YouTube channelFollow @DrPaulTheVet for more insights and updates🎙️ Enjoyed the episode?Follow and review The Consult Room wherever you get your podcasts.💬 Got questions or stories about dog ownership? Share them in the comments or tag me on social media
It’s collaboration time and in this special episode, Dr Paul joins Chris Watling as a guest for the launch of the Meet the Animal People podcast. Together, they explore Paul’s personal journey through the veterinary world, from a childhood fascination with wildlife, through the challenges of vet school, to a career that spans clinical practice, charity leadership, and media work.They also reflect on communication, mental health, diversity in the veterinary profession, and how staying connected to a personal mission can make all the difference.In This Episode, We Explore:Why early work experiences (even outside of veterinary practice) build critical communication skillsThe importance of diversity and inclusion in the veterinary sectorHow separating personal identity from your job can support mental healthWhy charity work offers a different kind of fulfilment for veterinary professionalsChanging dynamics in pet ownership and access to veterinary careKey Takeaways:Communication with pet owners is as important as clinical skillDiversity in the veterinary profession is improving, but more work is neededMental health challenges are real and creating work-life boundaries mattersCharity roles can amplify impact by supporting communities and animal welfareFailure is part of growth and resilience comes from embracing setbacksRelated Links and Resources:Find the full episode on Meet the Animal People here: Episode 2 – Paul ManktelowConnect with Dr. Paul Manktelow on social media: @DrPaulTheVetVisit the website for blogs and insights: theconsultroom.co.ukEngage With Us:💬 What part of Paul's journey resonated most with you? We would love to hear your thoughts.📲 Follow @DrPaulTheVet for more insights and check out Chris Watling’s Meet the Animal People podcast for more inspiring conversations from the world of animal care.🎙️ Thank you for tuning in. Please follow and leave a review. It really helps others discover these important conversations.
The Assisted Dying Bill is currently under debate in UK Parliament, with strong public support but also deep ethical concerns. But one profession has been left out of the discussion - veterinary surgeons.As someone who has performed euthanasia countless times, I ask: Should vets have a voice in this debate?In this episode of The Consult Room, I explore:The key provisions of the Assisted Dying Bill and its potential impact.How euthanasia decisions in veterinary medicine differ from human assisted dying.Why quality of life plays a central role in veterinary end-of-life care—but not in the current human model.The emotional burden of euthanasia—on vets, doctors, and families.Whether vets’ expertise in assessing suffering could offer valuable insights into this complex debate.This is a sensitive, thought-provoking discussion about life, death, and dignity—through the lens of a profession that makes these decisions every day.💡 Takeaways:The Assisted Dying Bill proposes medical assistance for terminally ill adults.Public support remains strong, with 75% in favour.Unlike human medicine, veterinary euthanasia is based on suffering and quality of life, not just terminal illness.Ethical concerns include coercion, emotional burden on doctors, and patient autonomy.Vets have extensive experience in assessing pain, suffering, and end-of-life decisions.The veterinary profession has not been consulted in the Assisted Dying Bill discussions.The debate raises critical questions about how we define suffering and dignity in both human and animal medicine.🔗 Related Links and Resources:UK Parliament Assisted Dying Bill OverviewDignity in Dying – Public Campaign for Assisted DyingRoyal College of Physicians – Assisted Dying PositionBVA Ethics Discussion on End-of-Life Decision Making📲 Engage With Us:💬 What’s your take on the Assisted Dying Bill? Should vets have a say in this debate? Let me know in the comments.📲 Follow @DrPaulTheVet and subscribe to The Consult Room on your favorite platform to stay updated on future episodes.🎙️ Thank you for listening to this episode.You’ll find all relevant links in the show notes.If you enjoyed it, please follow and leave a review, it really helps others discover the podcast.For more insights on topics like this, connect with me on social media @DrPaulTheVet or visit theconsultroom.co.uk.
In this episode of The Consult Room, we explore the Competition and Markets Authority’s investigation into the rising costs of veterinary care across the UK. Join me as I break down the complex issues facing the sector, from corporate consolidation and price transparency to the financial strain on pet owners.Drawing on over two decades of experience in the charity veterinary sector, I discuss the implications for pet owners, veterinary professionals, and animal welfare. From skyrocketing vet fees and pet insurance premiums to media portrayals of the profession, this conversation delves into the root causes of the affordability crisis and potential solutions that the CMA’s report may offer.💡 Takeaways: The CMA’s investigation aims to address rising vet care costs. Corporate consolidation has drastically changed the veterinary landscape. Pet owners face rising vet fees and insurance premiums, creating financial stress. Pricing transparency could empower pet owners to make informed decisions. Media coverage has contributed to misconceptions about vet costs and services. Many veterinary professionals face burnout due to industry pressures. Delayed veterinary visits caused by financial concerns can worsen pet health. The CMA’s report may lead to significant reforms in pricing and competition.🔗 Related Links and Resources: Competition and Markets Authority: Official Investigation Announcement British Veterinary Association’s Response to the CMA Inquiry PDSA Paw Report 2023: Veterinary Access and Affordability Vet Record: Analysis of Corporate Consolidation📲 Engage With Us:💬 What’s your take on the CMA investigation? Join the conversation on social media—let me know your thoughts and experiences.📲 Follow @DrPaulTheVet and subscribe to The Consult Room on your favourite platform to stay updated on future episodes.🎙️ Thank you for listening to this episode.You’ll find all relevant links to this conversation in the show notes.If you enjoyed it, please follow and leave a review—it really helps others discover the podcast.For more insights on topics like this, connect with me on social media @DrPaulTheVet or check out my website at theconsultroom.co.uk.
In this episode of The Consult Room, Dr. Paul Manktelow is joined by Dr. Stuart Halperin, a leading expert in stem cell therapy for dogs. Together, they discuss the rising prevalence of arthritis in dogs, including why even young dogs can develop this painful condition. Dr. Halperin explains how stem cell therapy, a cutting-edge treatment, is providing new hope by not just masking symptoms but potentially reversing the damage caused by arthritis. Listeners can expect to hear about: Understanding Arthritis: How and why it affects so many dogs. Stem Cell Science: A deep dive into how this therapy works at the cellular level. Treatment Journey: From harvesting fat cells to the final injection—what’s involved? Financial Comparison: The cost of stem cell therapy versus traditional long-term treatments. Looking Ahead: The future potential of stem cell therapy in treating other conditions. Tune in to learn how stem cell therapy is not only changing the treatment of arthritis in dogs but also paving the way for future advancements in veterinary medicine. For more information and resources, visit www.theconsultroom.co.uk.
In this enlightening episode of The Consult Room, host Dr Paul Manktelow is joined once again by renowned dog behaviourist Nigel Reed, revisiting the pressing issue of pandemic puppies and their behavioural challenges. A couple of years ago, we discussed the potential crisis facing the UK's dogs due to the lockdowns. Today, the latest research from the Royal Veterinary College confirms our fears: behavioural problems in dogs have indeed escalated. Nigel, author of the bestseller The Dog Guardian, shares his invaluable insights into the current state of dog behaviour in the UK, shedding light on the persistence of issues like separation anxiety, reactivity, and the impact of pandemic-induced isolation. In this episode, we cover: Evolving Behavioural Issues: Insights from recent data on over 2.1 million dogs in the UK facing behavioural challenges post-pandemic. Revisiting Lockdown Effects: Discussion on how the lack of socialisation and the unique conditions of the pandemic lockdowns have left a lasting impact on dog behaviour. Behavioural Trends: Nigel Reed revisits the primary issues identified in pandemic puppies, including separation anxiety, reactivity to other dogs, and people. Leadership in Dog Training: Nigel discusses the concept of leadership in dog ownership, emphasising the balance between nurture and authority. Behavioural Solutions: Practical advice for dog owners on recognizing and addressing problematic behaviours early on. The Role of Dog Owners: Exploring how the changing relationship between dogs and owners over the years has influenced canine behaviour. Societal and Behavioural Insights: A broader look at how societal changes and attitudes towards dog training are reflecting deeper cultural shifts. Long-term Implications: Predictions and thoughts on the future of dog behaviour and training in the wake of the pandemic. Dive deep with us as we explore the multifaceted world of dog psychology, owner dynamics, and the evolving challenges faced by our four-legged friends in a post-pandemic era. The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Visit us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk for more information and support.
In this thought-provoking episode of The Consult Room, we explore the contentious XL Bully ban that has stirred considerable debate across the veterinary and animal welfare sectors. With the legislation now in effect, making it illegal to own, breed, rehome, or sell an XL Bully without specific exemptions, the repercussions are vast and varied. This episode aims to dissect the emotional and practical implications of the ban and how it has impacted the veterinary sector. In this episode, we discuss: Introduction to the Ban: Understanding the reasons behind the swift introduction of the XL Bully ban, including public safety concerns and the legislative response to high-profile dog attacks. Personal Experience and Perspective: Insights from a veterinary charity sector leader on the emotional weight and complex outcomes of breed-specific legislation. Impact on the Veterinary Sector: The surge in caseloads and the logistical hurdles facing veterinary clinics. Ethical quandaries over euthanizing healthy animals and the veterinarian's role in legislation enforcement. Operational challenges, including staff shortages and resource allocation in response to the ban. Emotional Toll and Mental Health: The psychological impact on veterinarians tasked with euthanizing healthy animals, the distress of pet owners, and available support networks. The Consult Room is a space that celebrate pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Visit us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk for more information and support.
Is the veterinary profession in the depths of a mental health crisis? With media headlines highlighting industry burnout, dropout and suicide, it would appear so! But what’s the truth behind these headlines and do they help - or harm? In this series 3 podcast from The Consult Room, Dr Paul Manktelow seeks to find answers and share support, alongside veterinary expert Rosie Allister, esteemed lecturer, international speaker and published author, who has dedicated over 10 years on this very issue. Listen and learn more about: What’s behind concerns about mental health in the veterinary industry? The specific harm that negative narratives can cause to already-stressed veterinary professionals. External influences which have had a huge impact on all veterinary practice - including Brexit, Covid, Corporate takeover and the massive surge in pet ownership. Why negative narratives have a cause-and-effect when it comes to low numbers in recruitment and retention. Why the unrealistic expectations and lack of understanding from some pet owners' and baseless, vindictive complaints contribute to stress - and even suicide. The awful impact of ‘vet-bashing’ and online abuse - and how this affects all veterinary professionals. The statistics around suicide in the profession and the importance of striking a balance in what we talk about - and how we talk about it. The podcast also shares where to find help as Rosie shares more information about the charity Vetlife and how this is literally a lifeline for veterinary professionals. And pet owners can get involved and help too! We’re a compassionate profession which puts pets first, so please help us by showing some compassion for our colleagues. The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Join us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk
In this joyful episode from The Consult Room podcast series 3, Dr Paul Manktelow continues the conversation about alternative ways of owning dogs, with a specific focus on the topic of dog sharing. With plenty of personal experience of sharing his previous dog Dolly and his current dog Rodney, Paul has advice and anecdotes to share. Listen to find out more about: How dog sharing can make dog ownership affordable. Why communication can be key to making a dog-share work for everyone. Why the temperament of the dog is so important - and how the dog’s health and well-being should be at the heart of every type of dog share. How sharing services like BorrowMyDoggy can help you find out if dog sharing could be the answer for that dog-shaped hole in your life. The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Join us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk
In this latest series 3 episode from The Consult Room podcast, Dr Paul Manktelow is joined by Rob Haselgrove, vet and founder of Pets at Rest, a home pet euthanasia service in Sheffield. For this podcast Paul and Rob share their collective experiences and opinions - both personal and professional - on providing pet euthanasia services at home. Listen to find out: How working in both the veterinary and the pet charity sectors has helped both Rob and Paul see clearly the need for home pet euthanasia services. What the benefits of a home service are for pets - and for their owners. Why it is now difficult for many veterinary clinics and practices to offer home euthanasia services. The deeply personal reasons why Paul and Rob agree that being at home for the final rest is best. How the cost of living is affecting the choices some pet owners have to make when it comes to their pets' end of life. What Paul and Rob hope the veterinary and charity model for end-of-life pets could look like. Their answers to that ‘how can you do it ….?’ question. The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Join us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk
Are we heading towards an antibiotics apocalypse? Antibiotic-resistant bacteria has been a hot topic in the world of human medicine for years and it’s now recognised that the pet healthcare sector contributes to this problem. However the veterinary industry, vets and pet owners are also a huge part of the solution - as long as we all know what action to take. So this series 3 podcast from The Consult Room is all about getting the message out there as Dr Paul Manktelow explores the issue with Fergus Allerton, a highly respected figure in the veterinary sector and a driving force in the fight against antibiotic resistance. Listen and learn more about: How AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) threatens us all and ranks among the WHO’s top ten global health public health threats. The problems overuse of antibiotics can cause. Why antibiotics aren’t always the most effective treatment for treating certain conditions - and can sometimes cause bigger problems for poorly pets. How complex the decision-making process is for vets treating pets - and how owners can help by understanding more about antibiotics. Why the vet industry is working together with the world of human medicine to address the wider issues of AMR and environmental impact. How the PROTECT ME campaign started and its purpose in helping vets to make decisions which also support human health. How inappropriate disposal of antibiotics assists the rise in resistant bacteria. November’s Antibiotics Amnesty - how you can get involved now and for the future. The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Join us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk
In this series 3 episode from The Consult Room podcast, Dr Paul Manktelow is joined by Dr Jane Ladlow, specialist veterinary surgeon and Director of Research at Cambridge University. In this in-depth discussion, they lift the lid on the controversy surrounding flat-faced dogs - those bulldog breeds that conversely top the tables as most popular but also the most unhealthy. With a shared concern and love of the breeds, listen and learn as Paul and Jane delve deeper into: The health issues which haunt these breeds. The research, diagnostic and assessment tools that have helped breeders start to breed better bulldogs and vets to better monitor them. How problems may not all be down to irresponsible breeding, but also the irresponsible influence of social media. Why it is that dog owners can’t resist these breeds. What you should do if you are currently considering buying a bulldog breed. The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Join us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk
In this very first episode of The Consult Room podcast series 3, Dr Paul Manktelow is joined by Rikke Rosenlund. Rikke’s the founder of BorrowMyDoggy, the popular platform for sharing the love of dogs and, as Paul and his dog Rodney are members of BorrowMyDoggy, he and Rikke have a lot to talk about. Listen and learn as they chat and explore: How a brown labrador inspired BorrowMyDoggy. How BorrowMyDoggy has grown from a startup idea to a vast community with members in 99% of UK postcodes, in just over 10 years. How the service works - and who uses it. Why ‘meet and greet’ of people and pets is at the heart of this incredible community. How BorrowMyDoggy is playing a vital role in responsible dog ownership. The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Join us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk
In this episode, Dr Paul Manktelow shares his thoughts on a recent special event - being in post as Director of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross for a whole year already! When this popped up on his timeline, Paul received lots of congratulations and many enquiries with that burning question ‘how’s it going?” So there are no guests in the podcast this time around. Instead, settle in for a solo episode as Dr Paul shares his thoughts, insights and experiences about his first year at Blue Cross. In his personal celebration of a whole year at Blue Cross, Dr Paul highlights: How the pandemic, cost of living crisis and war in Ukraine have continued to have an impact on his new role at Blue Cross. That recognising people as the heart of the organisation is at the heart of his leadership - and he shares the importance of this when it comes to planning. Why ‘back to the floor’ days are his most recommended way for leaders to learn about all aspects of their organisation - and the teams that work inside them. Why getting people to ‘stay in their lanes’ is one of Paul’s favourite phrases and how it’s been a real focus in his first year. How focusing on wellbeing in the veterinary industry is having a positive impact on recruitment and retention at Blue Cross. Dr Paul also reveals what’s been achieved in this first year, what’s currently in development and exciting information about what’s coming next. Whether your interest in Dr Paul is as a pet professional, a pet owner or a pet lover, to stay updated with new podcasts, please SUBSCRIBE and visit https://theconsultroom.co.uk
In this episode, Dr Paul Manktelow is joined by Annie Clark, Emergency and Critical Care Veterinary Nurse for over 15 years, for some behind the scenes insights into their experiences of working in veterinary emergencies. Paul and Annie share thoughts on how the system for out-of-hours emergency pet care has changed in the years since they qualified and they swap some amazing stories which reveal some of the best, most varied and definitely unexpected aspects of pet emergency care. Topics include: What’s great about working in emergency care and why most vets don’t want to do it anymore The switch to outsourced emergency care at night - better for rotas but worse for skill sharpening? The ‘rite of passage’ night shifts which used to greet new pet health professionals when starting out in vet practice. What’s so special - and different - about teamwork in animal A&E. Plus you’ll hear about a variety of hilarious real-life cases which include: A foul-mouthed nipple biting parrot A frog emergency in which the police had to get involved How Annie ended up with a bra full of puppies The puppy that transformed into a completely new species of animal The Consult Room is a space that celebrates pets and people, offering professional insights and pet support to a wide audience of pet-lovers, pet owners and veterinary professionals. Join us at www.theconsultroom.co.uk or reach out at Hello@theconsultroom.co.uk