NVA Pet Peeves

In this episode we dig into a familiar challenge in veterinary medicine: when diagnostics give us information, but not always clarity. NVA GP Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh shares insight into the critical role diagnostics play in patient care and the importance of setting expectations early, especially when results don’t provide immediate answers.Then, Dr. Elizabeth Hetler of IDEXX and Dr. Sarah Longfield explore where communication often breaks down, from unclear timelines to overwhelming clients with technical details. Together, they share practical strategies to simplify complex information, tell a clear clinical story, and consistently guide pet parents toward next steps.From reframing normal results as meaningful progress to turning lab conversations into trust-building moments, this episode focuses on moving beyond reporting data to delivering direction that clients can understand and act on.

In this episode, we take on one of the most urgent responsibilities in veterinary medicine: recognizing and relieving pain that patients cannot voice. NVA GP Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh reflects on how pain management has evolved from outdated restraint-based thinking to today’s team-centered, patient-first approach grounded in compassion and science. Jerrod Johnson, DVM, DABVP, Managing Doctor of Animal House Veterinary Clinic in Tennessee, shares hard-earned lessons from his surgical and mentorship journey, offering a practical lens on chronic versus acute pain, where general practice commonly undertreats how subtle behavioral changes often reveal what pets cannot say. He also discusses the power of shifting client conversations from “lameness” to “pain” to build understanding and trust. Lindsay Heath, DVM, MS, Managing Doctor of Brentwood Family Pet Care in California and Field Medical Partner, brings a proactive perspective on multimodal pain management, outlining how strong hospital culture, consistent pain scoring, staff empowerment, and client education help prevent suffering before it escalates. Together, the conversation highlights the cultural, clinical, and communication shifts required to ensure comfort is never optional.Because when suffering is silent, leadership, teamwork, and vigilance must speak louder.

In this episode of NVA Pet Peeves, “Stopping at the Gumline,” Ken sits down with NVA GP Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh and Managing Veterinarian Dr. Emily Yan to examine what happens when dentistry focuses only on what we can see.With most periodontal disease hiding below the gumline, skipping radiographs and consistent standards can mean missed pain, retained roots, and even undetected cancer. The conversation explores common client objections, the risks of inconsistency, and why training and technician utilization are key to making dentistry a reliable standard—not an exception.Because when we stop at the gumline, pets pay the price.

In the Season 3 premiere of NVA Pet Peeves, host Ken Flamer tackles a familiar frustration in veterinary medicine: standards without consistency. Joined by NVA GP Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh, the conversation opens with why standards of care matter not only for patients and clients, but for team trust, alignment, and confidence. Two experienced managing doctors, Dr. Jenni Mitchell and Dr. Jamie Sulliban, then share practical insights from the field on what causes standards to break down and how leaders can bring them to life. Together, they explore common rollout mistakes, the importance of staff involvement, and how to embed standards into daily workflow without undermining clinical judgment. This episode reframes standards as living tools that strengthen culture, reduce decision fatigue, and elevate care when they are clearly communicated, consistently revisited, and meaningfully applied.

As the year comes to a close, thank you to everyone who listened, shared episodes, and joined the conversation throughout the season. And a sincere thank-you to the managing doctors, leaders, and team members who generously shared their time, experiences, and voices on the podcast. This community exists because of your openness and willingness to speak honestly about the work.This special year-in-review episode of Pet Peeves weaves together short snippets from conversations across the year, letting the voices speak for themselves. You’ll hear moments that capture the pressures, pride, uncertainty, and commitment that define veterinary medicine.This episode closes out the year by bringing those voices together. No conclusions. No summaries. Just the moments that stayed with us.

In this episode, we explore a subtle but powerful challenge in veterinary medicine: what happens when appreciation is felt but not expressed. NVA GP Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh shares how gratitude influences culture, psychological safety, and even medical quality, and why understanding individual recognition styles matters. Then, Managing DVM of Overland Veterinary Clinic in Los Angeles, Dr. Sylvia Drekic, joins the conversation to share practical, real-world ways leaders can recognize both individual and team contributions. Together, they unpack how timely, authentic gratitude strengthens teams, improves retention, and supports better patient care, especially during the busiest seasons.

In this episode we explore one of the most persistent challenges in veterinary medicine: balancing consistency with flexibility. NVA GP Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh shares how medical excellence requires both clear standards and the ability to bend for real-world client needs. Then, Co-MDVM of Portland Veterinary Wellness Center, Dr. Torrey Schwartz, joins the conversation to discuss the tough choices leaders face, from extending hospital hours to supporting new grads through confidence-shaking decisions. Together, they unpack the tension between what’s best for the patient, doable for the client, and sustainable for the team, and how thoughtful frameworks help navigate the daily cost of choice.

In this episode of Pet Peeves, “All or Nothing Medicine,” NVA’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, discusses how embracing a spectrum of care helps veterinarians deliver excellent medicine while meeting clients where they are. Managing Doctor and Field Medical Partner, Dr. Sarah Longfield, shares how she defines gold standard care in real world practice, maximizing recovery, minimizing deterioration, and partnering with pet parents to find the best possible plan for each patient. This conversation reminds us that great medicine is not about doing everything but about doing what matters most.

In veterinary medicine, even the smallest communication lapse can have major consequences. In this episode of Pet Peeves, Dr. Sandra Faeh, NVA’s Chief Medical Officer, and Dr. Cathy Gallahorn, Medical Director at Animal Medical Care Center in Yorktown, Virginia, discuss what happens when words go missing inside the hospital. They share real-world examples of how missteps affect patient care and pet parent trust. They highlight practical strategies, like closed-loop communication, daily rounds, checklists, and visual tools, that keep information clear, consistent, and actionable for the whole team.

What happens when the culture inside a veterinary hospital breaks down? Inconsistency, toxic behaviors, and shifting priorities can leave teams disengaged and patients at risk. In this episode of NVA Pet Peeves, we explore the realities of “culture shock” in veterinary medicine and the strategies leaders can use to build healthier, more consistent workplaces.NVA's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh shares why inconsistency is the most persistent cultural challenge across hospitals, and why training future veterinarians in leadership and culture from the very start is critical. Then, a Managing Veterinarian offers practical, boots-on-the-ground tactics for handling challenging employees, encouraging teams to “vent up” instead of laterally, and modeling uncompromising values like patient-first care.

Hospital events do more than fill a calendar. They create meaningful connections with the community, helping them stand out beyond clinical care. In this episode of Pet Peeves, Dr. Sandra Faeh, NVA’s Chief Medical Officer, shares creative examples like puppy yoga and holiday celebrations, while hospital leaders Gabby Franz, Ricardo Guzman, and Erin Gomez highlight real-world wins with vendor-supported pop-ups, adoption events, and local partnerships.They offer simple advice for hesitant teams: start small, involve your staff, and make it fun. These events build trust, educate pet owners, and connect practices with their communities in meaningful ways. Don't miss these important moments to turn normal days into lasting experiences for your team, your clients, and your community.

Strong mentorship relationships are transforming careers in veterinary medicine. Dr. Beth Neuman, NVA's Senior Director of Mentorship, shares practical solutions for building successful mentor-mentee connections. Dr. Brennen Tobias from Southlake Crossing Animal Clinic and Dr. Desiree Jones from Pet Street Veterinary Care Center discuss how mentorship influenced their career decisions and helped them navigate challenging cases.

When business goals and patient care collide, which comes first? In this episode, NVA's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, and Belmont Shore Veterinary Hospital's Managing Doctor, Elyse Frank, dive into the tension between financial performance and medical excellence in veterinary practice. Join us as we explore real-world dilemmas, challenge assumptions, and ask the tough questions: Can you prioritize both—and if so, how?

In this episode of NVA Pet Peeves, NVA’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, and Managing Director of Eagle Animal Hospital in Kansas City, Dr. Matthew Silvius dig into why investing in your team's growth isn't just a nice-to-have, it's critical for a thriving, sustainable practice. From building confidence and improving patient care to boosting retention and creating future leaders, staff development touches every part of a hospital's success. Invest in your people and reap the rewards. 

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, and UC Davis Associate Professor of Clinical Small Animal Critical Care and RECOVER Co-Chair, Dr. Jamie Burkitt dive into the critical world of veterinary CPR training and the RECOVER initiative. We explore how standardized CPR guidelines are transforming emergency care, the importance of hands-on training, and why every veterinary professional should stay up to date with these lifesaving skills. Whether you're a seasoned clinician or new to the field, this conversation will reinforce the value of preparedness when every second counts. When emergencies happen, preparation and practice make all the difference.

The veterinary field thrives on collaboration, but true progress happens when we actively support one another. In this episode, NVA’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, and Kristin Salerno and Jessica Fay, explore how ally groups create safe spaces, amplify voices, and drive meaningful change in the industry. From fostering inclusivity to tackling burnout, these communities play a crucial role in shaping a stronger, more resilient profession. Tune in as we discuss why allyship matters—and how you can be part of the movement.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, and General Practice Mentor, Dr. Christine Brennan, share invaluable insights into pet dental care. Dr. Faeh highlights the importance of dental health and the critical role ongoing training plays for new veterinary graduates. Meanwhile, Dr. Brennan dives into practical strategies to keep pets pain-free, healthy, and thriving. Whether you’re a seasoned veterinarian or just starting your career, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiring takeaways for veterinary professionals and pet owners alike. Tune in and discover why a healthy smile makes all the difference!

As We Wrap Up 2024, we’re celebrating an incredible year on NVA Pet Peeves! From transformative conversations with veterinary leaders to tackling some of the toughest challenges in vet med, 2024 has been a year of growth, inspiration, and connection. In this special episode, we reflect on the moments that defined our journey, celebrating the insights, lessons, and stories that made this year unforgettable. Whether you’re between appointments, taking a walk, or multi-tasking, join us and listen back to the moments that shaped our year.

In this episode, NVA's Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, shares her approach to achieving successful surgical outcomes. From overcoming self-doubt to fostering effective team communication, Dr. Faeh highlights the transformative power of psychological safety in the workplace—whether you're leading a sales team or a veterinary surgical team. Dr. Michael Lawton, NVA General Practice Mentor, shares his unique experience performing surgeries on exotic animals—such as rats, reptiles, and bird —and compares these challenges to those of operating on more familiar patients like cats and dogs. Don’t miss this insightful discussion packed with actionable takeaways for leaders and veterinary professionals alike!

Ever wonder how veterinarians navigate complex cases to make treatment decisions? From diagnostics to considering client preferences, the approach combines science, empathy, and experience. In this episode, guest host Kathleen McBain speaks with NVA's Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh and Managing Doctor of Animal Medical Care Center Yorktown, Dr. Catherine Gallahorn. Tune in as they explore the thought process behind treatment plans and the balance between medical knowledge, patient needs, and owner expectations.

In this episode, guest host Kathleen McBain explores how veterinarians navigate the delicate task of communicating prognoses to pet owners. NVA's Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Sandra Faeh discusses finding balance between honesty and hope, while Dr. Jill Child, Managing DVM of Plaza Del Amo Animal Hospital in California, shares her systematic approach to helping clients understand their pets' medical journeys. From managing expectations to handling the challenging "what would you do?" question, this episode offers valuable insights into one of veterinary medicine's most sensitive conversations.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, shares her unique approach to diagnostics, revealing how it parallels effective leadership strategies. She reveals how the skills used in problem-solving and patient care can apply to leading teams. Plus, we feature an insightful interview with NVA General Practice Mentor, Dr. Lawrence Hill, who discusses his approach to diagnostics which reveals a surprising twist on information gathering.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, discusses the importance of creating inclusive environments where staff can thrive and clients feel welcome, features an interview with the AVMA’s Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Dr. Latonia Craig, and introduces all-new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, discusses the importance of staying well in Vet Med and offers advice for how teams can help each other stay in balance, features an interview with Dr. Genie Bishop, and introduces all-new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, discusses the importance of standards of care and open communication between new graduates and managing doctors, features an interview with the Managing Doctor of Eagle Animal Hospital, Dr. Matthew Silvius, and introduces all-new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, speaks about her approach to getting everything done, an interview with Director of Divisional Operations Robin Berndt, and of course all new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, speaks about supporting employees and the importance of mentoring, an interview with the leader of NVA’s General Practice Mentorship Program, Dr. Beth Neuman, and of course all new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, speaks about the importance of conducting check-ins and reviews, an interview with Dr. Charlie Berk, NYC Area Medical Lead, and, of course, all new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, speaks about the challenges of underutilization and how to maximize staff skills and create more opportunities, an interview with Ethos' Director of Nursing, Chrissy Giovannielli, and of course all new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, speaks about client education in the internet age, an interview with Managing Doctor, Jennifer Mitchell, of Thiensville Mequon Small Animal Hospital, in Wisconsin, and of course all new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, speaks about technology and keeping an open mind, an interview about vet med technology with Managing Doctor, Jamie Sulliban, of Aloha Animal Hospital, in Las Vegas, and of course all new Pet Peeves.

In this episode, NVA’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, speaks about change and transparency, an interview with Hospital Manager, Kelly Glashauser, of Midland Animal Clinic, in Midland, Michigan, and of course all new Pet Peeves.

Ken speaks with NVA's Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Sandra Faeh, about the importance of the HM-MDVM relationship. Interview with Dr. Matthew Timmons, MDVM of Springbrook Animal Care Center, in Chicago. All new Pet Peeves!