Why Read This Book?

Several major trends have impacted the veterinary profession in the past decade. There is both a large supply of, and a high demand for, veterinarians who work flexible hours or days. This move toward a more-flexible workplace is part of a national trend. The Families and Work Institute reports that employees in more effective and flexible workplaces are more likely than other workers to have higher job satisfaction, stronger intentions to stay with their employers, less negative spillover from job to home (and home to job), and better mental health.

Part-time work

Who works part-time? About 20% of female veterinarians work part-time, and 80% of the graduating classes of most U.S. veterinary schools are women. Furthermore, part-time work is becoming a rewarding way for “retired” veterinarians to keep up their interests. Finally, one veterinarian may work full-time by filling two part-time positions. On the demand side, many veterinary practices need help, but do not have the capacity for a full-time equivalent veterinarian. Some older employers who used to work 60-hour-weeks have decided to ease their workload by hiring a part-time associate. Practices that are in transition from one to two, or from two to three veterinarians, may ease into growth by hiring part-timers until they are sure they have the client demand to fill their schedules.

Relief work

Like all working adults, today’s veterinarians have mobile lives and may move about the country several times during their working years. Some may move because of a spouse’s job. Others may move to be closer to family. They may find themselves in a city where a desirable position is not immediately available. Doing relief work helps them get settled and get to know many practices in their area. Many veterinarians enjoy the variety of relief work and continue this as a full-time, long-term career. For some older veterinarians, relief work can serve as a transition to retirement. There is a large demand for these relief services as the emphasis on lifestyle and family becomes stronger among all veterinarians.

Create successful relationships

As a dedicated professional, chances are that you devote most of your time to perfecting your medical and surgical skills. Yet the business side of your practice deserves just as much attention. FlexVet includes information for everyone to better control their lives and schedules. Practice owners and practice managers can assess their needs and then find the appropriate person to fill those needs. Veterinarians who desire more flexibility or choice can determine whether relief or part-time work is best for their situation. No matter what your position, you can benefit from seeing “the other side of the story,” and the other person’s viewpoint. The tools in this book can help you find the right match. Everyone benefits when the information is clearly available to all.