The Magic of Mayhem
Admin Team
Keeley give us an extraordinary insight into a day in the life of a veterinary receptionist. From 8am to 6pm it's go, go, go and she takes it all in her stride. Boisterous cockatoo's to vomiting puppies you name it they see it.
The Magic of Mayhem
By Keeley Adams
Your usual shift as a veterinary receptionist is about to begin. Glancing at your schedule for the day, it will undeniably look remarkably different by 6pm. You inspect the clock and view the hand about to tick over to 8am – it’s almost time for the phone lines to open.
You square your shoulders and bravely meet the eyes of the other receptionist across from you as you prepare like soldiers would for war; it’s go time. Your headset starts ringing and you have seven callers on the line in the span of a few seconds. The schedule looks full already but you don’t give up, searching to see where you can possibly fit them all in. Moving around the colour-coded appointments like a real-life game of Tetris, you fist-pump when you accomplish what seemed impossible 10 minutes ago. This continues for a few hours; an endless cycle of being seemingly full for the day but not able to turn away callers with sick pets who you know from experience may be urgent cases.
Some of the calls are decidedly less urgent. You spend 6 minutes on the phone with a client who assures you that their dog has been getting ‘oxtun’ for years and they need to order some more. You rack your brain trying to work out what ‘oxtun’ could be, presuming it to be some sort of drug, before realising that the elderly caller is actually trying to order “ox tongue” for her dog… You provide her the correct number for the local butcher.
Meanwhile, you can see your other receptionist carrying her fifth boxful of injured wildlife out the back for a vet or nurse to assess; by the way the box is bouncing about in her arms and making an awful screeching sound, you presume it to be a boisterous cockatoo. Good luck with that one, guys!
By the time the clock reaches 11am, you scurry into the break room to boil the jug for your second (or third) cup of coffee before retrieving the multiple vials of blood for the external pathology courier whom you all lovingly refer to as “The Blood Man.” You don’t let the sight of the four different types of bodily fluids you see being tested in the lab deter you from that coffee you were making. And yes, that’s right, I said four bodily fluid types… use your imagination!
Back at your desk, the cutest puppy imaginable is in for its first vaccination and hobbles behind the reception desk to say hello. And while many would assume that veterinary receptionists only cuddle puppies all day, the reality is that they also have to be constantly prepared as the first to assess and respond to any emergency calls.
Both phones ring at 1pm, and with your receptionist’s equivalent of the “spidey-sense”, predict that these will be the “big calls” for the day. As suspected, one caller describes how their puppy has eaten a whole box of rich, Belgian chocolates while they were at work and the second client requires urgent help for a calving at a rural property. You get to work quickly, asking the dog owner to bring their pet into the vet hospital immediately and confirm the address and contact details of the client for the calving which a vet will have to go out to as soon as possible.
You race out the back to let the vets and nurses know while your other receptionist works at rescheduling some of the non-urgent appointments to slightly later in the day. One vet is out the door with his nurse as quickly as he can to the calving, while the others prepare for the urgent case coming through the door.
A short time later, you watch as the cheeky chocolate-eating puppy is out the back, vomiting to expel the toxins they ingested into a bucket (and no-doubt reminding some staff of distinct instances from their youths which they’d rather not remember).
The rest of the day flies by with countless vaccinations, consults and hospital patients, and before you know it, the vet who was sent out to the emergency calving exhaustedly returns, their overalls covered in substances one would rather not think about (or smell) for too long. You dread to think about what their assigned work car must look like inside!
Eventually, the clock ticks over to 6pm and the phone lines finally close, allowing any other emergencies to be handled by the appointed after hours vet. The receptionists heave a sigh of relief, finally getting a break from the non-stop sound of the phone ringing and everyone prepares to go home.
One thing I have learnt about being a veterinary receptionist is that it certainly consists of more than just booking appointments; it is about managing the “magic of mayhem” that exists in our workplace in which everything can change in the blink of an eye… or the ringing of a phone.
But we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Welcoming a new furry family member is an exciting time for the whole family. Whether it’s a playful puppy, a curious kitten, or another small companion, January is the perfect time to focus on establishing routines and ensuring your pet’s health and happiness. If you’re a new pet owner, these tips will help you create a loving and safe environment for your newest family member. Schedule a Veterinary Check-Up Even if your new pet has received vaccinations, a full veterinary check-up is essential. Our team can: · Confirm vaccinations and schedule future ones · Conduct health screenings for common conditions · Provide advice on diet, exercise, and preventive care Booking a vet visit early ensures your pet starts the year healthy and prevents potential health issues down the line. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space New pets need time to adjust to their new home. Set up a quiet, cozy area where your pet can feel safe. Include: · A soft bed or crate · Toys and chew items · Food and water bowls in an accessible location This dedicated space helps your pet settle in and reduces anxiety during the first few weeks. Establish a Consistent Routine Pets thrive on routine. Try to: · Feed at the same times each day · Schedule regular walks or play sessions · Set consistent potty-training schedules for puppies or kittens A consistent routine helps your pet feel secure and promotes good behaviour. Invest in Proper Nutrition High-quality, species-appropriate food is vital for your pet’s growth and wellbeing. Consult your vet about: · The right type of food for age, breed, and size · Portion sizes and feeding frequency · Supplements or special dietary needs, if necessary Proper nutrition sets the foundation for a long and healthy life. Socialise and Train Early Early socialisation is key to raising a well-adjusted pet. Introduce your pet gradually to: · Other people and pets · Different environments, sounds, and experiences Training, even basic commands, should start early. Positive reinforcement techniques work best for teaching good habits. Grooming and Hygiene Regular grooming keeps your pet comfortable and healthy. Depending on your pet, you may need to: · Brush their coat regularly · Trim nails and clean ears · Bathe when necessary Our friendly team can advise on a grooming routine suited to your pet’s breed and needs. Monitor Health and Behaviour New pets may hide signs of stress or illness. Keep an eye out for: · Changes in appetite or water intake · Lethargy or unusual behaviour · Signs of discomfort or pain Early detection of health issues allows for prompt treatment and prevents complications. Enjoy this exciting time! Welcoming a new pet into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. By scheduling veterinary visits, establishing routines, providing proper nutrition, and offering love and attention, you’ll set your new pet up for a healthy, happy life. Remember, every pet is unique, so consulting your veterinarian regularly ensures your furry friend thrives in the year ahead. If you’ve recently welcomed a new pet into your home, book a check-up with our veterinary team today! We’re here to provide expert advice, vaccinations, and care to help your furry family member start the year off right.
If your pet has an emergency during the Christmas holidays, stay calm and contact your nearest emergency vet. Learn key first aid and safety tips from Yass Valley Veterinary.
Trips to the vet are essential for your pet’s health, but for many dogs and cats, they can also be stressful. Anxiety at the vet is common, from strange smells and new people to past experiences; it’s no surprise pets sometimes feel nervous. At Yass Valley Veterinary , we’re dedicated to making vet visits calmer, safer, and more positive for both pets and their owners. Book a Low-Stress Appointment Why Pets Get Anxious at the Vet If your dog is scared of the vet or your cat gets stressed in their carrier, you’re not alone. Common reasons pets feel anxious at the vet include: New sights, smells, and sounds Previous negative or painful experiences Separation from their owner during treatment Other animals in the waiting room Understanding these triggers is the first step to helping your pet feel safe. Signs of Pet Anxiety at the Vet Both dogs and cats show stress in different ways. Keep an eye out for these behaviours: Dogs: panting, pacing, whining, shaking, excessive drooling, tucked tail Cats: hiding, vocalising, flattened ears, refusing to leave the carrier, excessive grooming If your pet shows these signs, mention it to your vet so we can adjust our approach. Tips to Calm Your Pet Before a Vet Visit There are simple steps you can take at home to reduce your pet’s anxiety before coming to the vet: Get the carrier ready early: leave it out at home with blankets, toys, and treats. Practice car trips: short rides help dogs and cats feel more comfortable on the way. Stay calm yourself: pets pick up on their owner’s stress. Use calming products: pheromone sprays, treats, or supplements may help (ask us for recommendations). Reward positive behaviour: treats and praise go a long way in reinforcing calmness. Tip: Ask us about adding a wellness check during your appointment so your pet gets used to positive visits, not just when they’re unwell. How We Make Vet Visits Stress-Free At Yass Valley Veterinary , we use gentle, pet-friendly approaches to create a low-stress vet experience: · Calm, reassuring handling techniques · Treats and positive reinforcement during exams · Time to let your pet settle before starting procedures · Cat-friendly spaces and quiet waiting areas where possible For pets with severe anxiety, we may recommend pre-visit medication to make the trip less stressful. FAQs About Pet Anxiety at the Vet 1. How can I calm my dog before a vet visit? Take your dog for a walk, bring favourite treats or toys, and stay calm yourself. Ask us about safe calming supplements or medication if needed. 2. What’s the best way to transport a nervous cat? Use a sturdy carrier lined with familiar bedding. Covering the carrier with a light towel can help reduce visual stress. Leave the carrier out at home so it feels familiar, not just a “vet box. 3. Should I give my pet medication before a vet visit? Only under vet advice. We may prescribe safe, short-term anxiety medication if your pet struggles with extreme stress. 4. Can I stay with my pet during their exam? In most cases, yes. Many pets are more relaxed when their owner stays nearby. 5. What if my pet is too stressed for the appointment? We can reschedule, adjust handling, or recommend calming aids. Our team’s priority is always your pet’s comfort and safety. Book a Stress-Free Vet Visit in Yass & Murrumbateman At Yass Valley Veterinary , we know that every pet is different. That’s why we tailor our approach to your pet’s needs, whether it’s an anxious dog or a nervous cat. Our goal is to make vet visits as calm and positive as possible. 📞 Call us on 02 6226 4444 or Book Now online to schedule a gentle, stress-free appointment.
