Sell Your Used Veterinary Equipment On A Community Website

Sell Your Used Veterinary Equipment

Welcome to the other half of our series on buying and selling your used equipment on usedvetequipment.com.

If you’re looking to sell some of your equipment, you’re not alone. There are many reasons why you might pursue this option as a veterinarian…

Maybe that new in-house chemistry analyzer or the extra kennels you purchased didn’t get used as much as you expected—and you’re not seeing the return on investment you wanted… 

Maybe you want to upgrade, but you aren’t sure what to do with your current equipment. Or, maybe times are tight and you need to increase your cashflow.

Whatever your reason, selling your used veterinary equipment can put some cash in your pocket, while also helping out a fellow member of the veterinary community who needs the machine, gadget, or gear you’re selling. 

If that sounds great to you and you’re ready to get started, we recommend visiting usedvetequipment.com. Here’s why…

• List Anything! Whether you’re looking to sell an ophthalmoscope, an autoclave, an x-ray processor, or a vehicle… there’s no item too large or too small. 

• Set Your Own Price. You choose how much you’d like to sell for, and you can accept or reject any offer that comes your way. 

• We’re Here to Help. We’ve done this thousand of times—so no matter what you need to ship, we can help you with logistics and also ensure prompt payment from your buyer.

Since this is a community-based platform, you’ll find interactions to be secure, reliable, and honest.

• Affordable. There’s no cost to you to list your equipment (including unlimited photos and videos to showcase your items), and no time limit in which to sell.

• Good for Animals and the Environment. Reusing and repurposing equipment is not only a great way for the veterinary community to share resources to improve animal care everywhere—but it can also help keep materials out of landfills.

• Stellar Service. Just check the site, and you’ll find reviews from tons of happy buyers and sellers! Like this one below…

“I can’t say enough about the great job Brad did in selling our cages and floor grates. It was quick and everyone is happy. Brad found the right buyers and made all the arrangements. I highly recommend this website.”

—JS in NY

Selling is simple on usedvetequipment.com. But, we also have some tips to help you get the most success out of your listing.

For the most success when you sell your equipment, be sure to include…

• Pictures! You can include as many pictures as you’d like to on your listing, and video if that will help to show your item. 

Images will help your equipment sell—and most smartphones are perfectly capable of producing the high-quality photos you need.

Try photographing from different angles, cleaning the items before you take pictures, and removing any distracting clutter from your shot so the focus is solely on the equipment you’re selling.

• Detailed Descriptions. Include all relevant details about the brand name, manufacture date, current condition, size and weight, the reason for selling, etc. 

Also, let potential buyers know how the item has helped you in your daily practice—and how it can help them.

• A Smart Pricing Strategy. Sometimes, pricing used equipment appropriately can be difficult—you know there will be some depreciation, but what’s a fair price?

The easiest way to get a starting point is to research similar items that have recently sold.

And, if you’re hoping to sell fast—it helps to go a little under the going rate or to include shipping in your price.

And that’s it! Once your equipment is listed on usedvetequipment.com, you can easily connect with colleagues who are interested in buying.

With each sale, that’s money you can invest back into your practice for expanding, upgrading, marketing, or compensating your amazing team members.

Plus, you’d be helping out a fellow practitioner in the veterinary community—someone who really wants the equipment you don’t need anymore. It’s a win-win for both of you.

Good luck, and happy selling! 

“I had an entire Veterinary Clinic of items to sell and Brad sold them all! He is diligent in getting items sold and payment is speedy. Brad and UsedVetEquipment.com are The Best!”

—S.F. in Colorado

“Brad was able to sell my cages within a week of posting the items. He had great communication and payment was prompt. I will list my items with him again.”

—Wes Godwin - Texas

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM

10 Marketing Ideas for Your New Veterinary Practice

Even in the beginning stages of planning your veterinary practice, it helps to think about marketing alongside all the practical considerations like financing, equipment, and staffing.

Marketing is how you let potential clients know who you are, and what sets you apart from the competition. It’s what helps you bring in more and more clients as your practice grows.

With that in mind, today we have a list of marketing ideas for veterinary practices. 

We’ll have in-depth articles on some of these topics down the line, so you can learn more. But for now, here are 10 ideas to inspire your plan for your very own practice…

1. Make Sure Your Website is Mobile-Friendly

Today, the largest pet-owning population in the US is Millennials. As you may have guessed, Millennials spend a lot of time online, especially on devices like smartphones.

So, it’s important to make sure your website shows up clearly and quickly not just on a computer screen, but also on a small, vertical smartphone screen. If you’re not sure whether or not your practice’s website is optimized for mobile, talk to your website host or manager.

2. Claim Your “Google My Business” Listing

This online listing is connected to Google Maps, and optimizing it can improve your rankings in online search results.

3. Content Marketing

This broad category includes things such as…

• Blog posts and articles.

• Email newsletters.

• Client handouts and educational materials.

• Testimonials or case studies (success stories of some of your patients, published with their owner’s permission).

Content marketing works like this…

Clients read informative content from you. Then, when the time comes for their pet to receive care, they won’t even look anywhere else… They’ll want to bring their pet to you, because they already feel like they’ve gotten to know you—and that they can trust you—after reading your blog posts or newsletter.

So, this is a long-term strategy. The good news is, the work you put in can help to develop long-term client relationships and promote client retention.

Plus, this is a convenient way to update current clients on new services you’ve added to your practice, as well as any specials or promotions.

If you’re not sure where to start—or, if you don’t enjoy writing—consider working with a professional veterinary copywriter, who can guide you and help you create content.

4. Online Reviews

Don’t leave your online reviews to chance, or in the hands of difficult-to-please clients (who are often the only ones who remember to take the time to leave a review).

We’ll have a more in-depth article later, but some simple strategies to encourage good reviews are simply asking happy clients if they would mind leaving a review (but don’t place pressure, or tell them what to say), and making it easy with a “Review us now” button on your website or in a post-visit email.

5. Use Social Media

Your social media platforms can be great places to engage with your clients (and thus reinforce their bond to your practice). It’s also great for announcing updates to your practice, and sharing specials and promotions.

The occasional fun contest or giveaway (such as having a small prize for captioning a cute pet photo) can also encourage clients to interact with you, and strengthen your client relationships.

6. Create Videos

Next to Google, YouTube is the most used search engine.

So, creating useful or cute videos for pet owners can help your practice show up higher in online search results and nurture a client’s bond to your practice.

Fortunately, nowadays you don’t have to be a tech whiz or own an expensive camera to produce a reasonable quality video. Most modern smartphones have a great camera that can be used for this purpose.

Video ideas include a tour of your facilities, introductions to staff members, short educational content for pet owners, and “how-to” videos such as a demonstration on how to properly clean a pet’s ears or give a pet medicine.

Post the videos on your website and social media, and ideally on YouTube, too.

7. Start a Rewards Program

Consider punch cards for products such as parasite prevention or pet food, to encourage pet owners to return to you for purchasing these supplies.

8. Start a Referral Program

Create an incentive—such as a small discount on the next visit—for current clients to refer friends to you.

9. Build Relationships With Other Community Businesses

For example, offer a first free exam to pets adopted from the local shelter or rescue organization, so that these businesses will refer new clients to you.

Or, develop a relationship with a local grooming or boarding facility. They can refer to you, and vice versa.

10. Hold Classes at Your Practice

This could mean puppy or kitten, socialization classes.

Or, it could mean an educational evening for pet parents on nutrition, first aid, or other topics of interest.

Consider holding these classes a couple of times per month to create a positive perception of your clinic, and to find new clients who are interested in providing a high level of care to their pets.

There are many other marketing techniques out there, but this should give you a great place to start—and hopefully, it’s sparked some ideas for seeing your veterinary practice grow and thrive!

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM

Five Essential Veterinary Practice Financing Questions

When it comes to opening your own veterinary practice, financing may be one of the most important—and most daunting—hurdles to overcome.

Since most practice-owners-to-be don’t have a large cash reserve saved up or an angel investor waiting in the wings, chances are you’ll need to look for financing.

Every situation is different, and working with financial experts and veterinary consultants can help you make the best decision for your future.

Here are a few good questions to ask yourself along the way…

What Do I Need Financing For?

530-722-4977

Evaluating the following factors can help you figure out how much you’ll need to borrow…

The Practice Space

The most obvious thing you’ll need to finance is the space in which you intend to practice.

This could mean acquiring an existing practice, leasing a new space, or breaking ground and building your own practice from the ground up.

Less commonly, this could also mean a buy-in option at a practice where you currently work as an associate, or even a franchise opportunity.

Major Equipment

Your veterinary practice can’t operate without equipment like an x-ray machine, exam room tables, surgery lighting, a dentistry unit, computers, and more…

Fortunately, you have options

Financing may be available directly from the equipment seller, or from a bank (often called a “capital lease”), so you can pay as you go and start making a return on your investment right away. 

Also, consider purchasing used equipment. Sites such as usedvetequipment.com offer high-quality used equipment you can score at a great bargain.

Daily Supplies

All those little costs add up, including needles, syringes, pharmaceuticals, cleaning supplies, surgical scrub, gloves, and anything else you need for your practice’s daily operation.

Other Operating Costs

When making a business plan, don’t forget to factor in costs such as wages, insurance, utilities, landscaping, licenses, and more.

How Much Can I Afford to Live On?

Most new businesses don’t make a profit for the first 1-3 years… and unfortunately, veterinary practices are no exception.

It takes time to grow a business to the point where the money coming in each month is more than your expenses. And until that happens, you might not be taking home a salary.

This doesn’t impact everyone in the same way, though. For example…

• Purchasing an established practice may mean you have more clients initially than if you start up a brand-new practice.

• Some new practice owners have a spouse whose income can cover all of their household expenses in the meantime, while others do not.

• You may have other life factors that limit you from taking risks with a new business, such as dependents or health considerations.

If owning a practice is your dream but you’re concerned about limited income while your practice gets up and running, talk to a veterinary consultant to figure out if practice ownership is right for you, and see what’s the safest path for you to realize your dream.

How Do My Student Loans Factor In?

According to an article in Today’s Veterinary Business, veterinary lenders don’t typically expect you to have your student loans paid off before you start a practice of your own. 

That makes sense because with today’s growing costs of veterinary education, paying off student debt quickly isn’t always a realistic expectation.

However, be sure your student loan and other debts are in good standing. Very few lenders are going to trust you with a practice loan if your student debt is in default.

And, of course, you’ll have to factor your student loan payments into your own income needs and overall financial picture.

When in doubt, it never hurts to find out more, rather than assuming student loan debt would prevent you from starting the veterinary practice of your dreams. You’ll never know for sure if you don’t do the research.

Where Do I Find a Good Lender?

There are some veterinary-specific lenders out there. These businesses can be a good option because they understand your industry and may have realistic expectations in terms of starting costs and a repayment timeline.

Small Business Administration loans (government-backed lending funded and serviced by banks) may be another good option, with flexible terms and conditions.

And, local banks or lenders may offer great customer service and community knowledge. 

So, explore your options and see which lender works best for you. 

Ask a lot of questions to see what your lender’s customer service and communication style are like, and to find out important information such as…

• The required down payment.

• The term of the loan.

• The interest rate.

• Fees associated with the loan.

• Penalties for late payments or pre-payment.

• Any available special arrangements, such as graduated repayments (loan payments that start small when your business is new, then gradually increase over time as your business becomes more established and successful).

In general, many lenders require a business plan and financial projections to fund your new practice. 

How Do I Figure All of This Out?

While there are never any guarantees when you start a new business, doing your due diligence before you finance will help you make the best possible investment.

This will likely involve a CPA or financial advisor, a veterinary management consultant, and experts in demographics and feasibility for new practices—to name a few.

These experts can offer invaluable advice, and also help you with the business plan and financial projections you’ll need.

Be sure to put in the time to research. And, invest in expert advice to help you make the best decisions for yourself and your future.

If you need help with financing, Call me - I can help you - 530-722-4977 Brad Haven, Jr.

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM

Starting a Veterinary Practice: The Importance of Your Online Presence

You might have the best veterinary clinic in the world, with stellar medical care, an amazing team, and great customer service…

But, for clients to bring their pets to you, those clients must be able to easily find your practice and learn how great it is.

So, when you open a new veterinary practice, how will your clients find you?

The First Place Your Potential Clients Will “See” You

In modern times, many pet owners locate and research their next veterinarian via an online search.

That’s even more true during the 2020 pandemic, when physically “stopping by” a veterinary practice to meet you is difficult.

Even if you have a prime hospital location with a lot of foot traffic and nearby businesses, pet parents who see your hospital in passing will probably Google your practice before bringing their pets to you. So, it’s still important to have a strong online presence.

For that reason, we’re talking about websites and social media in today’s article. 

Because even though you’ll have a lot of important decisions to make before you open your practice—such as financing, equipment, staffing, and more—it’s never too early to start thinking about messaging and marketing strategies for your clinic’s success.

Your Veterinary Practice’s Website

Think of your practice’s website as an online hub where clients can come to learn more about you, your staff, your services, and your facility.

But, creating an effective website can be tricky. There’s a lot to think about, including searchability. 

And, it’s crucial to make sure your website paints a clear picture of who you are and all the wonderful things you do to help pets.

Here are a few tips to help make your practice’s website effective…

• Use warm, inviting photos and images. 

For example, images of your caring team members—smiling, in action, and holding cute pets—is much more effective than a picture of the outside of your hospital. 

This creates the right mood for your website and also helps potential clients know what to expect when they bring their dog or cat to see you. 

Just remember: If using pictures of client-owned pets on your website, get the client’s permission in writing first.

• Focus on your clients’ needs and wants. 

When writing about your practice, be sure to include your experience, expertise, and services offered… But, don’t forget to tell clients HOW these things benefit them. 

For example, instead of saying, “We have 40 years of combined experience,” say, “Our 40 years of combined experience means your pet will receive excellent care from experienced veterinarians.”

• Make all key information easy to find. 

Place your practice’s physical address and contact information right at the top of the page, where it’s easy for a potential client to find it.

• Pay attention to SEO. 

SEO stands for search engine optimization, and it’s what makes your practice’s website show up higher in Google’s search results (which makes it easier for clients to find you!). 

Don’t worry, you don’t have to be an expert in SEO… Actually, it’s a pretty broad field that can take some time and dedication to truly master. And, it’s constantly evolving.

But it’s important, so consider hiring a consultant—or, if you’re creating your own website content, at least be familiar with SEO basics. 

We’ll have an article with more details on SEO basics later in this series, so keep an eye out for that.

Do You Need Social Media?

Social media is an excellent way to extend the reach of your website.

By posting on Facebook, Instagram, or other social media platforms, your posts can make pet parents smile and prompt them to learn more about you by following a link back to your website.

However, the world of business-related social media may seem nebulous and confusing if you’re new to it…

So, we’ll have a more in-depth article on social media further into this series. But for now, here are a few things to keep in mind…

• Start with one platform at a time. 

If you try to master Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and more all at the same time, you’ll probably feel overwhelmed—and then give up. So, just start with one platform. When you feel comfortable, consider expanding. 

On that same note, set a realistic schedule for how often you are going to post.

• Where do your potential clients spend the most time? 

Facebook is a very common and effective platform. But, if you have a younger clientele, maybe they spend more time on Instagram and would be more likely to see your posts there? 

A veterinary consultant or marketing expert could help you determine factors like this.

• Use photos or images as much as possible. 

Images are more likely to catch attention than posts that contain just text. 

As with your website, obtain a client’s permission if you post their pet’s picture.

• Try to engage your followers. 

Ask them questions, ask them to post pictures of their pets, and so on—anything that encourages them to interact with you in a positive way.

While you’re planning the veterinary practice of your dreams and working out the more material aspects of financing, equipment, and so on, go ahead and start thinking about how you want potential clients to see your practice.

Think about your practice’s philosophy and culture, as well as the impact you would like it to have on pets and pet owners in the community.

Then, think of how to express that message in everything you do online—on your practice’s website and all of your social media posts.

That way, new clients who find you online can get to know you and feel happy about scheduling their pet’s first visit.

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM

Tips for Starting a New Veterinary Hospital or Clinic

If you’re looking to start your own veterinary practice, congratulations!

You’ll have a lot to think about and plan. But, there’s nothing like being able to run your practice exactly the way you want to—to make your dream come to life.

This article is the first in a 10-part series discussing the different aspects of practice ownership—everything from location, to staffing, to equipment, to marketing.

This will help you think through some of the key decisions that come with opening a practice of your own.

Veterinary Practice Location

Of course, one of the very first questions you might ask yourself is where your new business should be located.

In some cases—such as if you have a spouse with a long-term local job commitment—you may not be able to relocate.

But, even then, you could look at nearby cities within an hour’s drive (or, however long of a commute you are willing to make).

Whether staying in place or relocating, when looking at your desired location, here are some things to ask yourself…

• What’s my ideal clientele? 

When looking at local socioeconomic factors, does this line up with the level of care and pricing strategy you intend to offer? Also, is your clientele younger and more likely to want things like telehealth and online appointment scheduling?

• What’s my competition? 

Knowing whether your ideal location is already saturated with veterinary hospitals can help determine whether it’s wise to open a new practice there—or, at least help you think of some way to differentiate your practice from the crowd.

• Which logistics do I need to consider? 

For example, what’s the parking situation like? Are you conveniently located near major roads or shopping areas? And, where on the property can dogs go to the bathroom?

Services Offered

Are you a general practitioner? A specialist? 

Knowing EXACTLY what you offer will help determine where you fit within the local community.

For example, a neurologist or ophthalmologist may fit in nicely even if the area is already filled with GPs.

And, if you are a GP, maybe there’s some other way to distinguish your practice and provide something new and unique to the community. For example…

• Emergency hours.

• Urgent care hours.

• Care for exotic pets.

• House calls.

• Hospice care.

• Acupuncture or holistic care.

• Large animal care and farm calls.

Will You Be On Call?

Depending on your state’s practice license requirements, you may need to provide access to 24-hour pet care—whether at your hospital alone or by recommending a local 24-hour facility to your clients.

So, if you don’t intend to be on call for emergencies, research what’s available in your area to fill this need for round the clock emergency services.

To Build or Not To Build?

Do you want to build an entirely new facility, tailored to your specific vision? 

This may be to your benefit, especially if you want to integrate some of the Fear Free standards for lighting, insulation, separate entrances, and more.

On the other hand, you may have found a practice for sale at a location that’s hard to beat, with an established clientele.

While less common, franchising may also be an option.

In any case, you’ll also have to decide whether to buy or lease the property.

The Legal Stuff

If you don’t have the right business permits and licenses, that could result in severe financial or disciplinary penalties.

You’ll need to research what’s required in your area, but examples include…

• Veterinary licenses for yourself and all associates.

• A veterinary practice permit.

• Local business licenses for your city or state.

• Registration for taxes.

• Forming an LLC, corporation, or other legal entity.

• A DEA license for controlled substances.

And in addition to licenses and permits, you’ll also need to plan for…

• A CPA or other professional for bookkeeping, financial planning, and filing your taxes.

• Liability insurance.

• Occupational health and safety requirements (OSHA).

• Hazardous waste and EPA requirements.

• Employment contracts.

• Developing a business plan.

Considerations for Modern Times

Modern times have resulted in the need for changes to the way most veterinarians practice.

At the time of this writing, curbside service is the norm because of the coronavirus pandemic. And, telemedicine is being added to many practices.

Because of the convenience of telemedicine in your clients’ busy schedules, many pet owners may expect this service to continue even after social distancing precautions are lifted.

So, what modern services and conveniences do you think your potential clients will want? How can you stay competitive?

It’s Best to Work With A Consultant

Before you make a big investment, it’s a good idea to work with a consultant—or, more likely, a team of several experts and advisers.

These specialists can walk you through legal, financial, demographic/feasibility information for start-ups, valuation for the sale of established practices, HR management and compliance, real estate, equipment and supplies, and various other aspects of practice ownership.

This will not only save you time but also ensure you’ve considered all angles and have the best chance of finding success as a veterinarian and business owner.

One helpful resource is Vet Partners, where you can search for experts and consultants by location and specialty.

Look for veterinary consultants, and for businesses (such as banks and real estate agents) who are used to working with veterinary practices and understand the nuances of your business.

Also, consider talking to other veterinarians who have been in your shoes and purchased a practice recently, who can share the wisdom of their experience. 

How Will Your Clients Find You?

Once you establish your dream practice, you need to ensure new clients know you exist, and that they want to bring their pets to you.

In this day and age, your online presence (your website and social media) will play a large role in helping new clients find you.

So, in the next article, we’ll have some tips for making sure your online presence truly conveys how great your practice is.

Stay tuned!

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM

Don't Miss A Thing! Why You Want Dental X-Rays For Your Extractions...

Dental Extractions And Radiographs Go Hand In Hand

Teeth extractions are performed when a patient has an obvious or underlying periodontal disease with bone loss, gingivitis, or pathology where extraction of the affected teeth will improve and benefit the overall health of the patient.

Extractions are performed to remove diseased and infected teeth, broken and retained tooth roots, supernumerary teeth, as well as various other conditions including stomatitis, and are also performed on pets with healthy teeth where there is an anatomical anomaly such as malocclusion and crowding causing damage to surrounding structures.

Decrease your dental extraction stress: with dental radiographs

Extractions are performed at any age in the dog and cat.

For some animals, tooth extraction is the only option to resolve oral problems. The extraction of the tooth is only part of the treatment.

Eliminating the disease in the tissue and the bone is important to the proper healing of tooth extraction sites, and includes curetting the alveolus after extraction, and proper closure of the surgical site.


Dental extractions can be either surgical or nonsurgical in nature. In both cases, the extraction site should be sutured to prevent infection, pain, and complications.

Nonsurgical extractions can be performed on patients with severe gingivitis or advanced periodontal disease, where the teeth are mobile and often easily extracted, but do not need actual drilling of the alveolar bone to extract the tooth and root.

Teeth extractions should be performed by licensed veterinarians who are very familiar with dental and craniofacial anatomy, particularly blood supply, and who have appropriate tools, skills and training.

Tooth fractures, eye injuries, oronasal fistulas, injury to the salivary duct, misplacement of root fragments into the sinus cavity or into the mandibular canal, leaving retained roots, traumatic bleeding and jaw fractures are complications associated with dental extractions.

Teeth with fractured roots must be surgically extracted, or a root tip will be left behind. Patience is important when performing extractions and flaps, and intra-oral anesthesia is important for pain management.

Before beginning a dental with extractions, intraoral x-rays should be the first step in every dental procedure to better understand each case. For instance, there may be curved tooth roots that if known ahead of time, will help facilitate extraction.

Furthermore, dental x-rays are used after extractions to verify the extractions were complete and that the operator did not inadvertently cause injury to surrounding teeth and structures.

Dental x-rays before and after extractions are an important tool in diagnosing problems, as well as helping determine an appropriate and effective treatment plan in dental patients.

Dental x-rays are taken to confirm that the entire tooth has been extracted, as well as help ensure no root or bone fragments are left behind in the alveolus.

The first step to proper tooth extraction is to have high quality, sanitized sharp dental instruments. A dull instrument can damage the surrounding bone while attempting to break down the periodontal ligament.

An important aspect of extraction is to gently twist and hold around the perimeter of the tooth root, thus allowing the operator to easily elevate and complete the extraction.  

Sectioning multirooted teeth with a high-quality high-speed drill with the appropriate burr, will facilitate effective extraction and lessen damage to surrounding areas.

Keeping the fingertip close to the end of the elevator prevents inadvertent trauma from accidentally running the elevator into surrounding structures.

Surgical flaps should be implemented to allow access to the alveolar bone, then the high-speed drill used to expose the roots.

The gingival flaps and surrounding soft tissues should be handled carefully as they are used to close the extraction site and prevent debris from getting into the site, as well as alleviate pain for the patient.

Once the roots are exposed and removed, the socket is cleaned free of debris, and the flap closed. Occasionally a flap may break down for various reasons, necessitating the need for second intention healing.

How do dental x-rays help with difficult extractions?

In summary, early dental examination in dogs and cats is important. Intraoral x-rays will help establish a treatment plan to ensure optimal dental health in dogs and cats. Extractions should be carefully performed by a skilled operator with advanced training and knowledge in craniofacial anatomy to avoid injury, and intraoral x-rays before and after a dental with extractions should always be performed.

Lastly, gingival flaps to close extraction sites are important for optimal healing and comfort to the patient.

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM

Diagnosing Tumors Of The Heart In Dogs And Cats

Cancers of the heart are uncommon in dogs and cats. When they do occur, it’s important to differentiate a tumor from other conditions that could cause generalized or focal enlargement of the heart and cardiovascular symptoms.

Which Cancers Occur In Cardiac Tissues?

A cancerous lesion based at the heart could be a primary tumor, or due to metastasis. 

Primary tumors that occur at the heart include:

• Hemangiosarcomas—the most common heart cancer in dogs, usually occurring at the right atrium. These occur most frequently in larger dogs with longer noses, such as Golder Retrievers, Doberman Pinschers, and German Shepherds.

• Chemodectomas, also known as aortic body tumors or heart base tumors. Generally thought to be slow-growing, these tumors occur most commonly in brachycephalic breeds like Boxers, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers.

• Myxomas.

• Sarcomas.

• Ectopic thyroid tumors.

• Lymphoma/lymphosarcoma—the most common heart cancer in cats.

Other cancers are possible, but these are the most commonly diagnosed types. Breeds may vary as noted above, but most pets with tumors of the heart are middle-aged or older. 

How Are Heart Tumors Diagnosed?

If slow-growing, tumors near the heart base are often an incidental finding, seen on thoracic radiographs that are taken for another reason.

Other times, diagnostics are pursued because of clinical symptoms—which are often sudden in onset.

Once a mass is large enough to push on the heart and major blood vessels, many cardiovascular symptoms are possible, such as:

• Coughing

• Ascites

• Lethargy

• Weakness

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Difficulty breathing

• Collapse

• Sudden death

Note: If a dog presents with some of these symptoms, especially sudden weakness and collapse, a quick ultrasound scan may help to identify pericardial effusion and aid in guiding a needle for emergency pericardiocentesis.

Finding Heart Masses Early

As with most cancers and disease processes, discovering a problem earlier rather than later can allow for more treatment options.

General screening radiographs or ultrasound checks—such as with a senior wellness health check—can be a good opportunity to discover heart base tumors before they cause cardiovascular dysfunction and symptoms.

An echocardiogram performed via ultrasound can help to provide more information on the location, size, and invasiveness of the mass. 

In some cases, a presumptive diagnosis may be made based on the appearance and location of the mass on an ultrasound study, along with the patient’s signalment. If possible to perform without undue risk, an ultrasound-guided aspirate of the mass can provide more information about which type of tumor is present.

Treatment Options For Cancers Of The Heart

Treatment will be based on the type of neoplasia, how fast the mass is growing, whether metastasis is present, and whether or not the pet is symptomatic.

When a tumor of the heart is diagnosed, a good next step is to screen for metastasis and concurrent conditions via chest x-rays (if not already done), bloodwork, lymph node evaluation, and abdominal ultrasound.

Once a diagnosis is made, treatment options may include:

• Periodic monitoring with a cardiologist (especially for slow-growing chemodectomas/heart base tumors) prior to pursuing more invasive treatments.

• Surgery to remove the tumor.

• Pericardiectomy to remove the pericardium and prevent life-threatening cardiac tamponade or pericardial effusion. 

(A pericardiocentesis may be necessary on an emergency basis prior to diagnostics in a pet who presents with acute symptoms. After that, a planned pericardiectomy can help to prevent further emergency episodes of fluid buildup around the heart.)

• Chemotherapy, often in conjunction with surgery.

• Radiation therapy—either conventional, or via Cyberknife therapy.

Even though cancers of the heart are uncommon in pets, they can be scary to pet owners because of the possibility of sudden onset of serious clinical symptoms (especially with hemangiosarcomas).

By performing diagnostics, referring to specialists as needed, and giving your clients as much information as possible, you can help them make an informed decision for their pet.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only, and not intended as a guide to the medical treatment of any specific animal.

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM

Fear Free Certification® for Your Veterinary Practice

As a veterinarian, you go out of your way to make your patients comfortable. 

So, if you can do something to help dogs and cats have a better, less stressful doctor visit—while also giving your practice a competitive advantage—it’s a win-win!

Fear Free Helps Patients and Clients

Fear Free is a voluntary set of standards that can be implemented to the benefit of your patients’ mental and emotional health. It helps dogs and cats feel more at ease while visiting your practice.

As the Fear Free motto says, you’ll be “taking the ‘pet’ out of ‘petrified’.”

This improves your patients’ wellbeing. It can also make it easier for clients to bring their pets to see you since clients are more comfortable when their pets are at ease during a visit.

Also, Fear Free principles involve client education and empowerment. There are even online resources you can recommend to clients at Fear Free Happy Homes.

What Does It Mean to Be Fear Free?

Fear Free involves alleviating fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. To do this, it’s important to think about the visit from a pet’s perspective.

Along these lines, there are a few different aspects to think about for your practice, including…

• A pet’s physical and emotional comfort. To improve their experience, you could…

  • Have a calm, quiet place for treatments and procedures, with nonslip surfaces on floors and tables.

  • Use treats to distract pets during any unpleasant procedures such as vaccines or blood draws.

  • Make all needles single use only (i.e. change to a new needle to administer a vaccine after drawing it up).

  • Offer elevated platforms and hiding places for cats.

  • If possible, use separate entrances and waiting rooms for dogs and cats.

• Consideration for a pet’s sensitive nose. 

  • Clean with products that don’t have irritating, residual odors or cause “nose blindness” (this is where a strong odor causes temporary loss of a pet’s ability to explore the environment via smell, and this can create fear or nervousness).

  • Use pheromone products.

  • Consider air sterilizers to reduce odors that may be distressing to a dog or cat, such as odors of other pets, cleaning supplies, etc.

• Consideration for other senses such as hearing.

  • Instruct all staff to use calm behavior and “inside voices.”

  • If possible, integrate insulated walls to block noises from barking, or background noise from medical equipment.

• Client education.

  • Schedule appointments in a way that not only gives enough time for pets to acclimate to the environment but also allows for non-rushed appointments and adequate client education.

  • Make take-home Fear Free resources available to clients.

• Medical records.

  • Add standardized measures of the patient’s emotional health, physical pain, and level of stress during each visit to the medical record.

  • Use this information to improve a patient’s experience and emotional health.

• Team culture and training.

  • Educate all team members on Fear Free principles, and use standard operating procedures.

  • Recognize and celebrate successes.

• Maintaining a high standard of Fear Free care.

  • Teach staff to observe a pet’s body language so improvements can be made if a pet shows signs of fear, anxiety, or stress.

  • Include pre-visit preparation to help clients bring their pet in as calm a state as possible.

How to Seek Fear Free Certification®

If you decide to implement Fear Free principles, you can seek certification. 

This certification is something you can display so clients understand the measures you’ve taken to set yourself apart as a practice, and how it all makes for a better experience for their pets.

Fear Free Certification® can be sought by individual veterinarians, by pet professionals (trainers, groomers, etc.) and by animal shelters.

You can also seek certification as a veterinary practice.

Individual certification is great. But, certification of your entire practice promotes Fear Free culture as a part of everything your team does.

To seek certification, check out the Fear Free website, where you can do a self-assessment, and when you’re ready to schedule an onsite visit with a Practice Certification Veterinarian to get your Fear Free Certification®.

Certification even includes marketing materials, to help you show off your amazing achievement to clients so they understand the value you deliver.

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM

How and Where To Buy Used Veterinary Equipment

During the economic fallout of this unprecedented global pandemic, it’s more important than ever for businesses to stretch their dollars as far as they will go. 

Buying used equipment is a budget-friendly way to purchase high-quality machines and supplies—so you can operate and upgrade your practice the way you want to. 

More importantly, you can buy on a friendly, community-based platform that removes all headaches about negotiating, shipping, and payments—so you can securely get the equipment you need without taking time away from your busy schedule.

In case you’re not already familiar with it, we recommend you visit: usedvetequipment.com. 

This website was started because veterinarians needed a marketplace just for their industry—somewhere to easily buy and sell quality used veterinary equipment from trusted colleagues. 

Here’s what one happy buyer had to say:

“I purchased a digital x-ray system through usedvetequipment.com. The transaction was smooth. I would not have taken the chance without the third party mediator. Brad did a great job and the sellers were great to work with. I would not hesitate to use this service again.”

—Mark Robinson, DVM Montana

Here are a few advantages that usedvetequipment.com offers to you as a veterinarian buyer…

• Quality. On the site, you’ll find products from top manufacturers such as Abaxis, Shoreline, Heska, SurgiVet, Cardell, Welch Allen, Idexx, and much more.

• Choices. Whether you’re looking to invest in something as large as a full radiology unit, or something as small as a laryngoscope or warming pad, you can find it on usedvetequipment.com. 

There are far too many examples to list here, but other items recently sold include endoscopes, Dopplers, stem cell therapy equipment, surgical tools, cages and floor grates, exam lift tables, and much more.

• Easy Payment Options. You’ll be emailed an invoice for convenient online payment.

• Good for Animals and the Environment. Reusing and repurposing equipment is not only a great way for the veterinary community to share resources to improve animal care everywhere—it can also help keep materials out of landfills.

• Safety and Security. We’ve found the veterinary community to be honest in their descriptions of the equipment they are selling—and the standard buying process lets you inspect the equipment upon arrival before your payment is processed.

• Stellar Service. Just check the site, and you’ll find reviews from tons of happy buyers and sellers!

If you’re ready to get started, head over to usedvetequipment.com. 

Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop…

• Compare your options. If there’s more than one listing for the equipment you need (a common scenario), search around and make obligation-free offers. And if you’re not in a big hurry, search over time to see what else pops up.

• Ask Questions. This isn’t a big, faceless online store—instead, it’s all about community! You’re free to reach out to sellers with any questions you may have and to ask us about the details of shipping and payments. 

• Expect the Best Experience. The goal is for you to feel comfortable (and very happy!) with your purchase.

More interested in SELLING equipment rather than buying? Check out our next article, which will have detailed suggestions for how to successfully sell on usedvetequipment.com.

Until then, take a look around the site to browse what’s available, and be sure to bookmark usedvetequipment.com in case you need to come back to it to make a purchase in the future.

Wishing you good luck in your search—we’re sure you’ll find just the right equipment you need for all the services you’d like to offer at your practice. 

A community marketplace like this is the perfect place to buy and sell with colleagues as you build the practice of your dreams.

“… 10,000 times better than any eBay / Amazon kind of purchase! We will definitely look here 1st for future purchases.”

—Sandy Pamplin, Manager Pleasanton Road Animal Hospital San Antonio, Texas

“I recently purchased a film processor through Used Vet Equipment. I was very impressed with the website- pics and descriptions. I received a quick response to my questions. Brad was very professional and thorough in handling the transaction through delivery and tracking info. He made sure I was completely satisfied with the product. I would definitely do business here again! 5-star rating!”

—D Davis, Colorado

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM