Veterinary nurses and receptionists play an extremely important role in supporting owners through the very difficult process of losing a pet. Good communication and a sensitive approach are vital. During this one-day course, delegates will explore the concepts of loss and grief and will be given practical ways to help clients deal with the emotions involved. Practices do need to have a clear, well thought out idea of how they approach and handle the bereaved client, as supported clients will spread the word about the care they have received. Delegates will be encouraged to develop a strategy for dealing with these sometimes stressful situations and will hopefully increase their job satisfaction as a result.

Who should attend:

Any member of a practice team (veterinary or non-veterinary) in contact with clients (adults or children) will benefit from the useful advice on how to guide owners through this traumatic process in a caring, supportive way; whether the attendee is new to the profession, or their role within it or if they have lots of experience and would like a fresh outlook.

Key Learning Objectives:

By the end of this course, delegates should have a thorough understanding of:

• Bereavement and the grieving process that follows
• Active listening techniques which are vital for supporting emotional clients
• How to develop a bereavement strategy for the practice which will promote the "caring environment"
• Practical and effective ways of helping clients through pet loss
• Further training and career development opportunities

What the course will help the attendees to do;

• Identify and understand people at risk of bereavement
• Prepare owners and their families before their loss (if possible)
• Support the clients throughout the experience
• Create a very positive, caring atmosphere
• Support themselves and each other within the practice team