Eighty percent of dental practices forward book, that is, book the next appointment before the client leaves the premises, according to the 2013 AAHA State of the Industry Report (2013 Report). (Only five percent of U.S. veterinary practices do.)

Pet Dental Health Month, being celebrated in February, is the perfect time for veterinary practices to do the same, and start forward booking. And there is good reason to, not only to prevent future health crises but also to insure a high quality of care. Additionally, client visits and compliance can increase.

Led by AAHA and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Partners for Healthy Pets (PHP) is an alliance of more than 100 veterinary associations, veterinary colleges, and animal health companies committed to improving the overall health of pets by insuring preventive care. And PHP offers practice resources specifically in the area of forward booking.

These resources, available on the PHP website, include:

• A quick and easy to read booklet packed with everything you need to know about forward booking
• A two-minute video to share with staff about ways to talk with clients about forward booking
• A downloadable, one-page handout practice staff can refer to when forwarding booking
• A reminder button staff can wear to remind clients to forward book.

Forward booking is one way to align your staff and clients around the value of preventive care, and February offers the perfect opportunity with dental health. 

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