Viewing Communication Through Another's Lens: Considerations for Communicating With Exotic Animal Caregivers

This chapter is the fourth of four in this textbook to explore communication preferences of veterinary clients. Drawing upon the veterinary literature, this chapter identifies and explores in greater depth those communication skills that exotic animal caregivers desire when engaging with veterinary team members. This chapter begins with an exploration of why some clients are drawn to exotic animal ownership and how knowledge gaps in basic husbandry can potentiate medical conditions. Open communication is essential to bridge gaps in knowledge, confirm mutual understanding, and partner with clients to achieve positive patient outcomes. To discover gaps in knowledge, veterinary team members need to engage clients by exploring (and being receptive to) what they are and are not familiar with, as well as their perspectives, thoughts, concerns, and goals of care.