Introduction:
Pet obesity continues to rise, and the health consequences are not always apparent to the pet owner.  Communication from clinicians to pet owners plays a key role in weight management success.  The Weight Management Consulting Skills Program was designed to address the relevant needs of veterinary practices in Canada and enhance open and effective communication with pet owners.  

Objectives:
  1. Communication focused learning
  2. Digestible and achievable learning experiences that fit busy schedules
  3. Combine evidence-based, adult learning strategies, deep social-psychological research, game mechanics, and the latest mobile technology for the best experience
Methods:
The Weight Management Consulting Skills program is designed to support habit change within veterinary practices and the pet’s home through improved communication strategies, an understanding of the social-psychological dynamics that impede weight loss progress, and a set of practical strategies that support successful execution.  In order to immerse participants in the program a complete demo of the curriculum entirety will be presented, followed by specific opportunities to engage with various aspects of the training.
  1. Review pet owner targeted materials (video presentation)
  2. Promote learning and recall through gamified applications 
  3. Coaching Clients Through Ambivalence
Weight management can be more difficult to address and manage than other illnesses given the underlying behavioural aspects of pet ownership.  Understanding the importance of proper communication, habit change principles, and the psychology of weight loss are key to achieving success.  The Weight Management Consulting Skills Program offers veterinary clinics the support and tools to effectively manage and improve outcomes for pet owners and their beloved pets. 



Authors:
Barth, Aaron PhD*1, LaFlamme, Caitlin MScBMC2, Western, Laura MSc3
1. President, Dialectic Solutions, Guelph, Canada
2. Scientific and Corporate Affairs, Royal Canin Canada, Guelph, Canada,
3. Veterinary Division, Royal Canin Canada, Guelph, Canada