Background: Research on how veterinarians and technicians communicate, and document canine obesity diagnoses is limited.
Objective: This study explores communication techniques and medical record reporting of veterinarians and technicians regarding canine obesity.
Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted in Ontario, Canada between January and August 2022; 152 veterinarians and 196 technicians participated. Descriptive statistics, and T-tests identified differences in communication and documentation.
Results: Both groups ranked demonstrating visual and palpation tools as their top method for communicating obesity diagnoses. On a scale from 0 to 10, both groups were most likely to record bodyweight (Mean rank ± SD: veterinarians: 8.29 ± 2.27; technicians: 8.93 ± 2.05) and body condition score (veterinarians: 8.09 ± 2.31; technicians: 8.25 ± 2.40). Morphometric measurements and body fat index were least likely to be recorded. Veterinarians were more likely to record muscle condition score (t(263) = 3.69, p = 0.0003) and morphometric measurements (t(214) = 2.88, p = 0.004), and technicians more likely to record bodyweight (t(341) = -2.72, p = 0.006). When concerned about a dog’s weight, most participants reported discussing it with guardians and recommending a weight management plan but believed less than half followed through. More veterinarians than technicians reported having these discussions (t(340) = 4.05, p = 0.00006), and providing recommendations (t(341) = 3.51, p = 0.0005). Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Despite use of appropriate communication techniques, improvements are needed to help guardians complete weight loss plans. Enhanced documentation, further technician training, and better use of diagnostic tools could improve support.
