At the reception counter in the veterinarian’s office, there’s a large roll of paper towels, a spray bottle of disinfectant, and some hand sanitizer. It’s all right there on the counter.

And when these supplies are needed, anyone can use them; the staff members are completely unbothered.

Pets — especially when they’re nervous or sick - can have accidents. It does not come by surprise. It’s not remarkable. It’s just an unpleasant chore to clean up the mess.

* * *

How can we anticipate needs? How can we streamline operations? How can we minimize embarrassment? And how can we manage accidents with grace?

We can learn a lot from the vet.