Receptionists are vital to the smooth running of the surgery, but vets often overlook this fact! In order to maintain a harmonious relationship, here a few pointers:

• Ensure that you comply with practice protocol and all general rules and regulations.
   
• Read your practice's Health & Safety manual.
   
• Never interrupt the veterinary surgeon unnecessarily especially during consultation times.
   
• Become an expert at wheedling out the genuine vet queries from the "I don't want to pay for an appointment so give me advice over the phone" queries.
   
• Take clear, concise messages (making sure that you take the caller's name, pet's name, subject and a correct number to return the call).