The Week That Costs More Than You Think
Dr. Patel went on vacation last July. Just one week. Her clinic in Tacoma ran short-staffed, turned away 34 appointments, and asked the remaining associate to see 28 patients a day. By Friday, two front desk staff had called in sick from the stress. That one week without coverage ended up costing the clinic more than a relief vet would have.
This plays out in veterinary clinics across Washington and Oregon every single month. The assumption is that going without coverage saves money. The math says otherwise.
What a Staffing Gap Actually Costs
A busy general practice sees an average of 18 to 24 appointments per doctor per day. At a conservative average of $190 per visit, a single uncovered DVM day costs your clinic between $3,420 and $4,560 in lost revenue before you count the overtime stress on your staff, the client goodwill you spend, and the reviews that sometimes follow.
Multiply that over a five-day vacation, a sick week, or a surprise resignation and the idea of saving money by going without coverage falls apart quickly. The gap is not free. It is just paid in a different currency.
Relief Staffing Is Revenue Protection
When you frame relief staffing correctly, it is not overhead. It is insurance. A relief DVM typically costs a fraction of the revenue they generate while covering your clinic. Appointments continue. The team stays whole. Clients do not go looking for a new vet.
Your Neighbor Vet is DVM-owned and operated, which means we understand exactly how a clinic runs. We match you with an experienced relief vet who fits your practice style, your patient volume, and your team culture. No surprises on day one.
Ready to take the next step?
Stop leaving revenue on the table the next time someone needs a day off. Contact Your Neighbor Vet at 425-448-8882 or visit yourneighborvet.com to talk through your coverage needs. The first conversation is free and it might be the best business call you make this month.
Related reading: How YNV Screens Relief Candidates So You Don’t Have To · Labor Day Weekend: Your Patients Don’t Take Days Off