Dr. Jane Shaw, professor of veterinary communication in the Department of Clinical Sciences and University Distinguished Teaching Scholar, recently published a new book, Developing Communication Skills for Veterinary Practice, a resource for veterinary students and professionals aiming to improve communication skills in clinical settings.
Shaw, a recognized expert in veterinarian-client-patient interactions, co-wrote the book with Jason B. Coe, DVM, PhD, a professor in the Department of Population Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
The book provides a thorough grounding in practical communication principles for client and team interactions, and helps veterinarians and staff take their communication skills to the next level through self-development and coaching colleagues.
Describing specific evidence-based techniques, the book gives examples of their use, and demonstrates how to use each skill in the clinical setting, with learning activities to put into practice. It covers every mode of communication, including face-to-face, virtual, telephone, and written communication.
Shaw earned her veterinary degree from Michigan State University in 1994 and a Ph.D. in Epidemiology at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada in 2004. She leads the communication curriculum, focusing on clinical interviewing skills to enhance professional performance through partnerships with colleagues and clients. She conducts the Frank Communication Workshop Series, a continuing education program that emphasizes the importance of communication as a significant clinical skill for veterinary teams.
