We keep the cages of our laterally recumbent patients heavily padded, but these patients are hard to keep dry and clean.

We needed a way to support dogs that are nonambulatory or very weak in the hindlimbs, so I made slings by rolling up the main torso parts of old surgical gowns and wrapping them in Vetrap (3M).

We have adapted NBC's hit reality show "The Biggest Loser" for our canine patients.

We have always had trouble using ink to label the plastic bottles in our exam rooms and lab areas (e.g. alcohol, peroxide, lubricant).

Just before performing venipuncture in front of a patient's owner, I always ask the owner a question that will elicit a long answer.

It's lights out for the birds; To save time, always be prepared; Don't lose your bits when autoclaving; A tip for administering fluids to catnip-comforted cats; Handy clinical use for a home-improvement tool

Put the date where it can't be missed; A simple solution that prevents pulled hair; D.I.Y. free-catch urine sample catcher; A quick tip for intubating small patients; A wag-proof tail protector; Keep staff members on time; Minimize catheter-pulling discomfort

Music to the ears and eyes; Keep your hands off the anesthesia mask; Hotel hand-me-downs are a perfect fit; Provide extra security for anxious pets; Color-coded bandages clear up confusion; Tackling supplies in a mobile clinic

A syringe where you need it when you need it; Get crafty with heartworm prevention; Neater anal gland expression; A tip for laser tips; Don't let IV lines slack off