Receptionist’s client sympathy cards in demand,Veterinary Times story

An artist’s range of veterinary sympathy cards proved popular at the BVNA Congress. BVNA stand Popular product: Rachel Backshall showcased her work at BVNA. Image: Rachel Backshall. Delegates were impressed by Rachel Backshall’s collection of cards, which vet practices can send to clients whose pets have died. It was the first time Miss Backshall, who works as a receptionist at Just Cats Veterinary Clinic in Southport, had exhibited at BVNA Congress. Miss Backshall started producing cards for the practice where she works, and they grew in popularity. “I received a lot of interest and now I’m producing more and more designs,” she said. In fact, such is the popularity of the cards, that Miss Backshall has been asked to depict a range of other animals,from ferrets to chickens. Not only are the designs popular with practices, they are being sought by members of the public too. It has been a busy year for Miss Backshall, who graduated from Oxford University with a degree in archeology. To produce the cards, Miss Backshall, who also has an art foundation degree, asked veterinary nurses to help her choose the paper and ink. They also selected a non-smudge material, for ease of writing. Miss Backshall said the thought was it was important practices send sympathy cards. “I think it’s really nice as well, because it shows you appreciate your clients, which is so important,” she said. Miss Backshall said her practice often received thank you cards from clients – thanking them for the sympathy card – which was “lovely”. Speaking about the congress, Miss Backshall said: “It’s fabulous, its been so much fun.” Twelve designs are available depicting a number of animals. The cards can be personalised to suit individual practices with logos, websites and email addresses. They are printed on FSC certified card and on 100% recycled card.