BY NANCY GILKEY
SUN STAFF WRITER

Next time you take Fluffy and Fido to Desert Veterinary Clinic for their checkups, look for the Workplace Excellence 2005 trophy.

"We were very proud to have won it, and we proudly display it in the client lobby," said Jennifer Arce, practice manager.

Since winning the prestigious award, the clinic has gone from 19 to 27 employees, including two more veterinarians. "It has definitely helped in recruiting new doctors," Arce said. "And we've received new clients who read about us in the article" which appeared in last year's Workplace Excellence special section in The Sun.

Not only did the clinic win the grand prize, it also won first place in the Medium Business category. Judges noted that the clinic was committed to teamwork and has innovative benefits and training.

WINNING PRACTICES

- All employees may be included in the hiring process of new employees.

- Any employee can give bonus bucks to other employees for outstanding job performance.

- Dr. Cheryl Haugo sets aside one morning per week for one-on-one counseling or training time with employees.

- Employees are coached, mentored and encouraged to continue their education.