The Case of the Disappearing Pens: A Veterinary Forensic Investigation

Exhibit A:

Last quarter, the clinic ordered 347 pens.

Exhibit B:

Today, there are exactly two left – and one of them only works if you scribble on the corner of a sticky note for at least 45 seconds.

The Question:

Where. Did. They. Go?

Suspect #1: The Clients

They sign one estimate and – poof – the pen disappears into their purse, pocket, or tote bag filled with dog treats. Some don’t even realize they’re stealing it. Others make direct eye contact with your CSR as they slowly, deliberately slide it into their jacket like it’s Ocean’s Eleven.

Verdict: Guilty…BUT they probably also took the branded stress ball, so at least your marketing budget got some ROI.

Suspect #2: The Techs

Techs swear they don’t “steal” pens. They “temporarily rehome” them into scrub pockets. But let’s be honest – once a pen goes into a tech’s pocket, it never comes out again. It lives there among clumps of fur, crumpled alcohol wipes, and exactly 47 random items.

Verdict: Guilty, with fur-covered evidence.

Suspect #3: The Vets

Docs like to act above the pend drama because they dictate into software. But when the WiFi goes down? Suddenly they’re scribbling notes in exam rooms like medieval scholars. The difference is – they leave the pen…somewhere. Which is how three pens ended up in the Sharps container and one was discovered in the fridge next to the vaccines.

Verdict: Guilty, but not malicious – just scattered.

Suspect #4: The Gremlins

Every clinic has them. The mysterious forces responsible for missing pens, runaway thermometers, and the single “orphan” earring found in the treatment area. The gremlins don’t want your paycheck, your snacks, or your dignity. They only want your office supplies.

Verdict: 100% guilty, but also unstoppable.

The Forensic Report

After weeks of observation and countless interviews, the investigative team (i.e., me and a cup of cold coffee) concludes:

• 40% of pens were stolen by clients
• 35% were lost in scrub pockets and will be rediscovered in the laundry
• 15% are scattered throughout exam rooms, treatment areas, and somehow the parking lot
• 10%? That’s the gremlins….always the gremlins.

The Recommendation

• Chain pens to clipboards like it’s 1999
• Order only ugly-colored pens
• Or, accept the inevitable: pens are the true currency of vet med. Budget accordingly.

Because at the end of the day, the real mystery isn’t where the pens went…

It’s how you’re expected to run a chaotic business AND save lives with a single, half-functioning ballpoint pen.