DEAR FAIR WAGES:
Make sure you fully understand the situation before approaching the owner. You need a good grasp of the going compensation rate for veterinarians in your area. Compare that to your veterinarian's hours and salary. Also compare her salary to her production to see if it's out of line.

If there's a disparity between her wages and the going rate or between her salary and production, carefully plan a conversation with the owner. Put together a list of reasons you think this harms the practice. Start the discussion by briefly expressing your concerns. Then ask why the associate is continuing to receive her full salary. If, after the owner's explanation, you still feel the veterinarian's salary is not justified, then you can discuss your concerns and suggestions in detail. —AMY