Fear Free: Pawsome for Everyone
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September 3, 2024
We are proud that the number of hospitals with Fear Free certified team members in our network continues to grow each year. There are now over 98 locations that benefit from having a certified staff member on the team. From reducing anxiety triggers for pets to improving safety for their veterinary team, Fear Free strategies can be used no matter what role a team member has in their hospital. Some of our team members shared what Fear Free means to them.
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Sydney is one of the technicians at Advantage Veterinary Care, Highridge, MO, who recently received their Fear Free Certification. After completing nine hours of continuing education, Sydney is well-versed in how to minimize fear, anxiety, and stress for patients. “I think it is important for people, owners and veterinary staff alike, to know that a Fear Free visit starts at home before they ever leave their homes. It is also important to understand that Fear Free practice benefits everyone; the pets, owners, and veterinary staff.”
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Dr. Krieg from Atrium Animal Hospital recently shared a peek inside a Fear-Free exam with little pup Trivia. He was in to see Dr. Krieg for his initial puppy exam, and the team knows how important it is to make these visits as happy and stress-free as possible. Trivia could socialize with the staff, and Dr. Krieg took her time during the exam to create a relaxed environment. Dr. Krieg shared, "Fear Free Certification benefits everyone! Not only does the pet have a more relaxed and positive experience, but so does the pet parent, vet assistant, receptionist, and veterinarian."
Dr. Trevor Walker at Pace Veterinary Clinic was the first class of vet students at the University of Florida to be offered Fear Free Certification. He reflects on his initial thoughts, “When Dr Marty Becker (founder of Fear Free, aka “America’s Veterinarian”) explained the medical benefits of reducing fear, anxiety, and stress to give better compliance from owner and patient, more accurate diagnostics, lower and safer anesthetic protocols all backed by peer-reviewed studies, I thought, ‘Ok this is cool.’ But when he spoke from the heart about how we've all seen a team of four techs and groomers piling on a thrashing scared dog just to cut nails, it really hit me because I've had one of those dogs, and I was taught that ‘it's just the way it's always been done,’ pets deserve better.” Dr. Walker shared that even those working in the busiest practices can make small changes that yield great results. “Reading our Google reviews, most of the positive remarks are based just on our handling of the pets and how the pet was perceived to have a great time at the vet.”
Our team members take advantage of continuing education opportunities, like Fear Free Certification, throughout the year. This reflects their dedication to vet medicine and to our clients. If you are a part of Team Vetcor and would like more information, please reach out to your hospital manager.
