Success Stories: Fear Free Helps Pets Around the World

Kim Campbell Thornton

Whether they live on faraway islands, in the Great White North, or in European capitals, cats and dogs benefit from Fear Free techniques. Three veterinarians share how Fear Free has helped pets in their far-flung practices.

How Fear Free Aids Patient Comfort

It is amazing to me that making a few small changes really impacts patient comfort. We have started using fleece blankets and pheromones for the cats as well as giving treats to them and there is a noticeable difference in their behavior.
We are trying to really talk to new owners about doing handling exercises with their puppies and kittens and also trying to get them used to being in crates and carriers at a young age. The owners are also happy to learn that treats and training help them at home to perform ear cleaning, nail trims, and medicating without stressing their pets.

Sheryl Doi, DVM; Elite Fear Free Certified Professional; VCA Family and Oahu Veterinary Specialty Center; Pearl City, HI, United States

 

Fear Free Overseas

I have multiple success stories! Most dogs are rushing into our practice and don’t have to get pulled in by the owners; they’re pulling their owners in! It’s such a pleasure to watch clients be amazed by how happy their dog is to see us.

Cats are not small dogs, and they won’t rush into the room to see their veterinarian. But it’s also a pleasure to see cats changing from “aggressive” to calm and relaxed when using PVPs.

Jonna Hoekstra, DVM; Elite Fear Free Certified Professional; Sterkliniek dierenartsen; Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Pets Respond to Fear Free Handling

The following Fear Free techniques have worked very well with a number of my patients:Examining a cat that is normally fearful in clinic by putting her into a “cats only” exam room outfitted with a towel on which to lie that’s been sprayed with Feliway; having a Feliway dispenser in the wall outlet); going very slowly and quietly; doing my exam in whatever order makes sense given the cat’s demeanor/position; starting by gently rubbing forehead or chin; monitoring response; putting out some food to give the cat a pleasant distraction during vaccination.

Iz Jakubowski, DVM; Elite Fear Free Certified Professional; Royal York Animal Hospital; Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada

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This article was reviewed/edited by board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Kenneth Martin and/or veterinary technician specialist in behavior Debbie Martin, LVT.

Kim Campbell Thornton is content manager for Fear Free Pets and is an Elite Fear Free Certified Professional. She has been writing about dogs, cats, wildlife, and marine life since 1985.

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