How Fear Free Benefits Your Pet
Fear Free is a movement designed to reduce the fear, anxiety, and stress that many pets experience when visiting the veterinarian. Studies have shown that 37% of dog owners and 58% of cat owners report their pets dislike vet visits. Even more telling, 26% of dog owners and 38% of cat owners say that just thinking about a veterinary visit causes stress — for both pets and their people.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Fear Free practices are committed to creating calmer, more comfortable veterinary experiences for every pet.
To learn more about Fear Free care, please visit fearfreehappyhomes.com.
Why is Fear Free Important?
Fear Free visits help minimize stress and anxiety for both pets and their families. Regular veterinary check-ups are key to keeping your pet healthy and happy, while also allowing for early detection and treatment of potential health concerns.
If you’re concerned about your pet’s stress level during veterinary visits, we encourage you to call us before your appointment. Our team is happy to discuss stress-reducing techniques and determine whether pre-visit anxiety medication may be appropriate for your pet. Early planning can make a meaningful difference in your pet’s comfort and overall experience.
How is Fear Free Implemented?
Each of our hospitals is staffed by Fear Free Certified professionals trained to create a low-stress, calming environment for every pet. Our team uses proven techniques to ease anxiety before, during, and after visits—helping both pets and their families feel more comfortable. When pets are relaxed, we can deliver safer, higher-quality care.
Transporting Your Pet
A Fear Free veterinary visit often begins at home. Always bring your pet on a leash or in a secure pet carrier. Many cats start to feel anxious the moment they see the carrier. To help ease this stress, it’s important to help your cat feel comfortable with their carrier in advance. You can do this by:
- Keep the carrier in a spot where your cat spends a lot of time, so it feels familiar.
- Place cozy bedding inside—something your cat already likes or an item that carries your scent.
- Add treats, toys, or catnip to the carrier regularly to encourage your cat to explore it on their own.
Not all cat carriers are the same. Here are some helpful tips for choosing a carrier that can make your cat’s visit more Fear Free:
- Choose a carrier with both front and top openings to make it easier to get your cat in and out.
- Select a carrier that can be taken apart in the middle, allowing the top to be removed. This way, your cat can stay comfortably in the bottom half during their exam.