What is Fear Free?

Fear Free or Low Stress Handling, is a technique enhanced by veterinarian, animal behaviorist, and Low Stress Handing expert, Dr. Sophia Yin. Her “pet-friendly” techniques for animal handling and behavior modification are shaping the new standard of care for veterinarians and petcare professionals.

How Does it work?

Low Stress Handling includes appropriate approach based upon reading your pet's behavioral signs, behavior modification with treats to engage and reward your pet, and proper positioning of your pet dependent upon the procedure. In some situations, especially felines, the use of towels and calming pheromones is beneficial to give a calming effect.

You can also start some Low Stress Handling at home before coming to the vet! Start off by feeding a light breakfast in the morning, so modifying the behavior by using treats is more accepted by your pet. Here are some links to help start the training process at home.

Getting a happy cat to the vet,

http://www.catvets.com/public/PDFs/ClientBrochures/Cat-to-Vet-HandoutPrint.pdf

Dog’s Body Language of Fear

http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/13722/file-13233299-pdf/docs/sybodylanguageposter8.5sm[1].pdf?t=1459368685035

Dog Nail Trim, How to help make it a happy experience

https://drsophiayin.com/videos/entry/training_a_dog_to_enjoy_toenail_trims/

Why Do it?

The Low Stress Handling techniques minimize your pet's stress and create a safer environment for you, your pet and our veterinary professionals. Improve handling skills and reading behavioral signs of your pet for our professionals and you. Lastly, it can establish a positive relationship between your pet and us!

Alternative Chemical Techniques

If you or Dr. Koinm believes the stress level is too elevated for your pet, we have some alternative chemical techniques on hand to help. We use light oral sedatives and pheromones sprays and wipes designed for especially for cats and dogs to help reduce the stress level.