Fear Free Practices at Kalamzoo Animal Hospital

We want to create positive experiences with every visit, and we practice Fear Free techniques. Here are some techniques you may notice our staff practicing at your visit:

• Initially avoid eye contact with your pet and focus on you instead.
• Feed treats to your pet to distract them, reduce stress, and create a bond with them. We use a variety of treats including cheese, Churu treats for cats, and whipped cream. Please let our staff know if you or your pet have any food allergies or car sickness.
• Provide or use non-slip surfaces for your pet to sit or stand for balance and stability.
• Use gentle pressure to soothe your pet using a towel or blanket.
• Create a calming environment using pheromones and diffusers.
• Actively work to reduce stressful noises.
• Separate cats in a room designed just for them, away from the barking dogs.
• Prescribe anti-anxiety or other calming medications when necessary.
• Gentle restraint and distractions used instead of "scruffing" and force.

If your pet is showing excessive signs of fear, anxiety, or stress, we may suggest postponing the exam or procedures until a time when your pet is calmer and more relaxed. We do not want to create bad experiences.