What is Fear Free?
Fear Free is a philosophy, approach, and set of techniques aimed at reducing fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in animals during veterinary visits and other interactions with caregivers. Founded by Dr. Marty Becker, it emphasizes that pets are sentient beings with emotions, and that minimizing stress leads to better health outcomes, more accurate diagnoses, and a more positive experience for both pets and owners.
Key Principles
- Preventing Stress: Fear Free focuses on identifying potential stressors and avoiding or modifying them to prevent negative experiences.
- Positive Associations: Using treats, toys, play, or gentle petting to create positive experiences during travel, examination, and treatment.
- Gentle Handling: Positioning and handling pets in ways that are comfortable and safe, gradually introducing more stressful procedures while monitoring stress levels.
- Monitoring and Response: Observing body language and emotional cues to stop, modify, or medicate as needed to prevent escalation of fear.
- Environmental Adjustments: Clinics may use pheromone diffusers, calming music, and comfortable spaces to reduce stress.
Benefits
- For Pets: Reduced stress improves physiological and emotional wellbeing, lowers the risk of injury, and enhances recovery.
- For Veterinarians: Easier handling of animals, safer work environment, improved efficiency, and stronger client relationships.
- For Owners: Pets are calmer and more cooperative, leading to better compliance with veterinary care and increased satisfaction.
Veterinarian’s Oath
Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.
I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics.
I accept as a lifelong obligation the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence.
