Taking the “Pet” out of Petrified!

That’s the mission of Fear Free, a program started by “America’s Veterinarian” Dr. Marty Becker to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety & stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them.*

At Frontier, Dr. Marcus, Dr. Skloven, and our Patient Care Team Leader Simone, CVT, are all Certified Fear Free Professionals who are trained on ways to make your pet’s veterinary visits as stress-free as possible. In turn, they help us develop and employ strategies throughout the hospital and train the entire team on these principles.

One key strategy is pre-visit pharmaceuticals, also known as PVPs. PVPs are medications you administer at home prior to your pet’s appointment to improve your pet’s experience at the hospital. These are similar to the medications your doctor would prescribe before MRI, dentistry, or in-office treatments to reduce your fear or anxiety before and during the procedure.

We know some pet parents are hesitant about “drugging” their pet, but the important thing to remember is that these medications are only employed when they will improve your pet’s physical and emotional wellbeing. This is key to your pet’s immediate visit experience but also to prevent future negative associations with the veterinary hospital or team, so your pet can receive the care and treatments needed throughout their lifetime.

If your veterinarian prescribes a PVP, they will explain why and how to administer it before visits and write a prescription so you’ll be prepared for your pet’s next appointment. If prescribed, please ensure you administer as directed, or we will have to reschedule your appointment. We will never forcibly restrain a patient in order to perform treatments. This only increases their stress, anxiety, and pain. Not only is this inappropriate for us to do as caring medical professionals, but it is also dangerous to your pet and can slow healing.

For more information on PVPs:

Why Does My Pet Need Sedation
What is a PVP?

*Source https://fearfreepets.com/