Fear-Free Philosophy
We don't want your pet to hate trips to the vet! At Queen City Animal Hospital, we wholeheartedly embrace and are deeply committed to the Fear-Free Philosophy in veterinary medicine. We recognize the importance of providing compassionate and fear-free care to our animal patients, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being throughout their visit to our hospital. Our commitment to this philosophy is reflected in the following principles:
1. Reducing Fear and Anxiety:
We understand that fear and anxiety can significantly impact an animal's health and well-being. We are dedicated to minimizing stress and fear during all aspects of a pet's visit, from the waiting room to the examination and procedures.
2. Compassion and Empathy:
Our staff is trained to approach every patient with compassion, empathy, and patience. We prioritize creating a safe and comfortable environment where animals feel respected and cared for.
3. Gentle Handling:
We use gentle and low-stress handling techniques to ensure the physical and emotional comfort of our patients. Our team is trained to recognize and respond to signs of stress and fear in animals and adjust their approach accordingly.
4. Communication:
We believe in open and transparent communication with pet owners. We educate them about the Fear-Free Philosophy and involve them in the care process. We offer guidance on techniques to reduce fear and anxiety at home and during veterinary visits.
5. Ongoing Training:
Our staff participates in continuous training and education to stay updated on Fear-Free techniques and best practices. We prioritize the well-being of our team members, recognizing that their comfort and confidence contribute to a fear-free environment.
6. Creating a Fear-Free Environment:
We have designed our hospital to minimize fear triggers and provide a calming atmosphere for pets and their people. We use pheromone diffusers, calming music, comfy rugs and chairs, high reward treats, and other techniques to create a positive environment. We offer refreshments (including beer, wine, sparkling water, juice boxes, and coffee) for our pet owners because you deserve a fear free experience too.
7. Respect for Individual Needs:
We understand that every pet is unique and may have specific needs and fears. We tailor our approach to each patient, using Fear-Free methods to accommodate their individual requirements.
8. Pain Management:
We prioritize pain management and utilize fear-free techniques for administering medication and treatments. Our goal is to ensure that all animals are as comfortable as possible during their recovery.
9. Collaboration and Advocacy:
We actively collaborate with other professionals in the veterinary field to promote the Fear-Free Philosophy. We advocate for the well-being of animals and the importance of fear-free practices within the veterinary community.
By adhering to the Fear-Free Philosophy, we aim to provide the highest standard of care to our patients while fostering trust and partnership with our clients. This means that our visits may be a little different than what you've experienced in the past. We work with your pet to determine the best course of action when providing the care they need. If they are experiencing a high amount of fear, stress, or anxiety at a visit, we may discontinue services that day and discuss options with you to help create a better experience going forward. It's all about making sure that your pet receives the care they need without the distress that may have come from that care in the past.
We are proud of our commitment to reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in veterinary medicine and are dedicated to improving the lives of the animals we serve while strenthening their bond with you!