Fear Free Veterinary Care Now Available for Bayville Pets
Can you imagine telling your dog, “Let’s go to the vet!” and seeing her tail wag? How about getting out your cat’s carrier and seeing him come running?
Local pet owners won’t need to imagine it if they visit Dr. Tony and Dr. Alyssa at Berkeley Veterinary Center in Bayville. That’s because Berkeley Veterinary Center is part of a new initiative sweeping veterinary medicine designed to ease the stress, fear, and anxiety so many pets experience while at the veterinarian. Berkeley Veterinary Center is the very FIRST practice to gain certification in the state of New Jersey!
Known as Fear FreeSM, the training and certification program helps veterinarians and entire practices modify their procedures, handling, and facilities to help pets feel safe and comfortable while receiving the medical care they need. Up until now, only certification for individuals was available. April 2nd, 2018 marked the launch of the Fear Free Practice Certification program. Berkeley Veterinary Center received their certification in July 2018.
Berkeley Veterinary Center has always tried to make pets feel comfortable by taking their time with half hour appointments and plenty of treats. Now, they have incorporated even more techniques to help lessen the stress associated with vet visits. Some changes that clients will immediately see at this Fear Free practice include: separate dog and cat entrances and waiting areas, the doctors no longer wear white coats, pheromone technology, calming music (specifically made for dogs or cats), and plenty of delectable treats (so bring pets in hungry!)
In addition to having individual Fear Free certified veterinary professionals on staff, Fear Free Practice Certification requires a practice to meet 27 mandatory standards and earn a minimum of 1,070 points out of a possible 2,060 from another 28 standards. Some standards require as many as 9 action items to be met. It was a lot of work meeting the Fear Free Practice standards, but it was a labor of love- and we are so proud to offer this specialized service.
Founded by veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker, the Fear Free training program was developed by board-certified veterinary behaviorists, veterinary technician behavior specialists, board-certified veterinary anesthetists, well-known veterinary practice management experts, and boarded veterinary practitioners experienced in Fear Free methods.
"Providing veterinarians and their staff with the tools they need to ease this burden of fear and anxiety for our patients is the pinnacle of my 37-year veterinary career," said Dr. Becker, who was dubbed "America’s Veterinarian" by Dr. Oz and appeared on “Good Morning America” for 17 years. "Veterinary professionals are hungry for this information. Animals and their humans need and deserve it. And now it’s here!"
Pet owners who would like their pets to experience the Fear Free difference can schedule an appointment by calling (732) 269-3600. When you call to schedule, please let us know if your pet gets nervous during veterinary visits. Our Fear Free Certified professionals can discuss ways to reduce their anxiety.
About Fear Free
Developed by "America's Veterinarian," Dr. Marty Becker, the Fear FreeSM initiative aims to “take the ‘pet’ out of ‘petrified’” and get pets back for veterinary visits by promoting considerate approach and gentle control techniques used in calming environments. Utilization of Fear Free methods and protocols leads to reduction or removal of anxiety triggers, which creates an experience that is rewarding and safer for all involved including pets, their owners, and veterinary health care teams. Learn more at www.fearfreepets.com.