In 2016, Dr. Marty Becker coined the phrase “Taking the Pet out of Petrified” as he took up the mantle of the Fear Free veterinary movement. We are happy to announce that Berkeley Veterinary Center has become the first Fear Free certified practice in the state of New Jersey! We’re so excited to share this veterinary approach with everyone.
What is a Fear Free Veterinary Practice?
The fear free movement began when surveys of pet owners showed that pets weren’t getting the care they need at their veterinarian largely because pets were afraid of going there. Pet owners want to do the very best they can for their pets, but when your cat yowls in the car all the way to the vet’s office, or your dog shakes like a leaf (or bites!) during the entire visit, it becomes difficult to even come in once a year.
Enter: the fear free movement, which endeavors to help practice teams, veterinarians, and pet owners come together to help pets be less stressed before, during, and after their veterinary visits, and thus get the regular preventive care they need to lead healthier and longer lives.
(more…)