What Is Fear-Free Care?

Stress-Free Veterinary Visits

At Santaluz Animal Care, we believe that a trip to the veterinarian doesn’t need to be a terrifying experience for your dog or cat! Our veterinarians and staff members have completed the extensive training and inspection required for us to become a Certified Fear FreeĀ® vet hospital. 

Using specific Fear FreeĀ® techniques helps reduce the anxiety your pet may associate with veterinary visits. Eventually, bringing your pet to the vet will also be less stressful for you! Fear Free vet training helps veterinarians modify clinic procedures, handling, and facilities so that pets feel safe and more comfortable while receiving the medical care they need. Our Fear FreeĀ® certification is a testament to our commitment to exceptional veterinary care.

Proven Techniques

  • Providing tasty “high value” treats: We use particularly delicious treats to create positive associations with vet visits. This means your pet looks forward to their time with us.
  • Pheromones and soft music: These elements help put your pet at ease, reducing stress and creating a more serene environment.
  • Non-slip surfaces for exams and treatments: We utilize non-slip surfaces to keep your pet comfortable and secure during examinations.
  • Gentle, species-specific handling: Our team is trained in gentle handling techniques tailored to the different specific needs of dogs and cats, ensuring they feel safe and respected.
  • Pre-visit pharmaceuticals when appropriate: For particularly anxious pets, we may recommend calming medications before their visit.
  • Separate spaces for cats: We provide cat-only areas because sometimes everyone just needs a little space from the dogs!

Experience Fear-Free Care

At Santaluz Animal Care, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, stress-free care for your pets. Want to see the Fear FreeĀ® philosophy in action? Just call us at (858) 258-5590 to schedule your pet’s Fear-Free visit today!