At Town N Country Animal Hospital, we’re committed to making every veterinary visit as stress-free as possible. But the work starts before you arrive at our door. Some of the best ways to reduce Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS) begin at home, long before the appointment. You play a key role in shaping how your pet feels about going to the vet. You really can help make your dog or cat feel safer, calmer, and more confident when they visit us.
Make Positive Associations. The goal is for your pet to associate the vet with good things, not scary ones. Start by creating positive experiences around the car, carrier, and our hospital:
- Happy Visits: Bring your pet by the hospital just to say hi. No needles and no exams…just treats, praise, and a few friendly faces. These short, pressure-free happy visits go a long way in building trust. Your pet will love them, and we love them just as much!
- Joy Rides: Take your pet on short car rides that don’t end at the vet. A trip around the block followed by a treat at home can help change how your pet feels about getting in the car.
- Carrier Confidence: For cats and small dogs, leave the carrier out in a familiar space with a soft blanket and treats inside. Make it a cozy retreat—not a sign that something scary is coming.
Make a Packing List. When you come to see us, bring comfort items and familiar scents to help your pet feel secure during their visit:
- Favorite Toys or Blankets: These can offer familiarity and comfort during the exam.
- Tasty Treats: We have plenty of treats here at the hospital, but bringing your pet’s favorites from home can provide an extra boost of reassurance.
- Pheromone Sprays: Sprays like Feliway® (for cats) or Adaptil® (for dogs) can be applied to blankets or the carrier before the visit.
Make a Note: We May Recommend Medications or Supplements. For pets who have a history of high FAS levels, we may recommend pre-visit medications—safe, vet-approved calming aids to take at home before the appointment. These help take the edge off anxiety so your pet can stay calm and cooperative.
If you’re unsure whether this is right for your pet, ask us! We’ll help determine the best plan for you.
Make it a Team Effort. Reducing FAS is a shared goal between you and our team. By working together, we can create a lifetime of better visits to Town N Country, with stronger, more trusting relationships between you, your pet, and our healthcare team.
Whether you’re practicing happy visits, trying out a new calming supplement, or just packing your pet’s favorite snack, every step counts. And remember: you’re never doing it alone. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Need advice specific to your pet? Reach out! Together, we’ll make a plan that’s fear free from start to finish. And that will make everyone happy!
