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Rethinking Post-Operative Comfort: The Case for Protective Recovery Wear

The Elizabethan collar has long been the default tool for preventing patients from interfering with wounds and surgical sites. But clinicians are increasingly recognizing that the cone itself may be contributing to poor patient welfare during a critical phase of healing.

The Problem: The E-Collar’s Impact on Patient Welfare

Fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) do not end when a patient leaves the operating room. For many animals, the post-operative period is among the most psychologically challenging they will experience, and the Elizabethan collar frequently compounds that distress.

A 2020 study by Shenoda et al., published in the journal Animals, found that 77.4% of pet owners observed negative welfare effects in dogs and cats wearing an Elizabethan collar. Reported issues included difficulty moving, eating, drinking, and engaging in normal social behavior, often resulting in frustration, disorientation, and heightened FAS.

From a clinical standpoint, the cone also offers incomplete protection. It does not shield surgical sites from environmental contaminants, contact with other animals, or physical impact, leaving wounds more vulnerable than its widespread use might suggest. Elevated FAS combined with compromised wound protection can contribute to slower healing, increased recheck appointments, and a more difficult recovery trajectory for patients.

The Solution: MPS Recovery Wear as a Fear Free-Aligned Alternative

Protective recovery wear offers a clinically sound alternative that addresses both wound protection and patient wellbeing simultaneously. Rather than restricting a patient’s sensory environment and mobility, recovery garments allow animals to maintain natural posture, movement, and behavioral repertoire throughout the recovery period.

Patients who can eat, drink, rest, and move without restriction experience measurably lower FAS. Reduced emotional distress supports physiological recovery, promotes restorative sleep, and minimizes the behavioral complications that can follow difficult post-operative experiences.

Medical Pet Shirts (MPS) is the pioneer in developing protective recovery wear as an animal-friendly alternative to the traditional cone. Their products are designed to integrate seamlessly into daily life while supporting healing and emotional wellbeing during recovery. This aligns consistently with core Fear Free principles: emotional wellbeing is not a secondary consideration in recovery care. It is a clinical variable with direct implications for patient.

Clinical Application: What the Evidence Supports

Recovery wear is most effective when introduced at the point of care, ideally applied while the patient is still under anesthesia, and dispensed for continued use at home. Key clinical considerations include:

  • Early introduction reduces acclimation stress. Patients that recover from anesthesia already wearing the garment adapt more readily than those fitted during the post-anesthesia arousal period.
  • Home compliance improves significantly. E-collars are frequently removed by clients during feeding, sleeping, or in response to patient distress, creating unmonitored windows of wound exposure. Recovery wear remains in place across daily activities.
  • Breathable, four-way stretch construction of MPS Recovery Wear supports natural resting positions, which are essential for restorative sleep and a key factor in post-operative healing.
  • For behaviorally complex or FAS-prone patients, reducing post-operative distress can have a meaningful impact on recovery quality and long-term patient trust.

Extending Fear Free Care Beyond the Clinic

Fear Free Certified practices are well positioned to integrate recovery wear into standard post-operative protocols. Discharging patients in recovery wear allows the clinical team to extend evidence-based, low-stress care into the home environment, where veterinary oversight is limited and patient welfare depends heavily on client compliance.

Clients whose pets are discharged in recovery wear consistently report calmer animals, earlier return to normal eating, and faster behavioral recovery. For the practice, this translates to fewer urgent post-operative callbacks, reduced recheck volume driven by wound complications, and stronger client confidence in the discharge process.

When patients are more comfortable and compliant at home, post-operative recheck appointments are more productive, and the clinical team can be confident that the recovery protocol recommended at discharge is being followed.

Protectable recovery wear for dogs, cats and rabbits. Sustainable, high-quality and pet-friendly

About Medical Pet Shirts (MPS)

Medical Pet Shirts (MPS) pioneered protective recovery wear for companion animals and has been trusted by veterinary professionals worldwide since 2007. Every MPS product is co-developed with veterinarians and manufactured using high-quality, breathable cotton combined with four-way stretch Invista Lycra®, free from lead, toxic chemicals, and harmful substances.

All products are washable, reusable, and designed with anatomy-specific tailoring for dogs, cats, and rabbits. Soft Velcro® and press stud closures ensure a secure, comfortable fit without skin irritation.

The MPS recovery wear range includes:

  • MPS Protective Pet Shirt — full-body torso protection for post-surgical recovery
  • Front Leg Sleeves (Single & Double) — targeted coverage for front leg wounds, hot spots, bandages, and IV line protection
  • MPS Top Shirt — multifunctional torso protection with light chest compression; accommodates monitoring devices
  • Hind Leg Sleeves — comfortable protection for hind leg surgeries and dermatological conditions; designed for use with the MPS Top Shirt
  • MPS Head Cover — gentle protection for ear surgery recovery and head or ear skin conditions

Explore the full MPS recovery wear range at www.medicalpetshirts.com.

Source
Shenoda, Y., Ward, M.P., McKeegan, D. & Fawcett, A. (2020). “The Cone of Shame”: Welfare Implications of Elizabethan Collar Use on Dogs and Cats as Reported by their Owners. Animals, 10(2), 333. https://dx.doi.org/10.3390%2Fani10020333

How to Make Prevention Feel Like a Treat

Preventive care is one of the most powerful ways we can support lifelong health in pets. From routine exams and diagnostics to dental care and parasite prevention, these proactive steps help us catch concerns early and improve outcomes.

But for many pets, “preventive care” does not feel preventive at all. It can feel stressful, unfamiliar, and even frightening.

What if we could change that?

At Fear Free, we believe prevention should not just protect physical health, it should also support emotional wellbeing. When done thoughtfully, preventive care can feel safe, positive, and even rewarding for pets, clients, and veterinary teams alike.

Start Before the Visit Even Begins

A Fear Free approach to prevention starts at home. Preparing pets before they ever enter the clinic can dramatically reduce fear, anxiety, and stress.

Encourage pet parents to:

  • Use positive reinforcement to build comfort with carriers, car rides, and handling
  • Practice gentle exam-like interactions, such as looking at ears, paws, and mouth
  • Consider pre-visit pharmaceuticals or calming aids when appropriate
  • Bring familiar items like blankets, toys, or treats to the appointment

When pets arrive already feeling more secure, the entire experience shifts

Create a Calm and Predictable Experience

Inside the clinic, small adjustments can make a big difference.

Preventive visits should prioritize:

  • Non-slip surfaces and comfortable positioning
  • Minimal restraint and gentle handling techniques
  • Quiet spaces and reduced wait times whenever possible
  • Reading body language and allowing breaks when needed

When pets feel a sense of control and safety, they are far more likely to cooperate and recover quickly from the experience.

Pair Care with Positive Experiences

Preventive care often includes procedures that can be uncomfortable or unfamiliar, such as blood draws, nail trims, or imaging.

A Fear Free approach means:

  • Breaking procedures into smaller, manageable steps
  • Using cooperative care techniques to build participation
  • Adjusting timing or approach based on the pet’s emotional state
  • Prioritizing emotional safety alongside medical goals and determining “needs” vs. “wants” – what must happen today for the health and safety of the pet compared to what we would like to accomplish (a diagnostic radiograph vs. a nail trim)

Sometimes, slowing down actually leads to better outcomes, both medically and behaviorally.

Support the Human-Animal Bond

When pets have positive preventive care experiences, it does more than reduce stress in the moment. It strengthens trust.

Pet parents feel more confident bringing their pets in for care. Veterinary teams can perform more thorough exams. And pets learn that handling and treatment do not have to be scary.

This creates a ripple effect that supports long-term health, compliance, and overall wellbeing.

Prevention, Reimagined

Preventive care is not just about avoiding disease, it is about creating a foundation for a lifetime of positive experiences.

By integrating Fear Free principles into every step of the process, we can transform prevention from something pets endure into something they can comfortably navigate.

Because when prevention feels like a treat, everyone benefits.

The Subtle Signs of Pain in Cats: What Caregivers See at Home

Why the behavioral changes clients observe at home can be the most important clues to feline pain.

The Gap Between Home and Clinic

Cats are naturally inclined to mask discomfort, and that tendency is often amplified in a clinical setting. Stress and hypervigilance can suppress behavioral pain cues entirely, which means the signs most likely to inform your assessment are often happening at home, not in the exam room.

An estimated 70% of cats do not receive regular veterinary care (CATalyst Council, Feline Market Insights Report Vol II, 2025), and chronic pain is a leading contributor to delayed diagnosis and reduced quality of life in feline patients. The behavioral shifts that signal something is wrong, including changes in appetite, grooming, mobility, mood, and vocalizations, are most observable in a familiar home environment.

What Clients Can Watch For

Helping clients know what to look for between visits is one of the most practical things a Fear Free practice can do. Common signs worth tracking include:

AppetiteChanges in how much is eaten or how often the food bowl is visited; eating on one side of the mouth, dropping food, drooling, or pawing at the mouth may signal oral or dental pain.
ThirstChanges in drinking behavior: visits to the water bowl and amount of water consumed may increase or decrease
TouchIncreased sensitivity to touch: either avoiding touch or becoming irritable or aggressive when touched
MobilityReluctance to move/jump: slow, hesitant, stiff and/or deliberate movements
GroomingLittle to no grooming: dull, greasy, matted and/or soiled coat; Overgrooming, especially if in a localized area.
EliminationLack of bladder/bowel control: increase in accidents outside the litterbox, especially if they are close to or near the box.
HidingIncrease in hiding and/or hiding in unusual places
EnergyChanges in energy level: less energy, lethargic
MoodChanges in mood: disoriented, confused, disinterested, or restless at night
VocalizationsChanges in vocalizations: meowing excessively, persistent crying, yowling, or totally silent. Note – purring isn’t always a sign of happiness.
PlayChanges in frequency and intensity of play: decrease in play and/or doesn’t respond to favorite toys
PostureChanges in posture: increased time crouching, hunching or lowering of head, sitting in an unusual way – sticking a leg out or favoring a side

If a client notices one or more of these signs, it is worth a conversation with your team.

A Note on Sylvester

Recognizing pain early is an important part of Fear Free care. When subtle changes are identified sooner, veterinary teams can intervene earlier, helping prevent discomfort from escalating and reducing the stress associated with delayed diagnosis or unrecognized pain.

Sylvester offers veterinary practices a purpose-built tool designed to support this goal. Using computer vision and established feline pain science, Sylvester helps identify subtle behavioral and facial changes that may indicate pain, providing clinicians with additional insight to guide proactive care. When used by pet parents at home, it may also capture behaviors that are easier to observe when cats are relaxed in their normal environment.

By supporting earlier conversations about health and wellbeing, tools like Sylvester can help veterinary teams strengthen relationships with clients while creating calmer, more compassionate clinical experiences for cats.

Click here to download a resource you can provide to your clients to help them spot the early signs of pain in cats.

To learn more about Sylvester, visit www.sylvester.ai
Fear Free Certified Practices can learn more about a special offer by logging into their account and visiting: https://www.fearfree.com/friend/sylvester-ai/


How Fear Free Builds Trust with Anxious Clients

In veterinary medicine, we often focus on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) for our patients. But there is another group experiencing significant anxiety during veterinary visits: clients. 

Worried about their pet’s comfort, fearful of bad news, concerned about cost, or carrying guilt about previous experiences, anxious clients walk through our doors every day. When their concerns are not acknowledged, trust erodes. When their emotions are recognized and supported, trust grows. 

A Fear Free approach does not just calm pets. It creates an environment where clients feel heard, respected, and confident in the care their pet receives. When we reduce fear for clients, we strengthen relationships, improve compliance, and build a healthier experience for the entire team. 

Here is how Fear Free principles help veterinary teams build trust with anxious clients. 

Recognize That Client Anxiety Is Real 

Client anxiety often shows up as hesitation, excessive questions, emotional reactions, or even frustration. These behaviors are not resistance. They are signs of concern and uncertainty. 

Fear Free teams approach these moments with curiosity rather than judgment. 

Instead of thinking, “This client is difficult,” consider, 
“This client is worried. What do they need to feel safe and confident right now?” 

Simple validation can make a powerful difference: 

  • “I know visits can be stressful for both pets and their families.” 
  • “You’re doing the right thing by bringing them in.” 
  • “Let’s talk through what today will look like so there are no surprises.” 

When clients feel understood, their emotional state shifts from defensive to collaborative. 

Create Predictability to Reduce Fear

Uncertainty increases anxiety for both pets and people. Fear Free practices reduce client stress by making the experience clear and predictable. 

Small steps that build trust include: 

  • Explaining what will happen before it happens 
  • Setting realistic expectations for wait times or procedures 
  • Walking clients through the plan of care step by step 
  • Preparing them for what their pet may experience 

For example: 
“First, we’ll let Bella settle in the room. Then we’ll do the exam slowly and watch her body language. If she shows signs of stress, we’ll pause and adjust.” 

When clients know their pet’s emotional experience matters, confidence in the team grows. 

Make the Client a Partner in Fear Free Care

Trust deepens when clients feel involved rather than sidelined. 

Fear Free practices invite participation by: 

  • Encouraging clients to bring favorite treats, toys, or bedding 
  • Teaching cooperative care techniques 
  • Demonstrating gentle handling and positive reinforcement 
  • Sharing ways to prepare for future visits 

These moments accomplish more than reducing FAS. They show clients that the team is invested in their pet’s long term emotional wellbeing, not just today’s appointment. 

Partnership builds ownership, and ownership builds loyalty. 

Communicate with Transparency and Empathy 

Anxious clients are highly sensitive to tone, body language, and word choice. Clear, compassionate communication strengthens trust, even when discussing difficult topics. 

Fear Free communication strategies include: 

  • Sitting at eye level when possible 
  • Using plain language instead of medical jargon 
  • Checking for understanding 
  • Acknowledging emotions before moving to solutions 

For example: 
“I can see how worried you are. Let’s talk through what this means and what our options are.” 

When empathy comes first, clients are more open to recommendations and decision making. 

Align the Entire Team Around the Experience

Trust is not built in a single interaction. It is built through consistency across the entire visit. 

From the front desk to the exam room to checkout, Fear Free teams work together to create a unified experience: 

  • Warm, calm greetings 
  • Awareness of client and pet stress levels 
  • Smooth handoffs between team members 
  • Reinforcement of the same message: your pet’s emotional wellbeing matters 

When clients see that every team member shares the same values, confidence in the practice strengthens. 

The Ripple Effect of Client Trust

When anxious clients feel safe and supported, the benefits extend beyond the appointment. 

Trusted clients are more likely to: 

  • Approve recommended care 
  • Follow treatment plans 
  • Return for preventive visits 
  • Prepare their pets for future appointments 
  • Refer friends and family 

Just as important, trust reduces emotional tension for the veterinary team. Conversations become easier, interactions more positive, and the work more rewarding. 

Building Trust One Moment at a Time

Trust is not built through one grand gesture. It grows through small, consistent Fear Free moments: 
A calm explanation 
A pause when a pet shows stress 
A reassuring word 
A team that listens 

When we reduce fear for pets and people, we create something powerful: confidence, partnership, and lasting relationships. 

Remember that every interaction is an opportunity. By applying Fear Free principles to the client experience, we do more than improve visits. We build the foundation for better care, stronger teams, and a practice clients trust with their most important companions. 

Because when clients feel safe, pets do too. 

Take the Next Step

Want to strengthen trust in everyday interactions? 

Our course, Micro Moments of Trust in the Clinic, helps veterinary teams identify the small, intentional actions that build confidence, reduce anxiety, and improve the experience for pets, clients, and team members. 

You will learn practical, immediately applicable strategies to turn routine interactions into meaningful trust-building moments throughout the veterinary visit. 

Explore the course and start building trust, one moment at a time. 

5 Easy Ways to Make 2026 a Less Stressful Year in Practice

A Fear Free® Approach to Supporting Your Team, Your Patients, and Yourself 

A new year brings fresh opportunities to reset routines, strengthen your team culture, and make every patient visit a little calmer. Whether your goal is smoother appointments, a happier team, or simply fewer stressful moments in the day, small, consistent changes can make a big difference. Here are five simple, high-impact ways to reduce stress in your practice in 2026, grounded in Fear Free principles and real-world clinic workflows. 

1. Start Every Day with a Quick Team Reset 

Before the first appointment, take two minutes for a team check-in. 
This can be as simple as: 

  • Sharing the day’s patient list and identifying animals who may need extra support 
  • Making sure everyone knows their role for each appointment 
  • Calling out one positive thing from yesterday’s cases 

These micro-resets help everyone walk into the day aligned, calm, and ready to create low-stress experiences from the very beginning. 

2. Refresh Your Clinic’s Low-Stress Environment 

Environment sets the tone, for both pets and people. Choose one small upgrade this month, such as: 

  • Adding soft mats or nonslip surfaces in exam rooms 
  • Refreshing pheromone diffusers 
  • Creating a dedicated “quiet space” for sensitive patients 
  • Reducing clutter or noise in high-traffic areas 

Tiny improvements, especially when done consistently, can significantly decrease Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS) for patients and help the team feel more in control. 

3. Choose One Handling Habit to Improve This Month 

Handling habits shape clinical flow more than we realize. In January, have the whole team pick one Fear Free handling habit to practice daily, such as: 

  • Using treats proactively, not reactively 
  • Letting pets approach on their own terms 
  • Practicing “touch gradients” to prepare for exam steps 
  • Choosing considerate positioning over forceful restraint 

A single consistent habit can make exams smoother, shorten appointment times, and reduce the need for escalated restraint or sedation. 

4. Implement a Stress-Light Triage in Your Workflow 

Adding a quick “stress check” at intake helps the whole day run better. Train front-desk and tech teams to note: 

  • Visible signs of FAS 
  • Patient history of fear or aggression 
  • Possible triggers (e.g., scale, other animals, car rides) 
  • Opportunities for support (pre-visit pharmaceuticals, treats, longer appointment time) 

This tiny step allows you to prepare thoughtfully before the pet enters the exam room, improving safety, efficiency, and emotional wellbeing. 

5. Commit to One Team Wellness Ritual 

A calmer clinic starts with a supported team. Choose one simple ritual to carry through 2026: 

  • A weekly 60-Second Stress Reset together 
  • Mid-day hydration reminders 
  • A “no lunch interruption” policy 
  • A rotating positivity board (gratitude, wins from the week, shout-outs) 

When team members feel cared for, they’re more present, more patient, and more equipped to provide Fear Free care. 

Start the Year Stress-Free, Stay the Course 

Reducing stress in practice doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on small, intentional changes, your clinic can build momentum and create a calmer, more supportive environment for everyone—pets, clients, and team members alike. 

If your practice is looking for more hands-on tools, tips, or training to support a Fear Free start to 2026, explore our upcoming webinars, microlearning sessions, and monthly resources. 

Ready to take stress reduction even further?  Check out our Fear Free for Humans course and gain practical tools for managing workplace stress, building resilience, and supporting your own wellbeing. 

Helping Shelters & Fosters Raise Confident, Healthy Kittens – Video Series

Caring for young kittens in a shelter or foster setting means more than just meeting their physical needs—it’s about supporting their emotional wellbeing, socialization, and stress-free development.

This series of short, practical videos are designed to help shelter teams and foster caregivers create a healthy, low-stress environment for kittens in their care.

In this video series, you’ll learn:

  • How to create a calm, stress-free space for kittens
  • How to recognize and respond to early signs of fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS)
  • The importance of early socialization and how to set kittens up for a lifetime of confidence

Sponsored by our friends at Virox. Narration by Tabitha Kucera, CCBC, RVT, KPA-CTP, VTS (Behavior), Elite FFCP-V

Video #1 – Environment

Creating the right environment is the first step to helping kittens thrive. Watch this video to learn more about building the perfect environment for kittens to feel safe and ready for their forever homes.

Video #2 – Identifying FAS

Did you know kittens communicate through their behavior from birth? Recognizing fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) early can make a world of difference in their development. Learn why identifying FAS can support kittens on their journey to adoption.

Video #3 – Socialization

The critical window for socializing kittens is between two and nine weeks. During this time, positive experiences with people, other animals, and new environments shape their ability to handle future stress. Discover how early socialization helps prepare kittens for their forever homes.

Making the Most of End-of-Life QOL

Creating a high-quality end-of-life period is a critical aspect of veterinary practice. Although we can’t prevent the inevitable passing of a beloved pet, we can advocate for patient comfort and support pet parents through end-of-life care decisions. Fear Free Certified® Professionals are uniquely qualified to help pets with terminal and progressive diseases overcome not only physical barriers to increased life quality but also emotional and behavioral impacts. Here, we discuss best practices to improve quality of life (QOL) during a pet’s last days.

Assessment and Planning

Effective end-of-life care begins with a thorough patient assessment and history to evaluate the pet’s current QOL, establish management goals, and develop a treatment plan in partnership with the pet owner. Many physical, emotional, and social factors contribute to patient comfort and wellbeing, with each weighted differently for individual pets. A professional QOL scale provides clients and the veterinary team with an objective measurement tool to track disease progression and QOL changes, facilitating discussions about palliative care or euthanasia.

Palliative and Hospice Care

Palliative and hospice care focus on reducing the impact of disease symptoms, improving comfort when a cure is unlikely, and supporting pet families during a pet’s final days. Many hospice caregivers provide in-home services, which can help reduce stress levels and give the family more time with the pet. Hospice care often culminates in euthanasia or a medically assisted natural death.

Supporting Quality of Life

End-of-life care should focus primarily on implementing strategies to manage pet comfort. Pet professionals should consider the following QOL assessment categories to develop effective interventions:

  • Happiness — Increase pet happiness by modifying activities they once enjoyed and continuing to provide enjoyable social interactions and play.
  • Mental state — Pets experiencing pain, cognitive decline, or other effects of chronic illness may also suffer from fear, anxiety, and stress that impacts life quality. Address behavioral changes with medications, supplements, training, calming aids, and household management.
  • Pain — Uncontrolled pain is the hallmark of reduced QOL. Address pain early and aggressively, emphasizing the importance of pain control to clients. Medications, rehabilitation, and alternative treatments are viable options.
  • Appetite — Consider appetite stimulants, antiemetics, and high-energy diets for pets dealing with anorexia or weight loss.
  • Hygiene — Pets unable to stay clean are uncomfortable and at risk for skin infections. Work with clients to find solutions that are not overly burdensome, such as bathing, diapers or belly bands, or medications to control urinary and GI conditions.
  • Hydration — At-home subcutaneous fluids are an excellent solution for keeping chronically ill pets hydrated when they are unable or unwilling to drink enough water.
  • Mobility — Poor mobility can limit a dog’s ability to interact with the world around them. Address mobility by selecting safe pain and anti-inflammatory medications and by modifying the home environment with rugs or runners to provide traction. Support harnesses and carts may also be appropriate.

Client Support

Open and empathetic communication with pet owners is essential during the end-of-life period. Veterinary professionals should provide education about the pet’s condition, prognosis, and care options and remain open-minded and non-judgemental during discussions. End-of-life care can take a physical, emotional, and financial toll on clients. Offering simple treatment regimens with the most bang for their buck can reduce the caregiving burden and prevent breakdowns in the human-animal bond.

With a compassionate approach, veterinary professionals can provide exceptional care and QOL during a pet’s final days. The Dechra Quality of Life Survey helps veterinary professionals and pet owners take a step back to objectively assess the pet’s current state and track changes over time. We encourage pet professionals to share the survey with clients and use their answers to discuss treatments and guide decision-making.

For pets facing a lymphoma diagnosis or relapse whose owners cannot or do not wish to pursue chemotherapy, consider Laverdia, an oral drug designed to target cancer cells and spare healthy ones to prolong time to progression (TTP) in canine lymphoma. Learn more about Laverdia here.

This article was reviewed/edited by board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Kenneth Martin and/or veterinary technician specialist in behavior Debbie Martin, LVT.

Want to learn more about Fear Free? Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop on upcoming events, specials, courses, and more by clicking here.

Brought to you by our friends at Dechra.

Pheromone Use in Veterinary Clinics: A Fear Free Approach

Pheromone Use in Veterinary Clinics: A Fear Free Approach
In the world of veterinary care, creating a stress-free environment is not just a goal; it’s a necessity for the health and wellbeing of our furry patients. The integration of pheromones into veterinary practices has revolutionized the way we approach animal stress, aligning perfectly with the Fear Free initiative’s mission to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. bSerene™ is at the forefront of this movement, offering science-based pheromone products specifically designed for dogs and cats.The Power of Pheromones in Creating Calm
Pheromones are chemical communicators that play a crucial role in animal behavior and emotional regulation. These odorless signals are key to social bonding, territorial marking, and many other aspects of animal life. bSerene™ harnesses the power of these natural communicators to create a sense of security and calm in stressful environments such as veterinary clinics.

How Calming Pheromones Enhance Veterinary Care

  • Immediate Detection and Response: Animals detect calming pheromones through the vomeronasal organ, leading to an immediate calming response processed by the brain. This natural mechanism is why pheromone-based products are so effective in reducing stress in clinical settings.
  • Evidence-Based Success: Research supports the efficacy of pheromone use in veterinary practices. Studies show that feline facial pheromones can increase comfort and wellbeing, evidenced by behaviors like increased food intake and grooming. Similarly, canine pheromones have been shown to reduce stress during examinations, making the veterinary visit smoother for both pets and practitioners.

The Power of Pheromones in Creating Calm
bSerene’s partnership with the Fear Free program underscores its commitment to improving the veterinary health care experience. Here’s how you can integrate bSerene™ pheromone products into your practice to support this mission:

Pheromone Diffusers in High-Stress Areas

  • Exam Rooms: Create a calming atmosphere that facilitates smoother assessments.
  • Waiting Rooms: Reduce the anticipation stress often experienced by pets.
  • Kennel Areas: Promote a sense of calm for pets staying for extended periods.

Pheromone Sprays for Direct Contact

  • On Scrubs: Help staff soothe pets through their touch.
  • In Travel Carriers: Ease the stress of transportation.
  • On Towels in Kennels: Provide a comforting chemical message for resting pets.

Pheromone Collars and Valerian Spot-On Treatments
Sending pets home with bSerene™ collars can extend the calming effect beyond the clinic visit. Additionally, advising pet owners to use bSerene™ Valerian spot-on treatments before visits can make a significant difference in managing veterinary visit stress.

A Comprehensive Approach to Stress Management
It’s crucial to remember that stress management in veterinary care requires a holistic approach. bSerene’s innovative use of pheromones, combined with their Fear Free partnership, offers a scientifically backed strategy to enhance the wellbeing of pets. By adopting these practices, veterinary clinics can foster a tranquil environment that benefits pets, pet owners, and clinic staff alike.

Implementing bSerene™ pheromone products in your practice is a step toward a more compassionate and effective approach to veterinary care, ensuring that every visit is as stress-free as possible.

The Dual Benefit: Calmer Pets, Happier Owners
When pets are calm, the entire veterinary experience is transformed. Less stress for pets means:

  • Quicker, More Efficient Visits: Calm pets are easier to examine and treat, leading to shorter and more productive appointments.
  • Reduced Owner Anxiety: Seeing their pets calm can significantly ease owners’ stress, making them more cooperative and receptive during visits.
  • Improved Safety: Stress can lead to aggression. By reducing stress with pheromones, the risk of bites or scratches is minimized, protecting staff, pets, and owners.
  • Enhanced Clinic Reputation: Satisfied clients are more likely to return and recommend your clinic to others, thanks to the positive experiences facilitated by pheromone use.

Clinic Checklist for Implementing Pheromone Solutions 
Incorporating pheromone-based solutions into your veterinary practice is a strategic move toward a Fear Free environment. This checklist is designed to guide clinics through the process of integrating bSerene™ pheromone products effectively, ensuring a calm and stress-reduced setting for all pets.

Initial Setup

  • Evaluate Your Clinic Space: Identify areas where pets commonly show signs of stress, such as the waiting room, exam rooms, and kennel areas.
  • Choose Appropriate Pheromone Products: Select bSerene™ diffusers, sprays, and collars based on the specific needs of your clinic’s layout and the common stressors for pets in your care.

Pheromone Diffuser Placement

  • Install Diffusers in High-Stress Areas: Strategically place diffusers in the waiting area, exam rooms, and kennel or holding areas.
  • Check Diffuser Functionality Regularly: Schedule weekly checks to ensure that diffusers are working correctly and refill them as needed.

Pheromone Spray Usage

  • Integrate Sprays into Daily Routines: Use bSerene™ sprays on items that come into direct contact with pets, such as scrubs, towels, carriers, and examination tables.
  • Educate Staff on Proper Spray Application: Provide training on how and when to apply pheromone sprays to maximize their effectiveness. For instance, allow alcohol-based sprays to dry for a minimum of 15 minutes before a patient comes in contact with sprayed items.

Pheromone Collar and Valerian Spot-On Implementation

  • Stock Pheromone Collars for Post-Visit Stress Management: Offer bSerene™ collars to pet owners as a take-home solution to help pets recover from the stress after a procedure.
  • Recommend Valerian Spot-On Treatments: Advise pet owners to apply bSerene™ Valerian spot-on treatments before visits or in other stressful situations.

Staff Training and Education

  • Conduct Fear Free Training: Ensure that all staff members are familiar with Fear Free principles and how to use pheromone products as part of this approach.
  • Create a Protocol for Pheromone Product Use: Develop clear guidelines for when and how to use each pheromone product in your clinic.

Monitoring and Adjusting

  • Observe Pet Behavior: Pay close attention to how pets respond to the pheromone products and adjust their use as needed to achieve the best results.
  • Gather Feedback from Pet Owners: Regularly ask clients about their pets’ behavior and stress levels following visits to assess the effectiveness of Fear Free interventions, including pheromone use.

Maintenance and Restocking

  • Maintain an Adequate Inventory: Keep a regular inventory of all bSerene™ pheromone products to ensure you never run out.
  • Review Product Usage and Effectiveness: Every few months, evaluate the effectiveness of the pheromone products and consider any necessary adjustments or additions.

Community and Client Education

  • Inform Pet Owners About Pheromone Benefits: Use newsletters, social media, and in-clinic displays to educate pet owners about the benefits of calming pheromones and how they’re being used in your practice.
  • Offer Guidance for At-Home Pheromone Use: Provide instructions and recommendations for pet owners interested in using bSerene™ products at home to extend the stress-reducing benefits.

By following this checklist, your clinic can successfully implement bSerene™ pheromone solutions, creating a more peaceful environment for pets, improving their overall experience, and aligning with the Fear Free initiative’s goals.

This article was reviewed/edited by board-certified veterinary behaviorist Dr. Kenneth Martin and/or veterinary technician specialist in behavior Debbie Martin, LVT.

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Brought to you by our friends at bSerene.

Have Our Voices Gone ‘Horse’?

By Dr. Marty BeckerI’m sure that many of you, like me, can become numb, inured to human violence, whether it’s the war in Ukraine or the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. But when those of us who love or care for God’s creatures see instances of animals suffering, harmed, or killed, we are always ready to speak up or take action. What did you think when you heard that four horses died ahead of the 149th Kentucky Derby in May of this year?

Caring for animals is important. It has certainly been the bedrock of my life. But I care, too, about my fellow humans and the world we create for ourselves and all the rest of God’s creation. As members of the human family, we need to animate and activate our discussions, disgust, directives, and donations for all forms of suffering and injustic.

I’m sure the vast majority of people spoke out in support of the “Me Too” movement following the repulsive actions of Harvey Weinstein and Jeffrey Epstein. When George Floyd was killed, we were horrified by the actions of those police officers, and many marched. When white supremacists descended on Charlottesville, Virginia, for the “Unite The Right” rally spouting hateful rhetoric such as, “Jews will not replace us,” “You will not replace us,” and “Blood and soil” (a phrase evoking Nazi philosophy on ethnic identity), we were shocked and sickened; I know there were many kitchen table discussions asking, “How can this kind of hatred still exist against a people vilified for most of modern history?”

Here we are, almost eight decades after the end of World War II, and anti-Semitism, yet again, has grown in breadth, intensity, and violence. And yet again, too few speak out to confront the rot we see exposed on the street, on campuses, in churches, and on the media.

I have made it a point over the past month to repeatedly call my Jewish colleagues and friends to see how they’re doing. My shoulders fell as I heard stories of their rabbi killed, of their children being bullied at school and no longer feeling comfortable wearing their Star of David, of them seeing anti-Semitic graffiti in their neighborhood. It’s bad enough to see global anti-Semitism on TV or your mobile phone, but it hits harder when you see it on a wall as you drop your kids off at school or pick them up from soccer practice.

I know in the Becker family, we talk about injustice and try to live up to the words in our constitution: “We the people,” or those in the Pledge of Allegiance, “One nation, under God, indivisible.” What also ping pongs between my heart and head is the congregational prayer I’ve heard and recited since childhood that includes the words, “All God’s children.”

This is not just a message of support for the Jewish population. There’s room in our hearts and wallets to support races that are discriminated against, ethnic groups like the Palestinians, the cruel crackdown on Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, violence upon the LGBTQ+ community, and of course, any animal abuse.

Let’s make it a growing chorus of people who speak out against discrimination, violence, and abuse, and speak up for human rights, diversity, and equal opportunity.

Grow hoarse from making your voice heard.

Dr. Marty Becker, “America’s Veterinarian,” is the founder of Fear Free, which works to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them. This includes veterinary and other pet professionals as well as pet parents through FearFreeHappyHomes.com and animal shelter and rescue group staff and volunteers through FearFreeShelters.com.

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