The World Health Organization defines health as:
“A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
At The Village Vet, we believe this definition applies just as much to animals as it does to humans. As our understanding of the human-animal bond has deepened, so too has our recognition of the importance of our pets’ mental and social well-being alongside their physical health.
Thanks to ongoing research in animal behaviour and welfare, we know that reducing Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS) is a crucial part of your pet’s overall healthcare. Through further education and ongoing training, we are committed to supporting your pet’s emotional and physical well-being at every stage of life.
Our Fear Free Approach to Veterinary Care
At The Village Vet, we are dedicated to creating a positive, low-stress experience for every pet that walks through our doors. One of our veterinarians has completed advanced education and achieved Fear Free Accreditation — a recognised certification aimed at improving veterinary care by reducing FAS during vet visits.
As a team, we are proud to apply Fear Free principles across both our Pymble and Killara clinics.
What is Fear Free Veterinary Training?
Fear Free Accreditation trains veterinary professionals in specific techniques and protocols that reduce stress for both pets and their owners. Topics covered include:
- Preparing pets and owners before their clinic visit
- Using calming medications and complementary therapies
- Performing thorough yet low-stress health checks
- Minimising FAS for hospitalised animals
Understanding when your pet is feeling stressed allows us to respond with empathy, appropriate techniques, and Fear Free strategies that make a real difference.
Signs of Fear, Anxiety and Stress (FAS) in Pets
Recognising signs of stress is the first step to reducing it. Here’s how FAS commonly presents in cats and dogs:
🐱 Common Signs of FAS in Cats:
- Hiding or trying to escape
- Curling into the smallest possible position
- Panting or rapid breathing
- Dilated pupils
- Hissing, flinching, or biting
🐶 Common Signs of FAS in Dogs:
- Avoidance of touch or restlessness
- Flattened tail and ears pinned back
- Hunched posture
- Barking, snarling, or biting
- Attempts to flee or escape
Elevated FAS not only makes veterinary visits more challenging but can also negatively impact your pet’s healing, immune system, and general health.
How We Create a Calm Clinic Environment at The Village Vet
Our Killara hospital has been designed with Fear Free principles in mind, offering separate consultation rooms for cats and dogs, and a cat-only waiting area that is elevated and shielded from dogs.
Across both our Pymble and Killara clinics, we use multiple techniques to reduce FAS, including:
- Calming pheromones like Adaptil (for dogs) and Feliway (for cats)
- Managing clinic traffic to reduce crowded waiting areas
- Gentle, respectful handling, counterconditioning, and the use of treats and toys
- Offering pre-visit medications when appropriate to help keep nervous pets calm
Our veterinary team is trained to recognise signs of stress early and approach every pet with patience, compassion, and Fear Free techniques to ensure their emotional safety and comfort.
Want to Learn More About Fear Free Vet Care?
If you would like more information about our Fear Free approach — or if you think your pet may benefit from tailored, low-stress veterinary care — please get in touch with our friendly team.
At The Village Vet, we’re here to make every visit a positive experience for both you and your beloved pet.
📍 The Village Vet – Killara
Shop 3/50 Koola Avenue, Killara NSW 2071
📞 (02) 8350 5678
📍 The Village Vet – Pymble
Shop 20, Philip Mall, Kendall Street, West Pymble NSW 2073
📞 (02) 9499 4010
🧩 Want Practical Tips to Reduce Stress Before Your Visit?
Understanding the Fear Free approach is the first step — but what can you actually do at home to help your pet feel calm before their appointment?
📝 Read our full guide:
👉 How to Prepare Your Pet for a Stress-Free Vet Visit
This step-by-step blog includes practical tips on:
- Conditioning your pet to the carrier
- Using calming music and pheromones
- Transport and waiting room strategies
- What to do once you’re back home
Whether your pet is mildly nervous or extremely anxious, this guide will help set them up for a more relaxed visit from start to finish.
