Low Stress Services

Fairview Animal Hospital is wholly committed to providing a low stress experience for your pet. We believe that your pet’s emotional wellness is equally important as his physical health and we are dedicated to protecting and preserving both.

We do our best to remove anxiety triggers and create a stress-free environment. As a result, pets that have previously shown signs of anxiety, stress and/or fear are now demonstrating noticeably positive changes in behavior.

Here are some things you might notice when you visit us:

• Our plug-ins in the wall are dispensing calming pheromones that only your pet can detect. These pheromones help signal to them that this is a safe place and decrease their stress-response. We may ask you to sit with your pet for a few minutes in the exam room before we begin your appointment. This allows your pet to get familiar with the new environment and gives the pheromones time to kick in.
• The music you hear in the exam room has been studied by behaviorists, and found to help decrease stress and anxiety in animals.
• At times, you may notice a softer tone in our voice as we try our best to approach your pet in a manner that is peaceful and relaxing.
• We offer treats to your pet during their visits, as long as this is medically appropriate. It helps if you bring them in hungry!
• We hope to examine your pet where it is comfortable for them. This may mean doing our exam on the exam table, on the floor, or with your pet sitting in your lap. We may try different approaches to find what works best.
• We use distraction techniques whenever possible, to get your pet’s attention away from any procedure we plan to perform.
• We encourage you to bring your pet to visit us between scheduled appointments for snuggles and treats, so that coming in becomes something they look forward to and enjoy.
• Some animals that are very fearful or anxious about coming to the veterinarian may benefit from an oral anti-anxiety medication given prior to their visit. There are several natural products available that have a calming effect. For highly anxious pets, stronger medications are available. We will discuss your options with you and help you decide which is best for your pet.