CONTACT:
Kate Wessels
Senior Communications Manager
720-616-1783
kate.wessels@aaha.org
Fear Free℠ Certification Program for Veterinary Professionals to
Launch March 31 at AAHA Austin 2016 Conference
AUSTIN, Texas – Veterinary visits don’t have to be stressful for pets and their people – that’s the goal of the Fear Free Certification Program, which will launch during the American Animal Hospital Association Yearly Conference on Thursday.
Supported by AAHA and available on the VetFolio platform, the Fear Free Certification Program aims to reduce the fear, stress, and anxiety pets experience when they visit the veterinarian. The initiative aims to “take the pet out of petrified” and get pets back for veterinary visits by promoting considerate approach and gentle control techniques used in calming environments.
“AAHA is proud to provide the corporate home for the Fear Free Certification Program and give veterinary professionals the tools and education they need to implement Fear Free methods in their hospitals,” said Michael Cavanaugh, DVM, DABVP (C/F), chief executive officer of AAHA. “We’re thrilled to be a part of something this big, something that really has the power to ease stress on pets and people and make sure pets are getting the veterinary care they need.”
The Fear Free Certification Program is a certification program for veterinary professionals to become trained in Fear Free methods and protocols. The education modules were created by members of the Fear Free Executive Committee and experts in the field, including board-certified veterinary behaviorists, veterinary technician behavior specialists, board certified veterinary anesthetists, well-known veterinary practice management experts, and boarded veterinary practitioners experienced in Fear Free methods.
Developed by “America’s Veterinarian”, Marty Becker, DVM, the goal is to produce calmer, more agreeable pets who receive better veterinary care.
“I am so excited to announce the launch of the new Fear Free Certification Program,” Becker said. “I hope veterinary professionals join us to become a part of the most important and transformative movement in the history of companion animal practice – and practice like you’ve always dreamed you could!”
Fear Free certification requires veterinary professionals to successfully complete the eight-module online certification program. Once completed, the certification will be valid for three years. Ongoing participation in Fear Free education, both online and in person, will be required in order to maintain certification status.
Special introductory pricing will be available starting March 31:
- Students – $139
- Individuals – $279
- Groups (up to 10 individuals) – $1,399
Future Fear Free plans include certification for other industry professionals such as groomers and trainers, practice certification, and pet owner education as well as Fear Free shelters and homes.
Veterinary professionals can visit fearfreeepets.com to sign up and begin the Fear Free Certification Program.
The AAHA Austin 2016 Yearly Conference will be held in Austin, Texas March 31 – April 3, 2016. The 2017 conference will be held in Nashville, Tenn. March 30 – April 2.
For conference information and information about AAHA, visit aaha.org.
Read or link to this news on the AAHA website.
###
The American Animal Hospital Association is the only organization that accredits companion animal practices throughout the United States and Canada according to high standards of veterinary care. AAHA-accredited hospitals are recognized among the finest in the industry, and are consistently at the forefront of advanced veterinary medicine. Pet owners look for AAHA-accredited hospitals because they value their pet’s health and trust the consistent, expert care provided by the entire health care team.