Fear Free Certified

Why Fear Free Matters for Your Pet

Town and Country Animal Hospital is proud to be a Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice, one of only two in Fairfax. Every member of our team is individually Fear Free Certified to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress for pets during every visit. Because when your pet feels safe, we can provide better medical care.

As Seen on WUSA9

Town and Country Animal Hospital was featured on WUSA9's Get Up DC, talking about what a Fear Free Appointment looks like and why it matters for your pet.

Book a Fear Free AppointmentCall (703) 273-2110

See Fear Free in Action at Town and Country Animal Hospital

What Makes Our Practice Fear Free Certified?

Your Pet Stays With You

Blood draws, vaccinations, nail trims, and minor procedures are done in the exam room whenever possible, with you present.

Every Team Member Is Certified

Every doctor, technician, and support staff member holds individual Fear Free certification. This is a whole-hospital commitment.

Calmer Pets, Better Medicine

When pets are calm, exams are more accurate, diagnostics more reliable, and procedures safer.

Designed to Reduce Stress

Pheromone diffusers, calming music, non-slip mats, cat trees, and gentle handling throughout every appointment.

What to Expect at a Fear Free Appointment

Before You Arrive

We may send a Pre-Visit Questionnaire to understand your pet's personality and stress triggers so we can tailor the Fear Free Appointment before you walk in.

In the Lobby

Calming pheromone bandanas, diffusers, soft music, and friendly greetings meet you at the door.

In the Exam Room

Non-slip yoga mats, treats for positive association, pheromone spray, and gentle low-stress handling. You stay with your pet throughout.

In Treatment and Recovery

Calming music, shelter dens, toys, treats, and mesh cage covers keep pets comfortable when they need to stay with us.

Book a Fear Free AppointmentCall (703) 273-2110

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice?

It means the entire hospital (every team member, every room, every protocol) is built around reducing fear, anxiety, and stress for pets.

Is Town and Country Animal Hospital Fear Free Certified?

Yes. Town and Country Animal Hospital is one of only two Fear Free Certified practices in Fairfax, VA.

What does a Fear Free Appointment look like for my dog or cat?

Gentle greetings, calming treats, procedures done with you present when possible, and positive reinforcement throughout.

Does Fear Free care cost more?

Every appointment at Town and Country Animal Hospital is a Fear Free Appointment, billed at our standard Fear Free exam rate. The trade-off is real value: a less stressful visit, a more thorough exam, and a better chance of catching issues early.

My pet gets very anxious at the vet. Can Fear Free help?

Yes. Our Pre-Visit Questionnaire helps us prepare for your pet specifically before you arrive. For pets with a history of significant fear or anxiety, we can prescribe pre-visit medication to give before the Fear Free Appointment. This is a normal part of Fear Free care, not a last resort.

How should I prepare my pet for a Fear Free Appointment?

We'll send a Pre-Visit Questionnaire beforehand. Your answers tell us about your pet's personality, preferences, and stress triggers so we can build a plan tailored to them. For dogs: a light meal beforehand, a familiar blanket or toy, and a calm car ride. For cats: leave the carrier out a few days before and spray it with Feliway.