A Calmer Veterinary Experience for Your Pet, in Fairfax
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.
Book Your Fear Free Appointment →
As Seen on WUSA9
Town and Country was featured on WUSA9's Get Up DC, talking about what a Fear Free Appointment looks like and why it matters for your pet.
See Fear Free in Action at Town and Country
What Makes Our Practice Fear Free Certified?
Your Pet Stays With YouBlood draws, vaccinations, nail trims, and minor procedures are done in the exam room whenever possible, with you present. |
Every Team Member Is CertifiedEvery doctor, technician, and support staff member holds individual Fear Free certification. This is a whole-hospital commitment. |
Calmer Pets, Better MedicineWhen pets are calm, exams are more accurate, diagnostics more reliable, and procedures safer. |
Designed to Reduce StressPheromone diffusers, calming music, non-slip mats, cat trees, and gentle handling throughout every appointment. |
What to Expect at a Fear Free Visit
Before You Arrive
We may send a Pre-Visit Questionnaire to understand your pet's personality and stress triggers so we can tailor the visit 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.
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 is one of only two Fear Free Certified practices in Fairfax, VA.
What does a Fear Free visit 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 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.
How should I prepare my pet for a Fear Free visit?
We'll send a Pre-Visit Questionnaire before your appointment. Your answers tell us about your pet's personality, preferences, and stress triggers so we can build a plan tailored to them, not a one-size-fits-all visit.
A few things you can do at home:
Dogs: Light meal beforehand, familiar blanket or toy, calm car ride.
Cats: Leave the carrier out a few days before the appointment and spray it with Feliway.
For pets with a history of significant fear or anxiety at the vet, we can prescribe pre-visit medication to give before the appointment. This is a normal part of Fear Free care, not a last resort. Ask us if it might be right for your pet.
Book a Fear Free Appointment in Fairfax
Your pet deserves a visit that is calm, safe, and positive from the moment you walk in. Town and Country Animal Hospital is one of only two Fear Free Certified practices in Fairfax, VA.
9836 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA 22030 | (703) 273-2110