Texas veterinary hospital becomes the first Fear Free certified ER/specialty hospital

Members of the Heart of Texas Veterinary Specialty and 24-Hour Emergency Center team with their Fear Free certification (Image courtesy of Thrive Pet Healthcare)

Heart of Texas Veterinary Specialty and 24-Hour Emergency Center in Round Rock, Texas, a Thrive Pet Healthcare partner, announced that it has become the first emergency and specialty hospital to earn Fear Free Veterinary Practice Certification. The Fear Free Practice Certification is a highlight of the hospital’s work in creating a stress-free environment for pets during a medical emergency, supporting pet owners whose pets are sick, and assisting the team working in an emotionally charged setting.

"We understand the unique stress that veterinary visits can have on pets and their families," expressed Meighan Daly DeHart, DVM, DACVIM, Heart of Texas Veterinary Specialty and 24-Hour Emergency Center medical director.¹ "This certification required a team-wide effort. It's more than a title; it's a reflection of our commitment to providing a safe, effective, and stress-free experience for all. We're proud to lead the charge as the first ER/specialty hospital to embrace this game-changing philosophy fully."

According to the release,¹ the team at Heart of Texas went through training, showing crucial improvements in client retention, visit frequency, and care quality within the center.

They have also implemented the Fear Free philosophy take place within waiting rooms, examination rooms, and more to ensure all their patients receive the care they need while also providing an easier experience and safety for the staff.

"Seeing Heart of Texas Veterinary Specialty and 24-Hour Emergency Center become the first combination ER/specialty hospital to be Fear Free Certified is a landmark moment for us at Fear Free," said Jennifer Merlo, DVM, director of veterinary affairs at Fear Free.¹ "Thrive Pet Healthcare's commitment to integrating our principles has set a remarkable precedent in veterinary medicine. It exemplifies how a focused effort on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress can transform the care experience for pets, their families, and the veterinary teams who work tirelessly to support them."

Along with this center, Thrive Pet Healthcare has integrated Fear Free practices into its network, including 8 hospitals across the United States that have received this practice certification.

Reference

Heart of Texas Veterinary Specialty & 24-Hour Emergency Center Becomes Country's First Fear Free-Certified ER/Specialty Hospital. News release. Thrive Pet Healthcare. November 28, 2023. Accessed November 29, 2023. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/heart-of-texas-veterinary-specialty--24-hour-emergency-center-becomes-countrys-first-fear-free-certified-erspecialty-hospital-301999743.html