Fear Free Veterinary Care in Philadelphia, PA
TAKING THE “PET” OUT OF PETRIFIED
We know your pet is family—and we believe every vet visit should feel that way, too.
Philadelphia’s Only Fear Free Certified Practice
As the only Fear Free Certified Practice in Philadelphia, we’ve committed to reducing the anxiety, fear, and stress that pets can experience during veterinary care. Every member of our veterinary team is trained to recognize and respond to your pet’s emotional state—before, during, and after each visit. We also hold a Cat-Friendly Practice designation from the American Association of Feline Practitioners, reflecting our dedication to feline-specific low-stress handling.
Whether your pet needs a routine wellness exam, dental care, or a sick visit, our Fear Free approach means every interaction is guided by what makes your individual pet comfortable.
What is Fear Free®?
Founded by “America’s Veterinarian,” Dr. Marty Becker, and developed by hundreds of experts in behavior, medicine, and handling, Fear Free has become one of the most transformative initiatives in the history of companion animal veterinary practice.
Fear Free training equips veterinary professionals with the knowledge and tools to protect a pet’s emotional well-being alongside their physical health. For pet owners, it means your dog or cat is never just a patient moving through a standard procedure—they’re an individual whose comfort, trust, and experience matter at every step.
Placing your pet’s emotional well-being at the center of everything we do means there are no “standard procedures” for anything. There is only what works for your pet at that moment, makes them comfortable, and builds a foundation of trust for future visits.
Is there special training required?
Yes. Every aspect of how we deliver care—how we handle your pet, how we communicate with you, and how we structure each visit—is directly informed by our Fear Free certification training. Our veterinary team has a thorough working knowledge of methods that minimize fear and discomfort at every stage: at home before the visit, during transport, and throughout your pet’s time in our hospital. We care deeply about the mental well-being of every patient because emotional health is part of overall health.
What about the space?
Our clinic in Pennsport was deliberately designed with Fear Free principles in mind. We’ve reduced common stress triggers throughout our reception and waiting areas, exam rooms, and in-hospital treatment spaces. Separate dog and cat waiting areas eliminate the anxiety that comes from cross-species encounters, and pheromone-sprayed (Feliway) towels are available to help cats feel calm and settled throughout their visit.
My cat gets anxious around dogs (or my dog gets excited around cats). Are there any options for us?
No need to worry. Our separate dog and cat waiting areas keep the experience calm for both species. We also offer pheromone-sprayed (Feliway) towels for added comfort, and we provide a variety of treats throughout each visit to build positive associations with our team and our space. If your pet has a favorite toy or a treat they love, bring it along—the more familiar comforts we can incorporate, the better.
What about procedures?
We never use force. During blood draws, vaccines, and other procedures, we rely on positive reinforcement, strategic distractions, and patience—including peanut butter and other high-value treats—to keep your pet calm and cooperative. Our goal is for your pet to leave our hospital feeling as relaxed as when they arrived, so that each visit builds trust rather than fear.
These are just a few ways Companion Pet Hospital does things differently. We invite you to come experience our approach for yourself—we can’t wait to meet you and your pet.