Visits to the vet can become stressful to the animal, the owners and the staff. Training the animal beforehand to stay relaxed and calm in the practice, and during manipulation, examination and treatment is an investment in the future. Results from examination are more reliable and allow a sounder diagnosis, when coming from a relaxed as possible animal. The owner will be calm and happy, this will increase the chance they will visit the practice again and the risk for getting bitten is reduced. This webinar will show some general principles for medical training of dogs and cats and how to apply them practically.

Mental health problems or illnesses are widespread in pets (where they are often referred to as “abnormal” behaviours), just as they are in humans. Yet they are little recognised or understood by pet owners, and sometimes within the veterinary profession. Behavioural medicine is an important component of veterinary medicine, and appropriate management of pets showing abnormal behaviour is vital to their welfare. This webinar provides an overview of the most common types of mental health problems in pet dogs and cats. It distinguishes abnormal behaviours from “normal” but inappropriate behaviours, and explains the implications of this important distinction. Treatment of abnormal behaviours typically involves a combination of medication, behaviour modification and management. This is illustrated by two example cases. Based on the author’s experience, common obstacles to effective recognition, diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems of dogs and cats are explored. Some key implications for veterinary staff are suggested.

A new puppy or kitten has many ‘firsts’. Their first vet visit, groom, play session, illness. Some of these things are fun, positive and safe, while others can be frightening and painful. Our role is to ensure we create positive, safe and Stress Free ‘firsts’ to help develop happy, confident pets. This Stress Free Pets continuing education webinar will look at how we can use Stress Free Pets approaches to the many ‘firsts’ we see in clinic including the all-important first vet visit, and discussions on how Stress Free can assist in puppy school.