Fear Free Certified at Logan Square!
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you — Boulevard Veterinary Logan Square is now a Fear Free Certified Practice! 🎉Our other practices aren’t far behind with a goal of Spring 2026 Fear Free Certification!
What does “Fear Free” mean?
Fear Free is a nationally recognized approach to veterinary care designed to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in pets before, during, and after their visits. Developed by leading veterinary behavior experts, Fear Free recognizes that a pet’s emotional wellbeing is just as important as their physical health.
What does this mean for your pet?
Being Fear Free certified means your pet can expect:
Gentle handling techniques focused on comfort and calm
A quieter, more soothing environment with fewer stress triggers
Plenty of positive reinforcement, treats, and helpful distractions (we wish our human doctors distracted us with cheese snacks or peanut butter!)
Thoughtful, individualized approaches for nervous, anxious, or fearful pets.
Our commitment to you (and your pet!)
Every member of our team has completed Fear Free training and continues to follow these standards in everything we do from the moment your pet walks through our doors to the moment they head home.
Our goal is simple: to create a veterinary experience where pets feel more relaxed and confident, and where you feel reassured knowing your pet is cared for with patience, compassion, and expertise.
Fear Free FAQs 💙
What if my pet is nervous about vet visits?
You’re not alone, and we’re here to help! Please let us know ahead of time if your pet tends to feel anxious. This allows us to schedule them properly, adjust handling techniques, and make their visit as smooth as possible.
Can I bring treats or a favorite toy?
Absolutely! High-value treats or a familiar toy can be incredibly comforting and help create positive associations with the visit.
What can I do before the appointment to help my pet?
Bring your pet hungry (unless instructed otherwise) so treats are extra motivating.
Take dogs for a short walk beforehand to help release nervous energy.
For cats, keep the carrier out at home so it feels familiar and safe.
What if my pet needs extra support?
Some pets benefit from calming supplements, pheromones, or prescription anti-anxiety medications. We’re happy to talk through options and create a personalized plan for your pet. Contact us for more information, or for an appointment with one of our doctors to discuss your options.
Will visits feel different? Maybe not - and that’s a good thing!
If you’ve been a Boulevard client for a while, you may notice that visits feel reassuringly familiar. That’s because even before becoming officially Fear Free Certified, our teams have embraced Fear Free handling techniques for years. This certification simply reflects what we’ve long believed and practiced: gentle handling, patience, and respect for your pet’s emotional wellbeing are essential parts of great veterinary care.
Thank you for trusting us with your pet’s care. If you’d ever like to talk about ways we can make your pet’s visit even more comfortable, please don’t hesitate to reach out; we’re always happy to help! 🐶🐱
