CattleDog Publishing

Low Stress Handling® was created by Sophia Yin, DVM, CAAB, MS, to improve animal welfare. This method uses research-based skills and techniques focused on ten main principles to lower stress in animals when they are being handled. The ideas are not just guidelines but are also the basis for other animal care certification programs. By focusing on reducing stress, Low Stress Handling® makes interactions between animals and humans safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

The Impact of Fear Conditioning

Many dogs and cats feel scared, anxious, and stressed when they visit the veterinarian, which makes it harder to diagnose and treat them. These feelings can cause animals to resist handling, which creates safety risks for the animals, veterinary team, and caregivers. Scared or anxious animals might act unpredictably, possibly leading to injuries. Stress can also affect the pet’s heart rate, breathing, and temperature, making it hard to tell if they are stressed or actually sick. Low Stress Handling® techniques reduce these protective emotions. These methods help keep animals safe and improve the work life of veterinary professionals by focusing on the mental well-being of both animals and humans.

Strategies for Managing Stress in Animals 

Managing animal stress requires a careful and methodical approach to protect their well-being during veterinary visits or procedures. First, check each animal’s emotional state whenever they are handled or moved around the hospital. Make a personalized Low Stress Handling® plan and add it to their medical record. This plan should be customized for the pet to improve their experience and reduce feelings of fear and anxiety. Include clear descriptions of the pet’s behavior without labeling such as feisty, angry, or spiteful. Writing down this plan helps the veterinary team improve care, making sure animals are handled humanely at every visit.

Preparing for the Visit

Preparing for a veterinary visit starts long before reaching the hospital and involves several key steps to reduce stress for the pet. First, car ride anxiety should be addressed. This might involve practice rides or using calming products like synthetic pheromones or anti-nausea medications to make the pet feel more comfortable. Using the right gear, such as a well-fitted harness and leash for dogs or secure and comfortable cat carriers, keeps the animal safe and contained during transport. Carriers should be both accessible and secure to prevent escape attempts and injuries. Bringing a familiar mat or bed can help the pet feel safe and comfortable in a new place. High-value treats can be used to reward calm behavior and to distract from stressful procedures, helping create a positive experience at the veterinary hospital.

The Exam Room Experience

 Images courtesy of Dësiree R. Broach, DVM, MS, DACVB

Make the exam room experience less scary by understanding body language and what it reveals about a pet’s feelings. Veterinary professionals can use the Low Stress Handling® algorithm, adjusting it to fit each animal’s needs. Offer treats to reduce stress, making exams and treatments easier for pets. Team members should talk with caregivers, addressing their concerns and advising against using anything that might be aversive. Turn scary things like muzzles into positive experiences with treats. Observe body language closely during the visit to allow the veterinary team to change their approach based on the animal’s comfort level. This includes using different holds that provide security without causing fear or pain. Avoid any restraints that could harm or stress the pet.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Flexibility and adaptability minimize stress and keep pets safe and comfortable. Use lures, such as treats and toys, to encourage movement, reducing the need for physical handling and the stress it causes. When lifting is necessary, support the pet properly to prevent discomfort or injury. Perform examinations and treatments in comfortable positions for each animal to help keep them relaxed and allow the veterinary team to work more efficiently. Different types of holds can provide security and comfort so the animal feels safe. Customize techniques to each pet’s needs for a smooth and low-stress visit.

Sedation and Medication Strategies

Medications and sedatives reduce stress and protect animal welfare. Choose sedation instead of physical restraints, such as scruffing or stretching, providing a gentler and less stressful option. Simple techniques, like a warm, loosely wrapped pheromone-infused towel, offer security without harsh handling. Administer pre-visit medication at home and sedation upon arrival to decrease the pet’s anxiety. The “Ninja Sedation” method (canine) (feline) allows a hands-off approach to giving sedatives with little to no physical contact.            

Prevention and Intervention Visits and Cooperative Care

Prevention visits aim to prevent fear, while intervention visits help treat fear once it has developed. Cooperative care gives animals the opportunity to ‘opt-in’ or ‘opt-out’, maintaining their freedom to make choices and become active participants in their own medical care and procedures. These methods lead to more thorough physical examinations and diagnostics, allowing veterinarians to identify health issues more effectively.

Conclusion

Adopting Low Stress Handling® techniques greatly improves veterinary care by building trust and reducing stress for both animals and their caregivers. Veterinary visits can be less stressful and more effective with a comprehensive approach, promoting a positive experience for everyone involved by prioritizing animal welfare and emotional well-being.