Cooperative care teaches veterinary staff, caregivers, and animal trainers how to communicate effectively with and support the emotional well-being of the individual pet based on that pet’s specific needs and progress.

Sometimes the decision to euthanize a pet is not clear. If you are considering euthanasia for behavioral reasons, there may be alternative options to consider first.

        Fear during clinic visits often leads to patient distress, discomfort, and behavior problems. If their fear and anxiety are not addressed effectively, it can worsen over time, become harder to manage safely, and can have negative impacts on their welfare. Fear and emotional distress create challenges that can prevent pets from receiving necessary care. Fear can put people at risk. You may be hesitant to take your pet in just to avoid the experience; some people are embarrassed by their pet’s behavior. Remember they are behaving this way because they are afraid, not because they are

Introducing a new dog to the pets of your home can be a little tricky at first. You want your current pets and your new pet to live comfortably with everyone. Keep in mind that realistic expectations are important. Some dogs are not capable of getting along with other dogs. Some dogs have such a strong reaction to smaller animals that their instinct to chase and catch will override their ability to stay calm (this is known as a strong prey drive). The key to ensuring good first interactions and blending the new family together is to separate everyone initially,

In this article, I will describe some important aspects about handling rabbits and guinea pigs in a veterinary setting. As prey species, the importance of low-stress handling becomes even more vital.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Stefanie Kotschwar, a licensed veterinary technician at Lynwood Animal Hospital, Nepean, Ontario, Canada. Her practice has a strong emphasis in exotic pet care, and makes providing a Low Stress Handling® care experience a top priority.  Stefanie has been selected to present Low Stress Handling® in small mammals at ExoticsCon this fall. Dr Foote: Stefanie, I see that you have various degrees.  Tell me about your journey into veterinary care for exotic pets.  Originally from Austria, I grew up in Colombia. As a young adult I moved to Guelph and earned my degrees in nutrition and zoology.