German Veterinary Clinic Achieves Fear Free Certification
The German Veterinary Clinic (GVC) in Abu Dhabi has achieved a milestone by becoming the first veterinary practice in the UAE to receive the Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice status.
This accolade places GVC at the forefront of veterinary care in the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific regions and also highlights the UAE’s commitment to adopting global best practices in animal care.
What is Fear Free Certification?
Founded in 2016 by Dr. Marty Becker, Fear Free is an initiative dedicated to preventing and alleviating fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in pets.
The Fear Free certification recognizes GVC’s dedication to integrating these methodologies into every aspect of their operations, significantly enhancing the care and wellbeing of their patients.
A Journey of Commitment and Innovation
GVC’s journey towards Fear Free certification began in 2018 under Dr. Katrin Jahn, the clinic’s founder. Dr. Jahn’s mission was to revolutionize veterinary care in the UAE by embracing innovative approaches that improve both patient and caregiver experiences.
The clinic enrolled every team member in the Fear Free Veterinary Professionals Certification program, making Fear Free practices an integral and standardized part of patient care.
Elevating Standards of Care
“Achieving Fear Free Veterinary Practice Certification is a significant milestone that reflects the collective effort of the entire team at GVC,” said Dr. Jennifer Merlo, Director of Veterinary Affairs at Fear Free.
The certification requires a holistic approach, integrating the team, facilities, and methodologies to deliver contextually appropriate, patient-specific Fear Free experiences.
Dr. Marty Becker, the Founder of Fear Free, remarked, “Fear Free is revolutionizing veterinary care by focusing on the emotional wellbeing of pets. German Veterinary Clinic’s certification is a shining example of how veterinary practices can enhance the quality of care and strengthen the bond between pets and their owners through our proven methodologies.”
Led by Clinical Manager Nora Shackleford and supported by Companion Animal Trainer Ilse Fourie, the team at GVC has set a new standard in the UAE by providing consistently excellent, compassionate care that prioritizes the mental, emotional, and physical health of pets.
“There is no greater joy as a veterinary professional than working within a team that prioritizes its patients’ emotional welfare,” said Shackleford. “I am incredibly proud of our team’s commitment to Fear Free principles and their relentless pursuit of excellence in veterinary care.”
About German Veterinary Clinic
Founded in 2008 by Dr. Katrin Jahn, GVC is a leading veterinary practice in Abu Dhabi, dedicated to providing the highest standards of medical care for pets. The clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, including preventative care, diagnostics, surgery, and behavioral consultations, with a focus on enhancing the overall wellbeing of pets.
Join the Fear Free Movement
Veterinary or pet professionals interested in becoming Fear Free Certified can learn more by visiting fearfree.com. Pet owners can access free resources to improve their pets’ health and wellbeing at fearfreehappyhomes.com, while shelter and rescue staff can enroll in a complimentary program at fearfreeshelters.com.
We look forward to seeing more practices in the region embrace Fear Free principles, setting new benchmarks in compassionate pet care.
