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Can you imagine telling your dog, “Let’s go to the vet!” and seeing her tail wag? How about getting out your cat’s carrier and seeing him come running?
Local pet owners won’t need to imagine it if they visit Dr. Katherine Freed, DVM and Medical Director of Minnesota Veterinary Hospital. That’s because she is part of a new initiative sweeping veterinary medicine designed to ease the stress, fear, and anxiety so many pets experience while at the veterinarian.
Known as Fear FreeSM, the training and certification program helps veterinarians modify their procedures, handling, and facilities to help pets feel safe and comfortable while receiving the medical care they need.
Founded by veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker, the Fear Free training program was developed by board-certified veterinary behaviorists, veterinary technician behavior specialists, board-certified veterinary anesthetists, well-known veterinary practice management experts, and boarded veterinary practitioners experienced in Fear Free methods.
“Providing veterinarians with the tools they need to ease this burden of fear and anxiety or our patients is the pinnacle of my 37-year veterinary career,” said Dr. Becker, who was dubbed “America’s Veterinarian” by Dr. Oz and appeared on “Good Morning America” for 17 years. “Veterinary professionals are hungry for this information. Animals and their humans need and deserve it. And now it’s here!”
To become certified, veterinarians and veterinary staff are required to complete a comprehensive, 8-part educational course and exam. They also have to take continuing education to remain certified.
Pet owners who would like their pets to experience the Fear Free difference can schedule an appointment by calling (651) 484-3331.
ABOUT DR. KATHERINE FREED:
Degrees:
Dr Katherine Freed (Dr Kate) received her undergraduate degree from Gustavus Adolphus College and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota in 2000.
Areas of Interest:
Dr Kate has also expanded her education by attending the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Leadership Academy in Colorado. The AAHA Leadership Academy was a fantastic way for her to expand her skills and knowledge to lead our team into the future. Dr. Kate enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine but has a special interest in dentistry. She enjoys getting to know her clients and patients and providing them with high quality, compassionate care to ensure all her patients a long and healthy life. When Kate is not working she enjoys spending time with her husband, Mark, and their 2 daughters, along with their 2 mixed breed dogs, Ruti and Farley. She spends most of her free time going to her daughter’s soccer, basketball, theater and band activities. When she does have time of her own she enjoys long runs with her dogs, cooking, reading, and relaxing at the cabin.
ABOUT FEAR FREE
Developed by “America’s Veterinarian,” Dr Marty Becker, the Fear FreeSM initiative aims to “take the ‘pet’ out of ‘petrified’” and get pets back for veterinary visits by promoting considerate approach and gentle control techniques used in calming environments. Utilization of Fear Free methods and protocols leads to reduction or removal of anxiety triggers, which creates an experience that is rewarding and safer for all involved including pets, their owners, and veterinary health care teams. Learn more at www.fearfreepets.com.
Kari T., Google Review
Koda, myself and my husband have all had a great experience at Minnesota Veterinary Hospital! Every single veterinarian and employee that we have encountered thus far have been so amazing and so compassionate. We have only been there twice as we have recently switched providers but so far they have been amazing and I cannot thank them enough. The second visit was for an emergency and they fit her in right away and made sure she was okay! Thank you to Dr. Freed, Dr. Ahrens and the Minnesota Veterinary Hospital Team!
Alyssa M., Google Review
Kelly, all the Techs, and Doctors/Veterinarians are so wonderful and caring for your animals. My dog spent the last day and a half throwing up and not sleeping but as soon as I came to the front door and he recognized where we were his tail was wagging full speed and he was pulling to get in and see his friends. If my dog Huxley doesn’t like you, I’d trust him that there’s probably something wrong with you… I trust and appreciate everyone at Minnesota Veterinary Hospital!
Casey F., Google Review