Fear Free contributors write the book on, you guessed it

Dogs can experience a number of phobias, anxiety, and especially fear. From Fearful to Fear Free: A Positive Program to Free Your Dog from Anxiety, Fears, and Phobias (HCI Books) sheds a light in a new way for pet owners (and the veterinary practices that service them) on a dog's fear.

The book explains how fear, anxiety and stress (FAS) is the underlying cause of many concerning behaviors such as excessive barking, aggression, destructive behaviors and housesoiling. This is also the source for deterioration of the human-animal bond and can make a trip to the veterinarian, pet groomer or boarding facility miserable for pet and owner alike.

Coauthor Marty Becker, DVM, says the book is a first on the important subject and another link in the chain between dog owner and veterinarian.

“Because pets communicate nonverbally, this book will help dog owners recognize whether their pet is suffering from FAS,” Dr. Becker says. “By understanding their dog's body language, vocalizations and changes in normal habits, their veterinarian will be able to make an accurate diagnosis, and work with the pet owner to take action to prevent triggers or treat the fallout if they do happen."

Thoroughly explained and well guided by these three veterinary coauthors (Dr. Becker; Lisa Radosta, DVM, DACVB; Wailani Sung, PhD, DVM, DACVB) and one highly respected pet trainer (Mikkel Becker, KPA CTP, CBCC-KA, CDBC, CPDT-KA, CTC), this team combined years of experience to help dog owners understand their pets' emotional needs.

The manual offers details on:

> effective prescription sedatives for keeping dogs calm and happy during thunderstorms, fireworks and other stressful events

> positive steps to keep pets occupied, calm and content when playing or at home while owners are at work

> tactics to help dogs learn to love going to the veterinarian's office

> easier ways to groom and give prescribed medication

> tips for managing guests in the home and encounters with other dogs and people on walks.

Click here to learn more about the book, and click here to learn more about Fear Free certification for you, your team or your entire practice.