Fear Free distraction methods

In an interview with dvm360®, Debbie A. Martin, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, LVT, VTS (Behavior), animal behavior technician for Veterinary Behavior Consultations, shared the different Fear Free distraction techniques, plus she emphasized evaluating how the animal responds to customize your approach.

View the video below for the entire discussion. The following is a partial transcript.

Debbie A. Martin, CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, LVT, VTS (Behavior): One [distraction method] is just get them [to eat] food, and then do what you need to do. But it's not just 'do what you need to do,' you have to assess the animal. And if they stop taking the treats, or they pull away or they're showing signs of fear, anxiety and stress, [then] we have to stop what we're doing. We have to kind of listen to what [the animal is] saying and adapt [our approach] based on their response. Another form of distraction technique is where we actually touch the animal first and start the procedure, then get them on food, and continue the food or the treats or whatever it is while we continue the procedure.