What is Fear Free?

Nov 29, 2023: Episode 160

A member of the public questioned the meaning of Fear Free. I'm paraphrasing here, as I wouldn't share quotes without permission. Does fear free mean that you're able to trust the pet sitter? Or is it in reference to aggressive dogs? As Keith & I have been enmeshed in this world, I didn't realize that the meaning could be unclear. I appreciate that the community member shared this insight.

We don't know how others see things until they share this with us. For example, when our three daughters flew on a plane for the first time, they were understandably "nervous-cited" nervous & excited. One asked, does it just go straight up like a rocket? I smiled & answered her. It was a necessary reminder to me that we see life through our experiences, which are unique to every individual, & that we can't assume that others know what we do & vice versa.

Here's my explanation about Fear Free methodologies:

Fear Free practices minimize the opportunities for the animals to experience fear, anxiety & stress. They also involve commitment to respecting what the animal expresses through body language. Fear Free professionals don't utilize fear or force when working with animals. We don't use shock, prong or choke collars, as they've been proven ineffective in training & harmful to the animal. Many countries have outlawed these already. Others are in the process of banning them.

Fear Free practices result in confident, happy & secure pets. I recommend visiting Fear Free Happy Homes for access to resources such as articles, handouts & the Fear Free directory of veterinarians, groomers, trainers and pet sitters.