Welcome to our dedicated information page on Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals (PVP) for Fear Free appointments. Understanding and managing your pet's anxiety or stress before they even set paw into our clinic is a cornerstone of the Fear Free approach.

 

PVPs play a crucial role in this process, ensuring that your pet's visit to our clinic is as stress-free and positive as possible. Here, we'll guide you through what PVPs are, their benefits, and how they can be used safely and effectively.

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What are Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals (PVP)?

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Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals are medications prescribed by a veterinarian to help manage your pet's anxiety, stress, or fear associated with veterinary visits. These medications are designed to be given before your pet arrives at the clinic, helping to create a calmer, more relaxed state that facilitates a more positive veterinary experience.

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Disclaimer: PVPs are specific, vet-prescribed pharmaceuticals that require appropriate dosing. Never give your pet any kind of drugs, herbs, or supplements without talking to your vet first. 

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The Role of PVPs in Fear Free Appointments

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We recommend and prescribe PVPs for a number of reasons. Here are their main purposes: 

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• Reducing Anxiety and Stress: PVPs work by targeting specific areas in the brain that trigger stress and fear responses, helping pets remain calm during potentially stressful situations.

• Enhancing Veterinary Care: By reducing stress and fear, PVPs allow pets to be more cooperative during examinations and treatments, leading to more accurate diagnoses and effective care.

• Improving Safety: Calmer pets are less likely to exhibit fear-based aggression, making veterinary visits safer for pets, pet owners, and clinic staff.

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Types of PVP

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PVPs can vary in type and function, ranging from mild sedatives to anti-anxiety medications. The specific medication prescribed will depend on your pet's health history, the level of anxiety, and the specific circumstances of the veterinary visit. Common categories include:

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• Anti-anxiety medications: Used to alleviate anxiety without causing significant sedation.

• Sedatives: Used to calm pets and may induce mild to moderate sedation, depending on the dosage.

• Supplements: Natural or over-the-counter products that can help reduce stress without the use of prescription medication.

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How to Use PVPs Safely

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• Veterinary Consultation: Always consult with your veterinarian before using any PVP. They will assess your pet's health, behavior, and medical history to determine the most appropriate medication.

• Dosage and Timing: Follow your veterinarian's instructions regarding dosage and timing closely. Some medications are administered a few hours before the visit, while others may need to be given the night before.

• At-Home PVP Trial: Conduct an at-home trial to see how your pet responds to the medication in a familiar environment.

• Monitoring: Observe your pet's response to the medication. Some pets may require adjustments in dosage or type of medication for optimal results.

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Trial Visits 

 

• Happy Visits to the Clinic: Schedule a stress-free visit to the clinic, allowing your pet to have positive experiences without any invasive procedures.

• Test PVP Dose in an Unfamiliar Place: Happy Visits also give us an opportunity to test out your pup's PVP response in an unfamiliar place. That way, we can adjust before the actual visit, if needed.

• Build Positive Associations: Positive clinic experiences - like Happy Visits - can help your pet learn that vet visits are not scary.

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Preparing for Your Visit

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• Communication: Each PVP protocol is truly individualized to your pet so keep us informed about your pet's reaction to the medication and any concerns you may have. This information is crucial for tailoring our approach to meet your pet's specific needs.

• Transportation: Ensure your pet is safely transported to the clinic. For some pets, the effects of the medication may alter their mobility or awareness.

• Follow-Up: After the visit, provide feedback on your pet's experience. This helps us adjust future your pet's future PVP protocols and tailor Fear Free strategies to best support them.

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Pre-Visit Pharmaceuticals are a valuable tool in the Fear Free approach, designed to minimize stress and anxiety for your pet. By working closely with your veterinarian, you can ensure that your pet receives the most appropriate care, making veterinary visits a more positive experience for everyone involved.

 

If you have any questions or would like to discuss PVP options for your pet, please contact us. Together, we can make a difference in your pet's well-being and healthcare experience.