Fear Free Certified Veterinary Care in Vallejo, CA Where stress-free visits aren’t the exception—they’re the standard.

Down-arrow.gif

At Bayside Veterinary Hospital, we know that going to the vet can feel overwhelming—for pets and for people. That’s why we’ve taken extra step to have only Fear Free Certified Professionals on our team, specially trained to make visits calmer, safer, and more positive for everyone involved.

Whether your dog shakes in the car or your cat disappears the moment the carrier comes out, you know how hard it can be. The stress starts long before you pull into the parking lot, and sometimes it lingers long after the visit is over.

You’re doing your best. You just want your pet to feel safe. And maybe you’ve wondered if vet care is supposed to feel this hard. We don’t think it should.

Our Fear Free Certified Professionals are here to help your pet feel more secure, and to help you feel confident that you’ve chosen the kind of veterinary care that sees the whole picture: medical, emotional, and everything in between.

If you’re new to Fear Free care—or just want to know what it actually looks like—we’ve created this page to guide you.

You’ll find everything you need to understand how it works, why it matters, and what to expect during your visit. From practical tips to downloadable resources, this is your go-to hub for low-stress veterinary care that puts your pet’s emotional well-being first.

What Is Fear Free Veterinary Care?

Fear Free is a science-based approach to veterinary care that focuses on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in pets. It was created by veterinary behaviorists, trainers, and medical professionals to transform the way pets experience vet visits, from drop-off to discharge.

But Fear Free isn’t just a certification. It’s a mindset. And at Bayside Veterinary Hospital, it shows up in every part of our experience:

  • No crowded waiting rooms: You can check in from your car and avoid the chaos of a traditional lobby.
  • Treats and positive reinforcement: We use rewards, not restraint, to build trust with your pet.
  • Calming environments: Our exam rooms are infused with relaxing pheromones and low lighting.
  • Flexible exams: We meet your pet where they’re most comfortable—whether that’s in your lap, in their carrier, or on the floor.
  • Trained professionals: Each of our Fear Free Certified Professionals have completed continuing education in behavior, handling, and stress management techniques.

Why Low-Stress Handling Matters for You—and Your Pet

Veterinary care shouldn’t feel like something you have to power through. It should feel like a team effort—where your pet is seen, your concerns are heard, and you both leave feeling better than when you walked in.

Fear Free care helps make that possible:

  • It lowers your pet’s stress and anxiety. When your pet isn’t bracing for discomfort, they can stay present and cooperative—without growling, trembling, or shutting down.
  • It prevents trauma around vet visits—especially for young animals. Puppies and kittens are forming lifelong associations. A gentle first impression can mean the difference between a pet who dreads the vet and one who walks in with confidence.
  • It strengthens the bond between your pet and their care team. Trust builds over time. When your pet learns that they’ll be treated with patience and kindness, they become more receptive to care—even during tough moments.
  • It makes future appointments smoother. Exams go faster, diagnostics are easier, and treatments are more effective when fear isn’t in the way.

And yes, it helps you, too! Because when your pet feels safe, you can breathe easier. You can focus on what your vet is saying. You can ask the hard questions, make informed decisions, and leave with a plan you understand—instead of a pit in your stomach. Low-stress care is better for animals, and the people who love them.

Who Is Fear Free For?

If your pet has ever:

  • Hidden at the sight of the carrier or leash
  • Trembled, growled, or vocalized during an exam
  • Needed to be sedated just to be handled
  • Had a bad experience at a previous clinic
  • Or if you’ve ever left a visit feeling rushed, confused, or upset…

Fear Free care is built for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

It means each member of our team who holds this certification has completed extensive training in animal behavior, low-stress handling, and emotional wellness. Certification is ongoing and requires regular continuing education to stay current with best practices.

Absolutely. Fear Free care doesn’t replace high-quality medicine, it enhances it. When your pet is calm, we can examine and treat them more thoroughly and safely.

Let us know if your pet gets anxious, and we can recommend calming supplements or provide tips for low-stress transport. You can also wait in your car and text us when you arrive.

That’s okay. We’ll move at your pet’s pace. If needed, we’ll modify the plan or reschedule for a better experience. Fear Free is about long-term trust, not pushing through.

How to Prepare for a Fear Free Visit

Here are some tips to help your pet feel calm before they even walk through the door:

  • Bring them hungry—we’ll have treats waiting!
  • Use a carrier or seatbelt harness for safety
  • Play calm music on the ride over
  • Ask us about pheromone sprays or calming aids
  • Let us know if you’d prefer to wait in the car; if so, text us when you arrive: 707-644-2284

Resources for Pet Owners

Your Partner in Low-Stress Care

At Bayside Veterinary Hospital, we’re proud to offer something better: care that doesn’t just treat your pet’s illness, but supports their emotional well-being at every step.

Because for us, that’s what good veterinary care looks like.

Call or Text: 707-553-8363

Your Partner in Low-Stress Care

At Bayside Veterinary Hospital, we’re proud to offer something better: care that doesn’t just treat your pet’s illness, but supports their emotional well-being at every step.

Because for us, that’s what good veterinary care looks like.

Call or Text: 707-553-8363