Can Architecture Reduce Our Fear?
“To think about being first in the world – that’s amazing.” – Marcy Hammerle
CONGRATULATIONS to Marcy Hammerle, the owner and head veterinarian at The Pet Doctor in Winghaven, MO for becoming the world’s first “Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice.”
That includes The Pet Doctor owner, Dr. Marcy Hammerle, who became individually certified in the program’s first year. She was also the very first veterinary hospital owner to apply for practice certification when that program launched on April 2, 2018.
“We were in the process of building our new hospital when we heard a Fear Free practice certification program would be offered in the future,” Hammerle said. “We were able to build with Fear Free principles in mind – everything from slip-resistant flooring to dimmable lights to separate waiting areas for dogs and cats.”
Fear Free was founded by Dr. Marty Becker, “America’s Veterinarian” and 17-year veteran of Good Morning America. The intensive certification course was developed with input from a 160-member advisory group, including board-certified veterinary behaviorists, well-known veterinary practice management experts, and other leaders in the field.
“A practice like The Pet Doctor is what Fear Free is all about: the patients,” said Becker. “Pets shouldn’t be anxious, stressed, or afraid when they go to the veterinary hospital, which can and should be a place of healing. We are honored to name The Pet Doctor and its team as the first Fear Free Certified Practice.”
“It’s such a big deal to be in the forefront of something that’s so good for the pets we serve. I would have been excited to be the first Fear Free Certified Practice in my town. To think about being first in the world – that’s amazing.”
The Fear Free Practice Certification process is an exhaustive one, and hospitals like The Pet Doctor that achieve certification will have successfully incorporated Fear Free in all aspects of their practice culture and leadership, including client education, staff training, and facility and patient experience.
Fear Free veterinary care is a mission for Hammerle and her team. “We are so excited to be able to give testimony to the value of everything we did here, and how important it is to take care of the emotional health of pets while they’re here with us,” she said.”