top of page
WhyChooseUs_Icon.png

WHY CHOOSE US

Welcome to our paws-itive environment

We promise our clients and patients a warm, family-like experience of exceptional service and excellence of care. We are all pet lovers here! From the posh inner-city poodle to the scruffy, tough barn cat, the clown-faced Boston terrier to the wise ways of the ancient Siamese, we try to understand your pet and their individual needs.  We know that some pets love a trip to the vet, while others... not so much! 

0U4A1060.jpg
0U4A0837.jpg

At Sunrise Veterinary Clinic we use Fear Free handling techniques to promote a positive visit experience. These techniques focus on reducing stress and anxiety that are associated with visiting the veterinarian. Pets need veterinary professionals to care for their physical well-being, and their emotional well-being too! Like you, we love pets like members of the family, and want what is best for them.

DSC08659_web.jpg

Feeling nervous?

If you are feeling nervous about your pet’s vet visit, you can bet your pet is too. If you are struggling to get your dog into the car, or if your cat is hiding under the bed, we encourage you to call and speak with one of our knowledgeable team members for advice.

LONG ENOUGH VISITS

We make our appointments long enough to address all of your concerns during your appointment.

DESENSITIZATION

We encourage our clients to pop in with their pet when they’re in the area for a treat, to help them feel that Sunrise Veterinary Clinic is a positive place to visit. We might even ask to snap a photo for our Facebook page!

Let's be Fear Free

SLOW AND GENTLE HANDLING

We slow down and quiet our voices when we handle your pet. We are gentle and work to earn their trust when we are interacting with them.

KITTY BURRITOS

Everybody deserves a warm, soft blanket when they’re scared! Swaddling a pet when they are fearful can be very comforting and can ease the nervous system and anxiety.

COOKIES!

We reward with veterinary-approved treats (and sometimes peanut butter!)

MEDICATION WHEN NECESSARY

For very stressed-out pets, we may prescribe a short-acting anxiolytic medicine, to melt away their anxiety before their appointment. For pets who become car-sick on the way to the vet, talk to us about prescribing an anti-nausea medication to take before the car ride.

Tips for Your Cat's Vet Visit

  • If possible, purchase a cat carrier that opens from the top. Many cats prefer to stay in their carrier while we examine them. Help the carrier to become a desirable place by feeding, treating, and petting your cat while he or she is inside the carrier for many weeks before the visit. This makes getting into the carrier a much gentler process for both of you.
     

  • When driving, make sure the carrier is flat. You may use towels to ensure it doesn’t slip.
     

  • Cover the carrier to reduce stimuli.
     

  • Speak in a low, calm voice. If you feel anxious, take care that your voice doesn’t get high-pitched when you’re trying to comfort your pet.
     

  • When you arrive, carry the carrier with both hands like you are holding a present. Carriers with handles on top have been known to fall apart!

Sunrise_Veterinary_Clinic_2019_09_web2.j

Tips for Your Dog's Vet Visit

  • Condition your dog early in life to enjoy car rides. Begin with short drives around the neighbourhood, to the beach, and to our parking lot! Feed them treats and slowly increase the length of your journeys in the car. If your dog becomes anxious, stop and try again another day. 
     

  • Feed a small meal the day of your vet visit. Your dog will respond better to our treats if he or she is a little hungry. 
     

  • Bring your dog’s favourite toy or treats with you to your appointment.
     

  • Speak in a low, comforting voice. 

bottom of page