The Roanoke Valley SPCA operates under the Fear Free philosophy. The Fear Free mission is to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them. Fear Free Happy Homes is just for you—the loving, doting pet owner. We want to provide you with free access to the most cutting-edge content and education that will enable you to help your pets live their happiest, healthiest, fullest lives at home, at the vet, at the trainer, and everywhere in between. Fear Free contributors are recognized as the leading experts in their fields of veterinary medicine, animal handling, training, and research. 100% of Fear Free content is reviewed by boarded veterinary behaviorists. The Roanoke Valley SPCA recommends that you seek assistance from a trainer, veterinarian, or another animal professional before beginning any behavior modification program.
Cats
Meeting the Basic Needs of Your Cat
How Cats Learn
Cat Body Language 101
Dogs
A Fear Free Approach to Introducing Your Dog to a New Dog
Choosing and Using Dog Collars, Harnesses, and Leashes
Crate Training Your Dog
Teaching Your Dog to Sit
The Fair Trade Approach to Teaching a Dog to ‘Drop It’
Overcoming Your Dog’s Fear of Everyday Objects
Preventing Separation Anxiety
Canine Separation Anxiety Solutions Part 1
Canine Separation Anxiety Solutions Part 2
Redirection and “Leave It”
If Your Dog’s Doing This, He Can’t Do That: How To Use Redirection
Fear Free Approach to Canine Counter Surfing
The Simple Signals That Help Your Dog Learn
Canine Noise Phobias (Part 1): An Introduction
Canine Noise Phobias (Part 2): Managing and Preventing Noise Phobias
Treating Your Dog’s Noise Phobias
Visiting the Vet
How to Prepare Your Pet for a Veterinary Visit
How to Make the Trip to the Veterinary Hospital Fear Free
Fear Free Veterinary Visits 101
Fear Free Vaccine Visits
Giving Medications to Your Pet: Putting the Treat Into Treatments
10 Things Your Veterinarian Should Know About Your Pet
The Fear Free Method
Training and Socialization 101