Many hospitalized animals develop anticipatory fear associated with repeated handling, restraint, or previous negative veterinary experiences. This protocol promotes the implementation of Fear Free principles aimed at reducing anxiety and improving the emotional experience of patients throughout hospitalization. Recommendations include approaching patients calmly, avoiding abrupt movements, incorporating positive reinforcement whenever possible, and spacing non-urgent procedures in highly stressed individuals. The protocol also encourages adapting restraint methods to the emotional state of the patient and avoiding the accumulation of multiple negative stimuli within short periods of time. The goal is to create a more respectful, emotionally stable, and welfare-oriented clinical experience during hospitalization.
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