Team members at Barn Animal Practice, in Basingstoke, are celebrating after being acknowledged as an official ‘Dog Friendly Clinic’ (DFC).
The DFC scheme is a joint venture by the Dog’s Trust charity and the British Veterinary Behaviour Association (BVBA) to improve clinical care and treatment, while rewarding best practice.
Barn’s Erin Corsan, a registered veterinary nurse, said the accreditation was a big achievement, explaining: “We’re delighted to have been awarded our ‘Dog Friendly Clinic’ certification.
“This recognition is a result of our team’s total commitment to creating a welcoming environment for our canine patients.
Dog friendly facilities and spaces
“One of the things that sets our practice apart is our separate dog and cat waiting areas, where there is music playing to help relax our pet patients.
“We also use pet calming diffusers such as Adaptil and Pet Remedy around the hospital, which emit pheromones and are very effective in easing any stress and anxiety the animals may be feeling.
“In our separate dog kennels, there is a room divider which prevents dogs from facing each other and becoming aggressive, over-excited or intimidated.
“But it’s not just about the physical space. Our amazing team’s handling skills have also played a significant role in earning this award.
“We have conducted our clinics outside in the garden if an individual dog has needed extra space and time being examined.
Dog Socialisation classes in Basingstoke
“Our nurses also run dog socialisation classes and we have seen a major improvement in pets’ behaviour after doing these sessions.
“That’s what we are all about at Barn. We pride ourselves on providing gentle and compassionate care to every animal that walks through our doors.”
That’s borne out by the fact that Barn Vet Practice has also been recognised as a cat friendly clinic by the International Society of Feline Medicine.
The aim of the DFC scheme is to reduce any stress brought about by the necessary provision of veterinary care and strives to deliver a comfortable experience for everyone involved – vets, pets and owners.
Chris Laurence, chairperson of BVBA, said: “Encouraging welfare-friendly treatment of dogs in veterinary practices is one of our primary objectives so every additional practice means many more dogs will benefit.
“We’re delighted Barn Animal Practice has joined our dog friendly community. By doing so, they are helping ensure every dog has as positive an experience as possible within their clinic.”
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