“Veterinarians are the unsung heroes of our society.” 1
Dr. Jeremiah Bieszczak (pictured here with his dog Lincoln) is a Fear Free Certified Veterinary Practice owner in northwest Indiana. We sat down to talk about what Fear Free means to him and his practice.
How long have you been a veterinarian?
15 years
Why did you become a veterinarian?
I’ve always loved animals. I grew up on a small hobby farm with many animals. I even had a duck in my closet when I was a child because I thought it was too cold for it to be outside. I was always drawn to science and math and I wanted to do something with medicine, so I decided on animals.
How has Fear Free helped your practice?
It has helped the staff to recognize when the patient is overwhelmed. They know when to abort and try again another time. I believe it helps with the patient’s well being and overall health.
What do you like about Fear Free?
We can get a lot more done by working within the patient’s limits. We are not pushing them past the breaking point. We are not being aggressive or using excessive restraint.
Is there anything you don’t like about it?
It does take more time. Some days my schedule doesn’t allow for extra time. Trying to make Fear Free work in that situation can be a challenge.
How has this helped your reputation?
We are the only Fear Free practice in the area so it has brought people to us. Younger clients are looking for this kind of care. We do get referrals from our existing clients.
Has Fear Free helped reduce injuries to your employees?
Because we are Fear Free, we tend to work with more dangerous and aggressive pets than before so the risk for injury has gone up. I’m not sure if our injury rate has decreased.
Do you feel that clients are more comfortable leaving their pets with you for treatment because you are Fear Free?
Yes I do
How has Fear Free changed the culture of your practice?
We are all more patient and that has permeated every aspect of what we do. It has changed everything.