🐕 Veterinary Professional • Certification

Fear Free Canine Certification – Level 1

Master the fundamentals of low-stress canine handling techniques. Learn to recognize Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS) signals in dogs and implement evidence-based strategies to create calmer veterinary experiences.

🕑
6 Modules
🕐
~4 Hours
🎓
3 CE Credits
📄
SCORM + Video
★★★★★ 4.8 (342 reviews)
● In Progress Enrolled Jan 5, 2026
65% Complete 4 of 6 modules
▶ Resume Course
Continue Module 4: Creating Calming Environments
3 of 6 modules completed
3 quizzes passed (avg 93%)
Est. ~2 hrs remaining
🎓 3 CE credits upon completion
Overview
Curriculum
Instructor
Reviews
Resources
CE Details

📖 Course Overview

This comprehensive certification program is designed for veterinary professionals who want to transform the way they interact with canine patients. Through evidence-based techniques, you'll learn to identify signs of Fear, Anxiety, and Stress (FAS) in dogs and apply practical strategies to minimize distress during veterinary visits.

Upon successful completion of all modules and passing the final certification exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will earn 3 RACE-accredited Continuing Education credits and receive a Fear Free Canine Certification.

🎯 Learning Objectives

  • Recognize and assess the FAS spectrum (levels 0-5) in canine patients
  • Apply low-stress restraint and handling techniques during examinations
  • Design calming environments that reduce patient anxiety
  • Implement pre-visit planning strategies with pet owners
  • Utilize appropriate sedation protocols when behavioral intervention is insufficient
  • Communicate effectively with clients about Fear Free practices

📋 Course Curriculum

6 modules • 14 lessons • ~4 hours total • 3 CE credits

Module 1: Introduction to Fear Free
3 lessons35 min
Welcome & Course Overview ▶ Video 12 min
What is Fear Free? Principles & Philosophy 📄 SCORM 20 min
Module 1 Quiz ✒ Quiz Score: 95%
Module 2: Understanding FAS in Canines
3 lessons45 min
Module 3: Low-Stress Handling Techniques
3 lessons55 min
4
Module 4: Creating Calming Environments
3 lessons45 minCurrent
Clinic Design Principles for Low-Stress 📄 SCORM 18 min
Sensory Considerations: Sound, Light & Scent ▶ Video 15 min
🔒
Module 4 Quiz ✒ Quiz 10 questions
🔒
Module 5: Pre-Visit Planning & Client Communication
2 lessons25 min
🔒
Module 6: Final Certification Exam
1 exam30 questions80% to pass

👨‍⚕ Instructor

DM

Dr. Deborah Mills, DVM, DACVB

Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist • Fear Free Advisory Board
Dr. Mills brings over 20 years of experience in veterinary behavioral medicine. She is a founding member of the Fear Free initiative and has authored numerous publications on reducing FAS in clinical settings.

⭐ Ratings & Reviews

4.8
★★★★★
342 reviews
5 ★
267
4 ★
51
3 ★
17
2 ★
5
1 ★
2
SM
Dr. Sarah Mitchell
★★★★★
2 weeks ago
Excellent course! The SCORM modules were interactive and the video demonstrations of low-stress handling techniques were incredibly helpful. I've already started implementing these methods in my practice and noticed a significant difference in patient demeanor.
JR
James Rodriguez, RVT
★★★★☆
1 month ago
Very comprehensive certification program. The FAS assessment section was particularly valuable. Only reason for 4 stars is that I wish there were more practical video demonstrations. Otherwise, highly recommend for all vet professionals!

📑 Course Resources

📄
FAS Assessment Scoring Sheet
PDF • 2.4 MB
Download
📄
Low-Stress Handling Quick Reference Card
PDF • 1.1 MB
Download
📄
Calming Environment Checklist
PDF • 0.8 MB
Download
🎥
Bonus: Live Demonstration Videos
Video Playlist • 45 min
Watch

🎓 CE Credit Details

CE Credits
3.0 Hours
Accreditation
RACE Approved
Passing Score
80%
Attempts Allowed
Unlimited
📄
Certificate of Completion
Awarded upon passing the final exam. Includes digital badge and downloadable PDF certificate.
Fear Free LMS - Canine Certification (Enrolled)
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