WELCOME VISIT

At Ashmore City Vets, we understand that visiting the vet can be stressful for some pets (and humans too!). That’s why we offer Welcome Visits (also called Happy Visits), designed to create positive emotional connections between your pet and our healthcare team. These nonmedical visits will help your pet feel at ease in the clinic environment, making future appointments smoother and less stressful for everyone, especially our four-pawed friends.

What Is a Welcome Visit?

Welcome Visits allow your pet to visit our clinic without any medical procedures. With NO poking, prodding, stethoscopes or thermometers they get to:

-   Meet our friendly staff (Diane always wants to say hello!)

-   Explore the office and exam rooms (so many smells)

-   Enjoy treats and affection (yum yum)

These visits are ideal for pets with mild to moderate fear of the veterinary setting (FAS score 0-2) or those needing a positive experience to reduce mild nervousness. Welcome Visits are part of our approach to a lower stress clinic and demonstrate our commitment to your pet’s emotional well-being.

What to Expect During a Welcome Visit

Welcome Visits are designed to provide your pet with a stress-free and enjoyable experience. A typical Welcome Visit might look like this:

?1.  Arrival: You and your pet arrive at the clinic, where treats are offered in the parking lot and upon entering the building.

2.  Exploration: Walk through the waiting room, exam room, and other areas, pausing for “treat parties” and positive reinforcement.

3.  Familiarisation: Your pet can explore the scale while receiving treats to make weigh-ins a positive experience.

4.  Team Interaction: Our staff may provide treats and affection, helping your pet associate positive experiences with new people.

Preparing for a Welcome Visit

For the best results, we recommend the following tips:

-   Schedule the visit when your pet is hungry to make treats even more enticing.
    
-   Bring your pet’s favourite treats, toy, or a preferred bed/mat.
    
-   Please expect to guide your pet through the visit and spend time reinforcing positive behaviours.

Benefits of a Welcome Visit

-   Reduces anxiety and stress associated with veterinary visits.
    
-   Familiarises pets with the clinic environment, staff, and routine.
    
-   Builds a positive bond between your companion and our team.
    
-   Improve future veterinary experiences, making exams and treatments easier.

Is a Welcome Visit Right for My Furbaby?

Welcome Visits are most effective for pets that:

-   Are comfortable travelling to the clinic.    
-   Show mild to moderate fear or anxiety (FAS score 0-2).    
-   Do not require pre-visit medications or behavioural interventions.    

For pets with moderate to high anxiety, those that need additional support, or if you are unsure if this is right for you, call us on 5630 1200 and speak to a vet so we can discuss alternative options.

??Scheduling a Welcome Visit

Welcome Visits are complimentary and available by appointment. Please call our team today on 5630 1200 to schedule and give your pet the gift of stress-free veterinary care. We look forward to welcoming you and your furry family member!