In 2022, we are eager to provide Fear Free Certification Training to our staff and volunteers as we strive to create the best environment for our animals! The purpose of the Fear Free Certification Program is to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, stress (FAS) and frustration in rescued animals by inspiring and educating the people who care for them.
For some animals, the amount of time spent in the care of a sheltering organization is brief. Others, however, spend extended amounts of time, remaining in shelter facilities for months, years, or even for the duration of their lives.
Admission to any shelter or rescue is stressful for animals because of the abrupt change in their environment. The strange sights, smells and sounds combined with the presence of unfamiliar people and animals cause uneasiness, thus all animals experience at least some degree of fear and anxiety following admission. Their day-to day- interactions may be inconsistent and unpredictable, making it difficult for them to learn what to expect and more difficult for them to adapt.
For all these reasons, even short-term confinement in an animal shelter or rescue can cause severe FAS. Long-term, animals can suffer from social isolation, inadequate mental stimulation, lack of exercise and chronic anxiety – all of which can negatively affect their physical and emotional health and lessen their chances of getting adopted. Tragically, some animals develop persistent or even lifelong emotional problems because of experiencing severe or chronic stress during a shelter or rescue stay. We want to change this.
Fear Free Certification Training also provides many benefits for the shelter staff. Shelter work can be incredibly stressful. It can be upsetting to see animals afraid and stressed out. The staff can also experience FAS, and frustration which affects how they feel and behave. The staff will be learning new ways of interacting with the animals and people to create a fear free environment.
Creating a fear free culture will be a great benefit to us! When animals and people feel better, it creates harmony within our team.
In conclusion, Fear Free Certification Training addresses the emotional health and well-being of the shelter team, animals, and people. It prevents and manages FAS and frustration. This training will lead to improved welfare of the shelter making everyone feel healthier and happier and more animals getting adopted!
As always, our mission is to provide a safe and secure refuge for abused, unwanted or neglected animals. There are so many ways to help us save animals. Please click here to see how you can help! https://www.lastchanceranch.org/donate/
Posted: January 27, 2022 by Jill Roggio