The pets we serve in Ooltewah, McDonald, Apison, and beyond are invited to join our family at Applebrook Animal Hospital, which is the home of our Nation’s 1st Fear Free Certified veterinarian!
A Fear Free Approach for You and Your Pet
Visiting a new veterinarian can feel a little stressful — for both pets and their people. At Applebrook Animal Hospital, our goal is to make your first visit calm, comfortable, and positive from the moment you arrive. We are proud to practice Fear Free veterinary care, which means your pet’s emotional well-being matters just as much as their physical health.
Here’s what you can expect when you bring your pet to Applebrook for the first time.
Before Your Appointment: Setting Your Pet Up for Success
Before your visit, we encourage you to:
- Complete any new client forms in advance (when possible)
- Bring prior medical records or vaccination history
- Bring favorite treats or comfort items (a blanket, toy, or leash)
If your pet is anxious or fearful during vet visits, please let us know ahead of time. This helps our team prepare the best approach and tailor the experience to your pet’s needs.
A Calm, Welcoming Arrival
From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll notice things feel a little different at Applebrook.
We strive to:
- Not require you to wait in a lobby with other pets and people
- Minimize waiting time whenever possible
- Use quiet voices, gentle handling, and calming techniques
Fear Free Veterinary Care: What That Really Means
Fear Free isn’t just a philosophy — it’s how we practice medicine every day.
Our Fear Free approach includes:
- Gentle, low-stress handling
- Slower pacing during exams
- Positive reinforcement with treats and praise
- Allowing pets time to acclimate to the room
- Modifying exams when needed to reduce anxiety
If a pet is too stressed, we may pause, adjust our plan, or reschedule part of the visit. For us, success means protecting your pet’s trust and emotional comfort.
Your Pet’s First Exam
During the exam, your veterinarian will:
- Review your pet’s medical history
- Discuss diet, lifestyle, and behavior
- Perform a physical exam as much as your pet is comfortable with (We will never hold your pet down or force him/her to submit to things that are scary-we will find another way!)
- Answer your questions and address concerns
You’re an important part of your pet’s care team, so we encourage open conversation. No question is too small. We believe in honest, transparent communication and keeping you a part of your pet’s care.
After the exam, we’ll review:
- Any recommended vaccines
- Preventive care options
- Diagnostics if needed
- Home care and follow-up plans
We’ll explain why something is recommended and tailor care to your pet — not a one-size-fits-all plan.
After the Visit
Many pets leave their first visit feeling surprisingly relaxed — and some even excited. Our long-term goal is for vet visits to become a positive, predictable experience rather than something to fear.
You’ll leave with:
- A clear care plan
- Plenty of time for questions
- Confidence that your pet was treated with compassion and respect
Welcome to the Applebrook Family!
At Applebrook Animal Hospital in Ooltewah, TN, we’re honored to care for pets from Ooltewah and surrounding communities. Whether this is your pet’s very first veterinary visit or simply a new chapter with a new provider, we’re here to support both of you — every step of the way.
Ready to schedule your first appointment?Contact our team today and let us show you what Fear Free care really looks like.
