What type of stress arises from repeated veterinary visits over time?

Chronic stress is the type of stress that arises from repeated veterinary visits over time. This form of stress accumulates as an animal experiences multiple, often unpleasant or anxiety-inducing, interactions with the veterinary environment. Over time, these repeated experiences can lead the animal to develop a heightened state of anxiety toward vet visits in general, which can worsen their overall well-being and make future experiences more difficult for both the animal and the veterinary staff.

Animals may not only remember their past visits but may also develop anticipatory anxiety, leading to ongoing stress even before they arrive for their next visit. This can manifest in various behaviors, including avoidance, aggression, or other signs of distress. Understanding chronic stress is critical for veterinary professionals aiming to create a more fear-free environment, as addressing this type of stress can lead to better health outcomes and improved animal welfare.