Key Takeaways
– Fear Free is a movement aimed at reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in pets through compassionate care techniques
– Certified professionals include veterinarians, pet sitters, trainers, and groomers who use science-backed methods
– Choosing Fear Free care helps pets feel safer, healthier, and more comfortable in everyday situations
– Pet owners can access resources at FearFreeHappyHomes.com and find certified professionals via the Fear Free Directory at FearFreePets.com
–Burnell Pet Care and Education is proud to be Fear Free Certified, offering stress-free pet sitting services tailored to each pet’s needs
At Burnell Pet Care and Education, we believe that pet care should be as stress-free and positive as possible for both pets and their owners. That’s why we’re proud to be Fear Free Certified Pet Sitters! So what does that mean for you and your pets? Let’s dive into why why it matters, and how it sets a new standard for pet care.
What is Fear Free?
Fear Free prevents, recognizes and alleviates fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. Founded by Dr. Marty Becker, this philosophy provides education and certification for veterinary professionals, pet sitters, trainers, and other pet care experts to ensure pets receive care in the most humane, stress-free manner possible. The approach is rooted in techniques that promote positive interactions and create a safe, trusting environment for pets.
What Are the Benefits for Your Pets?

Many pets experience fear and anxiety in everyday situations whether it’s a trip to the vet, a stay at home while their owners are away, or even interactions with new people. Fear Free techniques help to:
Reduce stress-related behaviors, such as excessive barking, hiding, or aggression
Foster positive associations with pet sitters and caregivers
Encourage cooperative care and training experiences
Improve overall wellbeing and health by minimizing anxiety-driven behaviors
By choosing a Fear Free Certified Pet Sitter, like us at Burnell Pet Care and Education in Midcoast Maine, you can be confident that your pet’s comfort and emotional wellbeing are prioritized at every step.
How Fear Free Stands Out
Unlike traditional pet care approaches, Fear Free focuses on proactive, compassionate techniques to make pet care experiences enjoyable. We utilize:
Gentle handling and low-stress introductions
Calming techniques tailored to each pet’s personality
Enrichment strategies that keep pets engaged and happy
Respect for individual comfort levels to build trust over time
Our certification means we have undergone specialized training to recognize stress signals, respond appropriately, and ensure that every interaction is as positive as possible. Burnell Pet Care and Education are 1 of 6 Fear Free Certified Pet Sitters in Maine.
Resources for Pet Owners
The Fear Free approach extends beyond professional pet care. You can incorporate these principles into your everyday life with your pets! Fearfreehappyhomes.com is an excellent resource for pet owners, offering expert tips, training guides, and articles on reducing fear and anxiety in pets at home.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a Fear Free Certified veterinarian, pet sitter, trainer, or groomer, you can use the this Directory to locate professionals committed to stress-free pet care. There as many as 68 veterinarians and over 100 technicians within 100 miles of Midcoast Maine that are Fear Free Certified Professionals. In Maine, there are three known Fear Free veterinary practices:
Visit fearfreepets.com to learn more about these resources and find certified experts near you.
Choose Fear Free for Your Pet

By choosing Burnell Pet Care and Education, you’re not just selecting a pet sitter—you’re choosing a professional dedicated to your pet’s emotional and physical well-being. We believe that pets deserve care that is gentle, thoughtful, and free of fear, anxiety, and stress.
Are you ready to give your pet a stress-free experience? Contact us today to learn more about our pet sitting services. Learn how we can make a difference in your pet’s life!