Sophie Eager with Shiro at Pennard Vets
Maidstone Veterinary Nurse Pioneers Behavioural Clinics For Anxious Pets
5 months ago 
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A veterinary nurse at Pennard Vets in Maidstone, Kent is tackling a growing challenge in modern pet care by helping to manage anxiety and behavioural issues for pets visiting the vet.
Sophie Eager, an experienced veterinary nurse with a background in animal behaviour, has launched a series of free “confidence clinics” at Pennard Vets’ College Road practice. The sessions are aimed at pets that show signs of fear, aggression or stress during vet visits.
“These clinics are about creating a positive emotional experience for pets who may have developed fear-based responses to the vet environment,” Sophie explained. “It’s not about making the vet their favourite place, it’s about giving them tools to cope and communicate better.”
Each session is conducted one-on-one, allowing Sophie to tailor her approach to each pet’s needs. The methodology includes desensitisation to the practice setting, recognition of subtle behavioural cues, and training pets in communication techniques.
The programme stems from Sophie’s broader focus on preventative behaviour care - a growing subfield within veterinary services. She holds a nursing certificate in animal behaviour and is currently pursuing a degree in the subject.
Sophie credits her late dog Jasper, who struggled with chronic pain and vet-related anxiety, as the inspiration for her focus on behavioural care. “He taught me how vital it is to listen to what pets are trying to tell us,” she said. “That’s ultimately what this work is about, building trust, not just between vet and pet, but with their owners too.”
Dr Caroline Collins, a director at Pennard Vets, said: “Veterinary practices across the UK have seen a sharp rise in behaviour-related challenges among pets post-pandemic, driven by changes in lifestyle and owner habits. The shift has created increased demand for veterinary professionals with behavioural expertise. That’s why we are evolving our services to meet the complex needs of modern pet ownership. Sophie’s work adds depth to what we can offer and supports our wider commitment to emotional wellbeing in pet care.”
One recent success story is that of Shiro, who had a history of fear based confrontational behaviour at vet visits. After a series of confidence sessions, he is now able to undergo routine examinations safely and with reduced stress.
In addition to the Maidstone programme, socialisation clinics are also offered across Pennard Vets’ eight practices in Kent. The initiative is part of the practice’s broader “Positive Pets Pledge”, which emphasises individualised care and emotional wellbeing.
To book a free confidence clinic session at Pennard Vets in Maidstone, call 01622 752104 email [email protected] or visit: www.pennardvets.com
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