All protocols
Calm & care
Fear-Free Everyday Care
Predictable opt-in and opt-out for ordinary handling, like grooming or checking paws.
What it is
Predictable opt-in and opt-out for ordinary handling, like grooming or checking paws.
Why we created it
When your dog can say ‘pause’, routine care becomes more predictable for both of you.
Goal
Brief, voluntary participation in one small care step.
Before you begin
You’ll need
- One small, familiar care step or body area.
- A calm space you control.
- A suitable reward.
What you’ll do
Your first session
- Pair brief, voluntary participation with a reward.
- Pause immediately when your dog withdraws.
- Keep it small enough that stopping really works.
Things to notice
- Willing participation.
- Opt-out signals.
When to stop or get help
- Urgent or painful procedures belong with your veterinary team.
- Serious fear, aggression, bite risk or loss of control needs professional help.
- Don’t link longer procedures together just because your dog held still.
About this guide
Hesitating or opting out is not failure. This guide is not affiliated with any certification programme.
Progress gradually and pause if your dog shows discomfort or reluctance.
Adapted into plain language from Nara’s prepared protocol material. It is general information, not a diagnosis or veterinary prescription, and it doesn’t report trial results.