No Fret Vet and Pet

12/06/2026

Many pets are labelled as “stubborn”.

But behaviour is rarely about stubbornness.

Before assuming an animal is “being difficult”, it can help to ask:

Could they be:
• confused?
• frightened?
• overwhelmed?
• uncomfortable?
• in pain?

When we understand behaviour through the lens of emotion and wellbeing, the picture often changes completely.

10/06/2026

1 day to go!

Join us for "From Emotion to Behaviour: Understanding What Dogs and Cats Are Really Telling Us" and gain the tools to interpret behaviour more accurately and respond in a way that supports both welfare and trust.
Learn and support PAWS - Plett Animal Welfare Service (Plettenberg Bay, SA)

09/06/2026

Lip licking, yawning or a cat’s flickering tail. These aren't just random movements; they are your pet’s way of saying, "I’m not comfortable".

Stop ignoring the early signs.

Read No Fret Vet and Pet, Ilse Fourie’s full guide on subtle body language.

Link in the comments

08/06/2026

Not every pet wants interaction.

And that is okay.

Respecting boundaries is an important part of compassionate care.

Sometimes trust grows fastest when we stop asking for more than an animal is ready to give.

07/06/2026

The goal is not simply compliance.

The goal is emotional wellbeing.

An animal who tolerates care while terrified is not necessarily coping.

How pets feel during procedures matters.

05/06/2026

Panting, trembling, pacing, lip licking, yawning, freezing, avoiding eye contact, and refusing treats can all be signs of fear, anxiety, or stress.

Stress does not always look dramatic.

Sometimes it whispers.

04/06/2026

Garden Route - 1 week to go!

Join us for "From Emotion to Behaviour: Understanding What Dogs and Cats Are Really Telling Us" and gain the tools to interpret behaviour more accurately and respond in a way that supports both welfare and trust.

Learn and support PAWS - Plett Animal Welfare Service (Plettenberg Bay, SA)

03/06/2026

For pets, choice matters.

Being allowed to move away.
Approach at their own pace.
Pause when overwhelmed.

Choice is not giving up control.

Choice helps animals feel safe enough to cope.

02/06/2026

Many behaviour concerns are not "training problems".

They can be:
• pain problems
• stress problems
• environmental problems
• unmet need problems

Before asking “How do I stop this?”

It can help to ask:
“What might this pet be experiencing?”

02/06/2026

Check out my latest blog article for We Love Pets SA
While you're at it, follow them :)

https://welovepetssa.co.za/animals-whisper-before-they-shout/

Have you ever felt like your pet’s "naughty" behaviour appeared out of nowhere?

In her latest blog, animal behaviour consultant, Ilse Fourie of No Fret Vet and Pet, explains why behaviour is actually a form of communication, not a moral failing. Discover why animals whisper before they shout.

Read more in the comments