Dr. Mark Penning, vice president of Animals, Science and Environment at Walt Disney World Experiences, and AVMA President Dr. Michael Q. Bailey, discussed how trust, enrichment, and positive reinforcement can help reduce fear and stress in animals. Drawing from the care of wildlife at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Dr. Penning noted that veterinarians are able to perform certain medical procedures on animals, such as tigers and rhinoceroses, without sedation because of established trust between animals and their caregivers. At the AVMA annual convention in Anaheim, Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President, Animals, Science and Environment at Walt Disney World Experiences, and AVMA President Dr. Michael Q. Bailey, discussed how pet owners can help their animals thrive at home with lessons learned from the wild. Photo courtesy AVMA The veterinary leaders emphasized many of the same principles can be applied in companion animal practice. Recommendations included building trust early through positive reinforcement, incorporating enrichment activities and food puzzles to encourage natural behaviors, carefully observing body language, and maintaining consistent routines, including regular veterinary visits. Penning stressed that respectful handling forms the foundation of strong human-animal relationships, while Bailey noted that mentally stimulated pets are often less anxious during veterinary visits. According to the AVMA, more than 77 million U.S. households own at least one pet. The AVMA Convention 2026 continues through July 14 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, Calif.
