What appointment scheduling guideline does not reduce FAS in birds?

Scheduling appointments late in the day can increase the potential for fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) in birds rather than reduce it. When appointments are scheduled later in the day, there may be a buildup of patient traffic, leading to longer wait times, which can be particularly stressful for birds that are sensitive to their environment. Additionally, the fatigue of staff at the end of the day may result in less attentive care, which can further exacerbate any anxiety the birds may experience.

In contrast, scheduling appointments when important hospital equipment and trained personnel are available ensures that birds receive the best possible care without unnecessary delays. Taking into account the need for possible patient sedation or drop-off, as well as avoiding conflicts with loud or predatory patients, are practices that actively contribute to minimizing stress and fostering a calmer atmosphere for avian patients.