A trip to the veterinarian’s office can be overwhelming for many pets. There are other animals, new people, and of course shots and examinations. By following a few tips, however, you can help your dog to stay as relaxed as possible.
Nothing New
Before you take your pooch to the vet, be sure he is used to being held, touched, and grabbed. You can practice this at home by placing your hands on his body, belly, legs, ears, and tail while giving him positive praise or treats. This will help him not to become fearful when it’s time for him to be examined.
A Practice-Run Can Help
For many pets, a drive to the vet’s office before the actual appointment can help ease anxiety. By letting him become familiar with the staff and area first with a practice run, when the time comes for his first appointment it won’t be a big deal.
Think Before You Sit
Even if your dog is already familiar with your vet’s office, the waiting room can present some challenges. The sight, sound, and smell of other pets of different varieties can cause some dogs to get excited, aggressive, or even skittish. It would be wise to take a look around the room and decide on a quiet spot to sit with your pet instead of just sitting in the first seat you see.
Always be respectful to other owners and their pets. If your dog doesn’t get along well with cats, small animals, or other dogs be sure to sit far enough away that there won’t be a problem. Even if your pet is friendly, you should ask other owners before allowing your dog to make new friends. Their pet may not be.
Closeness Counts
Sitting close to your pooch can help him to feel less anxious. It also will allow you to respond instantly if any situations with other pets are about to occur. Be sure to pet him and give him positive praise. You may even want to rest your hand on him the entire time since this contact can be very soothing.
Distractions Make Things Easy
Bringing something to distract your dog with can help to ensure things go smoothly. Bringing some of his favorite treats will help to keep his attention both in the waiting room and during the exam. Just be sure to give them to him periodically not all at once so you don’t run out. If you will be giving him treats in the waiting room you should do this when he is sitting close to you so that you don’t create a problem with other dogs who may want some too.
Keep Your Cool
One of the most notable traits of canines is that they are very in tune with the emotional state of their owner. They can pick up on how you are feeling with little effort. So be sure to stay in a positive, confident, and relaxed state. If you are nervous or fearful this can cause your pet to act that way as well.
Going to the vet for regular check-ups and of course when there is a problem is vital for your pet’s health and well-being. And by using this advice you can help to make it a much more pleasurable experience for him and yourself.
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