Visits to the vet office can be stressful for many dogs. All those strange smells and sounds, and uncomfortable pokes and prods is enough to make any dog nervous. It can be scary being handled by strangers in unfamiliar ways, especially if your dog is not feeling well or is in pain. Plus, dogs can pick up on stress hormones in another dog’s urine, so just sniffing the yard outside the office can tell your dog “Danger ahead!” But, anxious dogs don’t have to be anxious patients. With preparation and some helpful tools, your pooch might even learn to enjoy the vet.
There are many ways you can help your dog get comfortable while at the vet. By working with your dog now, you can create a dog that is relaxed when the time comes.
Here are 10 tips and tricks you can try to help calm your furry friend when it’s time to visit their soon to be new friend:
- Find the right vet.
- Communicate your dog’s issues with your vet.
- Practice handling your dog the way they may be while at the vet.
- Visit the vet just for fun.
- Practice restraint techniques that your dog may encounter while at the vet.
- Take the right tools to the vet, such as their favorite toys.
- Give them yummy treats during their visit.
- Make vet days “fun days” for your dog.
- Plan your clinic entrances and exits.
- Keep yourself calm and relaxed before, during, and after their vet visit.
It is common for dogs to have a fear of veterinarians. Let’s be honest, do you love going to the dentist? Performing these exercises can help both you and your dog become familiar with the types of handling done during the physical exam and ultimately make them feel comfortable and lead to a successful visit!
