Before the Vet Visit

Get to Know the Vet Clinic

• Arrange a short, casual, meet-and-greet visit at your vet office BEFORE your actual appointment so your dog may get used to the new environment, ideally when the office is quiet.
• Allow your dog to greet the team, have a treat, and explore the exam room.
• This short visit will allow your dog to for a POSITIVE association with your veterinarian.
• If your dog has had a negative experience at a veterinarian in the past, call your vet and let them know before your visit.  They can often help make your dog’s experience more positive.

Practice Handling at Home

• Get your dog used to being handled in a way similar to a veterinary exam.
• Gently touch, pat, or rub, different parts of their body, such as their eyes, mouth, ears, feet, and tail, while they are home and relaxed.
• Regular practice will make these touches familiar and less stressful during an actual exam.

Positive Car Rides

• Take your dog on car rides to fun places so they do not associate car rides solely with vet visits.
• Not only will this help ease anxiety when you are headed to the vet but will help reduce anxiety related to car travel.

Exercise

• Ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise, both physical and mental BEFORE each visit to the veterinarian.
• A tired dog is a happy dog and usually easier to handle.

During the Vet Visit

Stay Calm

• Keep a calm and relaxed attitude during the visit.
• Your dog is looking to you for cues and leadership.  If you are calm, your dog is more likely to be calm.

Keep Control in the Waiting Area

• Keep your dog on a short, but relaxed leash.  Keep aware of other owners and their pets.  Expect they cannot control their dog so you must be alert and continue to SPEAK DOG and keep your dog calm.
• If your dog has ever shown ANY sign of aggression, consider using a muzzle for safety.  Be sure to practice having your dog wear the muzzle in your home to prevent additional stress during your visit.
• WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THE USE OF “MIKKI” or SLEEVE MUZZLES.  These muzzles restrict the opening of the dog’s mouth inducing more adrenaline and promoting “fight or flight.”  We do recommend ITALIAN BASKET MUZZLES.
• Try not to nurture your dog if they seem afraid as soothing, soft sounds only reinforce what your dog is thinking.  Click HERE for more details.  Standing tall while waiting will show your dog you more as an authority figure.
• If you have a small dog, consider using a carrier to keep your dog safe and comfortable.  Consider including familiar items like a blanket or toy.

After the Vet Visit

Praise and Reward

• If you can, take your dog somewhere fun to play, for a “pup cone” and to relax afterward.
• This will reinforce a vet visit as a positive overall experience.

To download these tips, please click HERE.