Is your pet stressing about the vet? You might be feeling the same way too! Don't worry, help is on the way! Find out how you can make the experience a good one for your pooch by checking out these helpful tips below!
11 Steps to Reduce Stress at the Vet
1. Teach Your Pet to Like Her CarrierAvoid only taking out the carrier when you’re going to the vet.
Instead, leave it out at home as a safe place for your cat to nap and eat dinner. This way, she’ll be happy to go inside when you need her to (and the same goes for dogs and their crates).
2. Familiarize Your Pet With the Vet
Bring your cat or dog to your veterinarian’s office on a day when she’s feeling well. Next time, she’ll think the vet is a great place to visit.
3. Familiarize Your Pet With the Car
If your pet is fearful of car rides, work on taking short trips to make her more comfortable.
4. Choose a Quiet Time
If the visit isn’t particularly urgent, choose a time of day when your vet tends to be less crowded.
5. Get Your Pet Used to Handling
Pets that are used to having their paws, ears, tails and other areas handled will tolerate a vet exam much easier than those who are fearful of handling.
6. Be Prepared and Calm
Your pet picks up on your emotional cues. If you’re nervous and frazzled while heading to the vet, it will only add to your pet’s tension.
7. Keep Your Pet Secure
Even if your pet normally stays by your side, he may act differently at the vet’s office. Dogs should be harnessed and cats (and other small animals) should be safely kept in a pet carrier.
Another trick is to keep yourself in between your dog and any other agitated animals.
8. Bring Along a Comfort Item
If your dog has a favorite toy, let him bring it along for the visit.
9. Alert Staff If Your Pet Is Extremely Anxious
If your dog is extremely stressed by going to the vet, let the veterinarian and staff know so they can take extra care to avoid worsening the stress.
10. Choose a Vet Who Uses ‘Fear-Free’ Handling Techniques
Restraining pets only adds to the trauma of vet visits. Instead, choose a vet who uses “fear-free” handling techniques, which are designed to help calm your pet through necessary exams and treatments.
11. Once Home, Let Your Pet Relax
When you arrive home, your pet will be tired and happy to be home. Let her relax in her favorite spot and regroup, quietly, at her own pace.
Natural Relaxation Aids May Help Some Pets
The steps above will go a long way toward making veterinarian visits less stressful, but some pets may still benefit from natural relaxation aids, particularly if they tend to have an anxious nature. Species-specific pheromones are one option.You can also consult a holistic veterinarian about homeopathic, TCM (traditional Chinese Medicine) and Bach Flower Remedies that could be helpful in alleviating your pet's stress.
Using an anxiety wrap during visits can also be helpful. Consult your holistic vet about which option is right for your pet.
Now that you know how to get your pet to the vet in a much more calm mood, appointments will feel less of a struggle! Just be sure to be extra patient and mindful about your doggy's feelings.
For more information on stress-relieving tips for your pooch, visit HealthyPets.
