There’s no question that some pets – and their people – are stressed by routine veterinary visits. This is especially true when the pet goes to the vet for the first time. A few actions taken ahead of time can make your vet visit more successful.
Making the Appointment
Veterinary clinics do not operate on a walk-in basis. You’ll need to make an appointment ahead of time. If your pet is experiencing an emergency, call the nearest emergency veterinary hospital.
When making the vet clinic appointment, be specific about why your pet needs veterinary attention. You’ll receive instructions on how to prepare your pet for the visit, including whether you will need to bring in a recent fecal sample. Depending on the reason for the visit, the vet staff will let you know whether the pet can eat beforehand or whether fasting is necessary.
Preparation
Prior to a vet visit, make sure to collect all relevant information regarding your pet’s health. If you adopted your pet from an animal shelter or rescue group, bring their paperwork. The vet will ask what you are feeding Fido or Fluffy, so keep brand name information handy. If you feed a homemade diet, let the vet know the recipe and amounts.
If your pet is on medication, provide the names of the drugs and the dosages. The same holds true for supplements. Over-the-counter products can interact with certain medications and may not prove to be the right choice for your animal.
If your animal is aggressive, let the vet know ahead of time. It is likely your appointment will be scheduled first thing in the morning, right after lunch, or the last visit of the day.
What questions do you have for the vet? Write down what you would like to know ahead of time so you won’t forget to ask.
Get Your Pet Ready
If your pet isn’t used to having her mouth, ears, tail, and other body parts touched, get her used to it. A veterinary exam is less scary if she knows that particular drill. Handle her as much as possible so she gains familiarity with touching outside of standard petting.
Calming
If your pet is prone to nervousness, you may want to use products ahead of time to calm him down. Ask your vet whether there are natural or commercial products with soothing properties appropriate for your pet.
If taking your pet to the vet makes you anxious, you may want your own calming remedy, such as lavender oil. Keep in mind that animals take cues from their people, and if they sense you are nervous, they are more likely to display anxiety.
The Waiting Room
Bring your cat to the vet clinic in a proper carrier. That’s also a good choice for a small dog or puppy. Even if the animal is nervous, it is safe in its carrier. Put toys and treats in the carrier to put the pet at ease.
Always have your dog restrained on a leash in the waiting room. Don’t let him get near other pets and people without their permission. The animal care experts at TriStar Vet design and manufacture vet exam equipment, veterinary scales, and other innovative products for your vet clinic that are ultra-durable, ergonomic, and affordable.