For most pets, a visit to the veterinarian is overwhelming. Your cat or dog is taken out of a familiar environment and taken for a bumpy ride. At the clinic, they encounter unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds of people and other animals. In the examination room, they are poked and prodded. Any of these things can be stressful, and when combined, it’s not surprising that your pet is anxious and afraid. There are several effective ways to reduce stress in pets at the vet clinic. These tips usually keep your pet calmer, but they take time and effort.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Dogs at Vet Clinics
If possible, condition your dog so their earliest impressions of a vet clinic are positive. That involves desensitization and ample treats. For example, your vet will need to thoroughly examine your dog by touching them. You can prepare them beforehand by gently massaging their neck, chest, tail, belly, and paws. Try looking into their ears and lifting their lips to check their teeth. Reward them for good behavior with their favorite treat.
In addition, if the dog’s issue does not involve mobility, take them out for a good walk or run before the vet visit. The old saying that a tired dog is a good dog applies to vet visits.
Recognize Your Dog’s Body Language
Remember that if your usually sweet dog exhibits aggression at the vet clinic, the response is generally based on fear. At this point, their stress hormones are ratcheted up. Avoid getting to this point by recognizing their body language. Stressed dogs usually pant a great deal, pace, shake, keep their ears back, and may yawn constantly.
Understanding these responses allows you to react appropriately before the situation gets out of hand. If you remain calm, your dog is more likely to follow suit. Dogs look to their people for direction; if you are relaxed, that sends a powerful message.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Cats at Vet Clinics
Felines are highly territorial and aren’t happy about leaving familiar surroundings. The sounds and scents of a vet clinic, not to mention the presence of dogs in the waiting room, overwhelm many cats.
If your cat experiences kitty trauma when going to the vet, try to make an appointment during the least busy part of the day. Since there is little downtime at most clinics, see if there is an area where you can wait with your pet away from the hustle and bustle and canines. That often means staying in your car until the receptionist calls you in.
Preparing for the Visit
Get your cat used to their carrier so they don’t always associate it with a vet visit. Leave treats inside so they feel comfortable. Go out on short car rides (generally linked to the dreaded vet visit) so they learn that a trip in the carrier doesn’t necessarily mean they’re headed to the vet.
Medications
Your vet can recommend medications that reduce anxiety. Always get a prescription from your vet beforehand rather than giving your cat or dog an over-the-counter anti-anxiety drug or supplement. Some products can interfere with your pet’s medications or adversely affect their health and treatment.
Consider a Mobile Practice
If your pet does not respond to these anxiety-reducing methods, consider using a mobile practice for routine vet work. The vet visits your home for vaccinations, examinations, and basic veterinary care. Of course, a mobile vet is not an option if your pet requires surgery or more in-depth care.
Most mobile vets have a referral arrangement with vet clinics or hospitals when their clients need help they cannot provide. In addition, many vet clinics offer a mobile practice and in-person appointments.
Contact TriStar Vet for High-Quality Animal Care Products
The animal care experts at TriStar Vet design and manufacture veterinary exam tables, veterinary exam cabinets, professional grooming equipment, and other innovative products for your vet clinic that are ergonomic, ultra-durable, and affordable. If your practice includes pet boarding, we offer a variety of veterinary pet boarding products.