How many times have you gone to your vet only to sit in a waiting room filled with petrified dogs that are shaking, crying & dying to escape? You know that you’re there for your dog’s best interest; however, your dog does not know that. Instead he thinks you are bringing him to a torture chamber! Take it slow and methodical. It will pay off. RULE OF THUMB: Ignore fearful behavior reward happy behavior
Make your dog’s first visit to the vet a fun one!
Simply take your dog & a bag off really yummy food for a ride to the vet. Feed your dog the food in the parking lot for a few minutes. If the waiting room is empty or if you can pick your dog up, bring him/her into the waiting room for just a minute and feed the food. Then leave. GREAT 1St impression!
Make your dog’s second visit to the vet a social one!
Arrange for an appointment with your vet so that he/she can meet your dog and your dog can get acquainted with them. Show your dog that the vet is a nice person & does not mean any harm. Have your vet feed your dog some treats, too! While getting acquainted, be sure that you do not place your pup/dog onto the examining table; instead allow him to walk around and investigate the new smells. Every time your pup/dog shows signs of relaxation, praise him verbally & physically. This social visit is great for everyone, your dog enjoys himself, you can ask your vet questions, and your vet can learn about how your pup/dog behaves naturally rather than if/when he’s sick.
Car rides shouldn’t be just for the vet
Dogs learn very quickly through association. Make it a point to put your dog safely in the car to take them for a happy, fun ride somewhere. You will have a very happy dog that even enjoys going to the vet!
Waiting room disasters … how to prevent them
This is where all problems begin. A room with other dogs that are stressed and many times out of control is a recipe for a major problem! Do NOT let you or your dog fall prey to this trap. Call ahead to make sure your vet is on time, or have your vet call your cell when they are ready to see you.
Waiting room tricks
Bring your dogs favorite treats & toy with you on your first visit and all visits to the vet. You can redirect your dog away from anything that may begin to distract him & help him focus on you. If your dog is familiar with obedience commands, then play a game of doggie push-ups! ie: “Buddy, sit, down, sit”. This works great with food lures! Sometimes when dogs get nervous they will refuse food.
Calm owners have calm dogs
Dogs are tuned into body language more so than any other species on this planet. Many times the mere act of just pulling into the vet hospital parking lot can set a dog off with an array of anxious behaviors. Dogs are not the only ones stressed. Many owners are nervous for one reason or another and that stress goes right to your dog. Stay as calm as you can. Try talking calmly to your dog and massage them. Rescue Remedy ® is a handy aid to have with you for your dog and yourself prior to a vet visit. It’s an all natural flower essence.