Are YOU Making the Most of Your Vet Appointment?

by | May 30, 2017 | Training

This morning Kindle and I visited the vet for her yearly exam and vaccines Well the day after the holiday was a hopping time at the vet clinic and there were lots of people, dogs and cats in the waiting room. What did that mean for us? TIME FOR TRAINING!
Every time you go to the vet, even if it’s just to pick up meds, use it as an opportunity to help your pet (cats can love the vet too!) enjoy the experience more. For us, I planned ahead and took a baggy full of Kindle’s treats. Since we had a morning appt we also skipped breakfast so she was extra eager for the delicious bag I took with her.

“Every time you go to the vet, even if it’s just to pick up meds, use it as an opportunity to help your pet enjoy the experience more.”

SOME THINGS TO DO AT THE VET:

1. Keep your dog on a leash and ideally LEAVE the RETRACTABLE LEASH AT HOME!

Retractable leashes aren’t for vet visits. Not all dogs appreciate having another dog zoom in and run right up to them. I use a 4 foot or 6 foot leash only at the vet.

2. Keep your dog out of other dog’s faces by using a short leash.

I typically stand on my dogs leash where the leash hits the floor (see picture of Kindle above). This makes it so that they have a limited area to explore and I can give all of the other patients (dogs and cats) the room they need to feel comfortable.  

3. TAKE YUMMY TREATS.

Most vet offices have biscuits available, but take your dog’s favorite snacks. Freeze dried liver, Pupperoni, cheese sticks are a few that top the list for us.

4. Train in the office.

If your dog will take treats in the office this is a great place to feed for good behavior or have your dog do some of their favorite tricks. “Working” helps to keep their minds busy and keep them focused on having fun with you versus focusing on the other dogs. Kindle and I practiced her sits, downs and touches in the office. She also was rewarded for looking at other dogs and staying quiet.

5. Don’t let your dog stare down other dogs.

Staring is a challenging gesture between dogs. Keep your dog focused on you instead of allowing them to give every dog “the eye”.

6. Employ the staff to help make your dog’s experience a happy one.

If your dog loves people, ask if the staff wouldn’t mind tossing a treat or two and giving your dog a few pats.

7. Ask the vet to give your dog some treats and pats!

 

The vet doesn’t have to be a scary place. With a little time, preparation and thought on your part, your dog can learn to love and be relaxed at the vet in no time!