Visiting the vet with your pet is something that should be happening regularly, but can also be a major source of stress for both you and them. Unfortunately, many pets associate a trip to the vet with something distressing or even awful. To make sure your vet appointments go smoothly and even enjoyable, follow the amazing tips. Trust us the whole experience will be so much better – for eveyone!
Top Tips For Stress-Free Visits To The Vet
Find The Right Vet
A lot of pet owners take this piece of advice for granted. But, it is extremely important that you find the best vet for your pet. Whether it means trying out a few before both you and your pet are comfortable, that’s totally okay! Although this process can take a while, it’s really worth it! Pay attention to both the staff as well as the different veterinarians at the clinic. Your dog can also help you make such decisions, you will pick up whether they are comfortable with the vet and their surroundings. You could also ask around for personal recommendations to help make the process easier.
Visit The Vet Just For Fun
This next tip may not be so easy, especially for pet owners who have tight schedules. But it is suggested that you really try this out when you’re running around do all your errands. Why you may ask? Well, if you only take your pet on a car ride when it is time to visit the vet then he or she might begin to associate the car and the vet with something unpleasant. To help overcome this common, let your pet hop in the car with you. You can also drop into the vet just to say hello and make sure to give out tasty treats for good behavior. If possible, sit down for a couple of minutes with your pet and relax in the waiting area. This will help them connect that the vet’s office is a place where good things happen too. The more you do this, the easy it will become for both of you.
Bring Your Pet’s Favorite Treat
Visiting the vet can be traumatic, even for the most outgoing pets. This is one of the reasons why a lot of vet offices and clinics already have many tasty treats and biscuits on hand, but experts actually recommend that pet owners bring them from home. If the treat is your pet’s favorite it will more than likely generate positivity and familiarity. Always reward your pet for good behavior or when necessary throughout the visit.
Keep Calm & Relaxed
Pets (specifically dogs) are very much perceptive, especially when it comes to their owner’s emotions. This means that when you are feeling anxious, stressed, or fearful your dog will instantly pick up on this. Consequently, giving him or her a valid reason to be concerned and upset. In order to avoid this, it is highly recommended that you keep yourself calm and collected during vet visits regardless of how your dog reacts. This also applies to other family members that come along to the vet. Although often easier said than done, avoid reinforcing the stress, fear, and anxiety your dog might be feeling. Instead, remain composed and act as positively as possible. Ultimately, we want our pets to be as relaxed as possible.
