You have seen it somewhere before. The frantic howling, the hesitant scratching and the anxiety a pet has when he hears the word “vet.” You can never pinpoint it, but dogs freak out with the mention of the “V” word. Your intentions are clear, your furry friend needs help and going to the vet is the best choice. They don't want to hear it best option or no.
If you're tired of dealing with these kinds of situation and the stress that it brings; There are some of the tips and tricks you can use whenever on the way to the veterinarian's clinic.
Incorporate good things with the car ride
Most pet owners are reluctant to bring their dogs along with them on a car ride. You can never tell what might happen. When it is only during a vet appointment that a dog gets to ride a car, you are associating the car with the vet. Remember Pavlov and his dogs?
In your dog's mind, the car ride is the precursor to chaos. They want no part of it. If a dog is not accustomed to riding a car and it only goes to one location; “Hun uh”; “I will take the pass” says your furry friend. “Say Hi to the vet for me; have a nice ride.”
Admittedly, some owners would claim that this is where the hassle begins. The family car is the primary way of transporting a sickly dog. To overcome this dilemma, incorporate good experiences for your dog in a car ride to a happy place. For example, if you are driving to a mall, bring him along with you (make sure that it is a pet-friendly mall). Provide them with the thinking that not all car rides are bad like going to the vet — different conditioning.
Choose a vet that your dog reaches out to with familiarity
There are cases wherein dogs are not afraid of the “check-up” process but instead dislikes the vet. Don't let this happen; it is time to choose a vet that resonates well with your dog. A Vet, your dog, likes will reduce the stress and anxiety they exhibit. It improves the whole process and gives confidence to your dog. When a dog forms a natural bond with his vet, it'll be just like visiting a family member at a different location.
Commit to regular vet trips
This step is vital to creating a loving-work relationship between the vet and your dog. You need not only to visit the vet when your dog is sick but go by the office when there are no issues to say Hi to the staff. Remember, your dog needs to trust his vet so that in the future, your dog will be more relaxed and happy during their next visit to the clinic.
Bring high-quality treats that you don't regularly offer your dog
This tip does not mean you bring out your dog's go-to snack. This time, bring out the cheesy hamburger, a spoon of peanut butter and other food items that your dog loves. This step will reinforce the idea that the vet's clinic is a food haven (or a place of delicious treats). Remember Pavlov?
Always be calm during an appointment
Dogs reflect what their owners feel. If you are scared or it rubs off on your friend. Practice calmness and your dog will respond similarly. Remember when you are calm you release the tension and stress your dog feels.