Many dog owners run into issues when bringing their pets to the Dog Clinic in Olathe KS. While some pets like the extra attention, others react differently. Waiting among stressed, anxious animals and being handled strangely can make even the most placid dog cower in fear. Pet owners often feel as if there’s nothing to be done, but you can make your next vet visit stress-free by following the tips below.
Pet Stressors
Your dog faces stress from a variety of factors during a visit to the Dog Clinic in Olathe KS, and every animal’s triggers are different. If you are aware of your dog’s stressors, you can Click here to talk to your veterinary technician and find a way to avoid or reduce the strain on your animal.
At-Home Training
By training your dog at home, he or she will learn to be calm, and to positively associate the sensations and procedures encountered in a vet’s office. Getting a young dog comfortable with veterinary handling can prevent stress, but older dogs can benefit as well. Short training sessions throughout the week can make a big difference, and the idea is to get your pet to form positive associations and cooperate with the clinic staff.
Sitting On A Floormat: A Useful Skill
A learned behavior that’s useful in many situations (not just the vet’s office) is teaching your dog to sit on a floor mat, remaining focused even if there are distractions. Using a floormat as a training tool tells your dog exactly what he or she is supposed to do; when the mat comes out, the dog knows it’s time to relax.
Calm Yourself
The examination room can be a very special place for dogs, especially if they aren’t used to having work done or if they had a negative experience in the past. It’s perfectly normal to want to comfort your pet during this time, but in most cases it’s best to stand back. You may have to allow the staff to treat your animal without your being present.
Be Realistic
It’s unrealistic to expect your pet to never be stressed, but there are ways to minimize the stress. By identifying the signs of pet stress, training your dog each week, and by remaining calm yourself, you can make vet visits easier and make your dog much calmer and happier.
