https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/training-and-behavior/5-secrets-low-stress-vet-visit
Veterinarian visits can be stressful for both pets and their owners, especially when animals are nervous or anxious in the clinic. Even well behaved pets may forget their training when overwhelmed, leading to biting or scratching.
As a pet owner, it is understandable to feel upset when your pet becomes stressed, but with some preparation and mindful strategies, these visits can be much more manageable for everyone involved.
To help your pet have a positive experience, consider scheduling “happy visits” to the veterinary clinic where no medical procedures are done. During these visits, the staff can greet your pet, offer treats, and give praise, building positive associations with the vet office.
Consistency is key, so make these visits part of your routine to help your pet become more comfortable. Additionally, ensuring your pet is well fed before the appointment and offering treats during the visit can help calm anxiety, as eating releases feel good hormones that promote relaxation.
For cats, it is crucial to prepare them for the carrier and car ride ahead of time. Leaving the carrier out for your cat to explore and associate with comfort, or even feeding them in the carrier, can help reduce fear.
For dogs, calming tools like a ThunderShirt or medication prescribed by a veterinarian can help ease anxiety.
The most important aspect of ensuring a smooth visit is to stay calm yourself. Pets are keenly attuned to their owners' emotions, so practicing deep breathing and maintaining a relaxed demeanor can help your pet feel more at ease.
Chewy editorial team is committed to offering resources and tips that make your pet’s visits to the vet more enjoyable for everyone involved.
