Vet visits can often be a source of stress for pets, even if they have been to the clinic before. To make your pet’s next trip to the vet less anxiety-inducing, there are steps you can take in advance.
Start by familiarizing your pet with their carrier well before the appointment - leave it out with their favorite toy or treats inside. You can also spray calming pheromones in the carrier to help them associate it with a sense of security. Additionally, taking your pet on non vet related car rides, such as to a park or for a fun errand, can help reduce their negative associations with travel.
Once at the vet, you can further ease your pet’s anxiety by making the visit a positive experience. Consider stopping by the vet’s office for short visits, such as a weigh in or a quick treat from staff, so your pet gets used to the environment without any medical procedures being involved.
If your pet experiences significant anxiety or fear, ask your vet for advice on managing these behaviors. There are several products designed to help calm pets, such as anxiety vests or calming medications that can be administered prior to the visit.
In some cases, medications with sedative properties can be used to help keep your pet calm during their exam, especially if they tend to get anxious to the point of aggression or distress.
Additionally, if you feel stressed during the visit, it s important to remember that your anxiety can affect your pet’s behavior, so be mindful of your emotions in the clinic. With the right steps in place, your pet’s vet visits can become less stressful for everyone involved.
Chewy editorial team understands how challenging vet visits can be and they are here to help make the process easier and more comfortable for you and your furry friend.
