It is known that most dogs are afraid of going to the vet. However, there are also those for whom a veterinary examination does not strike fear into their bones. Here are five ways to make your dog love going to the vet, because it really is possible.
1. Find a good vet
Choosing the right vet is key. Be sure to take your pet’s opinion into account. More precisely, monitor how he feels and pay attention to the employee’s behavior. How are their interactions with your dog? Are they kind to people and animals? Do they care about your dog and making him feel comfortable?
2. Get the dog used to being accessible to others
It is known that most dogs are afraid of going to the vet, but there are also those for whom a veterinary examination does not strike fear into their bones.
Most dogs will not allow other people to get too close and handle them, especially if they have not been well socialized from the start. . The worst thing is when people who are completely unknown to them try to handle them.
Ask what a routine examination looks like and try to do it at home first. If your dog is not bothered by such unusual touches and gets used to them, there is less chance that it will bother him during a real examination with a stranger.
3. Visit the vet when the dog is healthy
It would be ideal if your dog was familiar with the vet before he should go for an examination. Plan a short visit to the vet at an off-peak time so your pet can get to know the facility and staff better.
A good move would be if you seem excited and happy to go there, because then the dog’s reaction will probably be positive. If the visit goes well, be sure to reward your pet, and if he seems nervous, then it’s time to leave.
4. 4. Reward the dog with favorite treats
There is no dog that does not like food. That’s exactly why treats are always welcome, especially when you go for a vet checkup. Because they will give your pet additional encouragement and motivation and will facilitate the examination process itself. Of course, do not overdo it with giving treats.
5. Be calm and completely relaxed
Due to the deep connection between you and your pet, he recognizes your emotions very well and feels them himself. Anxiety, stress or fear are feelings that the dog will immediately recognize, but you can also recognize these feelings in him and start to feel that way yourself. He feels that and then you confirm his reason for concern.
To avoid this try to stay calm and positive during your vet visit – no matter how your dog is acting. Also, do not caress and soothe him, as this will also seem to him as a confirmation that he should be worried. More specifically, act cheerful and as if everything is fine.
