V-E-T, the Vet. As dog owners, we know all too well what a vet visit means. Vet anxiety is a very real thing that dogs experience.
From the cold hard floors, to the cat across the waiting room hissing every time she gets a look, to the noisy phone line behind the front desk – this creates a very uncomfortable environment for you and your pup.
It’s time we have a talk about this little menace, and how you as a dog owner can handle the dreaded V-E-T.
To begin, it’s important to recognize the signs of Vet Anxiety in your dog.
Start by looking for any abnormal behavior your dog may be exhibiting either pre-vet, at the vet, or post-vet. As you are looking for symptoms, pay attention to what may be triggering the anxiety. Some behaviors, such as snapping, biting, and urinating, are fairly noticeable.
Others like shaking lightly, or panting or drooling are less noticeable, and while they are not obvious red flags, they may be an indicator that your dog is uncomfortable and experiencing anxiety.
Now that you have been able to roughly identify your dog’s nervous habits and triggers, it’s time to move on to preventing, and handling the Vet Anxiety
“Systematic Desensitization” or Exposure
Systematic Desensitization is just a fancy way to say get your dog used to the vet! Now, in theory that sounds like a great idea, but in practice it can be pretty tricky.
There are many ways to approach desensitization, the easiest way is introducing your dog to the vet’s office – minus some of the stressors. It can be as simple as taking a walk past the vet office building. Let your dog sniff around the building a little, and if they’re feeling up for it, pop in the office to say “hi” to the staff and other patients.
Most vet offices LOVE getting visitors, and will gladly greet your pup with treats and lots of loving attention. This allows your dog to begin to view the vet office as a positive experience where they will be safe and appreciate.
Time Management!
This may seem like another know-brainer, but keeping these little time management tips in mind can mean the world to you and your pup in remaining remotely stress free at the vet. Start by scheduling your dog’s vet appointment during idle hours – if you have the availability.
This would require just a quick call to the office to check and see when they are the least busy – that way your dog is able to adjust to the vet’s office environment at a more comfortable pace without stressors and triggers that could cause anxiety.
Leaving early or prepping your dog for the vet can also be very helpful. Chances are your dog knows when it’s time to go to the vet – and it can be extremely unnerving to be scooped up into a crate with a leash around your neck mere moments before driving off to the destination.
Instead, try getting the transportation materials out ahead of time by laying out the crate and restraining devices to let your pup know to prepare.
Training and Treatment
If neither of these suggestions work for you or your pup, fear not! Due to the frequency of Vet Anxiety, people have come up with training exercises specifically designed to conquer fear of the vet, and medications to help calm your pup.
With a quick google search for OTC dog anxiety medications (usually in the form of a spray) you and your pup will be left at ease.
For training classes, contact a local dog trainer in your area – or speak with your vet to see if they have any trainer recommendations.
