Reducing Stress at the Veterinarian's Office

Just like a doctor's visit can be stressful for you, your pets may also feel the same anxiety when they go to the veterinarian's office. Then, if they have a bad visit, it only gets worse. Every visit gets harder and harder for your pet. 

For that reason, you need to make sure that your pet's veterinary visits go as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips to help. 

Make sure that you properly socialize any new puppies that you get. When you first get a new puppy (and they are properly vaccinated), you need to introduce them to new places. You are going to want to take them to different places so that they don't fear going anywhere. Instead, each new place should be a fun place to explore! 

So, get them used to going in the car to visit the pet store, friends and families homes, and even the veterinarian's office. Most veterinarians will allow you to bring your new puppy in just to get them used to coming in. They may even take time out of their day to play with your puppy and give him or her treats, just to make sure that they know it is a safe place. 

During this time, you should also make sure that your pet is used to being handled. Most dogs and cats don't enjoy getting touched, so you need to handle your new puppy and kitten regularly. Play with his or her feet. Look into the ears. Feel their belly, like they would have done at the veterinarian's office. Look inside your pet's mouth. All of this will make the examination go more smoothly. 

You may even want to practice restraint. This is often the worse part of the visit, even over toenail trims and ear cleanings. Most dogs and cats just don't want to be held still. So, next time you take your dog or cat to the veterinarian, watch how he or she is held, so you can get your dog or cat used to that at home. 

Find the right veterinarian. Many veterinarians want your puppies and kittens to have a good experience. They want their patients to enjoy their visits, and they work hard to make sure that it happens. They may have a treat jar (or even treat drawer) where they can pull out tasty snacks to make sure that your pet has a good experience. 

Know the signs of stress. It is important that you recognize when your dog or cat seems stressed. 

Here are some signs of stress that you should look for: 

• Shedding
• Licking or biting skin
• Drooling 
• Barking and whining (in dogs)
• Hissing (in cats) 
• Big eyes 
• Trembling
• Hiding or, if unable to hide, they might tuck their body in order to make it as small as possible 
• Any habit that isn't normal for your pet

If the visit to the veterinarian's office is too stressful, you might have to try another day (or think about using medications to make everything go better).

If your dog or cat is too stressed, your veterinarian may recommend using medications. Though you may not want to do so, it might be in everyone's best interest. A pill or two could make the visit go that much smoother for your pet, you, and the entire veterinary team.

The goal isn't to completely sedate your pet, but you just want to take the edge off so that they aren't as stressed (and are easier to handle). If your veterinarian would rather man-handle your dog or cat, it might not be the right place for you! It could just make the entire thing worse.

Always use a well-fitting collar or harness when coming to the veterinarian's office. You also need to have a good leash. Not only will you be able to get your dog into the office, but it will also keep him or her safe. If there are other animals in the waiting room, you will have control of your own dog. 

Make sure that you bring your pet's favorite treat along! Though your veterinarian may offer treats, you may want to bring something that your dog or cat really enjoys. You may want to consider bringing cheese, chicken, or even hot dogs if that is what your dog loves to have. 

The best thing that you can do for your new pet is to get him or her properly socialized. This means riding in the car and exploring new places. You may even want to visit the veterinarian's office a few times before you have an appointment. It also helps to get him or her used to being handled and restrained. That just helps the visit go that much smoother! 

That being said, there are times when you may need to think about using sedatives. Though you may not want to use them, it can really help everyone. Your dog or cat will be less stressed. Your veterinarian may be able to complete the examination quicker, which means that your beloved pet will be back home sooner than expected! This is a win-win for everyone!

Previously published at Medium.