How often do your take your dog to the vet office for a “fun” visit? If you are like most people, we only take our pets to the vet when they are sick or need vaccines. If this is the case, it is likely that your dog does not like to go to the vet.
If you have a puppy, it is important to have the puppy experience “good” things when they see their doctor. By getting your puppy used to vet visits, you can prevent a lifetime of fear!
Try a few of these things to make the visit more enjoyable:
• Bring lots of your puppy’s favorite treats to give them while they are at the visit (the doctor and staff can also give your pup some of these yummy treats!)
• Take your puppy in for “fun” visits- put your puppy on the scale, have the staff pet your puppy and give a few treats.
• If your puppy is stressed in the lobby, ask the staff to have a room ready when you get there (you may need to pre-arrange this when you make your appointment)
• While you are waiting in the exam room, play with your puppy. Bring toys or practice some training, this can help your puppy relax while you wait.
If you have an adult dog, you can do many of the same things you would do for a puppy but if your dog is already fearful at the vet, you may need to do more “fun” visits in between normal visits.
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