The fear of firecrackers on the part of dogs is the most common, but it is also common for them to fear the vet. No matter how good it is for them to go there, the truth is that many dogs hate it. He is picked up by a stranger, they examine him everywhere, they hurt him with injections or surgical interventions… A total trauma for our best furry friends.
In response to fear, our dog may refuse to enter, tremble, sob, bark, pee or poop, and even bite any hand that ventures to touch it. In short, the visit becomes more complicated for everyone. The vet can’t do his job well, your dog suffers and you have a hard time seeing him like this.
But don’t despair. Relieving your dog’s fear of the vet is easier than it seems. It is a process that requires patience and small gestures that will drastically change your perception of that place that now terrifies you. In addition to your effort and that of your furry friend, it will be essential that the clinic staff help you by treating your dog with delicacy, affection and the odd prize.
Since your dog is a puppy or joins your home, it is important to make regular visits to the vet to check his health. He goes to the clinic frequently with him, but not to go for a consultation. To make an appointment, have it weighed, ask any questions, buy something in the veterinary center store or simply say hello. In this way, anxiety and fear of him will be reduced.
Part of the rejection of the vet has to do with the fact that they don’t like to be touched and manipulated. This can be alleviated by accustoming him to check-ups at home. Weigh him on a common scale even if it doesn’t detect his weight, clean his eyes and ears, check his paws, brush his teeth… All this will get him used to it and make it less uncomfortable when the vet does it.
Getting the dog used to going by car is necessary for many reasons, among them, that it will arrive at the vet much calmer. Also, whether you go by transport or on foot, go with enough time in advance to take a walk around the clinic beforehand.
He will be distracted and waste energy, it will reduce anxiety and you will also avoid having to force him to enter. It is better that he come on his own foot, even if it takes you longer to arrive. Encourage him with treats as he goes.
Prizes play a fundamental role, both edibles and caresses and words of affection and encouragement. Give them to him and the vet to reinforce his good behavior.
While you wait, play games like hiding sweets and finding them by smell. It will also help if you sit together and pet him, massage him, and gently whisper to him to calm him down. When leaving the consultation, do not forget to give him another treat as a reward.
