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Going to the vet can be a distressing experience for pets and owners alike, but it is important to keep your pet happy and healthy. Here are ideas about how to make it as relaxing as possible and ways to keep your pet relaxed when they visit the vet.
It starts with you
Animals are incredibly intuitive and can often pick up on the moods of their owners. If you are nervous, your pet is likely to notice and be nervous themselves. Remaining calm when taking your pet to the vet is an important step in keeping them calm too, if they see that you are not making a big deal out of it, they may also feel more at ease. Talking to your pet, stroking them, or just keeping in contact can help both of you connect and feel less nervous. When taking your pet to a vet clinic like those at easyvet.com it is crucial to be prepared with the right gear and information to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
The Journey
How your transport your pet to the vet is also important. Many cats do not like the travel carrier because they begin to associate it with the vets. Talking to your pet to reassure them can help calm them down and keep their crate or cage as stable as possible. If your dog only goes in the car to go to the vet, it may start to associate car journeys with vet appointments. Taking your dog to places they like to go in the car can help ease the anxiety and get them used to travel. When you arrive at the clinic, if you have a cat or small rodent, it can be better to wait outside in the fresh air, especially if there are lots of dogs or loud noises inside. Furthermore, cats like to be high up for many reasons, so placing your cat’s carrier on a high surface can help them relax.
Frequency
Regularly visiting the vets is important to maintain your pet’s health and make sure they are well and happy. It can also help to normalize the process, making your pet feel calmer and as they become more used to visiting the vets. Frequent check-ups at the vet can help manage existing conditions and discover and treat new ones. Your vet is the safest person to consult about your pet’s health and can assist you with many different topics, from the best food for your pet to microchipping.
Rewards
Rewarding your pet during and after a vet appointment can help to positively reinforce their behavior and give them something to enjoy and distract them. As well as talking to and touching your pet, rewarding them with treats can make a huge difference to their experience of the vet. Making sure to reward them with their favorite treat during and after the appointment can also help them to feel less anxious the next time they visit, as they know they will be getting treats while it happens.