GO FOR A WALK BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT
This will allow your four-legged friend to burn off pent-up energy and relieve him/herself along the way. Exercise reduces stress for pets and humans alike!
BRING FIDO’S FAVORITE TREATS AND DON’T FEED A MEAL WITHIN 3 HOURS OF THE VISIT
We want your dog to love coming to our hospital. From the front desk to the exam room to the treatment area we will use treats, a favorite toy, or head scratches as positive re-inforcement.
BRING YOUR DOG ON A LEASH OR IN A CARRIER
Even the most relaxed dogs can become excited or nervous in an environment with so many new smells and sounds.
PRACTICE AT HOME
Start when your dog is a puppy by touching his feet, looking in his mouth, lifting his ears, and feeling the skin all over for any lumps or bumps. If you do this regularly you also have the added advantage of detecting problems earlier.
VISIT OFTEN!
Make the Animal Hospital a fun place to visit, not just a once-a-year event that involves needles. Drop in for treats at the front desk or bring a special treat to reward her when she sits on the weigh scale. If you dog is nervous in a hospital setting, then call and schedule complimentary de-sensitization visits with our veterinary technicians. We will develop a plan to help get her used to different areas of the hospital.
PHARMACEUTICALS AND OTHER NATURAL COMPOUNDS
For some dogs that are anxious or fearful, medication to be given before the visit may be prescribed by one of our veterinarians. Our goal is to make the visit as stress-free as possible for you and your dog. While drugs may be needed at first, you may find that as your pet has more positive experiences, we may only need to use Adaptil (a synthetic pheromone) sprayed on a bandana and lots of treats.