Take the stress out of vet visits

Taking your pet to visit the vet can be a stressful experience for both you and your pet. First there’s getting them in a cage or the car, then there’s the journey to the practice or hospital, followed by the waiting time in the reception area with other pets all interested in who you and yours are.

All that is before you get to the consult table and meet the vet, which can be scary in itself even if your pet has no previous sharp point experience.

Your goal should be to help your pet get acquainted with the process and the vet clinic environment.

Some quick tips

1. Try visiting the veterinary hospital with your pet once or twice before the big visit to get them accustomed to travelling in a car and the reception area of the practice.
2. Take treats and give them to your pet at appropriate times, especially for calm behaviour.
3. Make it a fun experience. Use a gradual approach if your pet is already fearful and won't accept treats. For example, play with your pet in a safe area in the car park or front lawn of the practice. Over a period of a few visits, gradually progress to standing in the reception area and visiting with the staff.
4. Attempt to get your pet acquainted with a single staff member so she or he has a friend. Pets get along with some individuals better than others.