Training for cooperation in medical procedures is a big part of what animal care professionals do. Because of this I find myself more of a student than a patient whenever I am in a Drs office. Today during a dental appointment, I noticed how the dentist explained when he put numbing solution on my gums. He let me know when the needle insertion was about to happen, and he informed me it would pinch a little. I paid attention to the sensation. (What do my animals feel?) He informed me I should feel pressure, but no pain. He pushed on my shoulder to simulate the pressure. He gave me sooooo much information, which was incredibly reassuring. He also told me if I ever felt uncomfortable to let him know and he would stop. And he often checked-in throughout the process to ask how I was doing. How do we do this with animals? We mostly do this with our tiny approximations and indicator signals. We also pay attention to body language and only proceed when animals are relaxed and comfortable and in the trained position that indicates they are ready for the procedure. Every once in a while, it is good to put yourself in the animal’s position. That little reminder of what it feels like to be nervous about a procedure can remind you there is a lot of value in going through those small approximations (like starting out with a capped needle, then toothpick, then dull needle, etc.). It may seem silly but saying “touch” can be good information for your animal. And remember let your animal communicate it is ready before you proceed (like going to station). Your goal is an eager participant, not just getting the job done. #lemurinjection #injectiontraining #lemurinjectiontraining #prosimiantraining #medicalbehaviors *****Check out our detailed course on injection training at www.AnimalTrainingFundamentals.com Use the code TRYTENDAYS for access for 10 days for $1.***** (at Santa Ana Zoo) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6JJTRTFe6w/?igshid=1m57slciney42
