(via MOST IMPORTANT VETERINARY ADVICE)

- Become familiar with how to restrain your type of animal safely, correctly, and in a way that facilitates a quick examination or intervention. I assure you, your dog/cat/bird/horse, etc. will be less stressed in a short moment of restraint than if they were chased around repeatedly and allowed to become ramped up, or they moved to the point where a procedure needs to be repeated.

- Teach your dog commands such as sit, stay, stand still, stand. Have some fun with it! Training can be an enriching experience for all and is so valuable for situations in which they can be uncertain about what it required of them. Which larger animals such as horses, teaching them to stand still is a godsend.

- If you want to go the extra mile, learn how to safely perform simple procedures such as taking a temperature (rectal in many animals), holding and examining paws, examining and handling ears, opening their mouths calmly, checking gum colour, and feeling all over their bodies. Positive reinforcement, baby steps, and repetition are your best friends here. It’s also a great way to become familiar with their ‘normal’ and notice any changes.

- If you know your dog is particularly unsure about a particular area of their body ebing touched by strangers, warn the vet and if applicable, assist. For example, many clients lift up lips and show me their dogs mouths if they know they can get snappy with other people handling there. Just communicate with your vet!

- Bring treats to the vet! As long as they’re not being prepared for sedation or general anaesthetic (in which fasting is required), a pets favourite treats are a welcome addition to any appointment.

- Crate train your cat or dog in a positive manner, so they can feel comfortable in a cage. If they ever need to be hospitalised, they will be placed in a (comfortable!) cage for the duration. While it is stressful in general, reducing stress by taking one factor out of the equation does WONDERS!

- Get a travel crate that can have the top removed without much difficulty. This is my favourite way to examine cats, as they can remain in their “safe” place and are frequently more receptive to examination. They also do not need to be forcibly removed through the front if they are unwilling to come out!

- Keep your dog leashed AT ALL TIMES during their vet visit. Do not remove the collar and/or leash once you are inside the consult room unless the veterinarian specifically instructs you to. A loose animal is a liability, especially if they are stressed.

- If you are aware that your dog bites, or threatens to, please muzzle train them with positive reinforcement and have them wear muzzle to the vet. If the vets do not already know, please give warning in advance. I cannot express how much easier, quicker, and less stressful this makes the examination and administration of therapies.

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