But! We found a fear free clinic after a recommendation on dogblr, and they worked magic with him.

To start with, the waiting room was peaceful and Koda explored the area, jumping on all the seats/benches he saw, getting treats from us and the staff, and he got a fashionable, calming bandana.

Then the actual vet appointment! The vet was very patient with him and took everything at his speed and comfort level. Initially she mentioned we might not get the vaccination done today because she wanted him to have a positive experience and not push him, but after a few desensitisation exercises, he was doing well enough that she thought he could handle the actual vaccination. And he did!!!!!!

Props to Koda for remembering his chin rest despite us not practising it for ages. He’s such a smart boy, and he tries really hard!

He was on a high dose of his supportive medication, which made a big difference, but even then, the way the vet interacted with him did wonders for his comfort level.

On the way home now and he is very tired.