Col. Potter Training Tip: A secret to a stress-free vet visit

This is going to be a very short post today. It’s just been one of those weeks, with multiple vet visits on top of everything. One dog needed a vet recheck on his ear infection, another needed vaccinations, another needed her teeth cleaned… although the one with severe health problems – Peaches – didn’t need anything from the vet this week, bless her little defective heart.

Peaches models the latest in purple bandages
(not from this week, thank goodness!!)

Trips to the vet can be challenges, even for routine appointments. We have to remember that our dogs take their cues from us, and if we’re nervous – pulling tight on the leash, moaning about “my poor baby,” or being argumentative with the receptionist or medical team – the dog is going to have a rough go of it.

I recently learned of one dog who, his owner told me, screamed when he got a shot. I happened to see the vet’s notes on the visit, and the vet reported that they started to give a vaccination, but the owner was “extremely anxious” – so they took the dog to the procedures room and did the vaccination there, out of the owner’s sight. Today I took that same dog to the vet for follow up vaccines and he didn’t have any problems whatsoever. In fact, the vet tech was effusive in praising the dog’s terrific temperament!

So what made the difference? We were happy about going for a ride. The vet staff (and even other dog owners) oohed and aahed about the darling pup, giving him cuddles and positive attention. And treats. Lots and lots of treats! What a good boy with the thermometer in your butt! Two treats. Here pup, mom has treats for you, look at mom (while the vet gives the shot). Yes! You are such a good boy!! Treat jackpot!

You get the idea. It is no secret that vet trips are a time to splurge with the treats and gush with praise. And that goes for you, too. It might be a stressful time for you, as you worry about a test, a diagnosis, or the bill, but you're doing a great job! Good mom, good dad! Now, go get yourself a treat.