PREPARING FOR YOUR DOG'S APPOINTMENT

In-Home Appointments

Choosing in-home veterinary care for your canine companion is often less stressful than going to the vet’s office - both for you and your pet. In some cases, though, your pet may still experience a degree of anxiety. This is especially true if your dog tends to be nervous around strangers or isn’t fond of being touched. Even pets who normally love attention may be a bit more skittish than normal when receiving in-home veterinary care. Here are a few suggestions to help ensure that your dog’s appointment goes smoothly.

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Scheduling Your Dog’s Appointment

We suggest scheduling your dog’s appointment as far in advance as possible. This isn’t always an option in the case of emergencies or sudden illnesses, of course, but when it comes to routine care, scheduling in advance helps keep things stress-free. When you schedule in advance, you’re more likely to be able to select the time of day that works best for both you and your pet. If, for example, your dog tends to be hyper in the morning but calmer in the afternoon, scheduling an afternoon appointment could make things easier for everyone involved.

When making an appointment, provide as much information as possible. The more information you give us, the better we can prepare for your appointment. Based on what you tell us, we will determine if your dog needs services such as urine, blood, or fecal testing. If such tests are necessary, we’ll let you know what you need to do to prepare prior to our arrival.

If you have any reason to suspect that your dog may be aggressive or challenging to work with, please let us know so we can be prepared.

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The Day of Your Pet’s Appointment

Do your best to make the day of your dog’s appointment as stress-free as possible. Consider taking them for a walk before our arrival so they have time to burn off some excess energy. You may also want to use a pheromone product - such as Adaptil - or Rescue Remedy Drops to help your companion feel more at ease.

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During the Appointment

During your pet’s appointment, you may want to step out of the room. In many cases, pets are less stressed during their appointments when their owners are not present. We’re also more likely to be able to form a bond with your dog if you are not there. While you may want to remain in the room to comfort your anxious dog, doing so could have the opposite effect.

Pets pick up on energy and emotions, too. If you are feeling anxious about the appointment, your dog will likely sense your discomfort and become stressed themselves. If you have concerns about whether you should be in the room during your pet’s appointment or what you can do to keep their stress levels in check, don’t hesitate to ask.

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In-Clinic Appointments

To avoid stress to your dog and yourself, take them for a walk prior to leaving for your appointment. Properly secure your pet in your vehicle, and make sure they are leashed when you arrive at the clinic.

Using a pheromone, such as Adaptil, will help your dog relax if they are feeling stressed. Giving them a comfy blanket to cuddle with on the way to their appointment can help, too.