Visiting the vet is essential to helping your dog live a long and healthy life. However, for many pets, it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. At McLaren Vale Veterinary Surgery we understand the stress this may cause both dogs and their human parents and would like to provide some tips to help reduce stress when bringing your dog to the vet.

1. Start with Positive Associations

From a young age, familiarise your dog with the car and the vet clinic in a positive way. Take them for short car rides that end in fun activities like a walk in the park or a visit to the beach. We find dogs who have undertaken puppy preschool at our surgery continue to run into the building with a wagging tail, long after their preschool has ended. Occasionally, you can even visit the vet clinic just to say hello and get a treat from the staff without any examinations or procedures. This may also help your dog associate the vet with positive experiences.

2. Use Calming Products

Consider using calming products such as anxiety wraps, pheromone sprays, or calming supplements. Anxiety wraps, like Thundershirts, can provide a sense of security for your dog. Pheromone sprays such as Adaptil mimic the calming scents that mother dogs release to soothe their puppies. Natural supplements such as Zylkene can help calm your dog. Both Adaptil and Zylkene are available at our clinic.

3. Practice Handling at Home

Get your dog used to being handled in ways that mimic a vet exam. Regularly touch their paws, ears, and mouth gently and reward them with treats for staying calm. This desensitisation process can make the actual exam less intimidating for your dog.

4. Stay Calm Yourself

Dogs are very sensitive to their owner's emotions. If you're anxious or stressed, your dog is likely to pick up on this anxiety and become stressed too.

5. Use a Comfortable Carrier

For smaller dogs, a comfortable and familiar carrier can make a big difference. Let your dog spend time in the carrier at home, so they see it as a safe space. Place a favourite blanket or toy inside to make it more inviting.

6. Bring Favourite Treats and Toys

Bring along some of your dog's favourite treats and toys to provide comfort and distraction. Rewarding your dog with treats during and after the visit can help reinforce positive behaviour and create a more pleasant association with the vet.

7. Avoiding the Waiting Room

Unfortunately, some dogs do not play well with other dogs. We understand this and can accommodate these patients. For patients who simply do not like coming into the clinic, a consultation may be performed in our sunny courtyard at the front of the clinic. For other dogs who cannot be around other dogs, we have a side entrance to one of our consult rooms. Dogs can be moved directly from your car, into the consultation room, avoiding the smells and sights of other dogs in the waiting room.

8. Consult Your Vet

If your dog has severe anxiety, talk to your vet about it. We may be able to recommend specific strategies or even prescribe a ‘Canine Comfort Pack’. These comfort packs contain anti-anxiety medication for particularly stressful visits.

10. Reward and Praise

Always reward your dog with praise and treats after the vet visit. This helps to end the experience on a positive note and reinforces the idea that visiting the vet leads to good things.

By taking these steps, you can help make vet visits less stressful for your dog, ensuring they receive the necessary care with as little anxiety as possible. Remember, a calm and happy pet makes for a healthier and happier life together. If you have any concerns or need more personalised advice, don't hesitate to reach out to our veterinary team. We're here to help!