Tips for a Successful Vet Visit
The weeks before:
If your cat is not already trained to get in its carrier on its own, start now. Take the carrier apart if possible, making a comfy bed (with treats!) out of the bottom portion. Over time, add the top, then add the door.
For nervous dogs, consider a practice appointment, come by, get a friendly hello and a treat!
- For dogs that are fearful riding in the car, first practice getting into and out of the car and getting a treat. Advance to sitting in the car and easting a meal. Then add starting the car and taking short trips as your dog gains confidence.
- For dogs that have been prescribed calming medication, this is the time to “test dose” to discover how much of the medication to give and to note the time of peak effect.
- Get your pet comfortable with an examination by gently handling body parts: mouth, ears, feet…
- For dogs that need to be muzzled for handling, consider training them in advance to wear a box muzzle. Avoid making a scary situation worse for them. Train them to allow their trusted human to put on a muzzle that they have become comfortable with. For more information about muzzle training go to Muzzle Up Project
- Gather vaccine and medical history and forward it to us.
The day before:
- Fill out any relevant forms pertaining to your visit. Click for forms
- Make a list of any questions or concerns.
- Check to see if any prescriptions need to be refilled
The day of:
- Precool or preheat your vehicle.
- Consider applying Feliway calming pheromone to bedding and cat carrier. Use a towel to cover the carrier.
- Try using Adaptil calming spray on your dog’s bandanna.
- Give medication to prevent car sickness if needed.
- Give medication for calming if needed.
- Bring favorite treats and consider feeding half the usual amount of breakfast. Remember, food is an amazing distraction for many pets!
- Bring favorite toys, consider bringing a calm housemate for support.
- Consider exercising dogs, allowing for potty breaks prior to the car ride.
- Collect a fecal sample for testing.
- If a thundershirt is helpful, let them wear it.
- Cats should be in carriers and dogs should be leashed.
We want your pet to be comfortable coming to us!
Using Fear-Free handling techniques, our aim is to make your pet’s visit as positive as possible. We are a certified Cat-Friendly Practice and take special care with our feline patients.
