Helping Your Pet Become Comfortable At The Animal Hospital
One thing many pet owners do not think about is how to make their pet comfortable at the veterinarian's office or animal hospital. When an animal is sick or injured, it is scared and can turn aggressive, even towards the people it knows and loves. Your normally calm, friendly pet may turn on you or the doctor out of fear. While there is no guarantee an animal will remain calm or non-aggressive when you take it to the vet, there are some things you can do that may help keep things a bit under control and make your pet a bit comfortable.
Health Checks
Just as you would with a child, take your pet to see the veterinarian when there is nothing wrong. Don't take them only to get their vaccinations, but take them at least once or twice just to become familiar with the atmosphere and the people. It doesn't have to be a long visit, just enough time for the vet to handle the animal for a few moments.
Brush or Grooming Tools
If you regularly brush or groom your pet as a way to spend time together, be sure to take the tools with you to the animal hospital. You can keep the animal on a leash while in the waiting room and calmly groom them while talking to them softly. This normal activity will remind them of their routine and hopefully keep them relaxed. If the pet is ill, be sure to bring a blanket or cushion from home to keep them comfortable.
Take Them Out for a Walk
When scared, animals may urinate or defecate without warning. A well-trained pet is going to be ashamed if it happens inside. If you are waiting to see the vet for more than 30 minutes, take your pet out for a walk. It doesn't have to be a long one, just enough for them to go to the bathroom and stretch a bit. Just a few minutes outside can often relax them so they are not terrified when the vet comes into the room.
Your pet is an important part of your family. Unfortunately, they do not understand what is going on, why they are hurting, or who the strange people are. Make sure the animal has the chance to experience the veterinarian's office when they are not already stressed from an injury or illness. A calm pet is not only better for the animal, it will also make the visit better for you and the veterinarian.
For more information, contact companies such as Animal Emergency Clinic.
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