Stay calm and your pets will too

IF you turn up at any Donaldson’s Vets Clinic at any time between 7.30am and 7.00pm, the chances are you will find the reception area bustling with owners and animals.

Believe it or not, there are lots of animals who thoroughly enjoy their trip to the vets and burst in through the door with tail wagging.

I see lots of dogs who really enjoy the visit and I have lots of clients who say that even at home their dogs get excited whenever they hear a Scottish Accent (after 23 years in Huddersfield even the dogs can still tell that I am not born-andbred).

And yet there are pets who find a trip to the vets stressful. Keeping your dog calm can be a challenge for some owners as they may have very anxious and stressed dogs that do not enjoy being poked and prodded by a stranger.

A good way you can get them used to being taken into the veterinary clinic is by taking them in just for a visit, not necessarily to get any treatment but just for cuddles and a treat from the receptionist.

If you come during a quieter time and incorporate it into a walk then the practice staff will be happy to give your dog a bit of a fuss. This will help your dog understand that it can be a nice thing to go to the vet practice as they get attention and treats. The more often this is done the happier your dog will be and he won’t put on the brakes when you reach the front door!

If you have an older dog that does not agree to going into the practice you can try different calming agents, a few popular ones you can buy over the counter at the vets are the products that release pheromones.

When taking your dog to the vet don’t make it seem like a chore and something that’s bad – if the dogs sense a bad vibe from you they will become nervous. Make it as fun and happy as possible. This will also help your dog realise that it should be a good experience and that they should not be scared.

Another good way to reduce stress and make it a good experience is to take treats with you and reward them for their good behaviour. Help them know they are not doing any wrong in the situation.

As the vet starts to handle and examine your dog, offer rewards throughout. Use your voice and praise them as well, making sure you use a light and happy tone so they know you are not telling them off.

If you stay calm then this will help your pet stay calm.