How do I calm my dog down at the vet?

Question

He's a toy poodle, and he's always been very shakey and nervous every time we go to the vet. Any tips on how to help calm him down?

Answer 1

You need to remain calm and in control - use your regular voice to comfort him. The dog will sense this from you. Just like a child, they know how to "turn it up a notch" if they think it will garner sympathy and possibly a reprieve. Sometimes they are actually better when the owner is not in the room. And of course, a simple treat after it's over to encourage a positive experience.

My dog was the same with his toenails. Now when he gets them done, I just look at him with a blank face and he has stopped freaking out. When I baby-talk him, then he knows something bad must be about to happen. When I play it cool, he does too.

Answer 2

Is there such a thing as a dog who is comfortable at the vet? Are you comfortable at the dentists? It's even scarier for dogs, because they don't know what's happening or what to expect. I hope someone has a good suggestion for you, but I don't think there's much you can do. Every dog I've ever had or even seen at the vet has been nervous. Can you blame them?

If my dog's up for it, I usually take her for a run at the beach or a walk through the woods after the vet. Kind of a reward for sticking it out (and it eases my guilt a little too!). It erases the scary experience from her mind. I figure that if I can't make the vet visit happy, I can at least do something afterwards to lift her spirits.

Answer 3

Puppies for instance can be trained early to get used to their doctor and the veterinary surgery. 'It is best to take them along a few times without anything happening,' says animal trainer Daniela Hofer.
'It is good for the animal to experience something positive first before it gets an injection,' she says.
The vet can also help create a stress-free environment by taking time to stroke the dog and give it a biscuit to calm the animal down and get used to the environment. Similarly, the insecurity of older dogs can be reduced.
'Sensitive animals should be spared the confrontation with other animals by waiting outside or arranging a special appointment,' says the spokeswoman of Germany's association of practising veterinarians Astrid Behr.
Once the vet starts examining the pet, it is better for the owner to keep their distance, experts said, so 'that the pets don't see the tense expression on the owner's face and thus creating more uncertainty'.

Answer 4

well if you have some time maybe try some vet visits with cut up cheese or hot dogs but dont actually see the vet maybe just visit and let the girls at the desk give him some of your treats.its worth a shot good luck with the little sweetie....

Answer 5

We carry natural supplements like Anxiety drops or Composure. They are homeopathic or holistic products that are non toxic and very safe. I use them for my ShihTzu and it really helps him to calm down.

Answer 6

dogs pee on the floor at the vet! all dogs have done it once or twice tho pretty much. my dog is scittish too, havnt figured this out either.

Answer 7

rap him in a towel , cover his head, but realy it the smell of the vets , that tend to upset them , ask you vet

Answer 8

i would hold her untill the dr. comes in then when he does try to help him/her hold her down it might be bad but it will train dont worry i know i have a shaky one to

Answer 9

talk to him and rub him in a circle motion ~ making circle as you rub him and talk to him~ It helps my pound puppies~

Answer 10

yes, do not show him any more news on Paris Hilton.