Many dog owners absolutely dread taking their beloved pet to the veterinarian. Some dogs, such as my Bichon Frise Esme, simply tremble with fear while we are sitting in the waiting room. Others, like my mixed breed Zoe, squirm in the vet technician’s arms and make it difficult for the doctor to administer a shot. Other dogs have to be muzzled because they are scared, and may bite out of fear. Having to deal with a fearful dog who is terrified of going to the vet is also stressful for owners, especially if they do not have anyone to accompany them and help them with their pet.

However, there is hope for frazzled dog owners who absolutely dread having to bring their pooch to the vet. If you start stressing out the minute you have to call your local vet’s office to make an appointment, then read on and browse our list of five tips to help your pet overcome their fear of going to the vet.

[mk_padding_divider size=”75″][mk_circle_image src=”https://www.puptopianyc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/KIMG3933.jpg” image_diameter=”500″]

• Hire a qualified trainer who specializes in working with fearful dogs. This is the first thing that you can do, as they will be able to examine the situation and come up with a behavior modification plan to help your pet overcome their fear by using counterconditioning and desensitization methods. For example, if you live within walking distance to your vet, your trainer might suggest that you casually take a walk and stop right across the street from the office as you rain down delicious high-value treats such as small slices of hot dogs or string cheese upon your dog. That way, your dog will slowly start to associate that going to the vet means good things will happen.
• Start off on the right foot with proper socialization if you have a new puppy, and want to make sure that they don’t develop a fear of the vet. For example, you can pair gentle handling with yummy, high-value treats while taking hold of an ear or a paw. You can also ask the vet, the vet tech or a qualified trainer for advice on how to get your new puppy or adult dog (it’s never too late!) used to being handled. That way, they won’t fear being restrained and they won’t start squirming or shaking when the vet tech holds them.
• If your dog is prone to biting out of fear, it is never a bad idea to train them to wear a muzzle. A qualified trainer will be able to show you the proper method, but the Muzzle Up Project also has plenty of excellent tips that will help you teach a dog to wear a muzzle without trying to pull it off or thrashing when you try to put it on.
• Consider the use of medication. If your dog is absolutely fear-stricken, it is never a bad idea to reach out to a veterinary behaviorist to discuss the use of anti-anxiety medication. If there are no vet behaviorists within driving distance or you simply can’t afford one, you can always discuss the matter with your vet and a trainer.
• Look for a vet who has experience working with fearful dogs and who uses force-free handling techniques.They’ll be able to handle your beloved pet without adding to their stress.