My Dog Is Afraid Of The Vet

Many dogs are afraid when they visit the vet. Anxiety in dogs while at the vet is common. There are some ways to spot fearful dogs.

The most common ones are, submissive urination, drooling, growling or even biting. Most dogs that show aggression at the vet are exhibiting fear. My dog Travis shows his fear by barking so loudly that no one in the waiting room can hear their names being called. The barking and noises that he makes actually get us in to see the vet faster because the staff wants to get us out of the waiting room as quickly as possible!

Tips For Taking An Anxious Pup To The Vet

The strange smells and sounds at the vets are enough to make any dog afraid of the vet. The possibility of pokes and prods makes it even worse.

There are some ways you can reduce anxiety, although not completely.

Having The Vaccinations At Home

At the beginning stages, or if your pup’s anxiety will always be too high for an actual office visit, you can opt to call the vet to your home. 

The home environment feels comfortable for the dog so the stress will be less. 

This might not be possible in all areas, but there are vets who will make “house calls” in most areas.

Desensitization Training

This is simply exposing the dog to the anxiety triggers at a pace it can tolerate. It is recommended that you start with less challenging situations before proceeding further.

You can even start at home before getting to the vet’s office. If the dog associates car rides with going to the vet, you can help by praising them when approaching the car. It is going to take time and patience.

Making Visits To The Vet Fun

It sounds awkward; can vets really be fun for an anxious pet? Non-medical visits will help your pet learn to adjust. It is a form of desensitization.

I try to play with my dog outside the vet’s office. I even bring a toy for my boy to play with inside as well.

Over time your dog will associate the building and the smells with positive feelings. After a few visits, your pup may even be excited to go.

Exercise Before Visits to the Vet

Physical activity is quite common when it comes to the management of behavioral issues with dogs. After exercise, a dog is usually happy and calm.

Fortunately, our favorite dog park is on the route to our vet’s office. I like to leave an hour early so that I have time to let Travis run around and play at the park for a while. We then head to the vet’s office from there.   

It makes a huge difference in my dog’s demeanor if he’s had some play time and exercise before his appointment.

Now you know how to alleviate some of your dog’s anxiety is going to the vet. Simple tricks like these will go a long way, especially in young dogs. Getting them comfortable while they’re puppies will be the best way, if possible.