How to Make Your Pet Less Fearful of Shots

One of the worst things to witness as a pet owner is seeing your pet in pain. But many of us, along with our veterinarians, dismiss the anxiety and pain that can come with vaccines.

 

We understand that the pain will only last a second, but pets don’t care about that when they’re ridden with panic. Not all doctors believe that pets should just muddle through the pain. In fact, several clinics offer programs to reduce or eliminate needle-related pain — a practice that’s having a positive impact. 

 

Here’s how you can make your pet less fearful of shots: 

1. Negative Associations

Dogs may be apprehensive about visiting the veterinarian because they link it with pain and unpleasant procedures. If the dog is frequently taken to the vet for painful operations, it is natural for the dog to develop a dislike for vet visits, especially if the dog is sensitive. As a result, it's critical to accompany your puppy to the veterinarian to meet the staff and receive lots of praise, treats, and pats.

2. Fear of Being Handled

Some dogs may dread being visited and given injections because they are uncomfortable being touched by strangers. As a result, it's critical to begin making vet visits enjoyable as early as puppyhood by staging "fake vet visits." Preparing "examination set-ups" is beneficial.

3. Love and Treats: The Perfect Combo

If your pet is really scared of vaccines, you can talk to your pet beforehand and make sure that the focus of the visit is on disguising the administration of these injections with hands-on affection, fun and games, and of course treats! If there’s a refrigerator in the clinic for storing vaccines, you can count on there also being one stocked with canine favorites such as sausages, deli meats, peanut butter, and cheese, plus a variety of delectable morsels for your feline, too.

4. Getting Comfortable

Many exam rooms now have nonslip surfaces designed to help a pet feel more comfortable standing or sitting instead of slipping and sliding around. However, if you have a small dog or a cat, consider purchasing a carrier such as the Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed, which opens up in such a way that it allows your pet to remain inside a safe and familiar space while vaccinations are administered.

5. Staying Calm

Our dogs are incredibly responsive to us, often feeding off our emotions. If we are upset or concerned about having to pass our dog off to vet staff at the curb, our dogs may feed on that anxiety. Try to remain calm and confident. Not only will this help your dog to have a better vet experience, but it will also help the visits to be less stressful for both of you. 

 

Welcome to Animal Hospital on Milam Road!

As a full-service animal hospital, we, at Animal Hospital On Milam Road, believe in the convenience of having all your pet’s needs catered to under one roof. Located in Sanger, Texas, we are one of the most well-established animal hospitals in Denton County, and we pride ourselves on being a jewel in our community here in North Texas.

As the animal communities in Denton, Sanger, and Krum have grown, so has our facility. Our full-service hospital provides comprehensive care for dogs and cats. For all your four-legged companion’s care, turn to the skilled and compassionate team at Animal Hospital on Milam Road. We can’t wait to welcome you into our family!
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