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Low Stress Vet Visits
We understand that Vet visits can be quite stressful for your dog. There are a number of ways to improve your dog's experience at the clinic.
Appointment Time
If your dog experiences anxiety when interacting with other dogs or animals you may wish to book at a quieter time of day. Let us know when you call us as we can advise on a more suitable time for your dog's appointment.
Social Visits
Social visits are free and do not involve a physical examination. Depending on your dog's anxiety level this visit may include offering treats and pats or simply walking around the waiting room.
Muzzle Training
Dogs can bite when in pain and under extreme stress and panic. We encourage owners to teach their dog to become comfortable wearing a muzzle, in case one is ever needed. Attempting to place a muzzle on a dog with no prior muzzle training can further exacerbate their stress, and risks injury to the dog and the people surrounding. For more information visit www.muzzleupproject.com.
Treats
If your dog is typically food motivated, but they are unwilling to take treats during their appointment, this is a good indicator that they are experiencing significant stress. We have a variety of different types of treats we can offer your dog, but we still encourage you to bring their favourite snacks.
ThunderShirt
ThunderShirts provide gentle, constant pressure to your dog's chest which releases calming neurochemicals. A ThunderShirt may not be appropriate for all dogs. www.thundershirt.com.au
Adaptil
Adaptil is a product which replicates the comforting pheromones released by nursing dogs to help settle their puppies. Spraying Adaptil on a blanket for the car ride, or using an Adaptil collar can help your dog to feel reassured during stressful situations. Adaptil spray should be applied 15 minutes prior to use and never sprayed directly onto the dog. We also have Adaptil diffusing in our consultation rooms at all times.
Music
White noise has been suggested to have a calming effect in dogs as it muffles background noises such as traffic. Playing white noise during the car ride may be particularly useful for dogs who are sensitive or reactive to sounds.
Waiting Room
The waiting room alone can be a source of anxiety for some dogs. Please let us know if waiting away from other animals, outside or in the car would be beneficial for your dog. Simply give us a call upon your arrival if you would prefer to wait outside.
Minimal Stress Handling
We practice minimal stress handling at Karrinyup Small Animal Hospital. Our Vets are happy to give guidance on how best to hold your dog during their examination and our Nurses are also available to assist.
Physical Examination
While the Vet is asking questions regarding your dog's health, this is a good opportunity for your dog to explore the consultation room and become familiar with the new environment. We are happy to examine your dog on the floor if that is where they are most comfortable. For dogs that are highly anxious at the clinic it is important to establish your primary concern and prioritise certain aspects of the physical examination. This helps us to achieve the objective of the appointment without causing unnecessary stress for your dog.
Medication
For dogs that are highly stressed, medications that have anti-anxiety or calming effects may be recommended prior to Vet visits. Please be aware that some dogs that are very anxious may break through the medication (i.e. significantly reduce the efficacy of the drug), in which case dose adjustments or medication changes may be required. We suggest giving an anti-anxiety medication well before your dog is exposed to potential stressors.