Tips For Helping A Nervous Dog Through Vaccinations
The best way to protect your dog from becoming sick from a preventable illness is following your veterinarian's recommendations concerning pet vaccinations. Unfortunately, your otherwise carefree and happy dog might get nervous when entering the veterinarian's office and be resistant to receiving vaccines. There are luckily several things you can do as a dog owner to help prepare your dog for the vaccine and help your dog through the process.
Here are a few simple things you can do to help make your dog calmer while receiving a vaccine.
Wear Your Dog Out Before the Visit
If you have had issues with your dog being aggressive in the past during vet visits or if your puppy is rambunctious and still fearful of strangers, go for a long walk, play at the park, or do whatever you can to wear out your dog. In addition to being worn out after all that activity, your dog will be happy because your dog just participated in one of their favorite activities.
Exercise your dog a few minutes before you are leaving for the vet to ensure that your pet is not allowed to rest and regain their energy before the visit.
Take Along Your Dog's Favorite Treats
Your dog is exercised, and you are ready to take your dog to the vet. Unfortunately, your clever dog knows the route to the veterinarian or has associated getting into the car with going to the vet. This can put your dog on alert and your nervous dog can become uncooperative even before you set foot in the vet's office.
Bring along your dog's favorite treat and provide your dog with treats while you are in the car. Reassure your dog with a calm voice that everything is okay. When you enter the vet's office, continue to give your dog treats throughout the process. The treats will reward good behavior and your dog will associate proper behavior at the vet's office with treats.
Make Your Pet Feel Comfortable
Bring along your dog's favorite blanket or a favorite toy and offer something to comfort your dog while they are receiving the shots. Continue to hold your dog, pet your dog, and talk to them in a calm, encouraging voice while the vaccine is being administered. Praise your dog after the vaccine to encourage them to remain calm and cooperative during the next veterinarian visit.
From bringing along a favorite comfort item to providing plenty of treats, there are several ways you can help your dog remain calm while receiving necessary vaccines. Contact a local animal hospital to learn more.