Whether vaccination, check-up or illness: visits to the vet are a regular occurrence and can cause a lot of stress and anxiety for our pets. This is because some animals have already had negative experiences at the vet, for example through painful treatments. The unfamiliar environment of the practice with different smells and other animals can put additional stress on them. In addition, some animals are particularly sensitive and fearful in new situations. And your own nervousness can also be transferred to the animal and further unsettle it.
There are a few things you can do to make your dog or cat's visit to the vet as stress-free as possible. In this article, we have collected some tips for preparing dogs and cats for vet visits and reducing stress during the visit.
Tips for a relaxed visit to the vet
Training to touch : Practice touching your animal so that it is less afraid during the actual examination. Start playfully, for example by gently looking into his ears while stroking or brushing him or by carefully opening his mouth. Reward the animal with its favorite dog snack or favorite cat snack if it stays calm and cooperates.
Get used to transport early: Start getting your animal used to the transport basket and the car early on to reduce the stress before the vet visit. It's best to practice this when your animal is still very young.
Let your pet get to know the transport box as a safe and pleasant place by associating it with positive experiences, such as: B. with snacks or toys. You can also put your usual cozy blanket inside so that the animal feels immediately familiar. It's best to always leave the box freely accessible in your home so that it represents something everyday.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Create a calm and relaxing atmosphere at home before heading to the vet. Avoid loud noises and activities that might upset your dog or cat, and give him or her time to relax before starting.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward your pet with treats or praise when it behaves calmly and cooperatively, whether while wearing the collar, getting into the car or entering the vet's office. Positive reinforcement helps create positive associations with the vet visit.
Calming Agents: For particularly anxious pets, calming agents such as pheromone sprays or natural herbal preparations can help calm nerves. Please always discuss the use of such products with your veterinarian.
Our functional snack for dogs also contributes to natural relaxation with chamomile, valerian and hemp seeds and can have a calming effect on your doggo's nerves.
Stay relaxed : Stay as relaxed as possible! If you are excited or nervous, you pass that on to your animal. He notices that something is wrong and reacts anxiously.
Especially with dogs, it makes sense to take a long walk before visiting the vet. This will keep your doggo busy before the appointment, relax and also give him the opportunity to do his business.
Reward after the vet visit
You made it! So that your animal quickly feels safe and comfortable again, reward it after a successful visit to the vet.
- Treats: After the vet visit, give your pet their favorite dog treat or favorite cat treat . This will associate the visit with something positive and your pet may find the experience less stressful.
- Playtime: Then spend some time playing with and paying attention to your cat or dog. This can help the animal relax and feel comfortable again after being stressed.
- Cuddle time: Give your pet extra cuddles and cuddle time after the vet visit. This gives him a feeling of safety and security.
- Relaxation: Create a calm and relaxing environment at home so that the dog or cat can rest and feel comfortable after the vet visit.
- Positive reinforcement: Praise your animal extensively. Positive reinforcement helps create positive associations with the vet visit and makes future visits more pleasant.
- Walk : You can take your dog for another walk after the walk so that he can calm down and reduce stress.
Snacks are great as a little reward before, during and after a visit to the vet. Check out our snacks for dogs and cats! They are made from freeze-dried fillet meat, are very nutritious and super tasty!
