Going to the Vet: How to Keep Your Dog Calm

Some dogs are anxious at the vet’s because of all the unfamiliar people and animals, especially dogs. Many dogs feel more anxious and defensive when they are on a lead. If you go at the quietest time of day, both of you can feel more relaxed. Ask the clinic if they have specific accommodations for anxious dogs, such as a separate room where you can wait.

• Your dog may be really relaxed in the car, but lots of dogs aren’t. Keeping travel time to a minimum is ideal. If you can find a clinic that is both a reasonable distance away and a place where your dog feels comfortable, that’s a great start.
• If possible, go for a nice walk before your appointment, so your dog is happy and not hyped up. Don’t exhaust them – your vet may want to take a resting heart rate. Of course, if your dog is ill or lame, a walk beforehand may not be possible.
• Arrive early if you can to give your dog time to settle down and get used to the sights and smells of the clinic.

Taking a favourite blanket or toys may make your dog feel more comfortable at the clinic. Always reward your dog either with praise or a nice treat when they are settled and calm and after they have been examined. Ask your vet if you can give treats during the exam. This is often possible. Don’t force it. If your dog is very anxious, they may not want to eat.

Dogs show many subtle signs of stress that can be easily overlooked. Watch for signs such as:

• Panting
• Yawning
• Avoiding eye contact
• Lip licking
• Avoidance/hiding
• Cowering
• Paw lifting

It’s important to offer reassurance but avoid rewarding anxious behaviour. Don’t let people in the waiting room pet or approach your dog if they are nervous or hiding under the chair, as this will just cause more fear.

Dogs that are anxious at the vet’s are the most likely to be aggressive due to fear and lack of control. It’s in everyone’s best interest to be open and honest about this, so discuss with your vet how they can adapt their handling to keep your dog as calm as possible. If your dog is very anxious, ask if there are medications you can give before the visit to help your dog feel more relaxed.

Please don’t be angry if your vet feels it necessary to muzzle your dog. This is for everyone’s protection. Lots of owners, as well as vets, get bitten by frightened dogs.

After your visit, go for another nice walk if possible, even if it’s only short. This will help to form a positive association with the visit.

Desensitisation to being handled

As mentioned previously, the more often you can go to your vet when nothing is going to happen, the more likely it is that you can desensitise your dog to their negative experiences. If you can get your dog used to the type of handling they might experience at the vet, such as looking in their mouth and ears and being gently touched all over, it can really help. Doing this at home with rewards for good behaviour can make a world of difference when you get to the clinic.

If vet visits are a nightmare for you and your dog, seek specialist behavioural advice from someone that your vet recommends. You can also ask your vet if home visits are an option. For some dogs, this can help a lot. Be prepared, though that this may be significantly more expensive due to the time and travel involved on the vet’s side.

Visits to the vet are a cause of stress for many pet parents as well as their dogs, but this doesn't need to be the case. Desensitisation methods can make a big difference. Avoiding vet visits until they are absolutely necessary may seem wise for an anxious dog, but going as often as possible is the way forward. Speak to your vet about your concerns and see what they can do to accommodate your dog’s needs. And remember, stay relaxed, calm and happy yourself, so your dog’s stress isn’t exacerbated by yours.

How often should I bring my dog to the vet?

All adult dogs should be examined at least once a year, and more frequently as they age. However, it’s a good idea to take your dog to the vet frequently just to be weighed or have a treat and some praise. The more times your dog goes to the vet’s without anything bad happening, the more relaxed they will be when they need to go.

How can I calm my dog for a vet visit?

1. Keep travel times to a minimum
2. Book ahead and ask when the quietest times are
3. Go for a nice walk beforehand if possible
4. Arrive early to give your dog time to settle 
5. Take familiar items like toys and blankets
6. If your dog is very anxious, ask your vet about medications that may help

Can I sedate my dog for a vet visit?

If your dog is severely anxious at the vet’s or is aggressive, ask your vet about sedation. This isn’t always possible, depending on the reason for your visit, as sedation may affect a physical exam. Ask your vet about the possibility of home visits, as your dog may be more relaxed in this setting.

How can I help my dog be less stressed at the vet’s?

1. Pop in to your clinic regularly for no reason and reward your dog with praise and treats.
2. Gradually get your dog used to the type of handling they might receive at the vet’s. Look in their ears and mouth a couple of times a week. Get them used to being gently stroked all over. Always do this when they are relaxed and happy. Always reward them if they stay calm and relaxed. Never force it.

Reviewed by Becky Mullis, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition), and Dr Emma Milne BVSc DipECAWBM(Hon) FRCVS.