Pets are often anxious or fearful during their veterinary visits. The unfamiliar sights and smells, as well as the potential discomfort of being handled, can be unnerving for cats and dogs. However, veterinary exams and procedures are necessary to keep your furry friend in excellent health. Our Midtown Veterinary Hospital team can help you relieve your pet’s anxiety with our tips for a stress-free veterinary visit. 

1:  Familiarize your pet with the clinic and staff

Help your pet feel more comfortable at Midtown Veterinary Hospital by visiting the facility for brief, positive interactions before scheduled appointments. Allow your pet to explore the waiting area, have contact with staff members, and receive treats or praise to create positive associations with the environment. 

2: Practice handling your pet at home

Many pets are fearful of their exams because they aren’t used to being handled. Get your pet accustomed to being touched, particularly in sensitive areas such as the ears, mouth, stomach, and paws. Incorporate regular grooming sessions and gentle massages into your pet’s routine to desensitize them to touch and help make veterinary examinations less intimidating.

3: Make your pet’s carrier a cozy hideaway

Pets often associate their crate or carrier with a trip to the vet since that’s often the only time carriers are used. To dispel that association, try making the carrier a comfortable “den” for your furry pal by:

  • Feeding your pet their meals inside the carrier or crate.
  • Adding a comfortable blanket and toys inside.
  • Giving your pet a treat when they explore their carrier. 
  • Spraying the carrier with relaxing pheromones.
  • Using the carrier to take your pet to parks and other enjoyable places. 

4: Use calming techniques to relax your pet

Consider using pheromone diffusers, calming sprays, or soothing music to create a relaxing atmosphere for your pet on the way to and during veterinary visits. Additionally, consider bringing along familiar items from home, such as a favorite toy or blanket, to provide your pet with a sense of comfort and security.

5: Strategically schedule veterinary appointments

Choose appointment times when the clinic is likely to be less crowded to reduce your pet’s exposure to other pets and potential stressors. Our Midtown Veterinary Hospital team can accommodate you and your furry pal. Speak to us beforehand and let us know if your pet reacts to the presence of other cats and dogs. We can quickly get them into an exam room to minimize their fears and maintain a peaceful environment. 

6: Remain calm and reassure your pet

Pets have an uncanny knack for sensing their owners’ emotional state. When you are stressed, your pet is stressed. To help alleviate your pet’s fears, remain calm and relaxed during veterinary visits, offering verbal praise, gentle petting, and reassurance to let your pet know there’s nothing to be afraid of.

7: Reward your pet’s positive behavior

Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your pet when they cooperate. Encourage and reward your pet with a favorite treat and praise for being calm and well-behaved during their exam. Reinforcing their good behavior and cooperation can encourage your pet to learn to enjoy their veterinary visits and the attention they receive. 

While visiting the veterinary clinic may not be on your pet’s top 10 list of desired activities, implementing these tips can help alleviate their stress and anxiety. Remember to talk with our Midtown Veterinary Hospital team about any concerns or specific needs your pet may have. We can work together to create a positive and comfortable experience for your furry companion. Call us to schedule an appointment.

We look forward to seeing you and your pet!