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Vet EtiquetteJackie Drakeford |
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When you take
your dog to the vet there is an etiquette for making the experience go as
smoothly as possible. Before you leave walk your dog so that it empties
out before you go. It is important that your dog is used to being handled.
This should be trained in from the start. In the unthreatening
environment of home, accustom your dog to being held gently by the scruff
as well as the collar, rewarding it each time you do so and releasing immediately
before attempting longer spells of restraint. I once had a rescue dog
which was so terrified by having her collar touched that she would collapse
and lose control of her bladder. The reason was that the hand on the
collar had always been followed by a violent action.
While your vet is working on your dog, restrain the biting end and, if you have to let go, warn the vet before damage is done. It is far better to remain on good terms with both the dog and the vet by training it ot be calm when held.
The waiting room can be a stressful place for animals and their owners alike so it is important to be polite and remain calm. Keep the dog by your side on a short lead while you check in and do not let it lunge at other patients or "minesweep" from side to side. Sit so the dog is away from other animals, or if the room is crowded, put the dog between your knees where it will feel protected and cannot harass other pets. If the dog prefers being on your lap and you don't mind, this is fine as long as it doesn't intrude on others' space.
While your vet is working on your dog, restrain the biting end and, if you have to let go, warn the vet before damage is done. It is far better to remain on good terms with both the dog and the vet by training it ot be calm when held.
The waiting room can be a stressful place for animals and their owners alike so it is important to be polite and remain calm. Keep the dog by your side on a short lead while you check in and do not let it lunge at other patients or "minesweep" from side to side. Sit so the dog is away from other animals, or if the room is crowded, put the dog between your knees where it will feel protected and cannot harass other pets. If the dog prefers being on your lap and you don't mind, this is fine as long as it doesn't intrude on others' space.
reprinted with kind permission from Alastair Balmain
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times & Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times & Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750