One of the questions that Robin and I always ask our clients is “Who is your dog’s Vet?” We do this because, as dog owners ourselves, we understand the importance of having a professional involved in the health of our dogs.  Over the years, our Veterinarian has done wonders to help increase the life of our dogs and make their quality of life the best that it can be.  Although we all can agree that getting our dog a regular checkup is only a good thing, many dog owners don’t take their dog to the vet as often as they should.  One reason for this could be the cost.  Another reason that dog owners don’t take their dog to the Vet is because their dog is scared of the Vet and it just is too hard to get them in there.  Robin and I are now starting a two part blog series to help dog owners get their dog safely to the Vet. 

In a two part series, I would first like to address what you should do to successfully enter the Vet Office Reception Area:

  • If you normally feed your dog before you would go to the Vet office, feed him at least an hour before your visit. Since this can be a very nervous time for your dog, you want to minimize “mistakes” in the waiting room or (even worse) the examination room.
  • Make sure you have a good collar and strong leash. Make sure the collar is tight enough so that it can’t slip over his ears if he starts one of those “wiggle dances”. You don’t want your dog to get away from you.
  • On the drive to the Vet’s office, be sure that you have your dog secure with a seat belt devise so that he won’t become airborne if you have to quickly apply your breaks.
  • As you walk up to the waiting room, open the door and look in to see the dogs and owners currently waiting. If the waiting room is filled with dogs and people, you should tell the receptionist that you are there and that you will wait outside until the waiting room isn’t quite so hectic.
  • Once you are inside, always keep your dog next to you. Don’t let him “wander” on a loose leash to sniff and bark at other dogs. This type of action from your dog could lead to nipping or a dog fight.
  • Try to take a seat where you can see the door to evaluate new dogs and owners coming into the office. Don’t sit in a corner where you might be “trapped” if an aggressive dog approaches.
  • Keep your dog’s focus on you. You are the leader and you will be the one keeping him safe.
  • If you see an owner who is “out of control” with their dog, discretely ask one of the Vet Techs to assist them. There is probably an Office Policy that already outlines this.
  • When it is your turn to go to the examination room, walk your dog next to you in a calm, yet assertive manner.
  • Last thing… If your dog is fearful or shows signs of aggression while at the Vet’s Office, you might ask that when you come to the office, you enter by a side door. This will eliminate the possibility of direct confrontation with other dogs and will allow the Vet Tech to have far better control of the situation.

Please call Robin or me at (770) 718-7704 if you need any dog training help.  We are blessed to have been your local dog training experts for over fourteen years.  We have trained over 5,000 great dogs and loving families and are ready to help you.