How to Take a Nervous Dog to the Vet

It's difficult to take a nervous dog to the vet. It's amazing that somehow they just "know" where they are going. Try a few suggestions to help ease the nerves of your dog when it's time to visit the vet.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Take your dog on rides in the car more often. They will learn that it can be fun to ride in the car and that a trip in the car doesn't always mean a trip to the vet.
2. Talk to your dog in soothing tones. When your dog gets nervous, it only makes the situation worse by yelling and screaming at the dog. The dog notices your tone, so when you present a calm soothing tone of voice, this will help reassure your dog.
3. Move at a normal pace taking the dog in and out of the car at the vet's office. Running around too fast or jumping in and out of the car too quickly may make your dog nervous as they are in an unfamiliar location.
4. Give your dog an opportunity to walk around outside the vet's office to "do its business" and generally check out where he is before you walk in the building. This may mean leaving your house a few minutes earlier, but will really help your dog to feel more eased and may keep you from having to deal with a mess when you go inside.
5. Put a large towel or small blanket around your dog to carry her into the vet's office. Many dogs that get nervous begin to claw or climb up in your arms. The blanket around the dog makes her feel more secure and safe. In addition, it may protect your arms and legs from getting scratch marks.
6. Hold the dog in your lap if he is small enough while you wait to go in to the exam room. Gently stroke and pet your dog, talking softly to him on and off to reassure your dog that you are there and he is ok. If your dog is large, sit on the edge of the seat to be near your dog and stroke and pet your dog while you talk softly to her.