Any dog owner in Ft. Meade knows that vet visits can be a very stressful experience for their canine companions. Just like humans, dogs can experience anxiety, stress and even panic when it’s time for a visit to the doctor, and comforting words do little to help. Luckily, there are some proven ways to keep your dog calmer when it’s time to visit the Veterinarian in Ft. Meade. If your pooch is prone to bad behavior at the vet’s office, keep reading for some effective ways to keep him stress-free and more well-behaved.
Get Some Exercise
Studies have shown that exercise is a powerful way to ease stress and anxiety for both humans and their pets. Also, a tired dog is far less likely to misbehave at the vet’s office. To calm your pooch, try to engage him in some vigorous exercise about an hour or so before your scheduled appointment. A fast-paced game of fetch or a long walk will help get your dog in a calmer state of mind for an upcoming vet visit.
Develop Positive Associations
If you link a visit to the vet with a special treat or reward, your dog may come to look forward to check-ups instead of dreading them. For most dogs, the fastest way to develop this positive association is with food. Reward your pooch with treats before, during and after a visit to the vet. You can also try taking your dog to his favorite dog park or other special-occasion location immediately following a trip to the Veterinarian in Ft. Meade.
Try Soothing Music
Recent studies have shown that certain types of music instantly calm the canine mind, most notably classical music like Beethoven and Mozart, according to a recent article published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior. According to research, these soothing tunes work even better than popular pet music compilations specially designed to reduce stress in dogs. When you’re on the way to the vet, try playing some classical music to get your pup in the right frame of mind.
Veterinary visits can be a stressful time for both dogs and their owners. If your dog has vet-related anxieties, keep the tips above in mind and be sure you’re visiting a vet that has a gentle, patient attitude when it comes to treating animals. In the Ft. Meade area, visit Gambrill’s Veterinary Center or visit the website to learn more about scheduling a stress-free vet appointment.