Krissy and I both spent years in school to become veterinarians because we love the animals we work with (and their people too). We've created a clinic atmosphere to minimize the fear and our clients have really responded to that. Some of our patients however don't care that the surroundings are comfortable or that we have pockets full of cookies. Some become blinded by fear and think only "Oh no! It's the VET!!" They tense up, hide behind their human companions, pant, shake and cower. One particularly wonderful patient that both Krissy and I worked with was a large male Pit Bull that looked incredibly imposing until you approached him to examine him. I actually had his 95 lb body leap over my shoulder once to get away - he reminded me of the cartoons of the elephant with the mouse! Dogs become fearful of the vet from scary or painful experiences. They can even be mild. A vaccine poke that was unexpected can become a source of anxiety later.
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Do I really need to come out?
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Veterinarians are not a mean bunch but our patients can lump us into that catagory pretty easily (much like some of us view dentists from childhood experiences). We are sad when patients are afraid and we do have our share of success stories - usually involving tons of food and gentle human companions or sometimes kind sedation. There are still some that no matter what hate our guts. They are afraid. They won't be touched, they will bark, growl, snap and do everything possible to prevent the hands (and sometimes needles) of the vet from touching them. This makes a full physical exam and annual wellness care difficult. Early conditions that can be found through these means are not detected and the entire experience is stressful for everyone.
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How do they know?
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Thankfully Dr. Valli from Synergy Behavior Solutions is offering affordable classes to help Fido work through their fear of the vet in GET SET FOR THE VET. Sign up quick! The first class is this Saturday the 29th and the second in the series is scheduled for February 26th. Get more information on Synergy Behavior Solutions and their classes here. Many of you know Valli from her puppy classes and from her doing relief work at our clinic. You will love her fun style and her incredible knowledge as a trainer and veterinarian. She's had her share of patients viewing her as the "bad guy" and will provide practical exercises to help you and your dog.
Do you have any stories to share about how your pet feels about going to the vet?