Reducing your dog's stress in the clinic

Some dogs are very calm and happy to see hospital staff while others find the experience a bit less enjoyable. The first step is knowing how to recognize the signs of stress in our canine companions:

- Gasps. Owners will often mistakenly think that their dog is hot or thirsty when he arrives at the clinic when in reality, he is showing stress.
- Licking the chops
- Yawns
- Moans and vocalizations
- Tremors
- Excessive hair loss
- Piloerection (bristly hairs on the back)
- Dilated pupils
- Whale eyes or half-moon eyes (when you can see the whites of your eyes)
- Avoidance behaviors (look the other way, try to flee, smell on the ground)
- Ears facing backwards
- Low tail
- Inappropriate disposals (urine, stools)
- Growls, showing teeth and aggressive behaviors

Some signals are much more subtle than others, so it's essential to carefully observe your dog and body language. Here are some tips that can make the experience more enjoyable for you and your dog.

Use the leash

The leash is essential to keep your dog, other animals, and customers safe. It allows you to keep your animal close to you at all times. Even if you know your dog well, he can have an unpredictable reaction when under stress or when he meets another animal. Prevention is better than cure!

Also, in the waiting room, it is recommended to keep your distance from other dogs and cats (even if they are in carriers) to limit the stress of the latter.

If your animal is used to pulling on its leash, it is possible to use a halter (Gentle Leader©) for better control.

Make the experience enjoyable through positive reinforcement.

Your dog can't resist some treats or a canned meal. Take the opportunity to give it to him during the consultation so that he can associate the visit with a pleasant experience. If he is not the very greedy type, you can entertain him with his favorite toys.

Do you go for a walk and pass by the Hospital? Do not hesitate to enter the establishment with your companion even if you do not have an appointment. You can take the opportunity to weigh him and give him treats. These visits will eventually allow your dog to associate the Hospital with a positive event.

Extend your energy before the appointment.

Sometimes, simply going for a run or playing ball before the appointment will lower your pet's energy level and make them more relaxed during their visit to the Veterinary Hospital.

Use pheromones and natural products.

Synthetic pheromones (Adaptil©) reproduce reassuring messages that give dogs a feeling of calm and serenity.

- Spray a few jets of Adaptil© in a spray bottle on a blanket or in the car. Wait at least 15 minutes for the alcohol smell to go away before letting your dog in.

- You can also use the Adaptil© necklace for a longer lasting action.

Other natural products available over the counter (Zylkene© Biocalm©) can also have a soothing effect on your animal. They are safe and have no side effects. Discuss this with members of our veterinary team before your next visit.

Maintain a good attitude.

Your dog can sense your stress level. Maintaining a positive attitude can help limit your pet's anxiety!

Talk to our team members.

Communicating with our team is very important to ensure that the clinic experience is going well. If your dog is reactive to certain factors (other animals, men/women, children, etc.), it is imperative to mention it to us, so we can adapt to limit the stress of your companion.

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