As a vet team, we love seeing all your pets and love to see them happy and relaxed when they come to the clinic.
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Unfortunately, your pet may not feel the same way about seeing us.
A trip to the vet clinic is often an anxious experience for many pets.
Thankfully a lot of vets have a fear-free approach which means they work with you and your pet in a way that reduces the stress and anxiety of the clinic, making the experience a much more positive one for everyone.
But there are other steps you can take to help reduce the fear of a vet consult.
A trip to the vet clinic is often an anxious experience for many pets.
Regular visits to your clinic with your pet, even if it's just for a quick hello and sniff around the front desk in the case of dogs, will get them used to the smell of the clinic and also staff voices.
You can put them on the scales and get regular weight checks, so they won't just associate the vet with poking, prodding and getting needles.
Treats are another great way to make your pet feel happier.
Clinics usually have treats for your pet in their consult rooms, but some pets have specific dietary requirements, or can be fussy, or some may not want to eat an unfamiliar treat.
By bringing a few of your pet's favourite treats with you, you can help them feel more at home.
In addition, regularly touch your pet's feet, ears and around their mouth at home.
These are things that the vet may have to do to check your pet over and if they are already used to this then there is less stress during the consult.
Most importantly, remember to stay calm yourself.
Your pet picks up on your mood and will be more nervous if you are too.
If you have a pet that is particularly nervous about vet visits, it's a good idea to have a chat with your vet about other options that may help.