How do I calm my pet's fear of visiting the vet?

A vet’s job is made extremely difficult if a pet is fearful or aggressive. In order to allow your pet to be examined in the most comfortable way possible, try some of these tricks to make it less of a trauma for your pet, the vet and you! See our 'Stressed Pets' leaflet for more information.

1. It is useful to make frequent visits to the veterinary hospital until your pet is comfortable in its surroundings.
2. Provide the staff there with treats to give to your pet.
3. Play with your pet on the area surrounding the practice. This should help your pet to feel more comfortable, and will allow you to gradually persuade your pet to enter the building, and then finally the examining room.
4. Pets are sometimes much better behaved when left with staff on their own - if you are anxious, your pet will sense it! Commands learnt during pet training sessions should also come in extremely useful.
5. Take something familiar along with you, such as the dog’s blanket or favourite toy.
6. Pets should be awarded treats for calm behaviour.