Visit the vet just for fun
If you only take your dog to the vet to be poked and prodded, they will associate it with something bad. If you plan fun visits to the vet, meanwhile, your dog won’t be as stressed out the next time they have a check-up. Check with your veterinarian to see when a good time would be to visit, and then while you’re there, let your dog socialize with the staff. Be sure to give them treats as well to further encourage good behavior.
Play with them or walk them in the hours before the appointment
Even if you have gotten your dog used to the vet office, they may have some nervous energy whenever they go for a check-up. To keep them calm, burn off some of that energy by playing with them or taking them for a walk in the hours leading up to the appointment.
Get them used to being handled
Many dogs don’t like being man-handled by the vet. However, this is often necessary to see how healthy they are. To get them used to it, ask your veterinarian to teach you how to perform your own version of a vet exam at home. If your dog accepts you handling them, they will be more patient with the vet.
Keep yourself calm
Finally, to keep your dog calm, you should keep yourself calm as well. Dogs are very intuitive about our emotions, and if they sense your anxiety, they’ll become anxious as well. Show your dog that there is nothing to be afraid of by remaining calm and upbeat throughout the visit.
Here at Bulldog Angels, we want all of our beloved English bulldogs to remain happy and healthy throughout their entire lives. To learn more about how to care for English bulldogs, or to adopt an English bulldog puppy, contact us today!
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