|
Fear Free Ideas for Cats
Use a soft-sided carrier as it can be more comfortable for your cat and can also double as a cat bed in your home. Carriers with a zipper on top are also beneficial for both loading and unloading. Before your next appointment, leave the carrier out as much as possible several weeks before so your cat gets used to it and doesn’t associate the carrier only with going to the vet. You may even want to consider making the carrier your cat’s permanent bed in your house, so that it is always out and not associated with going to the vet. If your cat likes treats or catnip, try putting those in the carrier before visits as well.
Spraying Feliway on a towel and putting that in the carrier can be very helpful as well. Feliway is a synthetic cat pheromone that helps to reduce stress and anxiety in our furry feline friends. Please be sure not to spray Feliway directly on your cat. Once you are at our clinic, you can use the white towels sprayed with Feliway located in our reception area. We recommend covering your cat’s carrier with the towels provided. It is also a good idea to cover your cat’s carrier on the car ride; the added security of being covered can help significantly with anxiety.
Prescription sedatives are also an option for most cats. Please speak with your veterinarian to see if this is an appropriate option for your cat.
|
|
Fear Free Ideas for Dogs
Consider withholding your dog’s favorite treat before your visit; that way, your dog will be much more likely to take treats at our office and have a good experience. If you have special treats that are particularly appealing to your dog, or your dog is on a limited-ingredient diet, feel free to bring these specific treats with you.
Acclimate your pet at home to wearing a basket muzzle or e-collar if these things have been helpful or needed during past visits.
Prescription sedatives are also an option for most dogs. Please speak with your veterinarian to see if this is an appropriate option for your dog.
For dogs who are afraid to come into the clinic at all, please practice coming into the lobby as much as you can to desensitize your dog. You are always welcome to go in and say hi; we would love to see you anytime!
Feel free to stay in your car if coming into the lobby and waiting makes your dog more anxious, or if your dog doesn’t get along with other dogs. Call us when you arrive, and we will call or text you when you can come directly into a room instead of waiting in the lobby.
|
Processing ....
