Taking Dogs to the Vets

When a dog is taken to the vets for the first time, we have no idea how the dog will react.

Many dogs have a negative association with veterinary practices as they are usually not associated with anything pleasant - only stress and unpleasant situations.

The dog may never have been to the vets before and may be very nervous.

The Dog Handler’s Role

The dog handler’s role when taking the dog to the vets is to protect the vet.

The vet will normally have to examine the dog to give it a very thorough health check. This involves having to have their face very very close to the dog, especially when using a stethoscope to listen to their heart.

The dog always has to be restrained well.

You need to make sure you have complete control of their head when the vet is examining them and vaccinating them.

Always be ready in case the dog panics and reacts.

If the dog is wearing a collar, tuck your fingers underneath it so you have complete control.

If it isn’t wearing a collar, you can use your lead to wrap around its neck to hold on to.

Try to be relaxed so as not to create any unnecessary tension. Keep it as light, fun and relaxed as possible - we want the dog to have a pleasant and positive experience at the vets.

General Warnings