Although you can find a lot of information on the Internet or in your neighborhood, not all of it is appropriate and applicable to your dog Ti-Loup or your cat Fluffy.
The first visit
Their first meeting with their veterinarian will undoubtedly be for their first medical examinations, during their sensitive period of socialization. As the positive and negative experiences may have a huge impact on their future behavior (read our blog on the development of puppies), their veterinary visits should therefore be positive so that they can become cooperative patients, who will be able to receive good health care for years to come.
With you, his veterinarian will first ask about the history of Ti-Loup or Fluffy. Where they come from and why they are now in your family. What are your concerns? He can provide you via email or your Client Portal with valuable help in knowing how to integrate normal and desirable behaviors and above all, how to deal with undesirable behaviors (for example, nibbling, dirtying the house, destructive behavior, barking, scratching on furniture, …) . Remember, such behaviors usually do not resolve on their own and can often get worse if you attempt inappropriate techniques.
Stress-free experience
Veterinarians use several strategies to reduce stress for young patients during their medical visits. They advise not to feed Ti-Loup or Fluffy a few hours before their visit and to bring their favorite treats. They will therefore be more inclined to eat them during the exam visit, like my Pablo who loves dried liver treats during his exams.
Less anxious patients will explore the room and relax during the physical examination, while the more fearful will need special attention to ensure a positive experience.
Prefer regular visits and do not hesitate to expose your puppy or kitten to the services available at your veterinarian, such as daycare, cat tree or a walk in the store, in order to reduce their anxiety during their visits. Take the opportunity to discuss your fears and apprehensions, your veterinary team will be able to guide you from your first meeting.
