30/05/2026
🚑 Vet Visits🚑
We've had quite the time recently with Dax needing unplanned surgery - don't worry he has a fantastic vet team and is making a good recovery 🤗
However, this got me to thinking, as if the circumstances weren't stressful enough for Dax and I, going to the vet ramps this up significantly - and this is the same for many doggos. But a necessary evil 🫤
Think about it
🐾already in pain / slightly stressed
🐾the vet waiting room
🐾dax is dog selective before being unwell & seeing other stressed doggos
🐾strange people are handling him
🐾nil by mouth / hungry (always!)
🐾more stress under the influence of sedation / GA
🐾comes around in strange environment
This is why I bang on about husbandry/handling skills with your dog , but occasions like this is why they are so important!
So what did husbandry and advocacy do to help Dax in this situation
🐾we waited calmly in the car - no waiting room
🐾he is muzzle trained and comfortable wearing it
🐾the vet and vet nurse gave him a minute to adjust before starting the exam
🐾they allowed me to hold him while he was injected (because I asked nicely)
🐾We all waited patiently with Dax until the sedative took affect so he was as calm as could be
🐾the vet nurse took familiar items and food for him and knew what would help calm him when he came round
🐾I've practiced pretend - ear drops, injections, claw clips, tummy squeezes, lip lifts for years with Dax.
🐾I ask the vet and nurse to do these things in certain ways if it makes Dax more comfortable - including examination on the floor not the table.
Result, he was a star for the vet team and in return they gave me back a pitiful but healthy doggo, who won't be scared to go back 👍
Moral of the long story - training isn't just about the fancy moves, the sports/skills or even the recall. It's about keeping your dog happy, safe and comfortable for when the less nice stuff happens.
