05/26/2026
Ever have a disappointing outcome at a vet appointment? 💔
My 11-year-old foster dog was finally getting in for a dental procedure to investigate—and hopefully address—some mouth irritation she has been dealing with.
Because we were using a vet fund program, she needed to see a different clinic instead of her usual fear-free vet. We had completed the consult and planned everything in advance.
We prepared. A lot.
Every day, we practiced cooperative care to improve her comfort with handling and receiving injections—without restraint whenever possible—to minimize stress and increase safety for everyone.
We practiced happy visits so she could feel comfortable in the building, with the smells, and with staff.
We got up early for an adventure walk to meet her social, mental, and physical needs and help set the tone for a good day.
We arrived early. Walked the grounds. Took our time. She slowly made her way inside, relaxed and ready to greet everyone.
Then came the news…
The sedation injection we had carefully prepared for was not going to be given behind the neck like before. This time, it needed to go into the muscle of her rear leg. 😱
My girl was not so sure about that.
It wasn’t what we had prepared for.
But because of all the work we had done, she was willing to try.
Until she felt the needle in her muscle.
After a few attempts, we stopped. It wasn’t worth the trauma to her—or the risk to the veterinary team.
You see, once upon a time, a shelter vet pinned her to the ground for a single vaccination. She has never forgotten that experience.
This is what trauma can look like.
The phrase, “My client feels this is non-negotiable,” often comes from me when advocating for her. 💞
So, we regrouped.
The vet rebuilt trust with her before we left so the appointment could still end on a positive note.
Now we all have homework for when we reschedule:
✨ More cooperative care
✨ More preparation
✨ More opportunities for growth
Sometimes progress doesn’t look like getting the procedure done.
Sometimes progress looks like protecting trust, honoring emotions, and trying again another day. 💜
Cooperative care is teaching an animal to willingly participate in handling, grooming, and medical care through trust, choice, and positive reinforcement, reducing fear and stress for everyone involved.
