01/09/2026
💛 An anxious pet? A little preparation can make a big difference.
For some pets, even a familiar veterinary practice can feel overwhelming... particularly when they need to stay still for investigations such as an echocardiogram or ECG.
For patients we know are likely to be particularly anxious, pre-appointment medication may be recommended to help them feel calmer and more comfortable before they even arrive.
Two medications commonly used for this purpose are trazodone and gabapentin.
💊 Why might we use them?
These medications can help reduce anxiety, fear and stress, making the experience more comfortable for your pet and allowing Luke and Kitt to perform the necessary cardiac investigations as calmly and gently as possible.
Reducing anxiety can also be particularly helpful during a cardiac assessment, where stress and excitement can influence heart rate and other measurements.
Importantly, this isn’t a one size fits all approach.
🫀 Every patient is assessed individually before their appointment. Where pre-appointment medication is being considered, this will be discussed with your general practice veterinary surgeon to ensure that the protocol is appropriate and safe for your individual pet.
For many patients, no additional medication is required at all. For others, a carefully planned dose of anti-anxiety medication before their visit can make an enormous difference to their experience.
Our priority isn’t simply getting the investigations done... it’s making sure we do them in the kindest, calmest and safest way possible for the patient in front of us. 🐾
If you know your pet finds veterinary visits particularly stressful, please let your veterinary team know ahead of their cardiology appointment.
📩 Interested in offering on-site cardiology at your practice?
🌐 www.duttonreferrals.co.uk
📧 [email protected]
📞 07356 009 313
