06/07/2026
Let’s face it, vet visits can be scary for our pets if they haven’t been appropriately conditioned to the environment and body handling techniques required for their safety and the safety of the vet staff.
While I am beyond grateful to work in the field of veterinary medicine and have the knowledge to prepare my dogs for these types of situations, it is often a key piece of training that most people forget. Gunner has a genetic heart condition called Pulmonic Stenosis. He has already had a successful procedure to reduce the pressure gradient in his pulmonic value but he will still require lifelong monitoring and perhaps future re-intervention. Long story short? He needs more frequent vet visits and routine Echocardiograms to ensure he has every opportunity for a long, happy, and healthy life.
So how do we prepare?
➡️ Happy visits to the vet hospital for weight checks, saying hi to staff, and getting lots of positive reinforcement for calm behavior
➡️ Desensitization to common body handling and restraint techniques utilized by veterinary staff
➡️ Desensitization to veterinary equipment such as stethoscopes and ultrasound probes
➡️ Training functional behaviors such as a chin rest, hand target, magnet hand, and laying on his side for prolonged periods for less stressful handling
➡️ Working along side vet staff to ensure they can safely do their job while still advocating for my dog - work WITH them NOT AGAINST THEM
➡️ Mild oral sedatives the night before and morning of a big visit to further reduce stress
➡️ Muzzle conditioning for staff safety and comfort in the event it is needed
A little preparation, understanding, and communication can go a long way in making your dogs vet visits less stressful for you, your dog, and the vet staff!
This video was taken at Gunner’s most recent cardiology appointment and I am happy to announce that his heart is looking great! ❤️
