Many dogs experience a significant amount of anxiety with veterinary visits and exposure to other people and animals. Signs of fear can include excessive drooling, cowering, growling, and aggressive behavior. Fear-induced aggression is dangerous for both your dog and for the people handling your dog.
We can create a safe, more pleasant visit to the hospital by starting at home:
- Early socialization and fun trips can make a huge difference in how dogs see the world later in life. You can work on positive experiences outside of the house. If your dog is particularly fearful or aggressive, make sure to work with a dog behaviorist or trainer focused on positive reinforcement.
- Make sure your dog is traveling in a car that is set at a comfortable temperature with no loud music. If you must secure your dog in a crate or carrier, please make certain that the crate or carrier won’t be able to tip or slide around in the car.
- If your dog does show signs of fear-induced aggression around strangers or veterinary staff, purchase a well-fitted basket muzzle. Basket muzzles do not restrict the movement of a dog’s mouth, i.e. they are still able to drink and pant with the muzzle on. Basket muzzles are also more comfortable and less restrictive than cloth muzzles. Please practice placing the muzzle several times on your dog before coming into the veterinary hospital. You can train your dog to accept the muzzle with treats and other positive reinforcement at home.
- If you still feel like your dog may need more help with a positive experience at the hospital, your veterinarian may recommend sedation and/or anti-anxiety medications. Sedation and/or anti-anxiety medications are a safe option for dogs that are in need of necessary vet visits.
The following anti-anxiety medications prescribed by your veterinarian commonly used for the canine “chill” protocol:
Gabapentin: Minimizes the stress your pet experiences, decreases the amount of anesthesia needed for a safer surgery, and provides some pain management.
Melatonin: A naturally-occurring hormone with calming effects. You can buy the recommended melatonin dose through your local grocery store or online on Amazon.
Acepromazine: A sedative which may also improve the function of the other medications your pet is receiving (calming and anesthetic drugs).
The canine “chill” protocol is effective for about 4-6 hours and the timing of the medication administration is crucial. Your veterinarian will direct you on when and what medications to give prior to your dog’s veterinary visit.
These medications will likely make your dog groggy and sedated. Don’t let them stumble down the stairs or jump in and out of the car while medicated as they could hurt themselves. Your dog’s pupils may be dilated, and they may drool.
We look forward to a calm, stress-free visit with your dog!