Obedience

A Little Obedience Goes A Long Way at a Vet Clinic Visit

Many pets can have a pleasant visit to the vet’s office with a few basic obedience skills. Teaching your pet to ‘sit’ or ‘settle’ is wonderful because the vet will need your pet to sit still to be examined. Many pets panic when they have to hold still in a new environment and will panic if they have not been taught this skill prior to the visit. In addition, the vet will need to look in your pet’s ears and mouth. Gently holding up the ear flaps and handling the face and muzzle at home will make your pet more comfortable with these manipulations in the vet’s office. Furthermore, picking up your pet’s feet and have your pet allow you to hold the paw stationary are all things you can work on at home, and will create less stress for your pet. If as you try any of these basic handling skills your pet is resistant or agressive, do not put yourself in harm’s way. A trip to the vet may be warranted to rule out a sore paw or ear, or a trip to the behaviorist may be warranted to show you the best way to safely handle your dog. As always, we always recommend early intervention, and believe there is no time too early to start your pet on the road to good behavior. Many Humane Society’s offer obedience classes. Private trainers are also available for group or private lessons. Good obedience may also save you money in the long run as there may be less need for chemical restraints.

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