Four Legged Scholars LLC – Obedience Training – Garrettsville
Do you feel fear when you take your dog to the vet because your dog doesn’t like the vet? You are not alone in this struggle. Let’s help you now.
Currently, we are working with a cute Black Labrador, Bella on obedience training. Garrettsville is where she lives. Bella also has fear issues with new people. Her owner wants her to be able to go to the vet and not feel so scared.
I thought it would be helpful to write this post to help those in a similar position.
1.) Many of us just take our dog to the vet when a procedure needs to be done. I recommend that you take your dog to the vet just for obedience training. Garrettsville has two vet clinics.
Talk to the technicians or your veterinarian about training at the clinic. Basically, you take your dog to the vet and have no procedures done. Just do fun things at the clinic. If you dog likes to play you can play ball.
You can train your dog to perform commands or tricks because this fun. If neither of those options will work then just give your dog tons of treats for going into the clinic and for staying inside the clinic. You are building a positive association with the vet clinic.
2.) Teach your vet about interacting with your dog in a calm manner. Calming signals work best when interacting with a fearful dog.
This means that the people interacting with your dog avoid direct eye contact. Movements are slow. They wait for your dog to approach them rather than approaching your dog.
Their voice is calm and quiet. They should avoid petting your dog or handing your dog treats, instead have them drop treats on the ground. Sitting is the best position for being calming. If your vet is will to sit this is best.
3.) Some dogs may do best if he is not put on a table but instead is left on the floor to do the procedures. See if your vet is willing.
4.) Bring your dog’s bed or toys that he likes. We want your dog to be comfortable.
5.) Remember fast isn’t always best. Your dog will feel better if things are done slowly and positively. Pair each fearful procedure with tons of yummy treats.
Come when your vet isn’t busy. Don’t schedule your appointment at the busiest time of day. Being the first or last dog might be best.
6.) Special treats can make a huge difference. Use these at the vet. Things like chicken, turkey, cheese, etc.
7.) Consider using Ttouch. This is a great massage that can calm many dogs. It doesn’t take any obedience training. Garrettsville dog owners will benefit from knowing this because it is simple and it works.
8. ) Hire a professional to help with behavioral or obedience training. Garrettsville has Four Legged Scholars LLC.
9.) If you need to use a muzzle, train your dog to get use to it first so that it is positive experience.
I recommend using a baskerville muzzle because you can still give your dog treats while he is wearing it. The cloth muzzles at the vet are hard to feed your dog treats.
Johanna Teresi, Garrettsville Obedience Dog Trainer, Four Legged Scholars LLC, Obedience Training, Garrettsville
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