Stress
04/09/2013
I want to offer my sincere gratitude for all who responded to my client survey a few months ago. The results are in, and the most important reason that people choose housecalls for their pets is to reduce the stress their animals experience during a visit to the veterinarian. Not surprising is the second most common response that housecalls reduce the stress on pet owners as well :) Convenience and personal, un-rushed attention were also mentioned as valuable parts of my services. I very much appreciate the kind comments and suggestions that I received. I have to say, doing housecalls is less stressful on the veterinarian as well! I so enjoy seeing my patients and their families in their home without the distractions of others waiting that allows me to focus on one patient at a time.
There are times, however, when my patients need to take a trip into a standing veterinary clinic for care and I would like to offer some suggestions to make the best of those trips and to decrease stress for all involved.
For more tips on traveling with cats see veterinarypartners.com
I have some patients that would not see a veterinarian if I did not come to their home. Unfortunately this is true for many animals, especially cats. I often see animals nearing the end of life that have not had veterinary care due to this stress associated with veterinary visits. It is a bit of a “soapbox” for me that these animals should receive care, especially in their geriatric years. Often simple supportive treatments can make a huge difference in their lives. The veterinary world has begun to embrace a kindler gentler approach to these patients - the AAFP (American Association of Feline Practitioners) has instituted a “Cat Friendly Practice” certification for clinics. It is my hope that people will seek out veterinarians that take these animal needs into account so their pets can continue to have great veterinary care with a little less stress!
There are times, however, when my patients need to take a trip into a standing veterinary clinic for care and I would like to offer some suggestions to make the best of those trips and to decrease stress for all involved.
- Always, Always, Always control your animal - leashes for dogs, enclosed carriers for cats. I have seen too many animals become frightened at the veterinary clinic and escape from their owners. It’s just not worth the risk, and creates a more frightening experience for the animal. Cats feel more secure and are safer inside a carrier - no matter how much they complain!
- Give yourself plenty of time so you don’t feel rushed. Animals feel our anxieties and this can add to their own uncertainties about new situations.
- Use plenty of treats and praise for those who like that sort of thing.
- Practice ahead of time. Teach your dog to be comfortable on a leash and to ride in the car (use some sort of car restraint to keep dogs safe in the car as well!) Cats that are used to having a carrier out, with a cozy towel in it, are more likely to identify it as a great, safe hiding place and not something that only comes out when it’s time to go to the vet.
- Feliway spray can reduce anxiety in cats (it can also be great for anxiety in the home, housesoiling, and certain veterinary visits… I spray it on my towels that I use for exams)
For more tips on traveling with cats see veterinarypartners.com
I have some patients that would not see a veterinarian if I did not come to their home. Unfortunately this is true for many animals, especially cats. I often see animals nearing the end of life that have not had veterinary care due to this stress associated with veterinary visits. It is a bit of a “soapbox” for me that these animals should receive care, especially in their geriatric years. Often simple supportive treatments can make a huge difference in their lives. The veterinary world has begun to embrace a kindler gentler approach to these patients - the AAFP (American Association of Feline Practitioners) has instituted a “Cat Friendly Practice” certification for clinics. It is my hope that people will seek out veterinarians that take these animal needs into account so their pets can continue to have great veterinary care with a little less stress!