We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring two beautiful K9’s, Bea a
Shiatsu/Poodle Mix and Alvin an American Bully/Chihuahua Mix.
These are my loves!!! Bea is calm and affectionate. We have had Bea since she was 3 months old and this month, she turns 2 years old.
Alvin is the youngest member of the family; he turned 6 months old on February 1st. He is extremely protective, playful, and his favourite pastime is finding tree branches.
Both dogs have started training with Paul and are in the first class. I was super happy with the results, especially in relation to Alvin, as he is the most energetic. We are super happy with the training.
Welcome to Doggie Dialogue
We all know going to the vet with your K9 for their annual wellness visit can be stressful for not only you, but your K9 as well. This type of stress can negatively affect some K9’s and create psychological trauma.
The two biggest challenges that most vets face is when they need to touch your K9’s feet and ears. Most K9’s do not approve of these body parts being manipulated.
To help prepare for the vet visit, practice at home, to have your K9 give you his/her paw, then reward him/her with a high value treat. Creating a positive association can greatly reduce the fear associated with nail trims.
For anxious K9’s we recommend booking the earliest time slot, therefore the waiting room will not be overcrowded and loud.
Remember your K9 will feed off your emotions. If you are nervous, they will become anxious, and sense something is wrong. We recommend speaking softly, (no baby talk) stay calm, and no excessive petting. Your K9 will pick up on your calming cues and will begin to relax.
Some of our clients have taken their K9 to the vet a little hungry and then they bring their K9’s favourite treat therefore the veterinary team are able to provide a tasty distraction.
If your K9’s anxiety is bad and your K9 is just so fearful then your vet may recommend an anti-anxiety medication.
Speak to your vet about other options such as a mild sedative, compression wraps, pheromone sprays or essential oils to help ease your K9’s fears.
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