White coat syndrome doesn't just affect people; our pets can feel uneasy when they climb onto the exam table, too. We asked Dr. Jessica at Victoria Veterinary Hospital how pet owners can help alleviate this trepidation and reward their brave pet for a job well done.
- Take your pet for car rides on normal days, not just for trips to the vet.
- Acclimate your pet to a crate at home since they’ll be kenneled before and after surgical procedures in the clinic.
- Use a well-fitting collar or harness that they can’t slip out of, if they get scared.
- Visit the waiting room on a non-appointment day to see the scale and have a treat!
- Feliway Calming Spray for cats or Adaptil for dogs can be sprayed on collars, kennels, or bedding. Some pets may need anti-anxiety medication.
- Speak to your pet confidently using less baby talk. This helps them sense your confidence, know they’re safe, and that the vet clinic is a good place to be.
- If you have other services scheduled, your vet technician may be able to do things like the nail trim or ear cleaning during your wait time.
- Check in at reception and ask to wait in your car, or outside with your pet, until it’s your turn.
- Reward pets with verbal encouragement and treats during the visit. Praise in the moment helps to reinforce desired behavior.
- Our staff is filled with loving, pet-oriented people who choose to spend their day working hard to understand each pet’s personality, and they always show lots of love!