How to Make Vet Visits Less Stressful for Your Pet

1.  Get Your Pet Used to the Car Early On

For many pets, the car ride to the vet is the most anxiety-inducing part of the visit. The key to reducing stress is to make car rides more familiar and enjoyable. Start by taking your pet on short, positive car trips to places they enjoy, like the park or a friend’s house. This helps create a positive association with the car, so they’re less likely to associate it solely with trips to the vet.

2. Create a Calm Environment at Home

Before heading to the vet, take steps to calm your pet at home. Ensure that your pet has a quiet, comfortable space to relax in, away from the commotion of preparing for the visit. You can use calming pheromone sprays or diffusers, like Adaptil, that mimic the natural calming scents mother dogs or cats produce. Bringing a familiar blanket or a favourite toy with you can also provide comfort and reassurance during the trip.

3. Make the Carrier a Safe Space

If you’re using a carrier to transport your pet to the vet, make sure it’s a familiar and positive space. Leave the carrier out in your home long before the vet visit, and encourage your pet to explore it by placing treats or their favourite toys inside. When they associate the carrier with comfort and safety, they’re less likely to feel anxious about entering it.

4.  Keep Visits Short and Positive

While it’s important for your pet to see the vet regularly, long and drawn-out visits can increase anxiety. If possible, keep visits short and focused on the essentials. If your pet is particularly nervous, try visiting the vet office for something as simple as a weigh-in, without the full exam. This helps them become familiar with the environment in a low-pressure way. You can also ask the staff to give your pet plenty of praise and treats after their visit, reinforcing the idea that vet visits are not something to fear.

5. Choose a Vet Who Understands Your Pet’s Needs

Not all vets have the same approach to handling nervous pets. Look for a vet who is calm, patient, and willing to work with your pet’s specific needs. A vet who is experienced with fearful or anxious pets will take a gentle, slow approach during exams and will take the time to help your pet feel comfortable.

6. Consider Natural Support for Your Pet’s Wellbeing

If your pet struggles with stress or anxiety during vet visits, there are natural ways to support their overall well-being. For example, maintaining good joint health can be beneficial, especially for older pets who may experience discomfort when travelling. Kōrure Pets offers premium joint care supplements such as MP Oil, which supports mobility and overall health. Ensuring your pet is comfortable physically can help them feel more at ease during vet visits.

7.  Keep Your Pet’s Routine as Normal as Possible

Animals, especially dogs and cats, thrive on routine. When preparing for a vet visit, try to maintain as much of your pet’s usual schedule as possible. If possible, avoid drastic changes like skipping meals or altering their exercise routine. Keeping their routine consistent helps reduce anxiety and keeps them feeling secure.

8. Remain Calm Yourself

Pets are very intuitive and often pick up on their owner’s emotions. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious about the vet visit, your pet is likely to feel the same way. Stay calm and composed before and during the visit to set an example for your pet. If you’re relaxed, your pet will likely follow suit.

9. Regular Vet Visits Are Key

While it may be tempting to only visit the vet when there’s an issue, regular visits are essential for your pet’s overall health. Routine check-ups help ensure that your pet stays in good health and help to build a positive relationship with the vet. Regular visits also reduce the need for emergency trips, which can be more stressful.

How Kōrure Pets Can Support Your Pet’s Wellness

Ensuring your pet’s health and comfort goes beyond vet visits. Kōrure Pets offers a range of natural supplements to promote overall wellness. Our MP Oil supports joint health, which is particularly useful for older pets or those with mobility issues. Additionally, products like Bone Broth help support gut health and hydration, ensuring your pet feels their best every day.

By supporting your pet’s health with high-quality supplements, you can help them feel more comfortable and resilient in all aspects of life—including vet visits.