Many dogs have negative experiences with the vets due to pain, physical restraint, maybe fear from travelling in the car or exposure to other animals at the vets.
These negative memories can affect future feelings when visiting the vets known as classical conditioning or operant learning. Some animals also have a genetic predisposition to anxiety, body handling, impulsivity and aggression making them much harder to examine.
Confidence clinics are designed to help build positive experiences at the vets and teach your pet that they can be in control whilst being examined. Each clinic will be tailored for the individual patient, identifying areas which your pet finds particularly difficult. The sessions are an opportunity to get your pet feeling comfortable at the vets, or we can target a specific procedure such as injections. Confidence clinics last up to 30 minutes and we will always progress at a rate your pet is comfortable with. The frequency and number of sessions needed will be adapted for your pet’s needs.
It is very rewarding to see once worried or scared patients become less fearful and more confident when visiting us, and enables us to provide them with the care they need with as little stress as possible.
If you think your pet may benefit from attending a Confidence Clinic, or you would like any further information, please get in touch, we would love to help.
