Some pets just love a car ride. They don't care where they are going, just that they are going! Other pets start shaking when they see the carrier come out of the closet. The fear and stress can escalate to extreme nervousness, drooling, diarrhea and in rare cases, elicit a seizure. Some animals can also turn their fear into aggression, making the visit unpleasant for everyone involved.

In addition to "regular" stress, some people may also feel anxiety and stress; especially if the veterinary office visit is scheduled to say goodbye to their pet for the last time.

(Known as euthanasia.)

Work Up To It
For routine office visits such as vaccinations, annual checkups and so on, it is wise to work on desensitizing your pet to the car rides and office stress as much as possible. Short car rides to pleasant places, such as a park, can take away some of the fear of the unknown.

Speak to your veterinarian about setting up some non-stressful office visits (maybe just a quick peek in the waiting room to get a biscuit!) to help your pet be more manageable when or if the need arises.

Communication Is Key
The key to a smooth vet office visit is communication. If you know that your pet gets very stressed or aggressive at the veterinary office, talk with your vet about pre-visit tranquilizers or other in-office methods for a calm exam. Scheduling at quieter times of the day, when extra technicians are available, or planning a direct-from-car-to-exam route will benefit some animals.

As much as it stresses owners out to see their pet taken "behind the doors", many pets do calm down, especially dogs.

Without their owner nearby, they don't have to "be on guard" anymore.

Difficult Times
If you are scheduling an appointment for euthanasia, let the receptionist know how upsetting for both you and your pet; and that you may need a little extra time. (This should be obvious, but each pet and each owner are different.) Most euthanasia appointments are scheduled during less busy times to afford clients some quiet time and privacy. Speak to your vet about a pre-visit tranquilizer to sedate your pet if necessary.

House Calls
Another option to avoid veterinary office stress is to find a mobile veterinarian; one that does house calls or has a mobile clinic that can come to your location. Check the phone book, the Internet, or ask your veterinary office if they offer or can recommend a mobile veterinarian.

When In Doubt, Check It Out
Remember that if your pet is not feeling well, injured, or terminally ill, there is little you can do at home to help your pet. Even though the trip to the veterinary office seems like it would do "more harm than good", the sooner your pet receives veterinary attention, the better and more comfortable your pet will be.

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