Tips to Make Dog Vaccinations Easier
Nobody likes getting vaccinations. They can be painful at the moment it happens and sore or tender for a while, and that’s true for your dog, too. Sticking to the recommended schedule for dog vaccinations is important in keeping your dog healthy and well, but that doesn’t mean that getting the actual shots is pleasant! If your dog has an appointment coming up to get a vaccination (or a few of them), there are a few things you can do to make the experience more comfortable for them.
Have Treats Ready
Your vet will probably have treats on hand at the clinic, but if your dog is particularly fond of a particular type of treat or you save them for special occasions, vaccine day is the day! Reward them for good behaviour by handing out a treat after the shot is over. It’ll distract them from what happened and remind them that the vet’s office is still a safe place to be.
Keep Them Comfortable
Decrease stress before the appointment and afterward. Make sure their ride in the car is extra comfortable. If they’re being transported in a carrier, make sure to include a favourite toy or a favourite blanket. Make sure they’ve had a good walk and aren’t going to the vet in need of anything.
Talk to Your Vet
Before the vaccination appointment, make sure you’ve asked any questions or discussed any concerns with your veterinarian. There’s always a chance that a dog might have an adverse or allergic reaction to a vaccine, so make sure you’ve discussed the protocol and understand what to expect if that happens. If you’re concerned about your dog being in pain, it might be possible for medication to be used to reduce soreness at the injection site.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your dog healthy will always be the main priority, but sometimes the medical care it takes to do that won’t exactly thrill your pet. When it comes to vaccinations, don’t hesitate to bring up any issues to the vet, even if they seem small, and do what you can to keep your friend comfortable. It will make the appointment and the time after a round of dog vaccinations easier to navigate!
