Third Grade
Worksheets
Taking a Dog to the Vet
Most dogs don't like to go to the vet. Some dogs seem to know when their owners are going to take them to the vet. The pet won't get in the car and hides. There are things that you can do to help your best friend get used to going to the vet. It probably won't ever love to go, but at least you won't have to find your dog when you're ready to leave.
When your dog starts to shake like a leaf, don't talk to it in a nice, soft voice. This is how you talk to your dog when it is doing something good. When you talk to her like this, your dog thinks it is doing just what it is supposed to. When you talk to your dog, use a firm voice. Act like this is something you do every day, like going for a walk.
Waiting in the waiting room can be hard for both you and your dog. Try to give your dog something to do while you are waiting. Bring a favorite treat along. Go through every trick that your dog knows. Have it sit, shake hands, or do any other tricks that your pet knows well. Give it a lot of praise when it does the trick correctly.
If your dog is friendly with other people, have the receptionist talk to your dog. He or she could give it a treat, too. Let people pet your dog. You should pet it while other people are talking to it. If you can keep your dog busy, it might not get as upset.
If your dog likes to be brushed, bring a brush with you. Some dogs find grooming very calming. If your dog likes to be brushed, that can help to keep it calm when you are waiting for the vet.
