If pets could talk, veterinary medicine would be a whole lot easier. Dogs would tell us their teeth have been bothering them for months. Cats would admit they've stopped jumping onto the counter because their hips are sore. Rabbits would politely mention that one of their molars feels a little off. Instead, our pets do what animals have evolved to do for thousands of years: adapt. They adapt to discomfort. They adapt to pain. They adapt to changes in their bodies. And often, they do it so well that the people who love them most have no idea anything is wrong. That's one of the biggest reasons preventative veterinary care is so important. Why Illness Isn't Always Obvious One of the most surprising things about veterinary medicine is how quietly many health conditions develop. Unlike people, pets can't tell us when something feels different. They can't explain that their mouth hurts when they chew, that they've been feeling more tired lately, or that their joints ache after a long nap. Instead, they simply adjust. A dog with early arthritis may hesitate before jumping into the car. A cat with dental disease may begin swallowing kibble whole instead of chewing it. A pet developing kidney disease may drink a little more water each day, so gradually that the change is almost impossible to notice. These changes are often subtle, and they happen slowly over time. They're easy to miss because our pets continue doing what they do best: being themselves. The Art of Hiding Pain Cats are particularly famous for hiding illness, but dogs can be surprisingly good at it too. In the wild, appearing weak can make an animal vulnerable. While our pets no longer have to worry about predators, many of those instincts remain. As a result, pets often don't show obvious signs of discomfort until a condition has become more advanced. Many pets continue eating, playing, and demanding treats while dealing with conditions that would make most humans complain loudly and dramatically. Especially cats. Cats would absolutely hide a broken leg and then somehow still judge your life choices. Dental Disease: More Than Just Bad Breath One of the best examples of this is dental disease. Many pet owners assume bad breath is simply part of owning a dog or cat. While we don't expect pets to have minty-fresh breath, persistent bad breath is often a sign that something more is happening beneath the surface. Dental disease can develop gradually over months or years. During that time, many pets continue eating normally despite inflammation, infection, and discomfort. By the time obvious signs appear, the disease may already be advanced. Routine dental assessments help identify concerns early, allowing treatment before significant pain or damage occurs. The surprising part isn't how often we find dental disease. It's how often we find it in pets whose owners genuinely had no idea there was a problem. Small Changes Can Tell a Big Story During a wellness examination, veterinarians aren't simply checking boxes on a form. They're looking for patterns, trends, and subtle changes that may indicate a developing issue: A small weight change. A new lump. A slight heart murmur. Changes in muscle mass. Mild dental disease. A pet that seems just a little less comfortable than they did last year. Individually, these findings may seem minor. Together, they can tell an important story about a pet's overall health. Sometimes the most valuable thing we discover during an examination is a condition in its earliest stages—before it begins affecting a pet's quality of life. Aging Doesn't Have to Mean Slowing Down One of the biggest myths in pet ownership is that every change is simply "old age." While aging is a natural process, many age-related changes are actually linked to conditions that can be managed or improved. A dog struggling to climb stairs may have arthritis. A cat sleeping more than usual may be dealing with chronic pain. A senior pet that seems less interactive may be experiencing changes that deserve further investigation. Our goal isn't to stop pets from getting older. Our goal is to help them stay comfortable, active, and happy as they age. Because growing older is inevitable. Being uncomfortable doesn't have to be. Building a Healthier Future Preventative veterinary care isn't about expecting something to be wrong. It's about creating opportunities to keep things right. Regular wellness exams allow veterinary teams to establish a baseline, monitor changes over time, answer questions, and identify concerns before they become larger problems. Most importantly, they help ensure our pets are living the healthiest, happiest lives possible. After all, our pets spend every day looking after us—offering companionship, comfort, entertainment, and occasionally stealing food when we aren't paying attention. The least we can do is make sure we're looking after them, too.

Longer days and warmer weather are on their way and that means more time outside with our pets — longer walks, sunny afternoons in the yard, and plenty of adventures together. We know many of our patients (and their humans!) are just as excited for spring and summer as we are. As much as we all enjoy the sunshine, warmer temperatures can be tough on our pets, especially during those first really warm days of the season. Every year, we see pets get overheated faster than their families expected. Dogs and cats can’t cool themselves down the same way we do, it’s important to keep an eye on them when temperatures start to climb. Some pets are more sensitive to heat than others, including flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats, as well as senior pets, thick-coated breeds, or overweight pets. Even simple things like playing too hard outside, going for walks during the hottest part of the day, or relaxing in the sun a little too long can lead to overheating. A few easy precautions can help keep everyone safe and comfortable this season: bring plenty of water on outings, stick to morning or evening walks when possible, make sure pets always have access to shade, and test pavement temperatures before heading out. And of course — never leave pets unattended in vehicles, even for a quick errand. Most importantly, know the signs of overheating. Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, bright red gums, or acting disoriented are all signs your pet may need help cooling down. As a family-run clinic, we love getting to care for the pets in our community through every season — muddy spring paws, summer adventures, and all. We hope you and your furry family members enjoy a safe, happy, and sunshine-filled season ahead!

At our family-run veterinary clinic, everything we do comes back to one simple belief: your pets are family, and they deserve care that feels that way. Over the years, we’ve had countless conversations in exam rooms that start with, “I almost didn’t bring her in…” or “I wasn’t sure if this was worth a visit.” And every time we hear that, it reminds us how often loving, responsible pet parents hesitate — that's why we’ve decided to introduce subscription plans that include unlimited free exams . We want you to come in when something feels off, when you have a small question, when you just need reassurance, without weighing it against a fee. When you run a family practice, you get to make decisions from the heart, and this one was easy for us. We’ve seen what happens when small things are caught early, and we’ve seen what happens when they’re not. Imagine a dog like Charlie, a sweet, slightly dramatic Golden Retriever who belongs to a busy young family. One month he’s licking his paws nonstop. In the past, his owners might have tried to manage it at home for weeks before scheduling an appointment. But with unlimited exams, they bring him in right away. We adjust his allergy treatment and he’s comfortable again within days. A few weeks later, they notice he’s a little stiff getting up from the couch. Not limping, just slower. They pop in again, no hesitation. We catch early arthritis and start joint support before he’s in real pain. Then a couple months later, he has a day where he doesn’t want breakfast. Instead of waiting and worrying, they come back. It turns out to be mild stomach inflammation, treated quickly, and everyone sleeps easier that night. None of those visits were dramatic emergencies, but together they tell the story of proactive, attentive care — the kind that keeps pets healthier and families less stressed. That’s what unlimited exams are really about. It’s not about coming in constantly; it’s about never feeling like you shouldn’t. It’s about building a relationship where we know your pet so well that we can spot subtle changes together. It’s about budgeting in a way that feels predictable and manageable. Most of all, it’s about removing that quiet little voice that says, “Maybe I’ll wait.”  When you’re part of our clinic family, we want your first instinct to be, “Let’s just call.” We love watching your puppies grow up, helping your seniors stay comfortable, and being the steady place you turn to when you’re unsure. This new subscription plan is simply an extension of who we’ve always tried to be: accessible, compassionate, and genuinely invested in the long, happy lives of the animals you love in our amazing community! For more information or to sign-up for our subscription plan that offer unlimited exams, contact us here: https://www.sunrisevet.ca/contact

Enjoy our 12 Days of Christmas Holiday Pet. Tips! Day 1: A Tree Full of Temptations Christmas trees are irresistible for many pets. Secure your tree, avoid edible ornaments, and keep electrical cords tucked away. Pets are excellent at finding trouble with the tree! Day 2: Two Seasonal Plants to Avoid Many holiday plants look beautiful but pose risks. Lilies are extremely dangerous for cats, and mistletoe, poinsettias and holly can also cause illness. Choose pet-safe alternatives when decorating. Day 3: Three Open Suitcases With family visiting, luggage becomes a treasure chest for curious pets. Keep suitcases closed and medications stored securely. Pets are surprisingly quick to find the one item they shouldn’t. Day 4: Four Holiday Treat Plates Chocolate, xylitol-containing candies, and rich desserts are common causes of December emergencies. Remind guests not to leave treats within reach. Pets are very good at “cleaning up” unattended plates. Day 5: Five Cooked Bones Cooked turkey and ham bones may seem traditional, but they are dangerous for pets and can splinter internally. Offer only pet-safe holiday treats instead. Day 6: Six Guests Knocking Festive gatherings can be overwhelming for pets. Provide a quiet retreat with a bed, water, and some space. Holiday cheer is wonderful, but not all animals enjoy it at close range. If you feel your pet could benefit from medication to relieve anxiety during the festivities, please contact us to discuss! Day 7: Seven Strings of Garland Tinsel, ribbon, and string are classic holiday hazards, especially for cats. These items can cause serious intestinal issues if swallowed. When in doubt, decorate without anything that resembles a cat toy. Day 8: Eight Candles Glowing Open flames and curious pets are not a winning combination. Use secure candle holders or battery-operated alternatives to keep both holiday ambiance and safety intact. Day 9: Nine Gift Bags Sitting Gift bags and wrapping supplies often contain dangers such as ribbon, plastic, and small objects. Clean up wrapping areas promptly to avoid accidental ingestion. Day 10: Ten Paws on Ice Cold weather brings salt, ice melt, and slippery sidewalks. Use pet-safe de-icer and dry paws after walks to prevent irritation. Winter conditions can be harder on pets then many people realize. Day 11: Eleven Toys Unwrapped Holiday toys for pets should be sturdy, appropriately sized, and supervised. Many seasonal toys contain stuffing or small parts that can quickly become hazards. Day 12: Twelve Plates of Leftovers Holiday meals are tempting, but rich foods can lead to gastrointestinal upset or pancreatitis. Stick to vet-approved treats and keep leftovers off the menu for pets. A Final Holiday Reminder If your pet gets into something unexpected this season, contact us right away. December is a busy month for pet emergencies, and early guidance can make all the difference. During our holiday office closure, please contact WiseVet at 1-888-243-1411 to see if your pet's urgent needs can be addressed by telemedicine, or contact Mahalo Veterinary Hospital at (250) 824-1444 or Central Island Emergency Hospital at (250) 933-0913 .

November is right around the corner, and that means it's almost Senior Pet Month — a time dedicated to honouring our silver-muzzled superstars! They've been with us through the puppy chaos, the midnight zoomies, and the "I swear I didn't eat that" years. Now they've finally graduated to the good life: naps, snacks, and selective hearing. They've earned it — now it's our turn to make sure those golden years are as comfortable, healthy, and joy-filled as possible. When does a pet become a "Senior"? Small dogs and cats are considered senior around 7 years and up. Large breed dogs reach that milestone a bit sooner, around 5-6 years. Age isn't something to fear! It's just a reminder to give our companions the proactive care they deserve. Supporting Aging Joints & Mobility One of the most common health changes we see in older pets is arthritis. It can show up quietly — a slower climb to the couch, hesitation on the stairs, or choosing sleep over playtime. While it's a normal part of aging, it doesn't mean your pet has to live in discomfort. Here are some simple ways to support joint health and mobility at home: Gentle consistent movement Regular, low-impact exercise keeps joints flexible and muscles strong. Aim for more short, easy walks or light indoor play sessions instead of high-intensity bursts. Create comfort at home Soft orthopedic beds, non-slip rugs, and raised food or water bowls make a world of difference. Keep them warm Cold weather can stiffen joints, so offer extra blankets, sweaters, or a cozy spot near a heat source. Don't accept pain as "just old age" Slowing down doesn't have to mean hurting. Osteoarthritis treatments like Librela for dogs or Solensia for cats can dramatically improve comfort and mobility, helping pets move freely again. Contact us to get more information on these treatments. Feed for joint health Omega-3 supplements and joint-support diets reduce inflammation and promote mobility — plus, they bring back that healthy shiny coat. Dental Health: A Key Part of Senior Wellness Dental care is vital for pets of all ages, but it becomes especially important as they grow older. Over time, tartar buildup, gum inflammation, and hidden infections can lead to much more than bad breath. Bacteria from dental disease can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. That's why our Dental Essentials Package includes a professional dental cleaning (along with many other services!). Regular dental cleanings help prevent pain, infection, and systemic disease, keeping your pet comfortable well into their senior years. For aging pets, dental health often ties directly to appetite, energy, and overall well-being. A clean, pain-free mouth means better nutrition, happier pets, and more tail wags (or purrs). Routine professional dental cleanings can help extend both the length and quality of your pet's life. Routine Check-Ups: Catching Changes Before They Become Problems As pets age, their bodies change more quickly, and subtle issues can go unnoticed until they become serious. We recommend routine wellness exams every six months and bloodwork annually for all senior pets. These regular visits help us monitor trends over time, identify early signs of kidney or liver disease, thyroid imbalances, or metabolic changes, and adjust care plans before problems progress. In many cases, catching something early can add years to your pet's life. Aging Gracefully Together Our senior pets may not chase frisbees or scale curtains anymore, but they've mastered something far more meaningful: the art of companionship. With the right care, their golden years can be some of their happiest and healthiest yet. As November approaches, let us celebrate the greying faces, the wise gazes, and every loyal heel that has walked beside us. Book your pet's senior check-up today: Call 250-339-6555 or visit https://www.sunrisevet.ca/make-an-appointment .

Choosing the right  harness  for your dog is more than just a matter of style. A well-fitted  harness can make a world of difference for your dog's comfort, safety, and behaviour. Here's why selecting the perfect   harness  is so important:    1. Prevents Injuries  A poor-fitting  harness  can cause a range of injuries, from minor discomfort to severe physical harm. A  harness  that is too tight can chafe your dog's skin and restrict their breathing, while one that is too loose can lead to dangerous situations, like your dog slipping out and running into traffic: we have met multiple humans with hand fractures from leash injuries! Ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit helps keep your dog safe on walks.  2. Distributes Pressure Evenly  Unlike collars, which can put pressure on your dog's neck and potentially cause tracheal damage,  harnesses  distribute pressure evenly across the chest and shoulders. This is particularly beneficial for dogs prone to pulling or with respiratory issues, as it minimizes the risk of injury to the throat and neck.   3. Improves Control   A well-fitting  harness  gives you better control over your dog, making walks more enjoyable for both of you. This is especially important for larger breeds or dogs with high energy levels. A correctly fitted  harness  can help manage pulling behaviors and provide you with the leverage needed to guide your dog.   4. Enhances Comfort   Comfort is key when it comes to choosing the right  harness . Your dog should be able to move freely without any restrictions. A good  harness should not rub against your dog's skin or cause any irritation. Padded options can offer extra comfort, making your dog more willing to participate in walks and putting the  harness  on.   5. Supports Training and Behaviour Correction    Harnesses  can be an effective tool for training and correcting behaviour. By providing greater control and reducing strain, a well-fitting  harness can contribute to more effective and positive training sessions.   6. Accommodates Specific Needs   Every dog is unique, with its own set of needs and preferences. Whether your dog is a growing puppy, a senior with mobility issues, or has a specific health condition, there is likely a  harness designed to accommodate those requirements. Adjustable and customizable  harnesses  ensure that you can find the perfect fit for your dog's circumstances.  In conclusion, investing time in selecting the right  harness  for your dog is essential for their health, comfort, and overall quality of life. Take the time to measure your dog accurately, consider their specific needs, and choose a  harness  that provides a secure and comfortable fit. Both you and your furry friend will benefit from the improved walking experience and the added peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog is safe and comfortable.

Your pet’s teeth do more than just look cute when they smile (or, in your cat’s case, give you that judgy glare). Keeping those chompers in check is vital for their overall health! But dental disease creeps up slowly, and before you know it, your furry friend might be in pain. So, let’s break down the stages of pet dental disease in a fun, easy-to-understand way.  Stage 1: Gingivitis (The "Oops, Forgot to Brush" Stage) Signs: - Gums look a bit red (like they’re embarrassed) - Breath smells kinda funky - A little plaque buildup (aka, gunk on the teeth)  What's Happening: At this stage, your pet’s gums are just starting to get a bit angry. Think of it like the morning after you skipped brushing your teeth—things aren’t great, but it’s not a disaster yet. This is a wake-up call to start brushing your pet’s teeth more often. A professional cleaning from the vet will usually nip this problem in the bud.   Stage 2: Early Periodontitis (The "We’re Getting Serious" Stage) Signs: - Gums look puffy - More plaque and tartar (fancy word for hard plaque) stuck on teeth - Breath now officially stinks—doggy kisses, no thanks  What's Happening: Now, your pet’s gums are saying, “Hey, we’re really not happy here!” The tartar has settled in like a bad houseguest, and inflammation is starting to set in. The bacteria are starting to munch away the ligament and bone surrounding the tooth roots. You’ll need a vet’s help to clean things up and get rid of that tartar. Without action, things are only going to get worse from here.  Stage 3: Moderate Periodontitis (The "Uh-Oh" Stage Signs: - Gums bleed easily - Teeth might be a little wobbly - Your pet’s breath can clear a room (or scare away burglars)  What's Happening: By now, your pet’s gums are really pulling away from the teeth, like they’ve had enough of this nonsense. You might even notice a tooth or two starting to wiggle due to even more bone loss around the tooth root. Things are getting real, and your pet’s feeling it, chewing on the other side of it's mouth, but don't think for a minute that your pet will stop eating or playing. Time for a deep cleaning, and maybe some extractions (yikes).  Stage 4: Advanced Periodontitis (The "We’ve Got a Problem" Stage) Signs: - Teeth are barely hanging on (literally) - Pus or abscesses around the teeth (super gross).  What's Happening: At this point, it’s a full-on dental disaster. Teeth are falling out, gums are receding like a bad haircut, and your pet is probably in serious pain. This stage can lead to infections spreading to other parts of the body, like the heart or kidneys—definitely not good. Tooth extractions and major clean-up are in order.  How to Avoid This Dental Drama - Brush those teeth!: Yes, it’s weird at first, but your pet will get used to it. (Bonus: fresher breath for your smooches.)  Chew toys and dental treats: Give your pet something to chew on that fights plaque instead of your shoes. -  Regular dental cleanings: Get those teeth cleaned up at least once a year. The vet can clean spots you can't reach.  Wrap-Up: Keep Those Fangs Fabulous No one wants to deal with bad breath and dental drama. Start brushing early, get your pet on a dental-friendly routine, and you’ll avoid the gnarly stages of dental disease. Keep those pearly whites sparkling, and your pet will thank you with kisses that don’t make you gag!

Hey there, pet parents! Summer is coming into full swing, and that means it's the perfect time for beach adventures with our furry friends.  Whether your dog is a seasoned beach bum or a first-time visitor, here are some tips to ensure a fun and safe trip to the shore. 1.  Hydrate! Just like us, dogs need plenty of water, especially under the sun.  Pack a collapsible bowl and fresh water to keep your pup hydrated.  Remember, ocean water is a big no-no - it's salty and can make your dog sick! 2.  Sun Protection Did you know your dog can get sunburned too?  Make sure to protect their sensitive spots like the nose and ears with pet-safe sunscreen.  And if your dog has short or light-colored fur, consider a UV protective shirt to keep those rays at bay. 3. Paws Off The Hot Sand Sand can get scorching hot and burn your dog's paws.  Test it yourself by walking barefoot - if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for them!  Bring a towel or a portable mat for them to rest on and try to keep playtime near the water where the sand is cooler. 4. Rinse & Repeat After a fun day in the sun and surf, rinse your dog off with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and any potential irritants.  A quick bath will help keep their coat and skin healthy. 5. Keep Cool Provide plenty of shade with an umbrella or pop-up tent to give your pooch a break from the heat.  Watch for signs of overheating, like excessive panting or drooling, and take breaks in the shade regularly. So, grab that sunscreen, pack those treats, and have some tail-wagging beach fun!  If you have any questions or need further advice, reach out to us!  We're here to help you and your pets enjoy a safe and happy summer. See you at the beach!

Keeping your pet healthy and happy shouldn't feel like chasing your tail.  Ensuring the health and happiness of your pet requires consistent and proactive care. That's why we had to make it happen with a simple and affordable payment option for all our Sunrise clients.  We were so excited to launch our wellness plans for preventive veterinary care - I just had to write a blog about it! We've created monthly subscription plans that take the guesswork out of pet care. While the monthly fee might seem like an added expense, it leads to long-term savings with our services at a discounted cost. We will set you up with all the necessities and book all your appointments throughout the year.  Regular visits help build a strong relationship between you, your pet, and your vet.  This bond ensures better communication and personalized care, making each visit feel like a playdate with a professional.  Plus, knowing your pet's healthcare is sorted means more peace of mind for you and more belly rubs for them. Our wellness plan includes their annual routine check-up, vaccinations, dental cleanings and more.  It's everything your pet needs to stay healthy, happy and ready for any adventure (or nap).  Contact us today to sign up and give your pet the gift of great health - because every dog deserves their day, and every cat deserves their nine lives!

Is it just me or did summer just tear into the Comox Valley like it owns the place? Well, with more than one day over thirty degrees already I think it’s time that we start talking about heat stroke in dogs and save a few lives this summer! Did you know that the #1 month for reports of heat stroke in dogs is June, before pets’ bodies have time to adapt to hotter temperatures. Some breeds have an increased risk of heat stroke; bulldogs I’m lookin’ HARD at you! Heat stroke sets in fast - in many cases it can occur in less than half an hour. Our dogs’ ability to cool themselves is limited to panting, laying in the shade, and swimming (if they have access to water). You can help your pet beat the heat by keeping them in a cooled environment, providing access to a small swimming pool or pond, exercising them in the coolest part of the day, and by not leaving them in the car! Symptoms of heat stroke in dogs are: -panting heavily -disorientation -dark red gums -weakness/collapse The reason that heat stroke is so dangerous is because when the body overheats the vital organs begin to… well… cook! This leads to multiple organ failure, and ultimately, death. If you find an animal that has been overheated, the best thing to do is to go to the vet immediately. Its important not to douse them in cold water or ice: overheated pets need to be cooled down slowly, like in front of a fan or air conditioner. Offer them small amounts of water and get them to the vet. It’s impossible to tell by looking at the animal whether he’ll “be alright” or if he needs hospitalization and IV fluids. Stay cool this summer when you’re enjoying the sun and play it safe so your pet can beat the heat!

If you own a dog, you might have heard of bloat and know that it's badness... But what is bloat, and why is it a big deal? When we talk about bloat in dogs, usually we are talking about gastric dilatation and volvulus, or GDV. GDV is a bit difficult to understand, but it happens when the stomach, full of food or gas, twists on itself so that the bottom is near the top, the left ends up on the right, and the blood vessels are twisted tight! Sometimes the spleen becomes involved too. It is mostly a problem of deep-chested dogs, such as Great Danes, rottweilers, poodles, German shepherds, and Irish wolfhounds; but at Sunrise Veterinary Clinic we have seen it in huskies, border collies, greyhounds, and even guinea pigs! Other risk factors include gorging on a big meal, strenuous exercise, inflammatory bowel disease, and a lot of panting and swallowing air. The reason it is so devastating is because the displacement causes more and more gas to become trapped in the stomach, so that the dog's stomach blows up like a balloon. Without rapid intervention this will continue, causing the blood vessels, heart, lungs and everything else to be compressed until the dog dies. This happens fast: within a matter of hours a dog can go from playing joyously at the beach to breathing its last breath. How do you recognize GDV? If your dog seems painful, anxious, restless, stretching in a downward dog position and bloated, go to the vet IMMEDIATELY. Other signs that may occur are gagging and retching. When we are faced with a GDV, we rapidly intervene, treating the dog immediately for shock, relieving the pressure from the stomach if necessary right away by trocharization (tapping the stomach with a large needle to release excess gas), and racing the dog to surgery to untwist the stomach. In surgery, we assess the GI tract to see whether it's all viable or if parts of the stomach or spleen are beyond repair and need to be removed. Post operatively, dogs need to be constantly monitored because they can be quite unstable for the first 48 hours, prone to forming blood clots and having arrhythmias of the heart. What can we do to prevent this disastrous occurrence in our dogs? If you have a dog breed that's predisposed to GDV, consider having your veterinarian perform a gastropexy. Gastropexy is a surgery that tacks the bottom of the stomach to the body wall so that it can't wiggle away where it's not supposed to go. It can be performed during your pet's spay or neuter procedure, and the cost generally will add a couple of hundred dollars to the spay or neuter bill, as opposed to thousands of dollars for emergency surgery and a prolonged stay in the veterinary hospital. Gastropexy can give you peace of mind that your best bud won't bloat. Any questions or comments? Leave them below and share with a friend who you want to save from the dreaded bloat!

In recent years, Fear Free veterinary practice has soared in popularity. Fear Free practices bring the animal’s emotional wellbeing and enrichment to the forefront, and focus on reducing the fear, anxiety, and stress in pets in the veterinary clinic. This much-needed shift in veterinary medicine has been revolutionary and is making the veterinary clinic a more positive and welcoming environment for pets and their guardians alike. Fear Free practices in vet clinics involve such changes as using treats during medical procedures, low-stress animal handling techniques, and designing veterinary clinics to minimize the noises, sights and scents that tend to create stress and fear in our animal patients. But, did you know that as a pet owner, you play a role on the Fear Free team too? Maybe the most important role of all! Here are a few tips for how you can help to improve your pet’s experience of their doctor’s office: -Acclimate your pet to their carrier The stress of the vet visit begins at home. Chasing a pet around, trapping them against their will, and thrusting them into an unfamiliar box does NOT set your pet up for a successful Fear Free vet visit! Instead, over a period of weeks, acclimate your pet to their carrier by use of treats and food. A pet who is afraid of their carrier can be won over by creeping their food dish an inch closer to the carrier every few days until eventually the pet is being fed inside their carrier. Help your pet’s carrier to be a safe space: put a comfy bed in their carrier and allow your pet to sleep in their carrier like a little “cave” everyday. In this way, your pet’s carrier becomes a place of safety and rest, and ceases to be a jail cell of doom! -Relax… take a deep breath… it’s going to be alright! Many times in the veterinary clinic, pet owners are more stressed than their pets! We understand that visiting the vet can be a stressful experience for all involved, especially if your pet is ill. Develop a trusting relationship with your veterinarian and clinic team, and then intentionally relax in the clinic to help your pet relax also. Use a calm and quiet voice, and make sure not to grip your pet too hard if you are holding them during your pet’s examination. A gentle touch and a soft voice help to communicate to your pet that they are in a safe place. Sometimes, your stress signals may be too strong to hide! In this case, your veterinarian may suggest that your pet be examined “in the back”. We know this can be nerve wracking. But we promise, we aren’t taking them away from you to harm them but to help them! Rest assured, we use the same low-stress handling techniques in all parts of the veterinary clinic and will bring them back to you as soon as possible. -Come for fun! Hahaha… what? Come for fun? Yes, you heard me. Come for free and come for fun. Get a cookie from the receptionist. A chin scratch from the veterinary technician. Measure your pet’s weight on the scale. Have a chat in the nutrition corner. Come frequently and come for fun… that way your pet doesn’t always anticipate needles, pokes and prods when you come into the clinic. Have you ever wondered how wild zoo animals get their checkups? Often, zoo keepers train a zoo animal to push its body up against the enclosure bars and get a pretend poke with a needle every day, for a treat. Then, on the day that they truly need medical care, the same routine is maintained, but rather than a pretend poke the animal will get a real sedative. Brilliant, right? The same concept can be used with your pet! Practice handling your pet in the same purposeful and methodical way that we do in a medical exam, touching all the parts of their body. Visit the veterinary clinic regularly, just for fun. That way, when your pet really needs medical care, these things won’t feel out of the ordinary. -Give the Fear Free medication to your pet if it has been recommended Ok let’s all take a minute to reset our thinking: how scared of your doctor would you have to be to actually physically tremble with fright while in their office? Terrified, right!? If your pet is a nervous wreck, trembling and hiding underneath the chair while you are visiting your veterinarian, it is time to consider anxiety-reducing medication for your pet’s vet visit. Some pet owners are very hesitant to consider accepting medication for their pet’s mental health. If your vet has recommended anxiety reducing medication for your pet during vet visits, it is because your veterinarian sees your pet’s mental anguish and wants to relieve their suffering in the clinic. Relieving their stress not only helps them to feel more at ease in the clinic, but also helps us to be able to see what’s wrong past their trembling nerves: frightened pets hide their symptoms! Don’t forget: you are the most important member of your pet’s Fear Free veterinary team. Remember your role and help us to be a source of comfort to your pet in their hour of need. -Dr. Carly Ruiz