We are pleased to be able to work closely with Andrew Hale, a local dog behaviourist.
Andrew runs Train Positive, a local dog behaviour and training service. We have chosen to work with Andrew, as like us, he believes in using modern, gentle and force free methods. He and his team offer help and advice for all dog behavioural issues including anxiety, phobias and aggression. They also offer a functional training service.
Andrew is involved in training our team to make visits to the vet less stressful for dogs, using techniques such as ‘consent training’.
For dogs with behavioural issues, a vet visit is often advised at the outset to check for any physical problems. Beyond this, we can refer patients to Andrew for further behavioural intervention.
Andrew has also helped us put together a puppy training and behaviour handout, which you can download here.
Is your dog anxious about visiting the vets?
Many dogs love to come and see us – we make a big effort to encourage a positive relationship revolving around treats, positive reinforcement and cuddles! However we are well aware that some dogs do not feel so positive about coming in to see us.
We do ask that dogs are kept on a short lead and that you check with other dog owners before your dog makes introductions in the waiting room. Some of our patients are ill or in pain and therefore may not be up for play time. We also ask that dogs are not allowed to approach cat carriers.
If your dog is frightened to come to see us, we encourage you to make frequent visits for your dog to be weighed and/or generally made a fuss of in the waiting room or consulting room, without any injections. Our nursing team run puppy and socialisation clinics for this purpose, led by veterinary nurse Laura Holderness who is studying for her Animal Behaviour certificate. It is also helpful to get your dog used to being ‘examined’ at home from an early age, including checks of teeth, ears and feet, with plenty of rewards for good behaviour.