Waiting Room Anxiety

The nervous energy in many veterinary waiting rooms could power a small city. Here are some anxiety-reducing tips for your "nervous Nellie":

• Take your dog on frequent fun rides so it does not automatically associate the car with a trip to the animal hospital.
   
• Minimize time in the waiting room. Wait with your dog in the car, or ask to wait in an empty examination room if one is available.
   
• Bring your dog's favorite toy or "carry around" item for added "comfort power."
   
• Don't let your dog visit with other animals in the waiting room. This is not the ideal social opportunity--not to mention the risk that your dog might contract a contagious disease.
   
• Don't reprimand your dog for being nervous. That will only increase its anxiety level.
   
• Relax. Otherwise, your dog may pick up on your anxiety.