Our Hachi didn't have the easiest week last week. It was time for his annual exam and vaccines. And, you know how fearful he is. He hasn't been to the vet since he was neutered about 9 months ago.
Prior to the appointment, we gave him meds to calm him. Moreover, our vet is certified "fear-free", meaning that she has special training for treating a dog like Hachi. She was really good with him and with letting us tell her how to best handle him.
Despite all of that, Hachi was absolutely terrified. His pupils dilated (a sign of severe fear), and he huddled up against our legs. The good part was that he actually seemed to get better as the appointment went on because our vet handled him so sensitively.
We now know that we need to get started on "happy visits" to the vet. We'll just take him into the lobby, feed him treats, and leave. Then, after a few weeks, he'll actually go into an exam room, get treats, and then leave. We need to do this regularly to help him to be able to handle vet visits with less fear. We should have done this a long time ago but all of his needs have overwhelmed us.
No worries, Hachi. We've got your back. We will be here for you as you continue to learn about this world that can scare you so much.
we sadly failed with getting them a little more familiar with the vet... our try to stop by just to say hello caused the opposite... no idea why, maybe they felt that we picked the wrong time as in one of the rooms the worst happened ;O(
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteoh, the V.E.T.... hmmmm... sounds like you have a good one though! YAM xx
You have a wonderfully sensitive and caring vet. You're going to ace this one day, Hachi - you will!
ReplyDeleteFingers crossed that the friendly vet visits will
ReplyDeletehelp Hachi overcome his fear.
xo Astro and Mitzie
Poor sweet Hachi, so sorry for your fears and recovery. that photo is breathtaking to me.. keep us posted on the fun visits.
ReplyDeleteYou make me realize how lucky I've been with my hounds - every one of them has LOVED going to the vet. One vet's office was the only place my IWs were ever allowed, no, ENCOURAGED (by the staff, to my chagrin) to stand up and put their feet on the counter.
ReplyDeleteThe cats are another story. Especially Moxie. She had such a terrible time at the vet when she was about a year old that it radically changed her outgoing, happy-go-lucky personality - she didn't even want me to pick her up or hold her for years afterward, and is still given to sudden overwhelming panics. It breaks my heart.
I think we all do our best, and sometimes we get it right, and I think you get it right a LOT. Your critters are very fortunate that they found their home with you!
We totally understand how you feel Hachi. Our vet and her staff are super nice but we don't exactly like going to visit them either. The dentist Walter saw was a "fear-free" office too.
ReplyDeleteI think you have an excellent plan on those vet visits. I'll bet it works too.
ReplyDeleteHave a fabulous day. Scritches to all the pups and especially Hachi. ♥
I guess we never know what goes on in their minds. But happy visits starting with the front door, then gradually increasing to a room sounds like a super plan. Your love and constancy in Hachi's world must be so reassuring.The last silhouette photo, that's a winner.
ReplyDeleteI so appreciate all that you share about Hachi! I have a miniature American shepherd, Luca, who is sensitive and easily anxious about things. You have been a guiding light for me! Also with your trail cameras - I have just one here in Pine Brook Hills and am so amazed at all the footage you get and the stories you can put together. Thank you for all you do!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you have such a good Vet and that you understand your dear Hachi so well. We know he'll conquer this fear too.
ReplyDeletePoor guy! There are so many things to do and experiences to have, it is hard to cover them all. Your vet is perfect for him, and your further training, though. Hopefully he is back to a happy boy now.
ReplyDeleteConquering fears is a slow and difficult process, but Hachi has the best possible helpers in his journey.
ReplyDeleteOh may I say double ditto to what Bertie and Gail said.
ReplyDeleteFear is quite exhausting bless his heart...thankfully he found his safe place at home surrounded by all of you
Hugs Cecilia
I have done the unofficial vet visits with my dogs, especially Chance, my sensitive reactive boy. It made a huge difference. Soemtimes we didn't even go inside, just hung around the small yard at the vet.
ReplyDeleteSorry it took so long for Hachi to come around, but it sounds like you have a good vet who knows how to handle a sensitive dog. 24 Paws Crossed for all of you.
Love the last pic!
Your vet sounds wonderful. I have a cat who hates being there so I avoid it unless I absolutely have to take him in. Probably not the best idea.
ReplyDeleteBOL! We read that as taking him into the vets, getting a treats and leave....for a few weeks! All dogs here, don't like the vets, but they recover as soon as we exit.
ReplyDeleteIt is awesome that your vet goes the extra mile to help fearful animals! When we moved to Alabama, I found a vet like that who helped my Aussie/Lab mix so much! We were only there 11 months, but the lessons my pup learned from those trips to the vet helped him for the rest of his life. Good people make all the difference in the world!
ReplyDeleteKZK
It has to be so helpful to find a vet who specializes with dogs like these.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad Hachi has recovered from that, and I'm sure you'll do all you can to make things better. ♥
Jan, Wag 'n Woof Pets
Poor boy! I was wondering why I never thought to check Hailey's pupils to see if they were dilated, but then realized with her dark eyes it would be hard.
ReplyDeleteLucy: Hi Hachi. You should go to the vet with me and I'll show you how much fun it is. Everyone pets me and tells me what a good girl I am, and I just want to stay all day!
ReplyDeleteI love this plan - How wonderful to have a vet that listens to you, and has a plan to help Hachi overcome his fears and insecurities.
ReplyDeleteAh, Hachi - the world is full of challenges. Sounds like you all got through it as best as you could.
ReplyDeleteShy Rowan recently had her first trip to the vet since she went in for a somewhat traumatic cheatgrass-in-ear situation last fall. We took her for two Happy Visits in advance, which helped a lot. I also trained the cue "Poke", lifting a pinch of skin and simulating a shot with a needle-less syringe, then Big BIG Treats. It seemed to help when reality happened. She actually was quite cheerful till the otoscope came out. Then "oh, I think I'll just hide under the chairs". The vet and I agreed no ear check this time (need to do some major counter-conditioning here), took a time out and did lots of Wonderful Treats, and things improved again. Hooray for vets who listen, and read body language, and work to make visits as fear-free as possible. A big shout-out to the late Dr. Sophia Yin, who pioneered the concept.
Obi loves the vet, as he loves anywhere he's the center of attention. I bet R is the same way. He's sure had his share of practice, bless his Black Dog soul. How does Shyla do at the vet?
Cheers,
Chris from Boise
Let us know how Hachi's Happy Visits go.
Oh poor Hachi! The vet always sucks even if they are fear-free! It's awesome that you've found a great place that handles him so carefully to manage his fear. I feel for you, especially the part about being overwhelmed with all the things he needs to learn. I've felt that way numerous times. ((hugs)) You're doing the best you can!
ReplyDeleteHachi is so lucky to have you as 'pawrents.' Keep up with the progress.
ReplyDelete