Many dogs don’t enjoy having topical parasite (flea and tick) control medications applied. Even though these medications aren’t painful, like an injection, the dogs may not like the feeling of something wet on their skin or the smell. Some dogs just don’t like having to stay still. The easiest way to get past these obstacles without having to run through the house chasing your dog with a tube of medication in your hand, is to give your dog something else to do while you apply the medication. Ivan is given the choice of a couple of his favorite treats: spray

   Step 2: Bring that mat out every day twice a day and place it in a central location. You can use an elevated surface like a washer, dryer, or counter. We choose the floor because our cat has arthritis.     Step 2    Step 3: Reinforce your cat for choosing to interact with the mat. You can use a clicker for this and a high value treat. You may have to start by clicking and treating your cat when they look at the mat, then when they step on the mat, then when they sit on the mat. If you are

Clear communication is key to a quick, hassle-free walk from the parking lot to the hospital. Clear guidance increases the dog’s confidence as well as increases the dog’s ability to cooperate. A few techniques to improve leash walking when moving patients …

Follow these steps to stop an older puppy jumping on you during exams, and demonstrate how to get the dog to learn pets only happened when all paws are “4 on the floor”.

The following photos and text are demonstrating towel wrapping. Remember to practice your technique on a stuffed animal. Loose wrapping can allow space for struggling which can result in injury.

This hold controls direction in 6 ways to reduce movement and provide staff safety from head flip or bite attempts. Combine this technique with targeting to help the dog focus and learn to stand in place for blood draw, injection, palpation, and nail trims.