Before Your Visit

Helping your pet feel calm starts before you leave home.

Whether it’s a routine health check, vaccination or an unexpected illness, visiting the vet is an important part of keeping your pet healthy.

For many pets, however, the journey to the clinic can feel unfamiliar. New smells, different sounds, travelling in the car and meeting new people can all make some dogs and cats feel a little uncertain.

The good news is that a little preparation before you leave home can make a big difference. By helping your pet feel safe and relaxed before the appointment, you’re setting them up for a more positive experience from the very beginning.

Pets thrive on routine.

When something unfamiliar happens – like getting into the car or visiting a new place – they rely on us for reassurance.

Planning ahead helps reduce stress, creates a calmer experience for everyone and allows your veterinary team to focus on what matters most: caring for your pet.

Even if your pet already enjoys visiting the clinic, these simple steps can help every appointment run more smoothly.

Set your dog up for success

If your dog is feeling well enough, a little exercise before the appointment can help burn off nervous energy and encourage them to settle more easily.

Before you leave home:

• Take your dog for a short walk if appropriate.
• Allow time for a toilet break before getting into the car.
• Bring some favourite treats to reward calm behaviour.
• Pack a favourite toy or comfort item if it helps them relax.
• Leave with plenty of time so you don’t feel rushed.
• Stay calm and positive – dogs often take emotional cues from their owners.

Remember, every dog is different. Some enjoy travelling, while others need a little more reassurance. Both are perfectly normal.

Helping your cat feel safe

Cats generally feel most comfortable in familiar surroundings, so preparing their carrier ahead of time can make a significant difference.

Rather than bringing the carrier out just before the appointment, leave it somewhere familiar a day or two beforehand so your cat can explore it in their own time.

You can help make the carrier feel like a safe place by:

• Placing a soft blanket or familiar bedding inside.
• Offering treats inside the carrier.
• Leaving the carrier door open while at home.
• Avoiding forcing your cat inside at the last minute whenever possible.

The more positive experiences your cat has with their carrier between appointments, the more comfortable they may feel when it’s time to travel.

A little planning can help your appointment run smoothly.

Before leaving, check that you have:

• Your pet safely secured for travel.
• Any current medications.
• Previous test results if requested.
• A list of questions for your veterinarian.
• Favourite treats or a comfort item.

If someone else is bringing your pet to the appointment, make sure they know any important medical history or concerns you’d like discussed.

You know your pet better than anyone.

If your pet has been anxious during previous veterinary visits, please let us know before your appointment.

It’s particularly helpful if your pet:

• Becomes nervous around unfamiliar people.
• Is worried around other animals.
• Doesn’t enjoy being handled.
• Has previously tried to hide, scratch, growl or escape when frightened.
• Has any special mobility or medical needs.

Sharing this information beforehand allows us to prepare and tailor the visit to your pet’s individual needs.

Before heading out the door, take a final moment to check:

• My pet is safely secured.
• I have treats or a favourite comfort item.
• I have any medications or requested paperwork.
• I’ve allowed plenty of travel time.
• I’ve told the clinic if my pet may be anxious.

Taking just a few extra minutes now can help everyone enjoy a calmer experience.

Every positive veterinary visit helps build your pet’s confidence.

By preparing at home, staying calm and working together with your veterinary team, you’re helping create positive experiences that can make future appointments easier.

Remember, every pet is unique. Whether your companion walks confidently into the clinic or needs a little extra reassurance, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Should I feed my pet before the appointment?

Unless your clinic has advised otherwise, it’s usually fine to feed your pet as normal. If your pet is coming in for surgery or a procedure requiring sedation or anaesthesia, we’ll let you know if they need to fast beforehand.

Should I bring treats?

Yes, if your pet enjoys treats and there are no dietary restrictions. Treats can be a great way to reward calm behaviour and create positive associations with the visit.

What if my pet hates getting into the carrier?

Try leaving the carrier out as part of your home between appointments, placing treats or bedding inside and allowing your pet to explore it voluntarily. Avoid only bringing it out when it’s time to visit the vet.

My pet gets anxious before we even leave home. What should I do?

Let us know before your appointment. We may be able to suggest strategies to help prepare your pet or tailor the visit to make it less stressful.