Is your pet stressed when you bring them to PAH?

Here are some ideas to help lower that stress…

• Fun visits - This is a 5 min visit (no charge) where you bring your pet into PAH for a quick visit. Only happy things happen during these visits, like treats & petting! You can call ahead of time to schedule this, or pop by and call from the parking lot to let us know you are here. You can even let your pet tag along when you come to PAH to pick up medication or drop off a sample!
• Desensitization - If your pet is afraid of the car, carrier, leash, nail trimmers etc…You can desensitize them by positive reinforcement. For example, jumping in the car with them giving treats, toys, petting…but don’t drive anywhere. Let them spend a little quality happy time in the car with you that doesn't lead to a stressful event. You can also place trigger items like carriers, leashes, nail trimmers etc…in their common area like the living room. Give them time to be familiar with these items in order to reduce their triggers. 
• Stress free walks around PAH - If your pet knows where they are when they pull into PAH’s parking lot, try to come once or twice a week and take a walk around the Puna Kai shopping center.  Give treats and reassuring petting and avoid any traumatic or scary moments during these walks.
• Fear Free training - Ask PAH staff for recommendations on a Fear Free trainer that can assist in many other options and exercises.
• Good citizen or puppy socialization classes. Research local groups that offer these wonderful classes. 
• There are anxiety supplements, medications and pheromone options to help create a less stressful experience while in the clinic. Starting off with these could help your pet to trust us enough to eventually not rely on them. 
• “Fear Free Happy Homes” has many resources to help you with helping your pet! https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com/

…Our goal is to have clients and patients enjoy their visits at PAH!