Photo: Unsplash (free licence).
Quick answer: leave the carrier open at home with a blanket and treats so your pet stops linking it only with the vet. On the day, cover it with a towel, secure the carrier well in the car, take your list of questions and reward your pet when you get home.
Before the appointment: the carrier as a safe place
- Leave the carrier in view with the door open for a few days beforehand.
- Put a blanket that smells of home and a few treats inside.
- Feed your pet near or inside the carrier.
- Make short car journeys that end with something pleasant.
On the day
- Cats and small dogs should always travel in a carrier.
- Cover the carrier with a towel to reduce stimuli.
- Carry it with both hands, without swinging it.
- In the car, secure it so it cannot move.
- In the waiting room, keep the carrier raised and away from other animals.
What to bring
- Health record or pet passport and paperwork.
- List of questions and changes you have noticed.
- Name of its food and any medication.
- Photos or videos of the symptom, if possible.
- Treats for after the appointment.
Recommended pet carriers
See our cat carriers and dog carriers.