You are in the car driving your dog to the Vet.
He sits in the car. And shakes.
He knows that he’s heading for trouble.
You arrive at the parking lot.
You coax him out of the car.
His legs are quivering.
Flattened: HIs long floppy ears to his head. His tail between his legs.
You are in the waiting room.
All 65 pounds of him crawls in your lap.
You wait.
His body trembling.
Your name is called.
Your dog shows his fangs. Growls.
Vet anxious. Signaling danger.
Dog lunges.
Vet suggests a muzzle.
Stress levels screaming.
Page forward.
A new day.
A new Vet.
Husband and wife Vet team.
“Good Shepherd Veterinary Services”
A mobile Vet clinic.
House Calls!
Dog welcomes Dr. G. in full wiggle and waggy tail.
Dr. G sits at the kitchen table to gather his vitals from Owner.
Dog lies down next to Dr. G.
Dr. G. starts his examination.
He carefully and methodically massages the entire body.
Dog lays back. His eyes closed.
Bliss.
His ears inspected.
He opens his mouth for oral.
He accepts his booster shots with “Good Dog” praises,
and kisses on top of his head.
Dog loves his Vet.
Dog owners love his Vet.
Cost of Vet A and Vet B: Same.
Experience?
Priceless.
Credits: 1) Image Credit. 2) Thank you Susan for “color.”
A good vet is crucial. One of my clients is a vet who travels to her patients. In some cases, it’s the perfect solution. Glad that it worked for you guys, too! 🙂
It certainly has…
beautiful. reminds me of myself with the dentist. when i was a child i went to a dentist who did not use novocaine and was cold and clinical. i often think of the nazi dentist in ‘the marathon man.’ this caused me to have a lifelong extreme dental fear. only as an adult, have i found a dentist who is the kindest, most patient, gentlest, empathetic person, (along with her entire office), and has provided me with an altogether different experience. i’m quite sure they have FEAR!!! written in huge letters on my file somewhere. at this office, they talk to me throughout, ask how i’m doing frequently, turn on calming music, put sunglasses on me, give me a back massage chair, use numbing cream, and shots only when truly numb, and gas when needed. she told me i still have tears rolling down my face, even when totally out, so i still carry some of that fear with me inside, but i no longer have the terror associated with the experience. what a difference a different approach and a bit of caring can make. while one person just does their job, another does the job of truly helping another. i is indeed a priceless gift.i can so identify with your dog.
so sad about the tears! so lovely you’ve found the right person!
thanks ophelia ) happy now
Incredible story. Wow. I can’t imagine what you went through as a child. Thanks for sharing Beth.
the friendliest staffordshire terrier once ran straight into our living room – with a big, crocodile grin. I eventually had to walk him down to the vet to get his microchip read – total change of attitude. Came to a such a quick halt I dragged him along the floor on his bottom for a moment before I realised he’d dug his heels in. On the other hand my parents’ dog strains at the leash to go into the vets – he went to puppy training there – lots of treats!
Great story Ophelia. And yes, Treats solve many problems.
That’s Teddy going to the groomer!! And me going to the dentist. And Andy before he has to gofor a certain exam that is encouraged for men over 50.
Funny!
We have been using a “Mobile Vet” for about five years now and even if it cost twice as much, I would still use him. Few things compare to taking four, 80lb (ish) Labs to the Vet at the same time….unmanageable. Our experience is as good as yours. Welcome to the 21st century of Dog Care
4 labs. Wow. That’s more than a handful. Thanks Ray. We’re glad to have arrived.
Reblogged this on Writing Out Loud and commented:
David Kanigan is consistent in producing an entertaining and informative blog
Thank you for sharing.
what a perfect story —
Thank you LouAnn
Its all in the approach. Can apply to so many scenarios. Great story!
Thank you Carolann
Awesome vet.
He is all of that Alex.
Wonderful write up.. That image is awesome .
Thank you Indira. Loved the photo. Have been saving it for several months.
Love this story…did I say already I have a soft spot for dogs?! 🙂
Yes, yes you did Vicki
I have this one down… They love the car, but as soon as we pull into the parking lots they shake and whine. But…Mom has a pocket full of treats! Although one of my sweeties tried to bite the vet last time for putting something in a hole that only things should come out of… The visit wasn’t that bad… 🙂
Treats solve many problems (including many for me).
Lovely! And totally believable. Our Bumble likes to go to his vet but I think it’s only because of the nice girls in the reception. He gets so much attention and praise 🙂 He once even blogged about it.
He even blogged about it? Your Bumble? What an incredible creature!
My cats aren’t fond of going to the vet, but they tolerate it well. You have to love a vet who kisses their clients on the head.
Yes, you do Sandy
Subject matter notwithstanding, great story!
Some day. Some day you’ll see the light.
Hmmm ….. like dog like owner? Given the “colour” of your eye-doctor story last week, maybe you should enquire if they will take you on as a patient! Can’t even begin to describe the visual I have in my head.
Laughing! I’m back to eye doctor tomorrow. Pulse is already quickening.