Whether your pet has a sever case of allergies or has just been diagnosed with diabetes, there may come a time when you have to administer shots in your own home.  Seek guidance and a demonstration before you head out and pick up syringes.  Giving a pet a shot can be difficult in the beginning, but there are a few tips and tricks to help you and your pet cope.

            If your veterinarian tells you that you will have to start giving your pet shots, the first thing you should ask is, “Will you please demonstrate how I need to do this?”  In addition to demonstrating, make sure the vet answers any questions you may have.  He or she may even be able to provide you with literature on the procedure.  You should never leave the vet’s office with questions or concerns.  If the vet is unavailable, then ask an assistant for help. 

            When it is time to give your pet a shot, do not get anxious!  If your vet showed you what to do, then you will be fine.  There is no reason for you to get upset, because you will only upset your pet.  So, do not make a big fuss out of giving your pet a shot.  Act normal, and call your pooch to you.  Don’t be overly compassionate or change your voice.  It’s best if you treat it like, let’s say, obedience training:  straight and to the point! 

Many owners with diabetic dogs suggest giving the dog the shot while he is doing something else.  For instance, you could give your dog a shot while he is eating dinner.  This may be a great suggestion for some but a horrible suggestion for others.  Many dogs like to eat their food in peace; being bothered by you (especially with a needle), could cause a potentially aggressive situation.  If you think this could be a possibility for you, then just try petting your dog while he is eating.  If he does not like to be pet, then you can be sure he’ll hate getting a shot!

If you are one of the many owners who can’t approach your pet while he is eating, then don’t feel bad!  You can easily give your pet an injection, but you may need to use a helper, and possibly a muzzle, the first few times.  The muzzle is just for protective purposes; the last thing you need is a nasty dog bite.  If you have a muzzle, then try to use it the first time.  It may frighten your dog, so it’s okay if you decide not to use it.  Have your helper hold your pooch at your side.  Or, if your pet knows obedience commands, then take advantage of this.  Have your pooch “sit” and “stay.”  You may still need a helper at first, but it’s a good way to exercise the commands your dog knows. 

More than likely, you will be giving the injection between your pet’s shoulder blades.  If your veterinarian suggested otherwise, then always follow the vet’s instructions!  If not, lift up the excess skin on the back of your dog’s neck (in between the shoulder blades).  An insulin injection can be given right under the skin, so there is no need to go deep into the muscle.

The first few injections may not be pleasant for you or your pet.  But, there’s no need to worry; remember it is a new process for both of you.  Instead of getting nervous or angry, the best thing you can do for your dog is to reward him for sitting through the injection.  Give him a treat or feed him immediately after giving him the shot.  Just like in obedience training, your dog will soon associate the shot with a pleasing outcome, making him more likely to sit through the next one.

            Giving your pooch a shot may not seem like the most pleasurable experience, but your pet can get used to it.  Remember that he can sense your feelings, so there is no need to get overly excited or nervous.  Stay calm, and help keep your pet calm.  You may need a helper or a muzzle in the beginning, but soon the thought of a nice treat will help keep your pet still.  Overall, never give up.  If you need additional help, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.

This article was provided by pet super store. A great resource for pet strollers and dog tracking collars.