It took 4 people to draw blood from my dog today.

[undeterred]

This was just for the annual heartworm test. He usually likes going to the vet because he likes people and its obviously a place for dogs. He gets treats and attention.

Well, as soon as he realized what the tech was going to do- and all she did was wipe a spot on his leg with alcohol- he started resisting. After a few minutes with 2 techs and me trying to hold him unsuccessfully they asked if I could wait till more help was available.

Eventually he was taken into the operating room and with 2 vets and a tech pinning him down on the table a 4th person managed to draw his blood... and he was wailing loudly the whole time.

He doesn't get aggressive or try to bite. He just uses all 65lbs to try to get the hell out of there. They called it the alligator roll.

He's fine and his blood test was good. I just don't know if there is anything I can do to make this easier for everyone. Last year it wasn't this bad.

[housewolf]

1. Awwww... poor guy!

He must have been terrified.

You could try working with a good trainer/dog behaviorist.

[BrklynLiberal]

2. Maybe some rescue remedy before you go...or if there is anyway to have the tech come to your home to

do this...

[undeterred]

3. I don't think changing the location would help.

He was perfectly calm and friendly when we got there... just didn't want to be pinned down and have a needle stick. He wouldn't like it at home either. I was thinking of that doggie xanax I used to use for my old dog when he paced at night. I have never used rescue remedy but I'm open to it.

[Walk away]

4. If they let you, drop by with him when it's not busy...

and bring some goodies for the staff to give him. If you can do it a few times...first just in the waiting room and then in the exam room. Happy, happy and touch the leg and get a treat.

My Vet let me do this with Henry who was just a mess about shots. It worked great until one day they hit a muscle and we had to do the whole thing all over again. It worked the second time!

Nothing works better than several good experiences to help shape their behaviour. Good luck!