Dudley went for his 3-year rabies vaccine this morning to a Pet Stop location. Pet Stop offers the 3-year rabies vaccine for $38 total. You need a copy of your dog’s last rabies vaccination record to get the 3-year vaccine. “Rabies vaccinations should be given at 12 or 16 weeks (according to state law), boostered in 1 year, then boostered every 1 or 3 years depending on the vaccine used, and the state law,” says the Pet Stop website.
Here’s how I helped Dudley through the vaccination process. When Dudley’s needle prick was coming I brought out a high value treat, a dehydrated steak food that he loves. By the look on his face, he was a bit conflicted about what was going on behind him, who was holding onto him, and what was in front of him which was what he really wanted. The cookie!
While Dudley was getting the vaccination, I brought out one of his favorite treats. He was a little apprehensive about what was going on behind him, yet the treat kept his attention as it was being delivered.
By the time the needle was pulled out, Dudley had the treat in his mouth. His ears are saying, “I’m not so sure about what’s going on back there,” but his lips were saying, “Gimme that treat.”
As we finished up with the praise, I fed him more until the helper removed her hands from him. Then we stepped away and shook it off with happy talk, petting, and praise.
When it came down to getting the vaccination, I was taking care of my dog and his feelings. What it takes is planning ahead, being prepared when they are administering the vaccine by having the smelly, high value treat ready in your hand and having your dog’s attention by talking to him in a happy tone, and feeding him the food as the vaccination process takes place. Then, lots of praise and more treats should follow when you move away from the vaccination area to wait for the paperwork.
Dudley waited patiently while I gave him more treats and we waited for the paperwork. And here it comes!
When the vaccine was over, Dudley wasn’t interested in what was going on behind him. He had his mom, his treats, praise, and petting going on. That’s what he loves the most and makes him feel secure and happy.
Keep your dog’s attention when you take him for a vaccination. Talk to him, feed him, love him.
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Coincidentally, as we drove home, we heard a story on This American Life on NPR about a rabid raccoon attacking a woman near her home. You’ll want to scream when you hear it then go check the date on your dog’s rabies certificate.
