Why I Schedule Both Dogs for One Appointment

There are two major benefits that I appreciate.

Two Dogs Waiting

I used to schedule my dogs' veterinary appointments separately. However, I found it beneficial to schedule both dogs for one appointment slot.

In case it's helpful, below are the main points covered in this post:

• Convenience

• Less Stress

• What's Next?

Convenience

Small and Large Dogs

Scheduling both dogs for one appointment slot minimizes the number of visits needed during the year. I used to schedule Rascal and Shadow's appointments together. Both dogs were calm and well-behaved. I had no issues taking them anywhere together.

When I adopted Lucy three years ago, I believed it was easier to schedule separate appointments for her and Rascal. Lucy was a challenge to handle in the veterinary clinic because of her "severe anxiety."

She was still a 'handful' when medicated (Trazodone) before a scheduled appointment. The doctor wanted to increase her dosage, but I declined thinking I could learn how to minimize or manage her anxiety.

Lucy does not resort to aggressive behaviors when anxious. She is the type to hide behind me and cry when she does not get her way. She had a few failed attempts to escape (flee).

Scheduling both dogs for one appointment is not cheaper than scheduling separate appointments, but it is time efficient. I do not worry about blocking additional time on my calendar or making multiple drives to-and-from the clinic. So, it made sense to start scheduling one appointment for both dogs.

I worried about the potential challenges of handling both dogs when one was a large scaredy-cat at the clinic, but that was never an issue.

Less Stress

Small Dog Under a Chair

Large Dog Looking Up

Fortunately, taking the dogs together was less stressful than I imagined it would be. Our first few joint appointments started off challenging every time Lucy refused to get weighed. Yet, once we were sent to a room, Lucy seemed less anxious with Rascal by her side.

Both dogs would cuddle together in a corner of a room or under a chair. They would stay by each other's sides when the veterinary assistant/technician and doctor came into the room.

Large Dog Looking at a Counter

There were a few times when I had to stop Lucy from opening cabinet doors and drawers to see what was inside. She also has a weird fascination with laptops and attempted to use the room's computer a few times.

During our last joint appointment, Rascal was taken away for a nail trim. Lucy whined until he returned. She checked Rascal's body to make sure nothing was missing before patting his head. Appointments are the only time Rascal accepts head pats from her.

Lucy trembled at the sight of the medical equipment (stethoscope, otoscope, syringes, etc.). In the past, she would run and hide from the equipment. Rascal calms her with kisses/licks. He sometimes leans against her to keep her still.

What's Next?

This may not be the outcome for owners of multiple dogs, but scheduling both dogs for one appointment is convenient and less stressful for all of us. I may not always be able to do so, but I would do my best to make it happen. I also do not believe I could do this with three dogs.

Comment below to share if you schedule one or separate appointments for your pets!

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Thanks, and have a great day!

~Simply Jelly Jam