Pets can often be resistant to being held or restrained and can become stressed and anxious when pet owners, veterinary team members or others try. Handling resistance is typically found in pets who were not handled as puppies or kittens or who suffer from an underlying anxiety. Sometimes holding or touching a pet is necessary, however, and acclimating them to being handled allows for necessary care and increases their sense of safety and security. Our Arcata Animal Hospital team offers some practical handling strategies you can use at home to ensure a calm and cooperative pet.

Advantages of low-stress pet handling

Pets do not understand why we need to perform different tasks to ensure their well-being, such as taking them to the veterinary clinic or groomer, administering medication, or trimming their nails. Understanding the proper approach to pet handling can help you prevent your pet from developing negative associations with being touched or held.

Some of the benefits of using low-stress handling techniques include:

  • Reducing anxiety and fear
  • Building trust and strengthening the bond between pet owner and pet
  • Creating positive associations with daily care tasks
  • Promoting health and well-being
  • Increasing safety

Low-stress pet handling methods

While handling your anxious pet may feel daunting, with time, patience, and the following tips, you can help them adjust (and maybe even enjoy being held):

  • Find a quiet space — Before handling your pet, designate a quiet area in your home where they feel safe. This can be a specific room or a corner with their bed and favorite toys. You can also play soothing music from your favorite playlist to relax your furry friend.
  • Approach slowly — Sit beside your pet and speak calmly and reassuringly. Avoid sudden movements and loud noises that can startle them. Allow your furry friend to get used to your close presence before attempting to hold them.
  • Use treats — Positive reinforcement typically relies on giving your pet treats when they cooperate with a task you want them to do. Use treats and verbal praise to create positive associations with handling. For example, treat your pet when you touch their paws or brush their fur, gradually increasing the time you spend touching these areas.
  • Respect boundaries — If your pet shows discomfort, stop and give them space. Gradually increase handling time as they become more comfortable or relaxed, such as after a long walk or play session.
  • Use distractions — Provide toys and puzzle feeders to keep your four-legged friend occupied and mentally stimulated. When distracted with something fun, they are often less likely to react to handling.
  • Interactive play — Another method is to engage your pet in interactive play. Practice handling your pet while throwing a favorite toy or playing a game of tug-of-war, which involves plenty of physical interaction.
  • Gradual exposure — Gradually expose your pet to handling and grooming activities. Start with brief sessions and gradually increase the duration as they become more comfortable. Any repetitive task can become familiar and less intimidating to your four-legged friend.

Low-stress handling techniques can significantly improve your pet’s comfort and cooperation during routine care and decrease their general anxiety. By creating a calm environment, understanding your pet’s stress signals, and using gentle, positive reinforcement-based methods, you can make handling a positive experience for you and them. Remember, patience and consistency are key to successful pet handling.

Contact our Arcata Animal Hospital team for additional low-stress, at-home handling pointers.