My dog was traumatized by a groomer at the vet. What should I do?

I'm not exactly sure this indicate abuse. Dogs that are under-socialized or are not used to places such as the groomers or veterinarian can act out like this from anxiety or stress, not necessarily abuse. That said, if you do suspect abuse, it would be best to speak with Loyal's owner about it. I would definitely talk with Loyal's vet to see if there is anything that can be given, such as a sedative, before he has to go to the vet or other scary places. It is also a good idea to speak with a trainer or veterinary behaviorist in person that can help with desensitization training which can help Loyal get more used to these situations in a safe manner, and help him relax and settle in. You can learn more about veterinary behaviorists here: https://www.dacvb.org/page/about

Dogs have good memories and it appears that Georgina has bad association with the veterinary office from a previous experience. There are a few things you can do and work out with your veterinary team. This this training may not work but it is worthwhile to try: https://www.petcoach.co/article/what-is-fear-free-training-and-socialization/ Remember though that the goal of your veterinarian is to keep both pets and people safe so always trust your vet's judgement on the use of a muzzle. Your veterinarian sees thousands of animals a year and knows how to recognize a dog who is a bite risk. Best of luck

It is certainly possible that Milo is experiencing stress and anxiety because of her recent surgery. Try getting some Adaptil from your local pet store. This is a pheromone product that helps dogs stay calm. Once Milo has recovered from the initial anxiety, you may want to habituate her to going to the vet by taking her there frequently (even if you don't have an appointment), so that she no longer associates the vet office with negative experiences.

I am very sorry that happened with Tiffany. I am sure it was upsetting for you both. I would suggest asking the groomer if you can do what are called "happy visit". Where you take Tiffany in to the groomer and she stays for increasing time and has increasing interaction with the groomers. For example the first time just walk her in for 5 minutes or so. Then on the next visit she gets a few pets from the groomer. The next visit the groomer can perhaps give her a treat. If you could do this a few times before her next grooming appointment I believe it will help.

Dog's don't bite on accident. He bit because he was uncomfortable with the situation and sounds like he's still on high alert after the incident. I'd recommend giving him lots of space and lots of love from afar by way of tossing him special treats. Rocky may need to be separated from your other dog for a while if he can't stand you being around him. It's possible he's in some pain if one of the nails was cut too close, or that he's still upset from the fear of the nail cutting. If he doesn't calm down in a few days, I'd recommend another vet visit to discuss medications to help him calm. Wishing you the best of luck in this tricky situation.

Bella's behavior suggests that she is fearful of children. Some dogs simply don't like interacting with kids - kids smell different, they move differently, they sound different, and for some dogs (especially those who weren't exposed to a variety of kids when they were puppies) this can be scary. Since her behavior started with hiding and growling, I suspect the loud vocalization she has been doing when they try to touch her chest is a fear response rather than pain. When her initial signals (hiding, avoidance, growling) aren't working to communicate that she wants to be left alone, she has to escalate the signals (the loud yelp) when they touch her, which she is perceiving as a threat. There are ways to help her become more comfortable around children, but you must do so very carefully, because so far she has used very clear signals of being frightened - but she hasn't yet (from the sound of it) resorted to biting, and any dog will bite if they feel they have to, if their previous methods of communication (hiding, growling, avoiding, vocalizing) aren't getting the message across. Only let calm, mature kids try interacting with Bella. Let them offer her a treat - but don't force it. If she chooses to hide or avoid them, they should let her be. Trying to show her positive associations with kids is the best way to get her a bit more comfortable. Honestly, though, most adult dogs who are fearful of children simply need to be provided with a safe way to be allowed to avoid kids. Give her a "safe place" (such as a kennel, or a bed in the corner) and reward her for going there, and instruct ALL children that they aren't to follow her there. Some dogs aren't relaxed unless they are actually completely removed, and are more comfortable being put in a quiet room while kids are around. This might be the best way to protect both her AND the kids. She is telling you that she's fearful and uncomfortable around kids - so if kids are around, she may be much happier being put in a safe quiet place in the house. Hope this helps.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor little Bella! Pain or discomfort on the right side of the chest could be seen with things like a rib fracture or muscle pain in that region. I recommend that you have Bella evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and treat accordingly. At the very least they can start her on pain control medications to try to make her feel better. Good luck!