Navigating Vet Visits: Tips for Raw Feeders

Understanding Your Vet's Perspective

Your vet is there for your dog—not to debate diets. While some vets may express concerns about raw feeding, their primary goal is to safeguard your dog's overall health. They see dogs every day, across various diets, and their knowledge extends far beyond nutrition. Issues such as early disease detection, dental health, parasite prevention, and vaccinations should never be overlooked—regardless of diet.

The Importance of Vet Visit Desensitization

If your dog only visits the vet for emergencies, they may associate the experience with stress, pain, and fear. Regular, low-pressure visits—whether it’s for a simple weigh-in, a social visit, or a yearly health check—can help your dog feel more comfortable in that environment.

Happy Visits for Comfort

Consider scheduling occasional “happy visits.” During these appointments, your dog can get used to the sights, smells, and sounds of the clinic without any distressing procedures. Some vets even welcome dogs stopping by for a few treats or pats from the staff to reinforce positive associations.

A dog that is comfortable at the vet is easier to examine, less anxious during necessary treatments, and less likely to develop vet-related stress that can complicate medical issues.

How to Have a Productive Conversation With Your Vet

Effective communication with your vet can make a significant difference in your dog’s care. Here are some strategies:

1. Be Open & Honest

   Don’t hesitate to share that you feed raw. Transparency helps vets assess your dog’s health accurately. A good vet will work with you—not against you—and simply advise that you feed DEFRA/APHA licensed raw pet food. Regular check-ups, not just emergency visits, allow the vet to see how healthy your dog truly is.

   
   

2. Back Up Your Choice With Research

   While you shouldn’t feel pressured to defend your decision, being well-informed can foster mutual understanding. Share with your vet the Raw Feeding Veterinary Society website, RawSafe leaflet, and even our website, filled with scientific links and resources.

   
   

3. Find a Vet Who Respects Your Choices

   Not all vets are anti-raw. Many holistic or integrative veterinarians respect raw feeding when done correctly. If your current vet seems unwilling to support your approach, it might be worth seeking one who will. Our Find A Vet link can help you find a pro-raw vet.

   
   

4. Focus on Common Ground

   Instead of debating raw feeding, keep the conversation centered on your dog’s health. Ask specific questions about issues unrelated to diet, such as:

• Joint health (see our joint support blog for more on this here)

• Dental care (see our dental care blog here)

• General well-being

• Vacci-check or titre testing (see our blog for more on this here)

• Weight management—Using a body condition scoring 9-point system is the gold standard; this method assesses your dog as an individual. More info can be found here.

• Spaying or neutering (see our blog here).

Working With Your Vet to Help a Fearful or Reactive Dog

Vet visits can be overwhelming for some dogs. Whether fearful of the practice itself or reactive to others, there are strategies to make the experience smoother.

Communicate With Your Vet in Advance

If your dog struggles with vet visits, don’t wait until you're at the clinic. Drop your vet an email or call beforehand to explain your dog’s triggers and sensitivities. Many vets will gladly work with you to create a plan that makes visits smoother.

Schedule Appointments Strategically

Booking appointments during quieter times, like early mornings, can help reduce stress by limiting exposure to other animals. Some clinics offer separate entrances or waiting areas for reactive dogs to create a calmer environment.

Use Muzzles or Other Safety Measures as Needed

If your dog is reactive, consider training them to wear a muzzle comfortably before their appointment. This ensures everyone’s safety while reducing stress. Check out this video from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home on muzzle training and consider these incredible made-to-order muzzles from The Muzzle Movement.

Positive Reinforcement & Handling Plans

Discuss handling strategies with your vet to minimize stress. Some vets allow owners to stay involved in the process, using treats and calming techniques to make the experience more pleasant.

Chill Protocol

In some cases, your dog may require a Chill Protocol, involving prescribed medications given before the appointment. If you're interested in this option, ask your vet for more information.

Your Dog Deserves the Best Care—No Matter What You Feed

Skipping vet visits due to the fear of judgment—or because your dog struggles with the environment—can do more harm than good. Prioritize your pet’s health by ensuring they receive necessary medical attention. A vet visit should never revolve around winning an argument—it’s about working together to keep your dog happy, healthy, and thriving.