I've used a variety of techniques, helping with vaccines. Sometimes a simple frisbee covered in peanut butter, hanging on something is enough of a motivator to distract food motivated dogs. Sometimes holding a dog steady by their collar, while patting their head (decent pressure like birping a baby) makes for a nice distraction. Less is more approaches can be super helpful at times to take their focus off the strange environment and invasive handling, whereas muzzling and vet holds might be necessary to mitigate risk and allow techs to very efficiently get in and knock out the pokes. I hope this is helpful!
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Melody Perry
Shelter Programming Coordinator
Dogs Playing for Life
NM
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Original Message:
Sent: 03-11-2026 08:03 AM
From: Carly Vermillion
Subject: Calming Animals During Shots
Is there any way to calm down little, wiggly dogs and distract them from moving while getting shots or blood drawn? Any advice is welcome, thank you!!
#Medicine,SurgeryandSterilization
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Carly Vermillion
Student
North Central High School
IN
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