This article was originally printed in the March/April 2025 issue of the California Veterinarian magazine.

Working in a veterinary practice often involves handling a variety of animals, each with their own temperament, size, and potential for unpredictable behavior. Implementing best practices for safe handling minimizes stress for the animals and reduces the risk of injury for veterinary staff. Below are a few essential strategies to follow.

Understand Animal Behavior

Assess Each Animal

• Take note of the animal’s history and temperament. Some animals may have a record of aggressive or fearful behavior, requiring extra caution.

Recognize Body Language

• Learn to interpret signs of fear, aggression, or discomfort in animals.
  For example, a growling dog with a stiff body and pinned-back ears signals that it feels threatened.
• Cats often display signs of stress through hissing, arched backs, or dilated pupils.

Approach Calmly

• Move slowly and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle the animal.
• Speak in a calm, soothing manner; do not raise your voice.

Proper Restraint Techniques

Use Minimal Restraint

• Apply only as much restraint as necessary to safely perform procedures. Excessive restraint can increase an animal’s stress and resistance. For example, using gentle pressure with your hands or a towel can help calm a nervous cat.

Utilize Appropriate Tools

• Muzzles, slip leads, and cat bags can help control animals safely and effectively. Ensure that these aids are used properly to prevent harm or discomfort.
• For larger or more aggressive dogs, consider the use of head collars or
  harnesses for better control.

Teamwork Matters

• Involve additional staff members when handling difficult or large animals. Having an extra pair of hands can make procedures safer and more efficient.

Reduce Stress for Animals

Create a Calming Environment

• Keep the area quiet and free from unnecessary stimuli. Use white noise machines or calming music to mask outside noises.
• Separate cats and dogs in waiting areas and treatment rooms whenever possible.

Use Pheromone Products

• Diffusers or sprays containing calming pheromones, such as Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs, can help reduce anxiety.

Practice Fear-Free Techniques

• Inquire with owners about any history of fearful behavior in their animal(s).
• Offer treats or toys to create a positive association with the clinic.
• Use gentle handling techniques that prioritize the animal’s comfort.

Personal Safety for Staff

Wear Protective Gear

• Use gloves, and eye protection as needed, especially when handling fractious animals or those with infectious diseases.

Maintain Proper Body Mechanics

• Avoid lifting heavy animals alone. Use lifting aids or ask for assistance to prevent back strain or other injuries.

Stay Up-to-Date on Training

• Regularly attend workshops or refresher courses on animal handling and restraint techniques.
• Train new staff thoroughly before allowing them to handle and restrain animals independently.

Handling Aggressive or Fearful Animals

Have a Plan

• For animals known to be aggressive, prepare in advance by having the necessary tools and staff ready.
• Potentially admit the animal directly into an exam room if one is available. If possible, have the veterinarian and/ or staff member be in the exam room
  before the animal enters.

Use Sedation When Necessary

• If an animal is highly stressed or aggressive, sedation may be the safest option for both the animal and staff.

Defer Procedures if Needed

• If the situation is unsafe, consider rescheduling or referring the animal to a specialist experienced in handling challenging cases.

Post-Handling Practices

Document Behaviors

• Record details about the animal’s behavior and what handling techniques work best for future visits.

Review and Reflect

• After a challenging case, review the process with your team to identify areas for improvement.

Safe animal handling is both an art and a science, requiring training, patience, observation, and skill. By implementing these best practices, veterinary practices can create a safer and more stress-free environment for everyone involved. Remember, a calm and confident approach is key to gaining the trust of the animals and ensuring a positive experience for both pets and their owners.

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