What physical reaction might a dog display when anxious during a vet visit?

During a vet visit, a dog may exhibit panting or trembling as a physical reaction to anxiety. This response is part of the body's natural fight-or-flight reaction to stress. When a dog feels anxious, it may breathe more rapidly, leading to panting, and trembling can occur due to heightened nervous energy and anticipation of what might happen during the visit.

While calm breathing, vocalizing happily, and maintaining a playful attitude may be signs of comfort or contentment in a dog, they do not typically manifest in an anxious animal. Understanding these signs of anxiety is crucial for veterinary technicians and pet owners to create a more supportive environment for pets during stressful situations. Recognizing these behaviors allows for proper interventions, such as calming techniques or desensitization strategies, to help alleviate the dog’s anxiety.