What Should You Bring to the Vet?

A Ready Vet Go Guide to Stress-Free Appointments

A calm, confident vet visit doesn’t start when you walk through the clinic doors — it starts with preparation. The more familiar, comfortable, and rewarding you can make the experience for your dog, the smoother it will go for both of you. This guide walks you through exactly what to bring to your next vet appointment so your dog feels secure, you feel organized, and your Ready Vet Go training pays off.

1. High-Value Treats

The number-one tool for a positive vet visit is food motivation. Bring small, soft, easy-to-eat treats your dog absolutely loves — chicken, cheese, or commercial training treats work great. Offer them before, during, and after handling or exams to reinforce calm, cooperative behavior. Treats help turn “scary” moments into “rewarding” ones.

2. A Familiar Mat or Blanket

Your dog’s mat or blanket is more than a comfort item — it’s a portable safe zone. Lay it down in the waiting room or exam area so your dog has something familiar to settle on. Because your Ready Vet Go cards teach mat relaxation early on, this instantly signals to your dog that it’s time to be calm and confident, even in a new environment.

3. Collar, Harness, and Leash

Choose a well-fitted collar or harness that gives you gentle control without causing discomfort. Avoid retractable leashes; a standard leash gives you better communication and safety in busy clinic areas. If your dog is anxious or reactive, bring a head halter or front-clip harness for extra control without pressure.

4. Comfort and Care Essentials

Bring a small towel or baby wipes for cleanup, a water bottle and bowl if it’s a long visit, and a waste bag just in case. If your dog sheds a lot when nervous (very common!), a small lint roller or brush can come in handy, too.

5. Records and Medications

Keep your dog’s medical records, vaccination history, and medication list organized in a folder or on your phone. Having this ready shows your vet you’re prepared and makes check-in faster. If your dog takes medication, bring it along in its original container in case the vet needs to review it.

6. Training Tools

If you’re actively working through your Ready Vet Go cards, bring any target items you’ve been practicing with — a chin rest cue, paw target, or favorite toy. These help your dog understand what’s being asked in a new setting and give you opportunities to reinforce cooperative behaviors right there in the exam room.

7. A Calm Attitude

Dogs read our emotions. One of the best things you can bring is your calm, confident energy. Take a few deep breaths before entering, speak softly, and celebrate small wins. If you’ve practiced consistently with your Ready Vet Go cards, you’ve already built the foundation your dog needs to succeed — now it’s just about showing them they can.

Final Tip

Think of your vet visit as an extension of your training sessions. Everything you practiced with your Ready Vet Go deck — handling, calm cues, staying relaxed on a mat — comes to life here. Bring the tools that help you and your dog feel comfortable, keep your sessions short and positive, and don’t forget to celebrate the progress you’ve both made. Every visit is another opportunity to grow your dog’s confidence and strengthen your bond.