Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/vet-positive-reinforcement-vaccinations/

Just like us, dogs dread going to the doctor and getting shots.

But one veterinarian in Portugal named André Santos has come up with a way of vaccinating dogs without them noticing.

Santos encourages all dog owners to vaccinate their pets and has gone viral for his fun technique. He wants the experience to be a positive one for the dogs, so he has incorporated tasty treats and dancing.

He’s so good as his job that the dogs don’t even notice the needle.

The compassionate vet engages in playtime with each dog to make sure they are completely distracted before he give them the shot. He then follows up with hugs, pats, and kisses.

A little samba dancing makes everything better, right?

This proven positive reinforcement method works on dogs of all ages.

“I believe that food is the best positive reinforcement in dogs, actually I think they don’t even realize what are they doing while they are eating,” Santos said. “Personally I do the physical exam and vaccination on the ground, at the same level of the patient. I think we give them more confidence and they get happier and calmer! VETERINARY CONSULTATIONS doesn’t need to be a traumatic experience.”

In less than 30 seconds, the dogs are vaccinated and associate the experience with the delicious snack and playful vet, a win-win.

All of Santos’ patients look forward to seeing him and leave happy and healthy. Dog lovers cannot say enough good things about him. “I wish you were my 6 dogs’ vet!! You are awesome,” commented one person.

Another wrote, “I never get tired of seeing so many happy pets with their vet! You are an Angel! My pets are terrified of the vet all day.”

Some people even asked if he would give human vaccines.

See Santos in action in the video below. Don’t forget to share this with all your dog-loving friends!

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog