Well it happens every month when I have to take Miss Rosy into the vet for her nails to be trimmed!   I don’t know who is really more anxious, is it me or the dog?    In the past, we did our dog’s nails, but since we have had Rosy, I opted to have her nails done.   She is really compliant and usually indifferent.   In the past, I have found the anxiety creeps in when there are other dogs, cats, or animals present.

So today I pulled up and was waiting for the office to empty out when I noticed she was sitting attentively looking out the window.  I saw the staff come to the door and I opened the car door to get out.  Rosy jumped out (I did not have the leash in hand) and she ran to the door waiting for me to open it; I did.   She walked in totally in control and went straight to Dr. Nick’s office to greet him.  I chuckled.  It  surprised me that it went so smoothly and when she was done she nonchalantly jumped back into her seat.

The Bold & The Brave

I began to laugh to myself at how well she knew the procedure.   She even jumped on the elevator table while he greeted her.   We were conversing about family and the coming holiday while she had one paw after the other worked on.  We were out within 5 minutes.   I know for a fact she would have been fussier at home and it would have taken me longer to do.   I am always concerned about clipping too short.

We were home and I was off to my next event in no time.   Anxiety comes into play when we have had some tension about things in the past.   I thought about it and realized I am always a bit anxious about taking our pets in since I don’t know what we will encounter.  With our past dogs, they were bigger and stronger and often had a mind of their own.   Then too with other animals around, one does not know how other pets react.   Sometimes there is barking and the tension comes from the contagious barking.   In today’s case, I think Rosy felt in control.  I did not have her leash in hand, and she seemed more comfortable.  I was however, ready to grab it just in case the situation had suddenly changed.

So here are a few simple things to consider the next time you are apprehensive about doing something like this.  #1. Plan ahead and schedule things when you have plenty of time to spare. It will reduce anxiety when one is not rushed.  #2. Find a doctor for yourself or your pet that is reliable and easy to work with so that there is trust.  #3.  Ask ahead on the phone if you have questions.   In this case, the staff there often will come to the door and welcome one in when things are clear.   #4. If  this is the first time visiting an attorney, doctor, car dealer, or whatever, ask about their procedures ahead of time.   #5. Planning ahead, I always have my check ready so it is a quick exit.  SO whether it is for you going into a new situation, or taking on a new project, get prepared.  It was ease things up quite a bit.    #6.  Look at the bigger picture.   There may still be a tad bit of anxiety, but it can be lessened with a little planning.

Hope this may help you the next time anxiety comes your way.  In the meantime, “Delight in Living” and stay well.  Let the mini miracles like this event bring you continued joy for your day.   It is the little things that add up and make our lives go

 

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