You may know us at A.P. Vet Ltd. for our holistic treatments, suitable for all types of dogs, where a calm setting allows us to work around most problems our patients have.
We want to make you aware that titre testing does require a small blood sample to be taken. We try to make it as easy as possible for the dog, but the procedure is more typical of standard veterinary methods than most other things we do. If your dog tends to get agitated at the vets, then a group titre clinic may not be suitable. Dogs that are reactive to other dogs may struggle as, inevitably, dogs will come and go during group titre clinics. If this is likely to be the case with your pet, please talk to us about a separate appointment.
While the blood sample is taken, the dog needs to stay calm. The sample is usually taken from the leg which requires the dog to be comfortable for its leg to be handled and disinfectant to be applied. It can also be taken from the neck which requires clipping of fur as well as disinfecting and for the head to be lifted. We always have an assistant at titre clinics who is trained to hold the leg or lift the neck. If you prefer handling your dog yourself, that is fine providing the dog is happy to sit for you and keep the leg or neck still.
In some cases, dogs are calmer without the owner present. If we feel this may be the case, we will ask you to wait outside. If you are not sure what is best, we can offer a “training for a blood sample” consultation where you handle the dog as if we were taking a sample to get an idea about how your dog copes. We are also happy to work closely with behaviourists to achieve a positive experience. A group clinic is not suitable to practice.
To be able to avoid problematic situations we ask to be informed if your dog is reactive and whether that has led to your dog biting or showing aggressive behaviour towards people or other dogs.
We need to make sure nobody is injured. Sometimes dogs get less agitated when a muzzle is used. If a dog becomes stressed, evasive, or aggressive we may need to stop. For dogs that find a veterinary setting difficult we advise against attending a titre clinic, as single samples taken at selected veterinary practices allow for handling tricky situations more easily. It is even possible to use oral sedatives that make sure the event isn’t remembered.
If you decide to attend a group clinic with a dog which is not coping with the situation and we need to stop, full payment will still be required.
I declare I am the legal owner of the above, named dog(s) and that all information given here and previously is correct to the best of my knowledge. I consent to my dog(s) having a blood sample taken by a vet and an assistant. I have read the statement above and given any information requested and agree to the terms.
Important information - Leptospirosis (Lepto) cannot be tested for and is considered a Core Vaccine in the UK. Your dog will still need to have this vaccination.
Kennel Cough is not a core vaccine, but can also not be tested for. We recommend you check if you are using kennels or go to events
