Do vets recommend muzzles?
Adrain Spinka
2025-06-21 11:53:18
Count answers: 8
Many of our perceptions about muzzles are based in simple misunderstandings — and in some cases they’re rooted in downright myth. Muzzles are useful preventative tools to keep dogs from engaging in dangerous behavior with their mouths — and that doesn’t mean just biting. In fact, many caretakers use muzzles as a preventive measure to ensure their dog and the people around him stay safe. A muzzle worn at the vet — especially if your pooch is already sick or in pain — ensures the safety of your dedicated vet staff during blood draws, nail trims, and other procedures. When used properly, a well-fitting muzzle should never cause your dog any pain or discomfort. Dogs are able to pant, drink water, and even take treats with ease once they’re used to their properly fitting basket muzzle. Any dog can wear a muzzle, in addition to protecting your pup from grabbing garbage, or eating poo, muzzles are safe, effective tools that can help even the friendliest dogs get through stressful situations safely.
Rachelle Nolan
2025-06-21 10:01:09
Count answers: 6
Most of the time, we do not need to use muzzles, says Dr. Leni Kaplan, senior lecturer of clinical sciences at Cornell's Small Animal Community Practice. Our veterinary team strives to provide a safe, comfortable, low-stress environment for our patients, including providing positive reinforcement and employing low-stress restraint and handling techniques during veterinary visits. We use muzzles when necessary and without hesitation. If a dog is giving us overt signs of fear and warning us that they will snap or bite, we will use a muzzle for the safety of the owners, staff and patients. Any dog who has actually bitten in the past will also be muzzled as a precaution for everyone’s safety. But also don’t be offended if a veterinary practitioner or groomer asks to put a muzzle on your dog, that person is trying to avoid a situation where your dog could get in trouble. Muzzles are not painful and do not inhibit dogs from breathing.
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