It is well known that even a routine visit to the veterinarian may be stressful for a puppy, particularly if shots are required.
However, André Santos, this specific doctor, has found a charming way to make the entire treatment joyful.
Santos, a veterinarian with a practice in Portugal, is well known for his humorous approach to maintaining the health and happiness of animals.
Santos doesn’t just approach a furry patient who enters his clinic for a vaccine with the dreaded needle. Instead, he transforms the situation into a game and uses rewards like playing and food to promote positive behavior, making the dogs utterly unaware that they have even been given a chance.
Every time we do a surgery, we ought to give our patients something enjoyable, said Santos.
Although Santos’ approach may seem unconventional, his patients respect him for it.
Santos has become somewhat of a local legend, not just because of his veterinary skills but because of his unique ability to make the often-dreaded visit to the vet something that pets actually look forward to. His approach has caught the attention of many pet owners, who have praised him for turning what could be a stressful experience into one filled with positivity and fun.
One of Santos’ most popular tactics involves creating an environment that is playful and reassuring. When a puppy or dog arrives at his clinic, he doesn’t immediately focus on the medical procedure. Instead, he first spends time getting to know the animal, allowing them to explore the space and making sure they feel comfortable in their new surroundings. He often has a selection of toys available to help distract the pets, and sometimes even plays a little game with them before starting the treatment.
The idea is simple: by building a connection with the animal first, the dog feels more at ease, and as a result, is less likely to experience the stress and fear that can often come with a visit to the vet. Santos’ goal is to create a positive association with his clinic, where the animals see it as a safe and fun place rather than something to fear.
When it comes time for the actual treatment, Santos uses his playful methods to distract and reward the dogs. For example, as he prepares to administer a shot, he might engage the dog in a little dance, or offer treats, or even use gentle petting to make them feel more at ease. Often, the dog will be so caught up in the fun that it barely notices when the injection is given. It’s a technique that requires both skill and patience, but Santos’ years of experience and understanding of animal behavior allow him to pull it off successfully.
His approach is grounded in positive reinforcement, a well-established psychological principle that suggests behaviors can be encouraged by rewarding them with something the animal enjoys. By using play and food as rewards, Santos ensures that the experience remains as stress-free as possible for his furry patients. In fact, many pet owners report that their dogs leave the clinic wagging their tails and looking forward to their next visit.
Santos also believes that his work goes beyond just administering medical treatment; he’s helping to create a strong bond of trust between the pet and the person providing their care. This trust is crucial, especially for future visits, where the dog might need more serious procedures. By showing the animals that their vet is a friend, not a threat, Santos is laying the groundwork for a lifetime of good health and happiness for his patients.
The joy that Santos brings to his work has not gone unnoticed. Many dog owners who bring their pets to his clinic share their positive experiences online, often mentioning how their dogs are excited to return to the vet, something that seems almost unheard of. This has led to increased word-of-mouth referrals, with new clients seeking out his services specifically because of his reputation for being gentle, caring, and fun-loving.
André Santos’ philosophy has sparked a wider conversation about how to improve the veterinary experience for animals. Traditional vet visits often focus primarily on the clinical aspects—administering injections, performing tests, or carrying out surgeries—without considering the emotional needs of the pets. However, Santos’ approach has shown that making veterinary visits a pleasant experience can have a profound impact on a dog’s overall health and well-being. Animals are more likely to come back for check-ups and follow-up treatments when they feel comfortable in the vet’s office, which ultimately leads to better health outcomes.
In fact, Santos’ method has even started to inspire other veterinarians to adopt a more playful, positive approach. Veterinary clinics across the country have begun to implement similar techniques, such as offering rewards and using gentle distractions during procedures. This shift is gradually making visits to the vet less stressful for pets and their owners alike.
While some people may initially be skeptical about this unorthodox approach, the results speak for themselves. Dogs who once dreaded trips to the vet now happily trot into the clinic, tail wagging, ready for whatever fun is in store. Their owners have noticed that their pets seem less anxious overall and are more willing to go for check-ups, which is a huge win for both the animals and their caregivers.
Santos’ work has also extended beyond just the individual care of pets; he’s had a broader impact on how pets are treated in the veterinary community. He regularly shares his methods and experiences with other professionals, teaching them how to connect with their animal patients in a more compassionate and fun way. By fostering an environment of trust and joy, Santos is helping to revolutionize the way pets are treated in the medical world.
The animals that walk through Santos’ door may not understand the intricacies of the medical procedures they need, but they understand love and comfort. With each wagging tail and joyful bark, it’s clear that Santos has succeeded in turning the traditional vet experience into something positive—something that not only benefits the animals, but also the people who love them. For many pet owners, visiting the vet has gone from a dreaded necessity to a fun-filled adventure, thanks to one veterinarian’s unique approach to care.
Through his playful methods and kind heart, André Santos has proven that the veterinary world doesn’t have to be all about needles and clinical procedures. Sometimes, the best medicine for a stressed puppy is a little laughter, some dance moves, and a handful of treats.
