I've shared that post to a local dog group I belong to and have considered Maisy but she is now petrified of the vet - what exactly happens during the process? I don't think she would be able to cope with it although she is very calm normally, not sure she can lie still for very long though.
The first visit is a bit longer. At every stage the dog is monitored for stress levels, and there is absolutely no pressure at all.
On our initial visit, we entered the consultation room and all that happened was the vet hunkered down and basically introduced herself to Bramble. LOTS of treats and fuss. After a few minutes, if everything was OK, the vet took her temp and listened to Brambles heart. Another pause, and check that Bramble was OK. They then take a little blood for an initial check and cross match. Up to this point it is very similar to a typical visit you might have at your local practice, only the staff are very focused on ensuring your dog is very comfortable.
The second stage. Bramble was taken through to another room. Now, this bit is all set up for taking blood. It could be that the dog needs more time at stage 1, the initial visit, and that's OK too. You can bring your dog just to explore the room, then go home. No problem. Bramble was fine, waggy tailed, no evidence of stress. The nurses popped a bit of local aneasthetic on her neck, clipping the tiniest amount of fur first, you would hardly notice though! More fussing, calm stroking, a bit more hands on then they lifted her onto the table. Bramble is on her side, and she has to lay still, I think it just took about 10 mins? The catheter is inserted into her neck, and literally the blood collects in a bag underneath. The nurses do hold onto your dog, but that is mainly for safety. At any point there is the slightest distress, they stop.
Afterwards Bramble has a pressure bandage on for a little while, observations are taken, pulse heart rate and general demeanor. They get a whole tin of food, and get to choose a toy from the HUGE toy box. Lots of fuss, then after the nurses are satisfied that everything is OK, you can go.
