Towels and pillows may be adapted to use as restraint tools in veterinary practice when dealing with fearful or anxious dogs.
Towels
Towels are a versatile tool, which may be used in many ways when handling animals.
You may roll a towel into a long tube (like a pool noodle), place it under the dog’s chin, and hold the ends behind the ears/ at the back of the neck. The towel should be large enough that the padding restricts the movement of the head so the dog cannot turn back to snap or bite. Ensure the dog’s breathing is not cut off, however.
Pros: Towels are readily available within clinics, and offer a softer alternative to a lead or catch pole when holding a dog’s neck. Darkness by covering the dogs’ eyes can help to calm them down. They can also be adapted and used in numerous ways.
Cons: Some dogs panic when anything is wrapped around their neck, so towels will not be a good option for these dogs.
Pillows
Pillows may be used to distract dogs receiving an injection in their kennel, either for delivering medication or to sedate them before surgery.
Step-by-step:
- Select a soft pillow,
- Slowly approach the dog in its kennel, from the side to be non-confrontational.
- Keep your head a safe distance from the dog to prevent biting. Do not stand over the dog.
- Gently move the pillow up towards the dog’s head, distracting the dog and keeping it in place in the corner. Don’t use force with the pillow. The pillow should not be placed over the dog’s head, or restrict its breathing. It should also not be used to forcefully pin the dog against a surface. The pillow should distract the dog, and keep it facing in a certain direction safely.
- The clinician may then inject the dog whilst it is distracted.
