Up to Date: On Shots!

Today was the day Ava had her first set of annual shots. I usually dread having to give her vaccinations because she shakes her head and neck a lot when the needle is in, which then of course makes it very sore even a week after... Annoying right? But, things looked up when I saw this video on YouTube (click here to watch) about different techniques you can use. This was great news because the way I was taught in the beginning was horrible - hold the needle in your hand, tap on the horses' neck with the back of your hand a few times then stab! After a while I couldn't get myself to "stab" Ava anymore and actually had to ask my brother to do it.

So, I tried this new technique where you pinch the skin and then insert the needle subcutaneously (under the skin) and... it was amazing! I also had no problem inserting the needle either which was great too. At first when I started desensitizing her to it Ava was like "oh gosh Mom's going to stab me, nooo!" but when I actually did it she was like "oh, okay, that wasn't so bad" and of course when I was done she got so many hugs and kisses, even treats for standing and being a good girl.

Very proud of my little mare, surprised too! Finally vaccinating won't be a hassle anymore.