Vets' Hilarious 'Distraction Method' To Help Nervous Dog Seen 19M Times

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Dogs, like humans, experience anxiety, particularly when visiting the dreaded veterinarian. However, one clinic has mastered the art of putting its furry patients at ease—and the result is truly hilarious.

Dr. John Kaya, Dr. Ann Sakamoto and others have documented their unusual method of dancing as if no one is watching. However, in this case, over 19 million Instagram users are.

The viral video, shared to Hawaii Kai Veterinary Clinic's social media account, has already raked up over 900,000 likes.

A veterinarian technician at the Honolulu-based clinic called Ashley told Newsweek: "We do these types of distraction methods and many more to animals we feel may need it. Whether it is dancing, singing, head pats or treats."

Vets dancing
Two screenshots from the viral video featuring Dr. John Kaya, wearing an orange Stethoscope, Tanner, the vet tech, Gabby, the "blood Drawer" and Dr. Ann Sakamoto, the background dancer. The vet staff have been praised... Hawaii Kai Vet Clinic/Instagram/@hawaiikaivetclinic

During the clip, Gabby, a veterinary technician, can be seen crouching down while she attempts to draw blood from a dog.

The canine is sat on the operating table facing the trio of dancers who are busting their best dance moves to ensure the dog doesn't look down at his paw.

An excerpt from the caption says: "Distraction team ready!" followed by "We love doing our best to keep things fear free as much as we can."

According to the American Kennel Club, dogs can feel anxious for the following reasons:-

  • Fear
  • Separation
  • Age

The AKC pointed out that specific situations such as the vet's office or car rides, or surfaces such as grass or wood floors can all cause fear-related anxiety. Other causes include loud noises, strange people or animals, visual stimuli such as hats or umbrellas, new or strange environments.

Separation anxiety is estimated to affect approximately 14 percent of dogs. When dogs with separation anxiety are left alone or separated from their family members, they are unable to find comfort. This anxiety is frequently manifested in undesirable behaviors such as urinating and defecating in the house, destroying furniture and furnishings, and barking.

Age-related anxiety affects senior dogs and is linked to cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).

So far, the popular video has received plenty of comments—one of which has over 29,000 likes.

It said: "Dog is thinking " wow, these are really good drugs!"

"There's a special place in heaven for these pawple," praised another.

Another asked: "Can I hire them please? My pom turns into Satan just for a check up. My vet has to sing Rick Astley to calm her down."

"This is SO GOOD, we love your duet performance- it is undeniably GREAT," applauded another.

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? We want to see the best ones! Send them in to life@newsweek.com and they could appear on our site.

About the writer

Lucy Notarantonio is Newsweek's Senior Lifestyle and Trends Reporter, based in Birmingham, UK. Her focus is trending stories and human interest features ranging from health, pets and travel. Lucy joined Newsweek in August 2022 and previously worked at Mercury Press and Media and other UK national newspapers, the Australian Women Magazines and The New York Post. My focus is human-interest stories ranging from relationships to health, fitness, travel, and home. I am always on the lookout for relationships that go against the "norm" such as age-gap ones along with incredible weight loss stories aimed to inspire and motivate others. Languages: English She is a Derby University graduate You can get in touch with l.notarantonio@newsweek.com.


Lucy Notarantonio is Newsweek's Senior Lifestyle and Trends Reporter, based in Birmingham, UK. Her focus is trending stories and human ... Read more