So sorry @pasty
If Misty usually gets stressed when going to the vets many vets will offer a home visit to make the final hour less uncomfortable (maybe for you too)
I did a stint at PDSA head office a few years back and attended a couple of their after-work workshops.
One of my take-away learnings was: when a dog is uncomfortable / anxious / stressed, it will lick it's lips [not to be mistaken for feeding time obvs].
It can be used as an early warning sign...
Lost our Charlie-boy (springer) back in the summer aged 14.
I've just signed up with guide dogs for the blind to be a volunteer fosterer for respite needs. Means taking a dog in for anywhere between 1 day and 3 months to provide a loving home / environment. Maybe avoids getting too attached...