I understand how you feel Elaine. Just remind yourself you're doing all of this to keep her safe and to get her as healthy as we can.
It's one poke when the Libre is installed and that's it.
Ivy is a very spicy girl and I am able to install the Libres all by myself. Every time. So it can't be that bad or she would fight me (she doesn't) .
She hates ear pokes much more (she bites and fights me).
I just use a tegaderm clear patch on top of the Libre and that's it (never used the other patches). But I keep the Libre covered w ith a tube top or Ivy pulls off her Libre (naughty girl)
I also poke a little hole in the tegaderm to let the hole in the center of the Libre breathe.
*** TIP: When you install the Libre, have a toothpick or a small flat object handy (a flat nail file perhaps). When I lift off the installer cap very gently, I use the toothpick to hold down the Libre in place as the cap is lifted off. It's a trick i have devised that keeps me from any mishaps with installation. The Libre stays in place and we are good to go.
I hope this helps, let us know how it goes today!!! Sending good vibes your way!