Summer is often a time for family vacations and road trips. For many, that includes bringing along the family dog. Much like humans, dogs and puppies can experience a feeling of illness while on car trips. The most common reasons for car sickness in puppies and dogs are:
• Ear development - The ear structures used for balance aren’t fully developed in puppies, which can cause motion sickness.
• Stress - If your dog has only been in the car to go to the vet, he may make himself sick from the worry and apprehension of a doctor visit.
• Conditioning - If your dog has been nauseous the first few times traveling in the car as a puppy, he may have conditioned himself to see car travel as a time when he will get sick.
Car sickness can make pet travel of any distance quite an ordeal for dogs and their families.
Luckily, there are several treatment options available to help prevent car sickness for your puppy or dog.
1. Physical Comfort
Face your dog forward in a moving vehicle so he sees less movement.
If possible, avoid letting your pet travel in the rearmost area (cargo) because this is where there is the most motion.
Opening the windows in the car a little bit may help reduce air pressure inside the vehicle and allow for better ventilation.
Don’t give your pet any food for a few hours before getting in the car.
Try putting him in a travel crate. Sometimes, this helps to keep him from looking outside too much and helps to keep any sickness he may have in a confined space.
Keep it cool in the vehicle. A hot, stuffy ride can make car sickness worse for your dog.
2. Reconditioning
If your dog associates riding in the car with something bad, like getting sick or going to the vet, reconditioning can help your dog to relax in the car.
Try a different vehicle. He may associate your vehicle with unpleasant memories.
Take short car trips to places your dog enjoys.
Gradually build your dog’s tolerance. Start by sitting in the car with your dog with the engine off. When he seems comfortable, sit in the car with the car idling. After this, take a ride around the block. Now you can try a longer trip. By doing this slowly and over a period of time you are helping remove the stress of traveling from your dog.
Use treats or a special toy to make the car a fun place for your dog.
3. Medication
There are times when medications are necessary to help your dog during pet travel. Some over-the-counter and prescribed medications include anti-nausea drugs, antihistamines, Cerenia and other medications that help reduce vomiting and increase sedation.
Always discuss any medications with your veterinarian before using to make sure your dog is healthy, the dosage is correct and that the medication won’t harm your dog.
4. Holistic Approach
Holistic treatments are another option for a dog owners to try. Some common holistic choices are ginger (for nausea), peppermint and chamomile, CBD oil and massage.
Patience, training and medications may help in preventing car sickness during pet travel. Hopefully, with time and a little effort your dog will be able to ride safely and happily in your car.