Car Sickness

Car Sickness

Ugh the dog threw up in the car again! It is doubtful that anything is much more unpleasant than to have a dog get sick every time he is taken out in the car. Not only is it disgusting, annoying, and inconvenient to the owner, but it is upsetting to the dog as well. Desensitizing your dog to traveling in a car may take some work and some time, but it can be accomplished. Car sickness in dogs is a common problem. It is more common in puppies, possibly due to not having the parts of their inner ear, the vestibular system responsible for maintaining balance, being fully developed. If this is the case, then in time, your puppy will outgrow motion or car sickness as they get older. If your dog is older and experiencing car sickness problems, there are ways to assist him.

To get your dog or puppy past getting car sick, it is important to continue taking him out so that he gets used to traveling in the car. Take your dog out every day before he is fed for a short ride. Ideally, you want the ride to end prior to him showing signs of motion sickness or anxiety. Signs of anxiety include whining, drooling, pacing, lip licking, and panting. Make sure as you are in motion that your dog has plenty of air while riding around and that he is permitted to walk around and to sit up and look out of the window. Having the ability to look around and see what is going on may be beneficial for him, however, leave it to him make that decision. If your dog becomes uneasy or restless, or if he starts to drool, stop your car and take your dog out to walk for a few minutes. Your quick car ride may also end at a close park where he gets to play a few rounds of fetch or engage in some fun sniffing behavior. The car will then take on a new, fun meaning to your dog.

If your dog is not able to even go on a short quick ride, then back up a few steps. Car sickness can be psychological and can be overcome by allowing your dog to sit in a motionless car. You may also consider feeding him his meals or extra special treats inside the motionless car. This will allow him to associate something pleasant with the car. As he gets used to the motionless car, step it up a notch and turn on the car. Do not go anywhere, just let him sit in the car as he was previously and enjoy his treats. In time, you can progress to having the car in motion.

If your dog requires a little more support to stay calm during travel, speak to your veterinarian about using alternative remedies such as aromatherapy, calming herbs, or anti-nausea or anti- anxiety medications.

It may take some time and patience, but in my experience, dogs can overcome car sickness. By helping your dog overcome his anxiety of traveling in the car, you will both benefit by his ability to accompany you on trips, which will allow you to enjoy spending more time together.