How to Avoid Car Sickness for a Dog
Some dogs suffer from car or motion sickness. There are two reasons a dog may become car sick. First, it can be anxiety in the dog. Second, it has to do with the motion of the car itself that is causing the dog to become car sick. According to PetTravel.com, a website dedicated to people who like to travel with their companion animals, 95 percent of the cases of car sickness is stress related. If your dog gets car sick, it's probably because she is stressed out about riding in the car.
Instructions
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Get your dog used to the car. Take him for very short rides in the beginning. Withhold food. Do not feed your dog for at least eight hours before a planned car trip. Your dog may still become sick, but there will be nothing to clean up. Never withhold water, however, always offer your dog water before, during and after a car trip. Some dogs do better with a small snack. So you need to find out which is better in your particular case.
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Try a non-prescription, over-the-counter medication such as Rescue Remedy or Pet Calm. Call your veterinarian to find out if over-the-counter medication approved for human use such as Dramamine can be given to your dog safely. Your veterinarian may also prescribe a sedative.
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Take your dog for very short car rides often. Show her that riding in the car can be fun. Lisa Peterson, a consultant with the American Kennel Club, recommends being a strong "leader of the pack" and demonstrate that riding in the car is a lot of fun by being animated and happy while in the car. This will cause your dog to act in the same manner.
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Tips & Warnings
The front of the car does not move as much as the back so try to have your dog ride up front with you if you can.
Do not pull over immediately when your dog vomits in the car. She will only learn that vomiting will make the car stop.
References
Resources
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