Remedies for Car Anxiety in Dogs
Your dog probably likes going for a ride, but that doesn’t mean it won’t experience car anxiety anyway. So, here’s what you need to know to make it a little easier on everybody.
Why dogs get car anxiety
For a lot of dogs, getting in the car means going out to have some fun. For others, it only means going to the vet. However, all dogs can experience car anxiety because it’s a natural phenomenon with rapid, unpredictable motion. Since dogs don’t drive, they also don’t know where they’re going or why.
Plus, rescue pets and dogs that have experienced trauma may associate a car ride with something negative, especially if they’re left alone. That, in turn, may cause them to exhibit anxious symptoms and/or general mood changes. In some cases, stress coupled with disorientation can even make a dog get sick.
The symptoms of car anxiety in dogs
Carsickness is not the only symptom of anxiety in traveling. In fact, each canine is different, so their reactions to riding in the car will be too. Regardless, these are the other signs to watch out for:
- Uncontrollable shaking
- Heavy panting
- Drooling
- Restlessness
- Whining or crying
- Pottying
If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, pull over to make sure they’re okay. And if the situation gets out of hand, contact your vet immediately.
Remedying the problem naturally
The good news is that you don’t have to pay for a vet visit every time your dog acts anxious in the car. There are a few ways to remedy the problem without medical intervention. So, here are your top # options:
- Refrain from feeding your dog for at least 10 to 12 hours before getting in the car to prevent vomiting.
- Secure your pup in a pet carrier or safety harness to minimize the effects of motion.
- Keep your vehicle ventilated and your music at a reasonable volume.
- Include something in the car that smells like home: a pillow, a blanket, an article of clothing, etc.
- Provide special toys that your dogs only get when they take a trip in the car.
- Use calming herbal aromas to soothe your dog’s nerves and settle them down.
If all else fails, talk to your veterinarian about prescribing anti-nausea medications or puppy pheromones for long trips.
The takeaway
Take your dog for a trip in the car without worrying about the symptoms of anxiety. Use proven remedies to comfort your pet along the way.
References
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/ask-trainers-get-dog-ride-car/
