How to Prevent Car Sickness for Dogs on Road Trips

K-9’s can suffer from car sickness just like people. Motion sickness can be tiring for pet owners who love to travel. The good news is that car sickness can be eluded for most K-9’s. Let’s looks at how car sickness for dogs can be eased or warded off .

Car rides should be addressed gradually. A younger K-9 is more susceptible to car sickness. Puppies are particularly susceptible. Gradually present your dog to car travel just as you would socialize your puppy by easing them into new situations. Make sure they have plenty of fresh air, a view out the front window and keep them in the front passenger seat if at all possible. Take short trips for the first time or two to help your puppy get used to riding in a car.

Diminish their anxiety. One of the reasons some canines suffer from car sickness is because they’re fearful or uncertain of the trip. And, no wonder they are edgy , if their first couple of journeys in a car are to a veterinarian. So instead, ensure you make their first couple of car trips to a fun place like the dog park or taking a hike.

Think about getting a car carrier or car seat. One of the reasons for car sickness is the motion and a car carrier or a car seat can help your dog stay still in the car while it’s in motion. Naturally, you want to drive carefully and not take corners like Jeff Gordon on a NASCAR track.

Right before the journey, limit food. Make sure your dog has a decent meal a few hours prior to the trip; however, do not let them eat just before the car ride. You want to ensure they have time to sufficiently digest any food they have eaten. An empty stomach can also make them sick , so ensure they are not too hungry and have eaten a few hours before.

Ensure your pooch has lots of fresh air in the car. This actually accomplishes a couple of things. The fresh air helps to settle their stomach and it entertains them. Fresh air pouring into the car will be filled with new scents, scents that will keep your dog preoccupied with identifying while they’re in the car.

Ensure your dog is hydrated. It’s important for dogs to have enough water in their system before, during and after a car trip . Dehydration can cause car sickness to worsen.

You should stop frequently . If you’re going to be on the road for a while, more than an hour, make sure you schedule pit stops so your dog can exercise their legs and relieve themselves. This will lessen their stress and improve their overall comfort making it easier to manage dog car sickness.

Lastly, think about utilizing herbal remedies such as Bach’s Flower Essences or ginger, in the form of ginger snaps or ginger treats, to relieve car sickness in dogs.Natural remedies like this can be great for many things from preventing car sickness to controlling shedding.

It is not a given that your dog has to suffer from car sickness. By careful planning and preparation, and following a few simple steps, you can be sure your dog will have a safe and enjoyable journey whenever you hit the road.