Travelling with Dogs
Motion Sickness in Dogs
For some dogs, car rides produce a great deal of anxiety. A
combination of fear and not understanding what is happening will cause
drooling, shaking or even vomiting in some dogs. In humans we refer to
this as car sickness or motion sickness; however, true motion sickness
is a result of an inner ear problem. Some dogs truly do have motion
sickness, and for these animals proper medications can be used under
the supervision of a veterinarian. For most dogs, however, the
sickness is strictly an over-reaction to the fear and apprehension of
the car noise, motion, etc. If your dog would rather be anywhere
besides in the car, here's how you can help her overcome the fear of
car rides.
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Get your dog used
to the car environment.
Get in the car together and have a treat, talk. Be happy. Make it a
fun time. Don't have the car running, just share a treat and make it
a positive experience. Repeat this number of times on different
occasions. You may want to feed your dog in the car. If your dog is
afraid of even getting into the car, try feeding or giving a treat
close to the car.
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Get your dog used
to the car while it is running.
Repeat step one, only this time start the car. Give a
treat before and after. If s/he looks or acts nervous, reassure him
that everything is OK. Take your time and make sure s/he is relaxed
before ending the session.
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Get your dog used
to the motion of the moving car.
Once s/he is used to the car running without any fearful
reaction, back the car to the end of the driveway, then forward
again to the garage. Give him a treat and praise him. Repetition is
the key. The more you do this the more confident your dog becomes
that cars are no problem. In fact, to him it becomes a great place
for attention, praise and even treats.
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Now it's time to
take a short trip around the block.
Treats and praise before and after, calm and reassuring
talk throughout the ride are a pre-requisite. Gradually increase the
distance traveled until your dog is calm no matter how long s/he's
in the car.
Some dogs still need something to calm them. There are some
non-prescription products. In severe cases, even stronger prescription
anti-anxiety medications can be dispensed by your veterinarian.
Dogs make excellent traveling companions so it's well worth
the training now for the years of enjoyment it will bring both of you
once you get over this obstacle together.
Travel Tips
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Visit your veterinarian first before a long trip to
determine that no illness or disease will make travel more
uncomfortable. If your pet is likely to be restless on the trip,
your veterinarian can give advice on using sedatives or
tranquilizers. Be sure your animal is current on all his
vaccinations.
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Bring along the dog's bedding or something familiar from
home. Remember food and water bowls plus some fresh drinking water
for refills in between stops. And don't forget a leash.
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Do take the dog on short frequent trips before the big
trip to get him used to driving.
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Remember that a closed car parked in the sun can quickly
reach fatal temperatures of between 150° and 200° F. Do not expose
your dog to these temperatures.
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Many airlines will ship your dog to your destination.
Each has its own rules, and must be checked by the dog owner. Your
veterinarian can give you advice on how best to provide comfort for
your jet-set dog. Many airlines will not allow your dog to travel if
the temperature is too high. While the plane sits on the tarmac, the
heat in the cargo bay can climb to dangerous levels. Night travel is
recommended.
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