Travel Sickness

Earlier this week a friend asked what she could do about her pup getting car (travel) sick. I gave my normal advice when the topic comes up: To use a travel crate or something similar and cover the crate to prevent her seeing out. I have found this to work for me before. She was happy to report back that after using a box for Ruby to travel in she had her first “sick free” journey.

But Ruby’s travel sickness made me think about highlighting some more tips to try and prevent what can be very stressful for you and your dog:

·         Do not feed your dog just before travelling

·         Allow plenty of fresh air into the car

·         If you are undertaking a long journey use regular comfort stops and give your dog fresh, clean water

·         It is always good to introduce your new pup to car travel gradually, from an early an age as possible, taking short trips

·         Create a positive association to travelling for your dog by linking it to an activity such as going for a walk, going to the beach, etc.. By doing this you can alleviate any stress associated to car travel

·         If your dog as already experienced a number of bad experiences stop taking him in the car for a week or two then, if possible, use a different car when starting to take him on trips again

If your dog continues suffering from motion sickness do and see your vet. There are anti-nausea drugs that can help.