Pets are becoming more and more important in everyday life. Millions of dog owners in the United States consider their pet to be a part of the family, including them on family vacations. Just like other members of the family, Fido can get carsick, too.
Typically there are two reasons why dogs get carsick: motion sickness affecting balance or car-related anxiety caused by a fearful or traumatic experience in the car.
Motion sickness
• If your pup is prone to motion sickness, slowly acclimate it to car travel by cuddling it upside down in your lap, picking it up in the air, or rolling it around on the ground. These motions will simulate what your dog will experience in the car.
• Try not to feed your pup too soon before your planned trip, or feed it lightly. You don't want to upset an already off-balance digestive system.
• Avoid putting the dog in the rear-most seat, where there is the most motion.
• If you mainly take your pup in the car to go to the vet, it might associate the car with getting shots, which is not fun. Try sitting in the car with the dog for a few minutes each day, gently petting and praising it. Don't turn on the car or drive anywhere.
• After you've sat in the car for a few days with it turned off, try turning it on and sitting with your dog for a few minutes while it is running. Bring a toy and make it a happy time. Do this for a few days until the dog shows enthusiasm for going to the car.
