Make the Car Ride More Comfortable
- Adjust what your dog sees. Watching the world speed by in a blur through a side window can nauseate anyone. Put your dog in the middle seat in the back so they’re more likely to look forward. Use a doggie seat belt or safety harness to keep them safely in place. Some dog owners prefer using a solid-sided crate to limit their dog’s field of vision.
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Lower the car windows. Even a few inches of fresh air will equalize internal and external air pressure, which can help reduce nausea. Keeping the car cool and well-ventilated is helpful, too.
- Restrict your dog’s food intake prior to travel. If possible, withhold food for 12 hours before the car trip. But don’t restrict access to fresh water.
- Bring something that smells like home for your dog, whether it’s a much-loved toy, a favorite blanket, or even your old T-shirt.
- Buy a special toy that you only give to the dog in the car. Help them associate car travel with fun.
Conditioning and Desensitizing to Treat Carsickness
You can take steps to help your dog overcome motion sickness and car anxiety. Start with putting the pup in the car with you for a few minutes a day. Don’t turn on the car or drive anywhere; just sit quietly, giving praise and gently petting.
After a few days of sitting in the car, try starting the car and letting it run for a few minutes with them in it. Bring a toy and play with your dog. Make it a happy time. Then shut off the car and exit. Do this for a few days until your dog shows enthusiasm for going to the car. The trick here is to progress slowly after they show no sign of sickness.
The next step is to drive up and down the driveway or road in front of your house once, then stop and exit. Slowly increase the amount of travel until you can take short trips to somewhere that your dog likes, maybe a park or to visit a playmate. If they get sick, take a step or two back in the process until they build up tolerance to the car.
If there are slip-ups or lapses, stay calm. Your dog may show signs of anxiety, such as whining, drooling, licking their lips, or even vomiting. Yelling or making a big deal out of it will only amplify their stress. Keep cool and try again tomorrow.
Medication for Your Dog’s Carsickness
When nothing else works, your veterinarian may recommend medication, such as something for nausea or anti-anxiety medication. The vet may even suggest a sedative. There are also natural herbs and plants that may help to calm your dog and settle their stomach, such as lavender, ginger, and valerian. Be sure to consult your vet before giving your dog any medications or herbal remedies.
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