Helping Your Dog Cope With Car Sickness

The easiest way to help your dog with car sickness is to not go for drives, but what if the vet doesn’t do house calls? What if you have to move?

This isn’t something you can run away from forever, and you can’t have your beloved dog puking up a storm every time he/she has to travel in a car. Here’s what you need to know:

Why is my dog carsick?

Both dogs and humans get carsick, or motion sickness because our brains can’t predict or anticipate the motion. It’s all in the way our brains are wired.

We have something called actual motion and expected motion. Expected motions are voluntary, for example walking, where your body knows it’s about to happen and reacts accordingly. On the other hand, an actual motion may be unexpected which throws off the system responsible for balance, leading to nausea.

Dogs can also get carsick because of the anxiety or stress of being in a car.

How to tell my dog is carsick

The most telltale sign is vomiting, but other signs include:

• Cowering
• Excessive drooling
• Panting
• Restlessness
• Shaking/trembling
• Tucking tail

What to do for a carsick dog

This is going to be a slow and painstaking process, but it’s worth it in the end. You have to get your dog used to being in the car, so start by taking him in and out of a parked car. Once comfortable, advance to a short ride, perhaps out of the driveway or to the end of the street, offering treats or the support of another person. If possible, avoid roads with a lot of turns, and speed bumps. Comfort is key, but perhaps a car seat is needed for restlessness. If nausea and vomiting persist, consult your vet for medication and additional treatment options.

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