Traveling by car can be incredibly enjoyable, except for those who are prone to motion sickness. The thrill of long drives, panoramic views and music often makes a road trip seem like a movie, especially when you are accompanied by a beloved co-passenger.

This is why many people bring their furry friends along. Most dogs enjoy car rides, adding to the excitement. However, there are some pups who have trouble taking road trips due to car sickness.

Dogs vomit in the car!

“Dogs can experience car nausea, but it’s more common in young dogs than adults, primarily due to their developing inner ear structure. The inner ear helps with balance and spatial orientation, and in puppies and younger dogs, this system is still maturing,” explained Dr. Ivanka Fernandes, veterinary product executive at Drools (a pet food brand). India Today,

The doctor further explains that the motion of a moving vehicle can conflict with the visual and sensory information that dogs are receiving, causing nausea and discomfort.

The symptoms of car sickness in dogs can vary, but generally include drooling, excessive lip licking, crying, restlessness, and, in severe cases, vomiting.

Priyanka Tiwari, a Noida-based canine trainer and behaviour expert, said, “Another reason for vomiting or anxiety in the car could be the negative emotion associated with going to the vet, which all puppies go through in the first few months of coming home. As a result, the anticipation of going to the vet can also cause anxiety and stress for the dog.”

In addition, Tiwari explains that dogs can also get anxious while traveling due to the following reasons:

• Lack of socializing with the outside world and the car
• speed, shock, heat and poor ventilation
• Pressure on the bladder (urine or stool pressure) can also make the dog very uncomfortable

Meanwhile, Dr. Fernandes says that Travel anxiety is a common problem This problem in dogs can arise from various factors.

“Dogs may feel anxious due to the unfamiliar environment, the sensation of motion, or previous negative experiences associated with travel,” the doctor says.

And, if you notice signs in your dog such as panting, pacing, trembling, crying, or if he is seeking excessive reassurance from you, he may be experiencing travel anxiety.

“Understanding and addressing the underlying causes of anxiety can help make the travel experience less stressful for dogs,” says Dr. Fernandes.

Can you train your dog for this?

Tiwari assured that yes, it is possible and you have to start it early like any other training.

• “When you bring the puppy home, except for trips to the vet, take him out for walks in the car often. To make the puppy comfortable and reduce motion sickness, place him in a small cardboard box or basket with a soft mat,” she suggests.
• Tiwari says that in the beginning, you should keep the journey short and take breaks in between.
• Experts also say that once the puppy gets comfortable with car rides, you should give them a high-value reward at the end of each car ride.

Sharing her personal experience, Tiwari says she prefers giving pets safe peanut butter or ice cream, special for car rides.

Dr. Fernandes agrees and says it is possible to reduce or eliminate car sickness through systematic desensitization and positive reinforcement.

According to the doctor, over time, most dogs learn to associate car rides with a pleasant experience, helping to reduce their anxiety and car sickness.

To make the trip comfortable

• Open the windows or use air conditioning to maintain a cool temperature before getting into the car. An overly hot car will automatically be off-putting to the dog.
• Drive slowly and smoothly to avoid jolts and bumps so that the puppy/dog doesn’t fall.
• Keep the puppy in an enclosure or on a harness attached to a seatbelt to prevent it from rolling around.
• Familiar blankets or toys can provide reassurance by providing a sense of security.
• Additionally, stop for regular toilet breaks and short walks, so your dog can stretch its legs and relieve the stress caused by being confined for long periods of time.

Prepare not only during the journey but also before the journey

Tiwari says, “Make sure to feed your pup a few hours before a long trip and ensure their bladder is empty before getting into the car. You can also use a car seat cover/hammock or a dog bed on the seat so that the dog is comfortable to sit or lie down. Also, always keep drinking water with you and carry some treats to encourage good/calm behaviour in the car.”

Furthermore, Dr. Fernandes pointed out that when traveling with dogs, planning in advance is essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

The doctor further added, “Don’t forget to keep your dog’s identification tags updated for emergencies. It’s always a good idea to be aware of pet-friendly accommodations and stops along your route to make travelling with your dog a positive experience for both of you.”

Memorization…

• If your dog hasn’t been properly socialized to the outside world and the car as a puppy, don’t expect him to become a professional traveler.
• Create positive associations with car drives; car rides should ideally end with a high-value reward or a destination your dog is looking forward to going to (a park, a friend’s house, a lake, a trek, etc.).
• You can also start by taking your dog in the car to run small errands.