What are the best ways to prevent motion sickness in dogs? Here are 7 tips
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Like humans, dogs can experience sickness and vomiting due to motion, such as during car rides. Puppies are more susceptible to motion sickness than adult dogs. However, regardless of age, seeing a dog go through this discomfort is distressing for any pet owner. Here are some tips to prevent and reduce the frequency of motion sickness in dogs.
Adjust Your Car’s Environment
- During car rides, ensure your dog is safely secured with an approved seat belt and harness. Bringing a familiar blanket or toy can help soothe any anxiety. Allow fresh air by slightly lowering the windows or keeping the car cool. Maintaining a quiet environment or playing soft music, such as classical tunes, can also help keep your pet calm.
Place The Crate on The Car Floor
- The placement of your dog’s crate can affect their car sickness. Small dogs in crates should be placed on the floor of the middle seat, which experiences the least amount of motion. A securely fastened travel crate can also reduce sudden movements.
Using a crate with solid sides can limit your dog’s field of vision, preventing motion sickness from the passing scenery. Keeping your dog from looking out the side windows may also help prevent nausea.
Limit Meals Before Travel
- To reduce the risk of vomiting, avoid feeding your dog large meals before travel. It’s advisable to avoid feeding for 8 hours before a long car, plane, or train ride. However, ensure your dog stays hydrated by providing plenty of water using spill-proof bottles or bowls.
Implement Desensitization Training
- If your dog shows signs of anxiety or fear towards the vehicle, seek assistance from a trainer for safe and gradual desensitization techniques. Begin by acclimating your dog to the car while it’s stationary. Offer positive reinforcement when your dog remains calm in the car.
As your dog becomes more accustomed to the environment, gradually progress to short rides to enjoyable destinations, such as the dog park.
Explore Pet Boarding Options
- When you need to travel for work or vacation and taking your dog with you isn’t practical, consider pet boarding as a secure and comfortable solution. Pet boarding can help avoid motion sickness altogether.
By choosing to board your dog, you eliminate the need for potentially distressing travel, ensuring your pet remains comfortable and happy. This option can be particularly beneficial if your dog has a history of severe motion sickness or anxiety related to travel.
Try Anti-Vomiting Medications
- Maropitant citrate (Cerenia), an FDA-approved medication, is frequently prescribed for motion sickness and vomiting. They are safe and effective for puppies over eight weeks of age. To obtain this medication, you’ll need a prescription from your veterinarian.
Typically, it’s administered to dogs about 2 hours before a car ride with food. In some cases, it may cause increased salivation.
Consider Antihistamine Medications
Antihistamine medications can also be beneficial in alleviating motion sickness in dogs. Some over-the-counter options include:
- Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
- Dramamine (dimenhydrinate)
- Meclizine
However, before administering any human medication to your dog, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They will determine the appropriate dosage based on your dog’s size and condition. Meclizine should be administered 30 to 60 minutes before travel. These medications may cause drowsiness and lethargy in dogs. Additionally, they can result in dry mouth and difficulty urinating completely.
You can only enjoy your vacation in a better way when you are satisfied that your pet is safe and in the right hands. Autumn Trails Veterinary Center offers veterinarians safe, convenient, and affordable boarding. For further questions, give us a call at (434) 971-9800. We can help you plan your pet’s stay.
