Caring for your dog isn’t just about how you feed them, how you clean up after them, walk them, and take care of them at home. At times, it’s going to be necessary for you to take them in the car with you. For some dogs, that’s a lot easier said than done. Here, we’re going to look at a host of tips that can make sharing a car ride with your dog a lot less stressful.
Dog stress levels can vary greatly when it comes to car rides. For some dogs, the issue might not be stress, but you still want to ensure a clean and healthy environment for them. These tips will help with that.
Get everything you need at the ready
Be sure that you’re ready for the trip ahead. Bring a travel bag with all of the things they might need on the road, including a bottle of water, food, some homemade dog treats to help keep them in a good mood, as well as walking gear if you have to get out of the car, and waste bags. If you’re taking a longer trip, you might want to research any pet-friendly stops or parks along the way so that you can out, stretch your legs, and let them take care of their business so there are no accidents in the car.
Set them comfortable and safely
You want to make sure that your dog is safe and rested on the road. Some dogs do just fine sitting in the passenger’s seat or lying down. For others, using a pet seatbelt or a travel crate might help keep them comfortable and calm. Any travel crates need to be resilient and well-ventilated to make sure the dog doesn’t get overheated in there. Familiar bedding with your dog’s scent can help them feel more at ease during the ride. Additionally, bringing a favorite toy can provide comfort and distraction.
Be mindful of motion sickness
Not every dog gets car sick, but if yours does, you want to be ready for it as best as possible. Acclimating your dog to car rides over time can help them get more comfortable with, so shorter drives ahead of a big trip might be recommended. Avoid feeding your dog a large meal right before the trip. A small snack can be given a few hours before departure to reduce the likelihood of nausea. Consult your veterinarian about medications or natural remedies that can help with motion sickness. There are several options available, including anti-nausea medications specifically formulated for dogs.
Be ready for dog hair
It’s not just your dog’s comfort you should be mindful of, but your car’s condition, as well. Some dogs shed, and some dogs shed even more in cars if they’re feeling nervous. Dog hair and dander can build up and affect the air quality, which might even cause you to start feeling nauseous in the car if you allow it. Make use of a Pet Hair Remover tool to ensure that you deal with shedding after each ride with your dog. Keep the AC going when in the car as well to ensure a good airflow.
Ensure they’re hydrated and happy
You should check in on your dog now and then to make sure that they’re doing okay, and that they’re hydrated, cool, and comfortable. Make sure to bring a portable water bowl as well as enough water to cover the whole trip. Stop regularly to help them drink water and stretch, and make sure that you keep your car well-ventilated and provide shade to protect your dog from direct sunlight. Use sunshades on windows or position your dog away from direct sunlight to prevent overheating.
Ensure a calm environment
A calm and familiar environment can help reduce anxiety and make the car ride more enjoyable for your dog. Consider using calming aids such as pheromone sprays, calming collars, or anxiety wraps. These products can help soothe your dog and reduce travel-related stress. Bringing items that smell like home, such as a favorite blanket or toy, can provide comfort and reduce anxiety. Familiar scents can help your dog feel more secure in the unfamiliar environment of the car. Playing soft, calming music or white noise can help drown out loud or startling sounds from outside the car. Some dogs find music soothing, and there are even playlists specifically designed to calm dogs.
Whether you’re heading to the vet, visiting relatives, or just want to take your dog out on a journey to somewhere a little further away from home, car rides with them can be enjoyable experiences. It just might take a little prep work.
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