Some dogs like to drive by car, and being able to take them with you wherever you go can be nice. However, such conditions do not apply to all dogs. This article shares some safe tips that you should think about before traveling by car with your pet, whether or not the animal enjoys the trip.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Getting Ready to Travel with Your Dog
Step 1. Imagine how you would control your dog while in a car
It's not safe to let your dog explore the car uncontrollably. Consider locking him up if you're driving long distances or if your dog is an agitated passenger. This is the most effective way to keep your dog safe while you're driving. Holding the dog will help you focus on driving instead of on the dog. This is important because distracted drivers can easily lead to accidents. Caging your dog will also keep your pet safe in the event of a sudden stop or an accident.
- If you don't want to lock up your dog, at least find a way to restrict him from exploring certain parts of the car. For example, if you drive a station wagon, consider confining the dog to the back of the car. If there is a large section of the trunk with a window, install a wire grille to prevent the dog from jumping through the back of the car seat. Limit the area for your dog with the blanket or place the bedding in a corner so the dog can sleep comfortably during the trip. Most dogs find sleep an easy way to deal with motion sickness.
- You can also purchase safety seats for dogs. While not as secure as a kennel, they are safer and more comfortable for dogs than car seats, especially if you make a sudden swerve or stop.
- To ensure that your pet can't explore the car, consider purchasing a seat belt for it. The belt ensures that in the event of an accident your animal is not thrown from the car or on other passengers.
- Make sure the seat is safe either placed on the seat or on the floor of the car. Make sure it's completely stable to prevent it from moving if you stop the car quickly or the car hits something.
Step 2. If you are using a crate, introduce it to your dog
Present the crate to your dog with a positive impression. Let the dog sniff it before putting it in the car. As soon as the crate is placed in the car, put your dog in it. Continue to be positive about the crate and then walk away from the dog in it for a few minutes.
Step 3. Get your dog to exercise before putting him in the car
You need to make your dog feel tired before you crate him. While a tired dog may still be unsettled when confined, a full-bodied dog will usually do worse.
Step 4. Avoid feeding your dog right before the trip
Feed your dog at least a few hours in advance. This will prevent your dog from getting motion sickness.
Step 5. Pack a variety of appropriate gear for your dog on long car trips
Make it a comfortable place for your dog by placing a mattress or blanket on the floor of the car as a cover. Also give him water, delicious food, collars and dog leash, some of his favorite chew toys, as well as plastic bags for waste.
Step 6. Put some chew toys in the back of the car with your dog to keep him busy
It's best not to give your dog any bones or food because if he feels nauseous the dog will throw it up again.
Toys that make squeaking sounds are also not recommended as they will stress you out while driving
Step 7. Consult a veterinarian if your dog shows signs of motion sickness
Never treat your dog with Dramamine (a medication used to relieve motion sickness symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, etc.) or any other medication without the advice of a veterinarian. Your vet may suggest another medication instead.
Step 8. Treat hyperactivity in dogs before going on a trip
If your dog has hyperactivity problems, contact your veterinarian before traveling. Consider if there is a sedative that is gentle enough and safe for your dog, especially if you are traveling long distances. Follow the treatment instructions carefully.
Part 2 of 2: On a Long Trip with Your Dog
Step 1. Let your new puppy or pet gradually get used to traveling by car
Start by letting your dog explore the inside of the car with the engine off. Then start with a few short trips until you and your dog get used to traveling together by car.
Step 2. Make sure the first few trips in the car go to a place that is pleasant for your dog
Don't go on long trips all at once, just go somewhere your dog feels familiar. Take your dog to the park or field, so that your dog associates driving with something more enjoyable than just a trip to the vet.
Step 3. Keep the dog tag attached wherever you ride long distances
No matter how well your dog behaves, there's always a chance that the dog will get out of the car and run away from you. Make sure your dog is identifiable if it gets lost on the way.
Step 4. Rest
Let your dog run around the car until it gets tired. It's also a good idea to give him some food and water while resting. Make sure you stop every four hours or so and take a short walk, even if it's just on a grassy field near a fast food restaurant or highway. This will allow your dog to pee or poop, so you can give him a drink too. Taking your dog for a walk is very important because the dog can relax his legs and relieve the stress of boredom.
- This is especially important if your trip is longer than a few hours. Four hours is the absolute limit average for a dog to travel without rest. Make sure you stop in a grassy and relatively quiet area (not right on the side of the road), lock the car, give your dog some food and water and then take him for a walk so your dog can get rid of the excess energy.
- If you stop on the side of the road, make sure your dog is tied up for safety.
Step 5. Don't leave your dog in a parked car in hot weather
Know how quickly a dog will overheat, and die, in a parked car. To be safe, never leave your dog unattended in a car in hot weather for any length of time.
- If you stop to eat, park your car in the shade, and leave the windows slightly open to let in some cool air. Keep a bowl of cold water in the car and remove the dog from the seat. Lock the car door, and go order your food.
- When the weather is hot, try to spend some time away from the car, because you certainly don't want your dog to feel hot. If you are going to be pausing for an extended period of time, such as waiting in a long queue for food, tie your dog to a post or inside the front door of your car or anywhere outside where you can supervise it. At least the dog is free from the heat as long as you wait in line. Be sure to tie your dog in a secure knot so the dog doesn't run off into the street. A strong knot will also reduce the chances of someone stealing your dog.
Step 6. Avoid comforting him when your dog shows signs of stress
Comforting the dog was, as natural as it seemed, reinforcing his mind that something bad was going on. It is best to remain calm and casual while watching for signs of actual stress (instead of restlessness).
Step 7. Give your dog a treat as soon as he gets to his destination
Take your puppy for a walk as soon as he arrives at his destination. Feed the dog, reassure him, and give him great affection for making it through the journey.
Tips
- If your dog has a favorite towel or blanket, be sure to bring it along so the dog is comfortable.
- Try to take your puppy for a ride (without toys) for the first time on an “empty stomach” by not feeding him for 2-4 hours before the ride. A few rides without nausea will go a long way in preventing the puppy from developing motion sickness.
- If you're traveling more than 24 hours, first find a pet-friendly hotel as a resting place for you and your dog.
- Be sure to take a dog food bag with you on trips so you can handle the pup's business.
- Treat your dog patiently, sweetly and lovingly. Just as for you traveling can be stressful for dogs too!
- Don't let your dog stick his head out the window. Pieces of debris can get into his eyes or if you have an accident or stop suddenly, your dog may fly out the window.
