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How to Prevent Car Sickness for Dogs on Road Trips

K-9′s can get car sick, just like people. Motion sickness can cause pet owners who love to travel to become weary. The good news is that car sickness, for most K-9′s, can be avoided . Let’s look at ways to ease or counteract dogs becoming car sick.

Car travel should be introduced gradually. A younger dog is more susceptible to car sickness. Puppies are especially susceptible. Gradually introduce your dog to car travel just as you would socialize your puppy by easing them into new situations. Give them sight out the front window in the front passenger seat, if possible, and make sure they have lots of fresh air. Take short trips for the first couple of times to help your puppy get used to traveling in a car.

Ease their anxiety. Fear or being nervous of the trip is one reason canines can suffer from car sickness. And if their first couple of journeys in the car are to the veterinarian, its no wonder theyre nervous . Instead, take them to pleasureable places, like a dog park or on a hike, for their first couple of trips in a car.

Consider a car set or car carrier. Car carriers or car sets can help your dog stay still while the car is in motion, since motion is one of the reasons for car sickness. Also, don’t take corners like Jeff Gordon on a NASCAR track, but instead , it is important to drive carefully.

Food should be limited right before the journey. Before the trip, let your dog have a decent meal a few hours before, but don’t let them eat just right before the car ride. This provides them time to sufficiently digest any food they’ve eaten. Being too hungry can also make them sick , so ensure they do not have an empty stomach and have eaten a decent meal a few hours prior .

Lots of fresh air in the car is a must. Two things are actually being accomplished. The fresh air amuses them and helps settle their stomach. The new scents from the fresh air pouring into the car will keep your dog busy identifying them.

Ensure your dog is also hydrated. Its important for dogs to have enough water in their system before, during and after a car trip . A dehydrated dog can suffer from car sickness much worse than a hydrated dog.

You should stop frequently . Ensure you schedule pit stops so your dogs can exercise their legs and relieve themselves if you are going to be on the road for more than an hour. Uneasiness can be lessened, and overall comfort improved, making it simpler to control car sickness in dogs.

Finally, consider using herbal remedies like Bachs Flower Essences or ginger, in the form of ginger snaps or ginger treats, to relieve car sickness in dogs.Natural remedies like this can be great for many things from preventing car sickness to controlling shedding.

Car sickness is something your dog does not have to suffer . Whenever you hit the road, you can ensure your dog has a safe and pleasant trip by careful planning and preparation, and following a few simple steps.

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