For some dogs and cats, car rides are not the fun, face-in-the-wind adventure we picture, but are a nightmare of motion sickness and anxiety. Some of the signs that may be observed with motion sickness and anxiety include drooling, shaking, pacing, vomiting and diarrhea in some dogs and cats. Some pets truly do have motion sickness, and for these animals medications can be prescribed by a veterinarian to control the nausea and vomiting. For most pets, however, the signs are a result of the pet's anxiety and fear. Oftentimes, these are pets that experience apprehension and fear of the car noise, motion and anything associated with the car.
If your dog or cat would rather be anywhere besides in the car, here is how you can help her overcome the fear and anxiety of car rides.
It's All About Training
The first step is to desensitize the pet to the car. Desensitization means exposing your pet to the car in ways that do not trigger the anxious behavior. Counter conditioning is the act of giving your pet a reward such as praise or a treat to encourage the desired response. Start by getting in the car together and offering her a treat. Talk to your pet in a happy, upbeat voice. Make it a fun, positive experience. Do not have the car running, just share a treat. Repeat this a number of times on different occasions until your pet consistently reacts calmly to being near the car. You may want to feed your dog or cat in the car. If your pet is afraid of even getting into the car, start by feeding or giving a treat close to the car and gradually work on bridging the gap until you are able to feed your pet inside the car.
The next hurdle of desensitization is to get your dog or cat used to the car while it is running. Repeat the first step, only this time start the car. Give a treat before and after. If she looks or acts nervous, reassure her that everything is OK. Take your time and make sure she is relaxed before ending the session. Always end training sessions on a positive note. Do not force your pet to perform the desired behavior, as this will only make your pet more anxious.
Now your pet is ready to be desensitized to the motion of the moving car. Once she is used to the car running without showing any anxiety or fearful reaction, back the car to the end of the driveway, then forward again to the garage. Give her a treat and praise her for her calm behavior (this is counter conditioning). Repetition is the key. The more you do this, the more confident your pet becomes that cars are no problem. In fact, to her it becomes a great place for attention, praise, and even treats.
Now it is time to take a short trip around the block. Treats, praise, and calm, reassuring talk throughout the ride are a must. Gradually increase the distance traveled until your pet is calm no matter how long she's in the car.
When Training is Not Enough
Despite desensitization and counter conditioning training, some animals may need medication to control their anxiety. There are non-prescription products, such as Serene-um, Pet Calm, and Rescue Remedy, that can be used. In severe cases, prescription anti-anxiety medications can be dispensed by your veterinarian. You can also talk to your veterinarian about medications to control the nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness.
Don't Wait: Be Proactive
Get puppies and kittens used to the car while they are still young and are more receptive to new adventures. Dogs make excellent traveling companions, so it is well worth the training now for the years of enjoyment it will bring both of you once you get over this obstacle together. Acclimating a new kitten to the car can make trips to the veterinarian or groomer less traumatic for both of you as well.
Article by: Marty Smith, DVM and Angela Walter, DVM