M O T I O N.... S I C K N E S S

Does your puppy get "woozy" or worse, throw up, when you take him for a ride in the car? Most puppies gradually grow out of it, but until they do, there are a few things you can do to help make getting used to the car easier. In the largest percentage of cases, it isn't the motion. Most motion sickness is caused by apprehension. Sit in the car with your dog daily, but don't go anywhere. Feed him his dinner there, give him a special treat or toy, make the car a fun place to be. Next, take short trips to fun places. (Most dogs hate the car because the only place it ever takes them is the vet or groomer's.) Drive a couple of blocks to a park or go to grandma's if she lives close by. Before long, the phrase "go for a ride" will make your dog grin ear to ear!

Photo courtesy of Bea Wachter

Some dogs do suffer from motion sickness. Some dogs feel better when they can't see out, riding in a crate (which is much easier to clean up than your car upholstery!) Others feel better looking out the window. In either case, keep the car cool and well-ventilated. Don't feed the dog right before a car ride, for obvious reasons. Travel prepared; pack cleaning supplies, towels and air freshener! Cover the car seat and floor with newspapers and a sheet or towel. Much as you want to, don't gasp "OH NOOOOOO!" and make a big deal out of it when it happens, it only increases anxiety.

If motion bothers your dog, adjust your driving technique accordingly. Imagine that you are balancing a full latte' on your dashboard - if you turn sharply, slow or accelerate suddenly or hit a bump, your latte' will slosh and spill. The same thing happens inside your puppy's tummy. Keep the "slosh" to a minimum and you'll eliminate the need for so many cleaning supplies!

If your dog begins to salivate or acts distressed, have his leash handy! Pull over and let him get his feet on solid ground and get some fresh air.

A few helpful suggestions:

• Create a positive association by sitting in the car with nowhere to go. Just spend a quiet evening with your puppy. Relax and appreciate a chance to get away from the phone and the kids. Just sit in the car and read the newspaper or a book while the dog eats biscuits or its dinner.
• Avoid the natural inclination to stroke or sooth the dog with your voice. It will actually reinforce any anxiety he is feeling.
• When the dog is relaxed about just being in the car, start with frequent, short trips - maybe back out of the driveway and sit and read the paper, or drive to the nearest park to play ball.
• Gradually extend the distance and the number of starts and stops.
• Avoid sudden turns, and lurching stops or starts. Keep close to the centerline to avoid unnecessary ups and downs. Save the curvy roads and hills for later!
• If you're planning to include your dog on a long road-trip or summer vacation, start now, so the trip will be pleasant for both of you!
• Talk to your veterinarian for advice about possible medications (like dramamine) to help settle your pup's tummy. DAP spray or Bach Flower Rescue Remedy can also settle nerves.