Making road trips easier for anxious dogs

Ah, there’s nothing like the open road…especially if you are a dog!

Spending time together as a family, taking in new sights (and smells) with the windows rolled down, and exploring different places can be the highlight of any dog’s summer. Believe it or not, some 206 million Americans are planning a vacation this summer, and 80% of them want to go on a road trip.

Of course, they don’t intend to leave their precious pups behind!

But before pulling out of the driveway, let’s hit the brakes for a second.

It’s important to make sure your road trip is as pet friendly as possible. According to research, 72.5% of dogs suffer from anxiety of some sort, including car anxiety. Avoid unnecessary stops – or unplanned veterinarian visits – with these three pet travel tips, brought to you by My Pet Candy!

3 Ways to Lower Car-related Anxiety in Dogs

Many dogs get excited hearing the magical word “car ride.” Their tails wag and they might even dance on all four paws with anticipation. But plenty of dogs find the idea of spending several hours confined inside a vehicle less appealing.

To show their displeasure, they might bark, whine, pant, drool, or physically try to resist being loaded in the car.

The good news is, it’s easy to establish a car ride routine that helps your pooch feel less stressed.

1.    Prevent Travel Anxiety in Dogs with Brave Paws

Human doctors like to say, “The best medicine is preventive.” And the same goes for pets!

For dogs who get worked up during car rides, try a veterinarian recommended anti-anxiety solution, like Brave Paws. Made using a plant-based formula, these chewables are fast acting and non-drowsy. When given at least 60 minutes before a stressful event (like a car ride) Brave Paws can help calm and relax your canine travel buddy.

Ah…much better.

2.    Desensitize Your Dog to the Car as a Puppy

Next, aim to sensitize your dog to a moving vehicle at an early age. Puppies who regularly experience what it’s like to ride in the car will be less likely to develop car sickness and travel anxiety later in their adult life.

Plus, desensitization will make your dog a better-behaved passenger. Teach them that even though cars are big, fast, and loud, there is nothing to be afraid of. That way, they will be calm (instead of rambunctious and distracting) while you drive.  

3.    Positive Reinforcement Always Wins

Lastly, make road trips easier for anxious dogs by using lots of positive reinforcement. Speak in a cheerful voice. When your dog enters the car on their own, reward with a verbal cue, such as “Good girl!” Ultimately, the idea is to make the car seem like a fun place to be. 

One last brilliant tip?

When building up your dog’s car tolerance, plan visits to destinations your dog loves. For instance, the beach or park. Upon arrival, let them sniff, play, and explore before heading back home. What this does is teach your pup the following: car = good times ahead.

There you have it!

Three effective ways to lower car-related anxiety in dogs.

Happy travels!