Whether it’s a short trip to the park or a longer journey, travel sickness can make outings stressful for both you and your dog. While many puppies outgrow it, some adult dogs continue to suffer from motion sickness or “travel anxiety.”
Why Do Dogs Get Travel Sickness?
- Balance and Development: In younger dogs, the inner ear structures that control balance aren’t fully developed.
- Negative Associations: For some dogs, car journeys are linked to stress. If they feel anxious as soon as the engine starts, this can trigger physical nausea.
- Motion Sensitivity: The conflict between the movement the body feels and what the eyes see often leads to a settled stomach becoming upset.
Symptoms to Watch For
Not every dog will physically vomit. Look out for these “silent” signs of nausea:
- Excessive Drooling: You may notice long strings of saliva or a very wet chin.
- Lip Licking & Yawning: These are common early signs of distress and nausea.
- Whining or Pacing: An inability to settle or constantly moving around.
- Lethargy or Shaking: Being unusually quiet, hunched, or trembling.
- Vomiting: This often happens shortly after the journey begins.
Practical Tips for a Smoother Journey
For many dogs, small changes to the environment can make a big difference:
- Facing Forward: Use a crash-tested harness or a secure crate that encourages the dog to face the front of the vehicle.
- Cool Air: Keep the car well-ventilated. Cracking a window allows fresh air to circulate and helps equalise the pressure.
- Timing Meals: Avoid feeding your dog a large meal for at least two to three hours before you travel.
- Short Trips: Build up your dog’s confidence with very short journeys that end in a positive experience, like a walk or a play session.
How We Can Help
If practical changes aren’t enough to keep your dog comfortable, our veterinary team can provide professional support:
- Anti-Nausea Medication: We can advise on effective, non-sedating medications specifically designed for dogs.
- Anxiety Support: We can advise on the use of calming pheromone sprays or supplements that help lower stress levels during travel.
- Health Checks: If your dog’s sickness has started suddenly, we can perform a physical exam to ensure there isn’t an underlying ear or balance issue.
UK Highway Code Reminder: Remember that dogs must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you if you stop quickly. A secure dog is often a calmer, less nauseous dog.
If your dog struggles with car journeys, please speak to the team at The Vet Clinic at Birmingham Dogs Home. We can help make your future travels much more comfortable for your pet.
