What Can I Give My Dog to Relax Him on a Road Trip?

By Robert Palmer

If you are planning a road trip with your furry friend, you might be wondering what you can give your dog to relax him during the journey. Dogs can experience anxiety and motion sickness during car rides, which can make the trip stressful for both you and your pet. However, there are several things you can do to help your dog feel more comfortable and relaxed on the road.

1. Exercise Before the Trip: One of the best things you can do to help your dog relax during a road trip is to tire him out with exercise beforehand.

Take him for a long walk or run before hitting the road. This will reduce his energy levels and help him sleep during the journey.

2. Use Calming Aids: There are several calming aids available that can help reduce anxiety in dogs.

These include pheromone sprays, herbal supplements, and calming collars. You may want to consult with your vet before using any of these products to ensure they are safe for your dog.

3. Bring Familiar Objects: Bringing a few familiar objects from home, such as your dog’s favorite toy or blanket, can provide comfort and reduce stress during travel.

What Can I Give My Dog to Reduce Motion Sickness?

If your dog experiences motion sickness during car rides, there are several things you can do to alleviate his symptoms:

1. Medications: Your vet may prescribe medication like Dramamine or Meclizine that helps reduce nausea and vomiting in dogs.

2. Ginger: Ginger is a natural remedy that has been shown to reduce nausea in dogs as well as humans. You can give ginger supplements or ginger snaps before or during the car ride.

3. Acupressure: Applying pressure on specific points on your dog’s body (such as behind his ears) can help reduce motion sickness symptoms.

What Should I Avoid Giving My Dog?

While there are many things you can give your dog to help him relax during a road trip, there are also some things you should avoid:

1. Sedatives: While sedatives may seem like a quick fix for an anxious dog, they can actually be dangerous. Sedatives can cause respiratory problems and make your dog more susceptible to heat stroke. Overfeeding: Giving your dog too much food or water before the car ride can increase the likelihood of motion sickness and accidents in the car.

  • In Conclusion:

With a little preparation and care, you can make your road trip with your furry friend safe and comfortable. Remember to exercise your dog before the trip, bring familiar objects from home, use calming aids if necessary, and avoid sedatives and overfeeding. With these tips, both you and your pet can enjoy a stress-free journey together!