Some dogs face travel anxiety while traveling in a car or train because they are unfamiliar with the changing environment. Sometimes the travel anxiety of your dog can ruin your trip as well. On the other hand, dogs can also be a great traveling companion, especially for solo travelers. But if your dog is facing traveling anxiety, you can take specific actions to make them comfortable while traveling.
This article will share some of the smart and effective ways suggested by a well-known vet surgeon to ease travel anxiety in dogs.
Give your dog training
Like humans, your pet’s travel anxiety cannot be sorted in a single day, and training them for traveling is also not an easy task. You need to be more patient, smart, and gentle while training them. Start their training by letting them get into the car and stay in it calmly. After this, turn on the engine of your car and make him/her comfortable so that he/she does not get afraid of the engine’s sound. Start taking him/her to the nearby market and on short trips. Best to consult an expert however as the technique may change from dog to dog.
Use the Spacious Carrier
If your dog belongs to a small or a medium-size breed, you can get a spacious carrier to ensure your dog’s safety during the trip. You can make your dog comfortable by locking him/her up in a carrier with a few treats and some toys which he or she loves to play with. Also if travelling by road, then you could also create a bed and space in the car itself for your pet.
Remove or Create Visual Barriers
If your dog enjoys seeing outside the window, remove all the barriers from the window and allow him to enjoy the view. This makes him busy enjoying the outdoors, and you can also travel smoothly. While on the other hand, if you notice that your dog is getting uncomfortable with the movement of the car, then creating visual ease is the best way to comfort him or her.
Take Frequent Breaks
Try to take a short break after every hour if you are going on a long drive with your dog. Dogs are always playful; they cannot stay in one position for long. So taking him/her for a walk helps stretch and calm him/her down for a while.
Never Leave Your Dog Alone
Leaving your dog alone in the car can make him/her more anxious. So never leave your dog alone in the car, and he/she feels more comfortable being around you. Leaving your dogs alone may also leave them at the risk of theft.
Talk to Your Vet About Traveling with Dogs
If you’re planning on traveling with your dog, take him/her for a vet visit to make sure he/she is not facing any underlying health problems leading to anxiety. So, do not forget to book a vet appointment before planning to travel with your dog. One major thing that needs to be considered while traveling with your dog is not to let him/her roam around in the car, especially when traveling alone. This may distract you while driving. So always make sure to make your dog comfortable first while traveling. Also, keep a telehealth option handy so that you can reach the vet whenever needed.
