Dealing with Carsick Canines
Summer travel plans often include road trips and many people take their dogs along for the ride. But, if your dog suffers from motion sickness, a car ride may not be much fun for him or for you if you have to clean up the mess! As many as one in five dogs are prone to motion sickness, and, while we mostly think about dogs getting sick while riding in cars, any form of transportation (planes, boats, etc.) can cause a dog to feel the effects of motion sickness. Cats can be prone to motion sickness as well so these tips also apply to our feline friends.
What causes that queasy feeling pets get when riding in cars? Motion sickness is thought to be caused by conflicting signals from the eyes, inner ear and other motion sensors in the body and brain, especially the vestibular center that controls balance. Anxiety can contribute as well. Symptoms can include panting, drooling, pacing or restlessness, and, of course, the dreaded vomiting.
There are some things that may prevent or reduce the chance of your dog or cat getting car sick.
If your dog loves hiking, playing at area dog parks, visiting relatives or doing whatever you and your dog enjoy that involves a car ride, there is help out there for those dogs who get carsick. Don’t let motion sickness hold you and your pet back from having a fun summer!
This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.
425 E Broadway
Red Lion, PA 17356