Help your dog get used to car travel
Furry friends are also a good company when travelling to your desired destination. However, it is important to teach them how to behave inside a vehicle.
Although going on a road trip with your dog can be a wonderful experience for both of you, not all dogs are good travellers, and some may even experience anxiety or fright.
The good news is you can assist your dog to become accustomed to vehicle rides with planning, patience, and positive reinforcement.
The trick is to begin by taking small steps. To begin, allow your dog to spend some time in the locked vehicle. They will become more accustomed to riding in the car as a result.
Consider introducing your dog to the car gradually if they are normally apprehensive or agitated. If they don’t like the sound of the engine, for instance, let them sit in the car and run the engine without really driving.
Over time, this moderate exposure can assist in desensitising your dog. Give your dog a positive and enjoyable experience in the vehicle.
To help your dog look forward to car rides, give them a special treat or toy they can only receive in the car. To further promote positive connections, you can even feed your dog in the car while they’re travelling.
If you have a strong enthusiasm for your vehicle, you should also get it ready for pet travel. Invest in coverlets that are simple to remove or place towels and blankets on the seats. Assemble a car clean-up kit with plastic bags, paper towels, and a carpet cleaner.
Start by taking your dog for quick rides, perhaps around the block or to a local park. They can become acclimated to the sights, sounds, and sensations of being in a moving vehicle with the help of this gradual exposure to the car.
Gradually extend the distance of your rides after your dog is at peace on shorter ones. Start by taking your dog on longer drives to nearby parks, friends’ houses, or other locations they like. Plan frequent stops for everyone in the car, including your dog, to stretch and refuel on lengthy trips. Additionally, it lessens motion sickness.
Don’t forget to give your dog treats for good behaviour as you drive. When they stay calm, give them praise, rewards, and affection. If you use positive reinforcement your dog will learn to equate vehicle rides with positive experiences
Lastly, think about getting advice from a veterinary behaviourist or a professional dog trainer if your dog’s nervousness or dread of travelling in a car continues or gets worse.
They can offer expert guidance and training to meet the unique requirements of your dog. Keep in mind that every dog is different, and it could take them some time to get used to riding in a car.
• Information from MotorHappy
