Does your dog throw up in the car when you go for rides? He may be
experiencing typical motion sickness, just like some people do. Motion sickness
usually begins very shortly after starting the car ride. The dog will begin to
drool and then vomit. It’s not serious, but certainly not something that we
like to clean up! To solve the problem, first try acclimating the dog to car
rides. Do this by simply putting him in the car for a few minutes each day
without going anywhere. Then try just going down the driveway and back, and the
next day going around the block. Gradually build up the distance and time the
dog rides in the car.
Sometimes this will help to decrease the dog’s anxiety over
riding in the car and may help to decrease vomiting. If that doesn’t work,
there are some over-the-counter medications you can try. The medication will
need to be given about an hour before the car ride. Ask your veterinarian for a
recommendation as to what drug to try and the dosage for your pet.
(Never give any medications to your pet without your
veterinarian’s advice!) These drugs are safe, with drowsiness usually the only
major side effect. But since your dog isn’t driving the car, that shouldn’t be
a problem! If over-the-counter drugs don’t work, your veterinarian may be able
to suggest another method for curing the car sickness.
