So you would like to take car trips and include the family pet. Tips for car travel with that family dog or cat: First - Start now by getting them comfortable in the car before lengthy travel.
Back to Basics:
- Common Sense - no food 3-4 hours before travel; water is usually not the problem.
- Avoid fast starts and winding hills.
- A barely open car window helps with nausea.
- If motion causes nausea - place pet in a carrier on floorboard and place a sheet over the carrier.
Dealing with an anxious dog or cat about just being in a car:
- Start sitting in cars for a short time without the motor running.
- Next, start car without going anywhere.
- Follow with backing the car up and if all is okay, take a short trip in the neighborhood.
- If all else fails - contact your vet for motion sickness medication and anxiety drugs.
Take it slow, most pet owners will find that special solution for each pet.