A recent poll of 1,500 dog owners has found almost a third of worry about their furry friends’ anxiety when travelling.
According to the study over half choose to avoid car trips with pets altogether and 51 per cent opt for shorter or quieter routes when travel is unavoidable.
For those concerned about managing their dog’s stress during car journeys, animal behaviour expert Anna Webb has compiled 10 expert tips to keep dogs calm on the road. Interestingly, the type of vehicle used can also impact a dog’s anxiety levels.
In a recent study led by This Morning ’s vet, Dr. Scott Miller, in partnership with Škoda, the heart rate of a 1-year-old cocker spaniel named Mango was monitored after he travelled n three different vehicle types: a petrol car, a diesel car, and an electric SUV.
Anna shares how to make your dog feel more comfortable, even when you don’t have an EV:
1. Make Them Feel Safe
Train your dog to settle in a secure space, such as a pet carrier, crate, or seat-belt harness. While it may seem restrictive at first, these measures create a safe environment and are also legally required under the Highway Code (rule 57).
Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £5,000.
2. Spot Signs of Stress
Keep an eye out for physical signs of anxiety in your dog, such as barking, whining, drooling, panting, or paw chewing. If you spot these symptoms, it’s time to take a break from the journey and help your furry friend reset.
3. Gradually Introduce Travel
For many dogs, the car can feel like a confined space with no escape route. Start with short, positive trips and gradually increase their duration to build confidence.
4. Foster a Positive Environment
Link car travel with things your dog enjoys. Use sound therapy, like the Happy Hounds playlist on Spotify, to make the experience less daunting.
5. Pay Attention to Vocal Cues
Dogs express their stress through whining, howling, or barking. If these vocal cues arise, stop the car, let them settle, and adjust your approach to the journey.
6. Be Aware of Sound Sensitivity
Dogs have far superior hearing to humans, so engine noise, other vehicles, or heavy rain can be overwhelming. Keep distractions like loud music to a minimum.
7. Ensure Adequate Ventilation
To prevent motion sickness in dogs, which can be triggered by vibrations or strong smells, it’s important to drive smoothly and keep the car well-ventilated.
8. Stay Calm in Traffic Jams
Research has shown that dogs can sense their owners’ stress through the cortisol hormone. So, maintaining a calm demeanour can help your dog stay relaxed too.
9. Keep an Eye on the Temperature
Even on milder days, the inside of a car can heat up quickly. Remember, our furry friends are more susceptible to heat than we are.
Monitor the temperature, aim for below 20C, and always ensure there’s water available.
10. Map Out Your Journey
Avoid rush hour traffic and schedule frequent pit stops during your trip. This allows your dog to stretch their legs, have a drink, and get some fresh air.