Do you need to take your dog in the car somewhere? If so, you understand that this can be quite the adventure. There are a lot of dogs that get nervous when they get in the car. Usually, they know they are going to an unfamiliar location. Or, they can still see it getting in the car with going to the vet. Therefore, it is only understandable that dogs are going to get nervous. Fortunately, there are ways you can keep your dog calm in the car. What are a few ways you can help your dog stay calm when you are getting any motor vehicle? Take a look at several important tips below.
Make Sure Your Dog Is Restrained Appropriately
If you want your dog to calm down when you get in the car, you need to make sure that he or she is restrained appropriately. For example, you may want to consider getting a dog car harness that will make your dog a bit more comfortable. If your dog is restrained in the motor vehicle, he or she is going to feel more secure. As a result, your dog is going to feel more comfortable, and will likely come down. If you do not restrain your dog in the car, then he or she might wander around the car. This can create a serious safety hazard.
Give Your Dog Food Before The Trip
Next, you might want to consider giving your dog a light meal before the trip. About three to four hours before you get in the car, give your dog some food. This will help your dog calm down. If you have ever noticed that dogs tend to calm down after eating, this is the goal you are shooting for before you get in a motor vehicle. If your dog has a meal, he or she might be a bit tired when you get in the car. As a result, your dog might fall asleep. This is one of the top ways you can get your dog to calm down before you get in a car. However, if your dog is prone to getting carsick, like poor Jasper, you may want to skip the light meal or only offer a few bites to ease any hunger pangs.
Consider Some Light Medicine For Your Dog
Finally, you should consider giving your dog some light medicine if you are trying to get him or her to calm down. If you know your dog is going to have a difficult time dealing with the car, you may want to see if your veterinarian has anything that can help. For example, it is not unusual for dogs to get a dose of anti-anxiety medicine before they go for a long car ride. This is a medicine that is designed to help your dog remain calm when you get in a motor vehicle. Even though this is not something you want to reach for every time, it can be useful in emergencies. You may want to reach out to your veterinarian for help with this situation.
Make Your Dog Feel More Comfortable In The Car
Ultimately, there are plenty of ways you can convince your dog to calm down when you are getting in a motor vehicle. Understand that dogs have a hard time comprehending what is happening. Therefore, it is only natural that they are going to be a bit nervous about getting in the car. If the last time your dog out in the car resulted in a trip to the veterinarian, this might make your dog even more nervous. If you are having a difficult time getting your dog to calm down in the car, consider reaching out to a veterinarian who can help you.
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Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.