Are we there yet? The roads we take in life are always full of opportunities for travel, adventure, exploration, and joy. Nevertheless, the “getting there” part is often the most difficult aspect of the journey. Travel troubles, bumps, and hindrances come about at the most inopportune of times—not only for ourselves but also for our companions.
As the warmer months arrive and you head out for some fun in the sun, don’t forget about your canine companion. Dogs commonly experience bouts of anxiety and stress on the way to their destination. If your pet is prone to experiencing anxiety in the car, never fear. We’ve compiled a list of tips for treating dog travel anxiety to help make car rides smoother and outings more enjoyable for every participant. Let’s take a closer look now.
Plan: Prepare Your Itinerary Beforehand
Traveling with any dog means you need to plan ahead. More so, traveling with an anxiety-prone pet fosters a greater need to plan out an itinerary accordingly. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend camping getaway or a day at the park, keep in mind how you can comfort your dog during travel. This type of planning should be part of preparing your dog for their first backpacking tripor grand outdoor adventure.
Keep in mind that pets are not used to being in enclosed spaces, such as vehicles or carriers, for long amounts of time. During the prepping stages of a trip, plan out appropriate rest stops to take frequent breaks along the way. You’ll need to let your dog walk around or shake off the anxiety.
Comfort: A Few of Their Favorite Things
Creating a pleasant traveling environment is one of the top tips for treating dog travel anxiety. Comfort is the greatest tool for managing an anxious or stressed four-legged friend. Besides fundamental supplies and travel accessories, consider what other items may provide comfort or reduce stressors. Bring a familiar friend to provide calming reassurance or a few of their favorite toys, blankets, or treats for a necessary distraction. Keep the windows cracked, or turn on the air for a comfortable traveling temperature.
Seek Out Alternative Solutions
At times, simple solutions may not solve the situation at hand. To help your canine companion feel at ease during travel, you can try training with counter-conditioning, using positive refinement, calming medications and supplements, or even calming shirts or wraps that provide a gentle, constant pressure to help your pet feel safe. Knowing how to calm and comfort your furry friend in any situation is a handy skill for getting out there and enjoying everything life can offer together.
