Why is my Tamaskan puppy carsick and what can I do about it?

CAR SICKNESS:

Motion sickness in Tamaskan puppies is a common problem. The reason may be due to the fact that the part of the inner ear responsible for balance is not fully developed. Some Tamaskan dogs outgrow motion sickness, but others don’t.

If your dog was sick during the first car ride, then vomiting may become associated with the travel and could be the reason why your best friend doesn’t outgrow getting ill inside the car.

Here are some suggestions for car sickness prevention:

  1. Change your Tamaskan puppy’s associations with car travel. For the first few car rides choose a relaxing, peaceful place that’s wide open, like a park. Try to keep the drive short, about ten minutes from home. Bring a family member or friend, someone who can calm your dog as you drive to your destination. When you reach the park, play with your dog and make the park visit enjoyable. During the ride home, have the family member or friend calm your dog again. Once you arrive home, play with your dog as enthusiastically as you did at the park. After a few hours of rest, feed your dog treats. Repeating this exercise should help make your dog realize the car ride should not be a reason to get anxious or sick.
  2. Most dogs do not get car sick or as car sick on an empty stomach. This can be difficult with young puppies, but try to travel at least 2 – 3 hours after they have eaten (or more if possible). If you have to take a long drive it is better not to give your Tamaskan any food, approximately six to eight hours before that long ride. You can give your dog a little water. This may or may not work for your dog. Other dogs need something in their stomach to prevent motion sickness. Some dogs will get sick just from being over hungry.
  3. Make frequent stops. Some dogs can handle hours of car rides; others can’t. A good guideline is to stop the car after each hour or two, just to walk around and have some bathroom time. You can also give them some ice or water during the break.
  4. Get someone to distract your dog. Have your family member or friend keep your dog’s attention through play. Bring your dog’s favorite toys with you.
  5. Drive by some scenery and make sure your dog sees it. Adjust their seats or use pet car seats, so they can look out the window while staying secure. Focusing on scenery can prevent motion sickness.
  6. Turn off the AC and open the windows. It’s good to let some fresh air into the car, and it helps prevent carsickness. Only open the car windows enough to get fresh air, not enough for a dog or puppy to be able to jump out.  It is dangerous to let your puppy/dog hang their head out a car window while driving.
  7. If all else fails, then ask your vet about motion sickness medication. Vets usually prescribe Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate), which is also used by humans who have motion sickness. Talk to your vet about the right dosage for your pet. Do not attempt to medicate your pet without your vets advice first! A natural pet calmer can yield favorable results, as well. One holistic preventive measure is to spray natural peppermint, ginger, or chamomile scents in the car. Try various measures with your dog to figure out what works best. It should be noted that if you are also travelling with a cat that cats cannot tolerate some natural sprays such as peppermint and citrus sprays. Do your research before using any product.

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