Dog owners rejoice as expert, Anna Webb, shares 10 valuable tips for keeping your furry companions calm during car journeys. The study also reveals that the type of vehicle can have a significant impact on dogs’ anxiety levels. A recent survey of 1,500 dog owners highlights that nearly a third of them worry about their pets’ stress while travelling in cars. Over half of the respondents confess to avoiding car trips with their pets, and 51% choose shorter or quieter routes when travel is unavoidable.
The research shows that dogs exhibit calmer behaviour when travelling in electric vehicles compared to diesel or petrol cars. Dr. Scott Miller, in collaboration with Škoda, monitored the heart rate of a 1-year-old cocker spaniel named Mango in three different vehicle types: a petrol car, a diesel car, and an electric SUV. The findings emphasise the importance of creating a comfortable environment for dogs during car journeys.
Anna Webb’s expert tips focus on practical solutions to ease dogs’ anxiety while on the road. Training your dog to settle in a secure space like a pet carrier or seat-belt harness is essential for their safety, as per the Highway Code (rule 57). Recognising signs of stress, such as barking or paw chewing, and taking breaks when needed can help your furry friend relax and reset during the journey.
Gradually introducing travel to your dog, starting with short trips and incorporating positive experiences like music therapy with playlists such as the Happy Hounds playlist on Spotify, can make car journeys less daunting for them. Understanding your dog’s vocal cues and being mindful of sound sensitivity, given dogs’ superior hearing, are crucial factors in ensuring a stress-free ride for your pet.
Proper ventilation and temperature control inside the car are necessary to prevent motion sickness and overheating in dogs. Making pit stops during the journey for your dog to stretch, drink water, and take a breather can contribute to a more comfortable travel experience. Additionally, staying calm in traffic jams can help alleviate your dog’s stress as they can sense their owner’s emotions through hormone levels.
Avoiding rush hour traffic and scheduling frequent breaks are essential strategies for ensuring a pleasant car journey for your furry companion. By following these expert recommendations, dog owners can create a calm and relaxing environment for their pets, making car journeys enjoyable for both the dogs and their human companions.