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Motion Sickness in Dogs
Carsickness is a common problem in dogs. The successful resolution of carsickness often requires a combination of changes in travel management and administration of a prescribed medication. Each patient is unique, and the primary care veterinarian is the best individual to ascertain which of the possible strategies will be optimal for your pet. There could be underlying medical conditions that would affect the choice of medication, for example.
Why do dogs get sick?
Carsickness is a type of motion sickness. Receptors in the ear called the vestibular apparatus help an animal process position and movements. These movement signals are relayed by the 8th cranial nerve to the brain, including the CRTZ (chemoreceptor trigger zone). The CRTZ is one of the zones in the brain that controls the vomiting reflex by input of signals to the lateral reticular formation vomiting centre. The dog will experience motion sickness if the signals coming in are excessive. Signs of motion or carsickness include drooling (salivation), and vomiting.
Management
1. Take very short trips. Start with just sitting in the car, then the local convenience store, and only gradually increase the length of the car trip as the dog builds tolerance.
2. Allow the pet to see outside the vehicle. This is known to help the vestibular apparatus maintain stabilizing output to reduce vertigo.
3. Provide lots of room to get up and move around.
4. Keep the vehicle cool and well ventilated.
5. Provide short "walkie" breaks every 1-2 hours so that the dog has an opportunity to experience absence of car motion regularly.
Medication
1. Phenothiazine antiemetics: These medications are effective at doses that do not sedate the dog. These are prescription medications. The attending veterinarian will assess the general health of the dog including the cardiovascular and liver(hepatic) systems before prescribing it.
2. Antihistamines. These medications are prescribed for antiemetic purposes primarily for motion sickness. The appropriate dosage should be provided by your veterinarian.
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