Top 10 tips on how to keep your pet calm during car journeys, according to experts
A recent poll of 1,500 dog owners has highlighted that travelling by car with their pets is a major worry for many. Safety and space are common concerns, but almost one-third of dog owners are primarily worried about their pet’s stress levels during the journey.
Over half confessed to deliberately avoiding car trips with their pets if they can help it. But if travel is unavoidable, 51% dodge certain routes, particularly avoiding longer journeys over 30 miles or busy roads such as motorways and A-roads.
An experiment carried out by This Morning’s resident vet Dr. Scott Miller with Škoda has shed some light on how the type of vehicle can impact a dog’s anxiety levels.
The study took place at Dunsfold Aerodrome (famously known as the test track for BBC’s Top Gear) and involved monitoring the heart rate of a one year old working cocker spaniel named Mango.
Mango was taken for a ride in three different vehicles: a petrol car, a diesel car, and Škoda electric family SUV, the Elroq. While Mango’s resting heart rate was 80 BPM (beats per minute), the stress of travel caused a noticeable increase depending on the vehicle.
In the electric SUV, his heart rate only rose to 100 BPM, a relatively calm increase. However, his heart rate soared to 120 BPM in the petrol car and 125 BPM in the diesel car, indicating significantly higher stress levels.
Dr Scott Miller commented: “battery electric cars provide a smoother and more calming experience. The lack of mechanical moving parts, reduced vibrations and noise, and the spacious interiors of EVs create a soothing environment for dogs”.
Dog behaviourist expert Dr. Anna Webb observed a stark contrast in Mango’s behaviour between different vehicles. She pointed out that in the electric vehicle, he seemed at ease, stretching out on the back seat with his eyes half-closed.
However, in petrol and diesel cars, Mango was noticeably tense, sitting upright and displaying rapid eye movements – a tell-tale sign of anxiety.
These observations are in line with the views of many dog owners, with nearly a third suggesting that electric vehicles offer a quieter, more comfortable journey for their furry friends. Furthermore, 41% of dog owners admitted they would consider their pet’s comfort when choosing their next car.
For those concerned about their dog’s stress levels during travel, Anna Webb offers 10 expert tips to ensure your pooch remains relaxed on car journeys:
Train your dog to settle in a secure space, such as a pet carrier, crate, or seat-belt harness. While it may seem restrictive at first, these measures create a safe environment and are also legally required under the Highway Code (rule 57). Failure to comply can result in fines of up to £5,000.
Keep an eye out for physical signs of anxiety in your dog, such as barking, whining, drooling, panting, or paw chewing. If you spot these symptoms, it’s time to take a break from the journey and help your furry friend reset.
For many dogs, the car can feel like a confined space with no escape route. Start with short, positive trips and gradually increase their duration to build confidence.
Link car travel with things your dog enjoys. Use sound therapy, like the Happy Hounds playlist on Spotify, to make the experience less daunting.
Dogs express their stress through whining, howling, or barking. If these vocal cues arise, stop the car, let them settle, and adjust your approach to the journey.
Dogs have far superior hearing to humans, so engine noise, other vehicles, or heavy rain can be overwhelming. Keep distractions like loud music to a minimum.
Motion sickness, often triggered by vibrations or strong smells, can make car travel uncomfortable for dogs. Drive smoothly and keep the car well-ventilated.
Scientific studies have shown that dogs can sense stress in their owners through the cortisol hormone. Maintaining your own calm demeanor can help your pooch stay relaxed, too.
Even on milder days, the inside of a car can heat up quickly, and remember, our furry friends are more susceptible to heat than we are. Keep an eye on the temperature, aim for below 20C, and always ensure there’s water available.
Steer clear of rush hour traffic and pencil in frequent pit stops during your trip. This allows your dog to stretch their paws, have a drink, and take in some fresh air.
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