Dogs in cars

[Bellringer]

I have an 18 month old English Springer. She loves to jump into the back of the car, but as soon as we set off motoring she pants, whines & gets very restless. On long journeys we give her valium but I would like a better way of keeping her quiet. Any ideas?

[doglady2]

I am a big fan of cages,they make them feel safe and calm and cozy.Try putting her in the back of your car (if you dont have a cage) and not go anywhere .When she settles then bring her out and keep doing that for a little longer each time untill she is happy to just sit/lay and chill.
Try just going for short distances like round the block or even just up the road untill you are happy that she is happy.I had 2 GSDs that went mental in the back but when we set off they went as quiet as a mouses and when we stopped they went mental again.I spent hours just going and coming untill i cracked it.Sometimes i never even got out the car....now that was a big tease but it had to be done.It took weeks to cure but it was all worth it.However some dogs just have it in their nature to do that,i have one girl who is 11 this month and she still goes mad when we get in and stop and no amount of time has stopped her,i have agreed to disagree with myself on her.........but she is so loveble with it and she isnt going to change now!!!!!!!!!best of luck.

[lankeela]

Agree with the cage idea - put a cover over it so the dog can't see out (make sure the air can circulate though). Don't get too big a cage, just big enough so the dog can lie down comfortably and turn round if necessary, to encourage the dog to settle down. Give her something to occupy her such as a bone or a pigs ear.

Bit worried about the valium thing - is this prescribed by your vet? Be very careful if you are ever recommended to use PLT as they can have severe effects on some dogs.

[gelda]

Apparently valium and asparin are okay for dogs PROVIDING the vet has prescribed the right dose for them, My brother's dog used to have very mild fits and the vet gave her valium. But as with all drugs never give them to your pet without consulting your vet first. Btw asparin is deadly poisonouse to cats. Gelda

[Bellringer]

Thanks for all that folks. Yes we get the valium off the Vet. We are now in the process of putting her in the car every chance we get & not going far. It is a pain, but like all things dog we will persevere.