I will be driving across the country (2400 miles) with my dog (65lb Lab mix) in a couple weeks. She likes to ride in the car but has only ever been on an hour or two trip before. I've heard it could be a good idea to get a mild sedative from the vet for a trip like this? Should I do that? And do you have any other advice?
THANKS !!
2007-01-23 06:50:38 · 6 answers · asked by It's just me 3 in Pets ➔ Dogs
You can if you want to, but my dogs usually fall asleep after about 20 minutes.
2007-01-23 06:59:19 · answer #1 · answered by iluvmyfrenchbulldogs 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's not a good idea to give sedatives to your pets, unless they are very skitterish and freak out THAT easily. The only time I've heard of anyone giving sedatives to their pets is when they have to make a long airplane flight, but sedatives are not recommended, in any case, because they MAY cause your pet to stop breathing.
You've got a few weeks until your trip, right? Start training your dog for longer car rides by driving her around longer. Get her used to it. Luckily you're traveling by car, so you have the opportunity to take your dog out to stretch her legs, take a bathroom break and eat. Good luck to you!
p.s. Er, I'm no vet, but I have several friends who are in veterinary school. This is kind of common knowledge with them. =D
2007-01-23 15:03:12 · answer #2 · answered by Nako-chan 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The sedative is only for dogs who can't handle riding in the car. If your pup likes to ride then there shouldn't be any problems. My Giant Schnauzers and my JRT go to sleep after about an hour. I make sure that everytime I stop for gas, they get out and walk/pee and get a drink.
I have traveled extensively with my dogs all over the U.S.
2007-01-23 14:56:15 · answer #3 · answered by vomdeitrichgiants 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm a truck driver and have a 65lb pit bull that rides with me. The best advice is one to make sure she is up to date with all of her shots. Second, stop frequently so that she can get out and stretch her legs. No need for sedatives she will be fine. When you let her out to walk, make sure you set up food and water. In a car you don't have the room I do to leave out food and water. If she starts to whine or get fidgety it's time to let her stretch her legs. Please be-careful stopping in rest area's especially at night make sure they are well lit rest area's. You and your pup have a wonderful trip.
2007-01-23 15:15:04 · answer #4 · answered by be happier own a pitbull 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I wouldn't worry about doing that .If he gets restless stop and let him eat and poop and stretch.If he likes to ride he will probally sleep the whole way.You might ask the vet about Dramamine or benadryl or something like that.A child's Dose should be okay but just call the vet to be sure.Good Luck And have a safe trip!!!!!!!!
2007-01-23 15:26:55 · answer #5 · answered by mcnatt c 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since she likes to ride in the car, she should be fine. My guys have traveled long-distance with no problems. Make sure she has regular pee breaks and keep to her feeding/walking schedule as much as possible.
I'm sure it's much easier travelling with one dog than 12 ;-)
2007-01-24 11:07:30 · answer #6 · answered by DaBasset - BYBs kill dogs 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋