{"id":118,"date":"2016-07-11T19:48:29","date_gmt":"2016-07-12T00:48:29","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.tenwestvet.com\/blog\/?p=118"},"modified":"2016-07-11T19:48:29","modified_gmt":"2016-07-12T00:48:29","slug":"pets-with-car-anxiety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tenwestvet.com\/blog\/pets-with-car-anxiety\/","title":{"rendered":"Are We There Yet? Understanding Pets With Car Anxiety"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"OnEven with our knowledge of auto mechanics, barreling down the road in a metal box is disconcerting when you stop to think about it. Sure, we have road rules and driver\u2019s tests (not to mention airbags), but try telling a pet with an intense fear of car travel that it will all be \u201cOK.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Of all the common animal behaviors, pets with car anxiety top the list. Fortunately, there are supportive strategies to help soothe your pet\u2019s nerves.<\/span><\/p>\n

Narrowing it Down<\/b><\/h3>\n

There are notable differences between fear, anxiety, and phobia. Recognizing your pet\u2019s fear is an excellent first step, but early intervention is necessary to prevent anxiety and full-blown phobia.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pets With Car Anxiety<\/b><\/h3>\n

Your pet is equipped with a memory-storing brain, and fear-inducing moments inform future reactions. In addition to early experiences, your pet\u2019s breed and personality also affect how he or she responds to stressful stimuli.<\/span><\/p>\n

Physiological Stress Response<\/b><\/h3>\n

Your pet\u2019s anxiety is proportional to the stimuli. If he or she had an intense or traumatic experience in or around a vehicle, your pet may continue to live in a state of dread. The \u201cfight or flight\u201d instinct will be the only response to entering the car, and this reaction can worsen without intervention.<\/span><\/p>\n

If your pet\u2019s symptoms inhibit general relaxation, relative happiness, or the ability to eat or drink, it\u2019s time to focus on ways to reverse the emotional and physical stress. <\/span><\/p>\n

Making it a Habit<\/b><\/h3>\n

Pets with car anxiety benefit from habituation. This means you should provide opportunities for your pet to make new associations with a car that are positive and rewarding. Many pets are calmed by reassurances. Remember, you are your pet\u2019s role model; he or she will take cues from you. Stay relaxed and react calmly when your pet:<\/span><\/p>\n