motion sickness

Question
i want to know what to give mt toy poodle   for motion sickness , everytime i go out of town i have to take him and  he slobbers and releases clear slover all  over him and if he eats he throws up , what can i do    . what can i dive to him to stop   this

Answer
Hi Brenda,

Dramamine (generic name: Dimenhydrinate), the over the counter motion sickness medication can be used to decrease motion sickness in dogs. Small dogs should get about 12.5 milligrams every 8 hours. You should not use this medication if your is hypersensitive (allergic) to it or other antihistamines, has certain types of glaucoma, prostate disease, stomach or intestinal obstruction, urinary obstruction, certain heart and lung diseases, hyperthyroidism, seizures, or high blood pressure.
You may want to discuss the use of this medication with your vet before you use it.

Ginger is a great remedy for motion sickness in dogs, as it is for humans. Give your dog ginger about half an hour before traveling to prevent motion sickness. You can get ginger capsules in any health-food store. Most doses are calculated for an average size man of 150-pounds, so divide by the weight of your dog, say 25 pounds, which equals one-sixth the dose on the label.
You can mix the dried or powdered herb into a small amount of food or add the extract to a little water and administer it with a dropper two to three times daily. If you are unsure of the dosage, ask your veterinarian.

Any food with real ginger will work, that includes ginger ale, ginger snaps, candied/crystallized ginger, herbal ginger tea.
Dogs with gallbladder disease should avoid using ginger, and it also may interact with anticoagulant drugs.

There are also some herbal products made especially for pets that get motion sickness. Products to look for are:
CanTravel, On The Move, Sailors Secret, and Motion Eaze.

In severe cases of motion sickness, stronger prescription anti-anxiety medications can be dispensed by your veterinarian.

Don't take you pet on a long trip with a full stomach. Try to feed him at least 3 hours before traveling.  Keeping you pet hydrated is very important so make sure he has water before the trip.  When driving keep it smooth.  Start and stop slowly, time the lights and take it slow around corners and curves.  Pets are sensitive to temperature change so make sure your car is not too hot or too cold.  If you can keep you pet low in the car or laying on the floor it would be best.  It is easier to get sick if your pet is looking out the window.  Take a break every hour to stretch out, get a quick walk and get a drink.

Best of luck,

Patti