Dog-Friendly Tips for Traveling with Your Pet: How to Handle Car Rides
Dr. Maja, a seasoned veterinarian, shares her personal experience traveling with her two crossbreed dogs, Lava and Hela. Lava, in particular, has a unique relationship with car rides. From a young age, she has associated car journeys with exciting adventures, long walks, and visits to friends and family. However, it quickly became evident that Lava’s enthusiasm for the destination was overshadowed by her impatience with the journey itself.
Lava’s Love of Cars
Lava’s love for cars is undeniable, but her behavior during car rides can be quite challenging. She expresses her frustration with the length of the drive through a cacophony of noises, ranging from whining and barking to grunting and howling. Dr. Maja tried various strategies to calm Lava down, including sitting with her in the back, offering treats, and praising calm behavior. Despite her best efforts, Lava’s excitement often gets the best of her.
Nothing Helps
Despite Dr. Maja’s best efforts, Lava’s impatience and restlessness persist throughout the journey. Distracting her with treats or toys only provides temporary relief, as Lava’s attention quickly shifts to external stimuli. It’s a constant battle to keep Lava calm and quiet during car rides, making the experience less enjoyable for everyone involved.
Journey or the Destination
Lava’s preference for the destination over the journey is evident, especially when she realizes that the drive is taking longer than expected. Drives on the highway tend to calm her down, as the speed and distance covered make her more content. However, familiar routes and slower speeds trigger her restlessness, turning the journey into a chaotic symphony of noises.
Long Haul Trips
Surprisingly, Lava excels during long-haul trips, such as road trips across Europe. Dr. Maja recalls driving over 1,000 miles in one direction, with Lava sleeping peacefully for most of the journey. Despite her challenges on shorter drives, Lava’s ability to adapt and relax during extended trips showcases her resilience and adaptability.
It’s More Fun When There’s Company
Lava’s aversion to sharing is well-known, given her history as the only “child” for several years. However, she has learned to tolerate sharing the back seat with Hela and even some of her doggie friends. While their presence may not always be welcome, Lava’s companions have learned to accept her unique quirks and boisterous nature during car rides.
In conclusion, Dr. Maja’s journey with Lava and Hela sheds light on the complexities of traveling with pets, particularly when it comes to handling car rides. Despite the challenges and noise disruptions, Lava’s love of adventure and resilience make her a loyal and unforgettable travel companion.
