One of our dogs gets very nervous and howls and pants

I use a product called Liquid Nutricalm. A bottle is $24 at Amazon. It was recommended by my holistic vet and works well for my old Pomeranian that I am on the second bottle.

Our little rescue Boston did the same thing first couple times riding, the Thundershirt worked wonders.

Rescue Remedy

Altern wrote:
Beer works every time.

Ha ha - I'd try the beer before medications!

SERIOUSLY, though, before I do meds I'd try the Desensitization Training like Dog Folks recommended above. If that doesn't work try something natural such as Rescue Remedy for dogs--a blend of flower extracts (get at a health food store) or another herbal remedy. I'd use prescription meds as a last resort!

JoeH wrote:
We have tried many recommended remedies to no avail. Thundershirt,lavender, benedryl, a couple herbal formulas provided by the vet, but nothing works.

You don't mention having tried a crate- if not:
Some dogs find the security of a much smaller space to be comforting when in a moving vehicle.

Beer works every time.

Pawz4me wrote:

punomatic wrote:
Consult your veterinarian and/or a dog behaviorist.

I agree. It sounds as if a prescription medication may be needed. Once the medication calms your dog down a bit, then you can start working on desensitization/re-training.

Ditto.

punomatic wrote:
Consult your veterinarian and/or a dog behaviorist.

I agree. It sounds as if a prescription medication may be needed. Once the medication calms your dog down a bit, then you can start working on desensitization/re-training.

Try Desensitization training. This is best done under a professional dog trainer, but you can do it your self, if you are committed to completing the training.

It is commonly done with dogs that are afraid of thunderstorms, but will work well with any stimuli, when properly done,like riding in the MH. I have used it successfully with a dog deathly afraid of cars passing by when out for a walk.

Here is a link that explains it from the ASPCA: Desensitization training

We use the stuff that you spray in their mouth. Can't remember the name right off. Calmeze or pet eze. Non prescription