Shaking, pacing and panting

phillyg wrote:
You might want to try a Thundershirt.

Excellent idea.

You might want to try a Thundershirt.

The adaptil (formerly DAP) can help with anxiety. There are also prescription medications if that alone does not work.

Also these symptoms could be nausea - motion sickness. The benedryl could help, but there other medications that might work better. Cerenia, Zofran (generic), metoclopramide are all prescription meds you could request from your vet. Also dramamine and bonine can work.

Doug, DVM

Our dog started showing signs of a lot of anxiety when in the car or truck about 2 years ago. Our vet suggested this. He gave us a kerchief with this spray on it and we put it around his neck. He calmed right down.

Now, we simply spray this stuff on the seat of the truck, or in the headliner of the truck. It works. He just sleeps away now. We can tell when the spray is loosing it's affect. He'll start getting real anxious again. Another spray in the air or on the seat, or on his bed, and quiet again. It works. It's a little expensive, but it's worth it.

Is this only happening in the RV? Or in other vehicles as well?

Has he always done this while in the rig moving? Or did he used to handle the motion fine?

If suddenly happening when it didn't before, then it could be a health issue.

If it is anxiety, how long has it been going on? If he's only been in the rig a couple times, then it might just be a matter of getting used to it. If that's the case, here are some ideas:

Take him for short rides in the RV to fun places. Drive to the neighborhood park and then let him out to play. If he enjoys the pet stores, take him there and buy him a special toy for the RV - the toy stays in the RV for him to play with.

Some dogs need to be able to see out the window while in motion. is there a spot he can sit or lie down at where he can see out? Can you work something out so he can?

Slow down. RVs are subject to a lot more internal movement and noise than regular vehicles. Sometimes, that is enough for him to start getting carsick. Going a bit slower will lessen the movements and noise some and may be enough to help.

Have someone sit with him for a few rides. Someone who can talk to him and cuddle him and help lessen the stress.

Give him time to adjust. Some dogs are nervous at the new experience - with positive reinforcements, they will adjust. My Moose-dog was like this. He was extremely nervous the first few times. Now, he's fine with it as long as I'm careful about speed and stay off those noisy lane guards.

Sounds like he is nervous or developed anxiety for traveling. Can you give him some dramamine for the road that won't interact with his medication or cause problems with his epilepsy? The dramamine will relax him. There's also a natural remedy for anxiety that is often given to dogs too, I just can't remember the name.