What can I give my dog for motion sickness?
Common over-the-counter medicines your veterinarian might recommend to help prevent motion sickness in your dog include: diphenhydramine (Benadryl), meclizine (Bonine), or dimenhydrinate (Dramamine). Doses are based on your dogs weight, so ask your vet for a recommendation.
Motion sickness in dogs
Most dogs love to go for a ride in the car. But like us humans, some dogs experience motion sickness. Longer trips may be more difficult than shorter ones on your canine friend. Cars, planes, and boats can all lead to symptoms. Trips on a boat can trigger sea sickness especially in puppies. Cats can suffer from motion sickness, too.
Pets with motion sickness may begin drooling, act nauseated or develop vomiting or diarrhea. You may need to reconsider bringing your pet on trips if they are prone to motion sickness.
Some vets might recommend these human over-the-counter (OTC) products, but at specific doses used only in dogs. Do not use these products in dogs with glaucoma, prostate gland enlargement, and certain stomach, thyroid, seizure, or heart disorders.
- diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- meclizine (Bonine)
- dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
Dog doses are based on their weight, so ask your vet if these products are appropriate for your 4-legged friend. These drugs may cause drowsiness or hyperactivity, too, so beware about dog safety in the car, especially if your friend is fond of hanging out the window.
OTC antihistamines like Benadryl may contain other ingredients such as decongestants that are not safe for dogs. Read the product label carefully to be sure it only contains the antihistamine.
Prescription products like Cerenia (maropitant citrate) are also available for motion sickness in dogs, and your vet may prefer this product specifically for dogs.
Always consult with your veterinarian about any medicine for your dog or other pet. Human prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) medicine may not be safe for your pet.
Related questions
References
- Park G. Can I Give My Dog Human Travel Sickness Tablets? WagWalking.com. Accessed May 10, 2023 at https://wagwalking.com/wellness/can-i-give-my-dog-human-travel-sickness-tablets
- Khuly P, DVM. My Top 10 List of Over-the-Counter Human Meds That Can Be Used on Pets. Vetstreet.com. Accessed May 10, 2023 at http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/my-top-10-list-of-over-the-counter-human-meds-that-can-be-used-on-pets
- Weir M. Buzhardt L. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications That Can Be Safe for Dogs. VCA Animal Hospitals. Accessed May 10, 2023 at https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/are-over-the-counter-medications-safe-for-my-dog
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