Travel Sickness in Dogs – Everything You Should Know

Traveling with your dog is a wonderful way to spend time together and discover new places. But just like humans, dogs can also get sick while traveling—especially from travel sicknesses. These not only affect the dog's health, but can also make the trip unpleasant for you and your four-legged friend. The following article provides a comprehensive overview of travel sickness in dogs, their causes, symptoms, and preventative measures. We'll show you how to best prepare for traveling with your dog and which travel first-aid kit is essential for your dog.

Table of contents

1. Causes of travel sickness in dogs
2. Recognizing symptoms of illness in dogs
3. Prevention of travel sickness in dogs
4. Home remedies vs. veterinary treatment for travel sickness
5. Packing list for your dog's first aid kit
6. Tips for preventing travel sickness in dogs
7. Country-specific health risks and entry requirements for dogs
8. Conclusion: Well prepared for traveling with your dog

Key take-aways

• Travel sickness in dogs can be caused by motion sickness, parasitic infestation and viral infections.

• Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and lethargy are common signs of motion sickness and other illnesses.

• Prevention requires vaccinations (e.g. against rabies and leishmaniasis) as well as regular deworming, depending on the destination.

• Home remedies such as ginger can help with minor symptoms, but veterinary attention is important for serious symptoms.

• Entry requirements vary worldwide, with many countries requiring vaccinations and health certificates for dogs, particularly against rabies and other local diseases.

Causes of travel sickness in dogs

Your dog's health should always be your top priority, especially when traveling to other countries. Every country has different health risks that your dog could be exposed to while traveling. Some diseases are common in certain regions of the world, and many countries have special entry requirements to ensure that pets are not brought into the country with illnesses. In addition, classic travel sickness in dogs is a common problem, caused not only by movement in the vehicle but also by various other factors. In general, the illnesses that your dog may encounter while traveling can be divided into three main categories: motion sickness (kinesis) , parasitic infestations , and viral and bacterial infections .

Motion sickness (kinetosis)

Motion sickness occurs when a dog is exposed to movements during a car, plane, or ship ride that overwhelm their balance system. This occurs especially when the dog is transported in a confined space, such as a crate, and is unable to move around sufficiently. This discrepancy between what the dog feels (movement) and what their brain processes (lack of movement) often leads to nausea, vomiting, and general malaise.

Parasite infestation

When traveling, your dog is also at risk of parasitic infestation . Especially in tropical or subtropical areas, ticks , fleas , mosquitoes , and other insects that can transmit diseases are common. Ticks, for example, can transmit Lyme disease , babesiosis , and anaplasmosis . Heartworm disease (dirofilariasis) is also a high risk in certain regions.

Mosquitoes are also a common carrier of disease, especially in southern regions, and can infect dogs with leishmaniasis . Preventive measures such as tick repellents and regular deworming are crucial to mitigating these risks.

Viral and bacterial infections

During your trip, your dog may also come into contact with viruses and bacteria that are widespread in different countries. Rabies is a particularly high concern if you are traveling with your dog to countries where this disease has not yet been completely eradicated. Rabies is transmitted through the bite of an infected animal and can be fatal to both dogs and humans.

Other infections, such as leptospirosis (bacterial infection through contact with contaminated water), parvovirus and hepatitis , are also common in many regions and require early vaccination and appropriate prevention.

Recognizing symptoms of illness in dogs

Recognizing the symptoms of travel sickness is crucial for responding quickly, especially with the different types of travel sickness that can affect your dog. Symptoms vary depending on the type of illness:

• Motion sickness (kinetosis) : Signs of motion sickness can include nausea, vomiting, increased salivation, and restlessness. The dog may appear lethargic and often severely deteriorated in a very short period of time.

• Parasite infestation : If your dog has a parasite infestation, such as ticks or fleas, he may exhibit itching , hair loss , coughing , lethargy , or loss of appetite . If he has been in areas with a high risk of heartworm infestation , he may exhibit symptoms such as coughing , shortness of breath , and weight loss .

• Viral and bacterial infections : In infections such as rabies or leptospirosis, symptoms such as fever , changes in behavior (e.g., sudden aggression or shyness), loss of appetite , paralysis , or jaundice may occur.

It is important to recognize these symptoms early and act quickly to interrupt the trip if necessary and take the dog to a safe environment or seek medical attention.

Prevention of travel sickness in dogs

Good preparation is key to preventing travel sickness and infections. Vaccinations and deworming are especially important to protect your dog from various health risks during travel. The risk of motion sickness can be reduced with proper preparation:

Motion sickness (kinetosis):

1. Getting used to the mode of transport : Practice taking your dog on short rides before your trip. This will help him get used to the car, plane, or ship.

2. Pre-trip feeding : Give your dog only small portions of easily digestible food before the trip. Avoid heavy meals that could upset the stomach.

3. Short breaks : If you are traveling by car, take regular breaks so that the dog can stretch its legs and get some fresh air.

Vaccinations:

• Rabies : In many countries, rabies vaccination is mandatory, especially when traveling to European countries outside the EU or to other continents. This vaccination protects your dog from one of the most dangerous diseases.

• Leptospirosis : In areas with a high risk of leptospirosis, you should also have your dog vaccinated against this bacterial infection.

• Leishmaniasis : Vaccination against leishmaniasis is advisable, especially in southern countries and areas with mosquito infestation.

Worming treatments:

Especially when traveling to tropical or subtropical regions where heartworms (dirofilariasis) are prevalent, a prophylactic deworming treatment for your dog is necessary. This treatment should be administered regularly before and during the trip.

It is important that you check with your veterinarian to determine which vaccinations and deworming treatments are necessary for your trip so that you are prepared for all eventualities.

Further recommendations:

• Healthy dog ​​travel – vaccinations and deworming for the trip

Home remedies vs. veterinary treatment for travel sickness

If your dog suffers from motion sickness or other discomfort during travel, home remedies such as ginger (as a powder or tablet) can provide initial relief. Ginger has a calming effect on the stomach and helps with nausea. Herbs such as chamomile and peppermint tea can also be helpful.

However, for more serious illnesses, such as parasitic infestation or a viral infection , a veterinarian is the better choice. Medication for travel sickness , parasite treatments , or vaccinations can only be prescribed by a veterinarian. You should also seek professional help as soon as possible if symptoms persist or are severe (such as severe vomiting or breathing problems).

Packing list for your dog's first aid kit

For a safe and well-prepared trip, you should bring a comprehensive first-aid kit for your dog. This should include not only anti-nausea medication , but also anti-parasitic medication and other emergency supplies.

Other important items:

• First aid kit for dogs

• Food and water for the journey

• Leash, collar and muzzle if necessary

• Toy or blanket to calm down

Further information:

• First aid kit for dogs – what should really be included?

Country-specific health risks and entry requirements for dogs

Your dog's health should always be your top priority, especially when traveling to other countries. Each country has different health risks that your dog may be exposed to while traveling. Some diseases are common in certain regions of the world, and many countries have special entry requirements to ensure that pets are not brought into the country with diseases.

Diseases that occur in certain holiday destinations

Depending on the country you're traveling to, there are specific diseases your dog should be protected against before departure. In tropical and subtropical regions, especially Africa, Southeast Asia, and parts of South America, there are diseases that are less common in Europe. The most common diseases include:

• Leishmaniasis : This disease, transmitted by sand flies, is particularly common in Mediterranean countries, the Middle East, and tropical regions. It can cause severe skin diseases, internal organ dysfunction, and even death. Dogs traveling to such areas should be vaccinated against leishmaniasis in advance, if the vaccine is available in their country.

• Dirofilariasis (heartworm) : Heartworm is widespread in many southern countries, particularly in Southern Europe, Southeast Asia, and South America. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause serious heart disease. Dogs traveling to these regions require prophylactic treatment, which should be discussed with a veterinarian before traveling.

• Rabies : This viral infection affects not only humans but also animals and is still widespread in many parts of the world, particularly in Asia, Africa, and some South American countries. Rabies has been largely eradicated in Europe and North America, but cases of rabies are still common in many other countries. Rabies vaccination is not only important for dogs but is also a requirement for entry into many countries.

• Babesiosis : This tick-borne disease occurs primarily in tropical and subtropical regions. It can cause fever, weakness, anemia, and organ damage. Babesiosis is relatively common in many countries popular with European tourists, such as Spain, Italy, and Greece. Timely tick treatment and regular deworming are necessary to prevent this disease.

• Leptospirosis : This bacterial disease is transmitted through contact with contaminated water or urine from infected animals. It occurs in many tropical and subtropical regions, but can also occur in temperate climates. Vaccination against leptospirosis is especially important for dogs traveling to high-risk areas.

Entry requirements for dogs in different countries

Each country has its own regulations regarding the import of dogs and other pets. Many countries require dogs to be vaccinated against certain diseases and present a health certificate before entering the country. Here are some examples of health entry requirements:

• United States : Dogs traveling to the United States must have proof of rabies vaccination. Some states, such as Hawaii, have additional requirements, such as quarantine periods to ensure the dog does not bring any diseases. Dogs must also have a valid vaccination record and a health certificate.

• Australia : Australia is one of the strictest countries regarding animal imports. Dogs must be vaccinated against a variety of diseases, including rabies, and undergo a quarantine period to ensure their health. Dogs from rabies-free countries must still provide proof that they do not have other diseases such as heartworms or parasites.

• United Kingdom : The UK has strict regulations for the entry of pets to ensure that no animals infected with rabies enter the country. Dogs must have an EU pet passport with a valid rabies vaccination certificate. They must also be microchipped for identification. If you are traveling from outside the EU, requirements vary depending on your country of origin, and quarantine measures are often required.

• Canada : In Canada, dogs entering Canada from a rabies-free country must be vaccinated against rabies and provide proof of vaccination. If the dog is coming from a country where rabies is present, additional testing for the disease is required. A veterinarian's health certificate is also required.

• EU countries : Within the European Union, there are standardized regulations for the entry of dogs. Dogs must have an EU pet passport that shows proof of rabies vaccination. Some countries, such as Ireland and Great Britain, have additional requirements, such as a short quarantine, to minimize the risk of animal diseases.

• Tropical regions : When traveling to tropical countries such as Thailand, India, or Indonesia, it is especially important that your dog is protected against diseases such as leishmaniasis and heartworms. These countries often also require a deworming check and a veterinary health certificate. It is advisable to find out about local regulations and necessary vaccinations and treatments well in advance.

Conclusion: Well prepared for traveling with your dog

With proper preparation and a forward-looking plan, you can ensure your trip with your dog is enjoyable and stress-free. Make sure you understand the causes of travel sickness, recognize symptoms early, and take preventative measures like vaccinations and deworming. Keep the essential medications and supplies in your first-aid kit and consult a veterinarian if necessary. With these tips and proper preparation, nothing will stand in the way of a successful adventure with your dog.