I LOVE to ride in the car, which sometimes takes me to dog park.

         

montrealgazette.com: Show your dog that good things happen after being in the car

Q: We're planning a driving trip in this month. Our Standard Poodle is very nervous in cars. Any suggestions?  D.M. Clayton, Wis.

A: For many dogs, if you have the time and patience, desensitization and counter conditioning does help. Here's what to do:

First, fit your dog with an Adaptil collar (available through veterinary clinics, some pet stores and online), which provides a copy of a naturally occurring appeasing pheromone that may relax your nervous pooch.

COMMENT: WOULD THAT ALSO WORK ON ME OR MY WIFE?

Next, take your dog to the car and open the door to the back seat. Have your dog jump in and out at will. Each time your poodle jumps in, the pet gets a treat.

COMMENT: HOW TO CREATE A DIZZY DOG.

When this activity is no longer stressful, but instead fun, let your dog jump into the back seat, after which you close the door. Then sit in the front seat and turn on the motor. Without going anywhere, quickly switch off the ignition.

COMMENT: BETTER BE QUICK.  REMEMBER: YOU ARE STILL IN THE GARAGE.

When this game becomes routine, go back indoors for a meal. Your dog will learn that good things happen after being in the car.

COMMENT: ALSO FEED THE DOG.

Of course, eventually you will need to hit the road. Start with a short journey to the end of the driveway, or down the block and back.

COMMENT: DRIVEWAY DRIVING AROUND HERE IS SEEN AS DEMENTED AND AUTHORITIES MAY BE NOTIFIED.

During these "trips," keep your pet busy with a Kong or other toy you can stuff with treats like low-fat peanut butter or cream cheese. The idea is to have your pet focus on extracting the treat rather than stressing out about the ride. Offer this special treat only during car rides, not in the house.

COMMENT: AND NOT MUCH CREAM CHEESE OR YOU WILL CREATE A FAT, HAPPY DOG.

Over time, you'll be able to drive for longer distances. If your dog shows any nervousness, drive back home for a meal. If your dog is anxious, you've gone too far too fast.

Be sure to wait about 30 minutes after each ride before feeding your dog; you want the pet to associate only calm behaviour in the car with a reward after the ride.

COMMENT: SOUNDS LIKE I’LL BE SPENDING MY LIFE RE-TRAINING MY DOG.

Eventually, you'll be ready to drive somewhere close to home that your dog enjoys, like a pet supply store or the home of a friend with a dog.

“Diplomacy is the art of saying “Nice doggie” until you can find a rock.
”  Will Rogers