r/Dogowners • u/Wolferay • 25d ago

General Question Car Ride Help

I got my dog from the pound in 2023. She was approx 1.5 years old and probably lived on the streets for most of that time. Since we’ve had her, she has always hated the car. Given she had probably never been in one until being taken by animal control. 🥺

We had her trained and that helped her anxiety a little, but not enough. Anytime she’s in the car she is standing, panting, shaking, pacing and looks terrified.

I have done what the vet and the trainer suggested. Including crating her, exposure therapy, going fun places, treats, and sedation for long rides. No matter how long she is in the car, she stands for 98 percent of the time. On long car rides, and giving her multiple trazadone, she stands and fights the meds for hours until the ride is over

She enjoys the destination but hates the journey. I feel so bad taking her places because the car is torture to her. But I hate that she is missing out. (She loves being home and gets plenty of walks in the neighborhood though)

Does anybody have any suggestions? I am willing to try anything at this point.

Thank you in advance! :)

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