If you're like Car Pro Show host Jerry Reynolds, no road trip is complete without his furry companion in tow. But just like people, some dogs are anxious during long car rides. The stress some pups feel can manifest itself in a number of ways. According to Dr. Veronica Higgs, Veterinary Services Manager with Chewy, "Car anxiety can be portrayed differently depending on the dog, including refusal to get into the car, hiding when it is time to travel, and even physical responses including whining, crying, barking, shaking, pacing, and more." And as a result, more than half (52%) of dog owners experience moderate stress when managing their dog's anxiety during car rides.
In celebration of its 11th annual National Dog Day, Autotrader is releasing an exclusive ASMR-inspired Spotify playlist to help make car rides less stressful for your four-legged family member. (ASMR stands for autonomous sensory meridian response). The Pet Calm ASMR playlist is filled with tracks that can help ease dogs' car anxiety and transport them to some of their favorite memories like long walks on the beach, snowy Christmas mornings, or warm naps by the fireplace. "Rhythmic or repeating sounds can help ease stress and anxiety with dogs, especially puppies, during road trips," Higgs says.
You can listen to some of the tracks below.
Autotrader's 11th annual National Dog Day celebrations also involve country singer and pup owner Walker Hayes.
"Traveling with our dogs has always been a big part of our family's life, but it can definitely be a challenge," said Walker Hayes. "We always want to make sure they are relaxed and safe while on the road and Autotrader's ASMR playlist is helpful for pet owners like us who want to make travel as stress-free as possible."
Autotrader experts are also sharing their top dos and don'ts for traveling with dogs, as well as the best automotive accessories to ensure all road dogs are safe and ready to embark on their greatest adventure.
According to a recent Autotrader survey, 85% of dog owners think about transporting their dog when considering what vehicle to buy. For more details, including the car brands to consider, visit Autotrader here.
"Our pets are more than just animals, they are family, and their safety and comfort on the road are paramount," said Brian Moody, executive editor at Autotrader. "At Autotrader, we are committed to providing a variety of resources to give customers the confidence to travel safely and comfortably with their dogs. With detailed travel tips, recommended car accessories, and now an ASMR playlist, every member of the family can enjoy the ride."
Photo: CarPro.