Spending a long car trip with a whining, whimpering or howling dog in the back is no-one’s idea of fun. But it doesn’t have to be like that…

The more confident puppies and dogs feel in a car, the more comfortable they will be. The trick is to get your dog used to being in a vehicle from as young as possible.

Start by simply putting your dog in a stationary car to get him used to things. Then graduate to short, slow trips - just to the end of the drive or road, for example. Your dog may get travel sickness at first, so it's sensible to cover the car seats and floors with old rugs or newspapers.

Once your passenger gets comfortable, simply increase the length of trips on a gradual basis.

• A harness for your dog is a good idea. Many harnesses attach to ordinary car seatbelts or bolt points in your car.
• A waterproof sheet will come in handy for the car seat.
• Always carry lots of paper towels and disinfectant with you, in case your dog has an accident.
• Take your dog for a walk just before setting off.
• Don't feed your dog for two to three hours before you travel.
• To provide some kind of familiarity in unfamiliar surroundings, take along your dog's favourite toy or most-loved rug.
• Make a habit of stopping every couple of hours for a toilet break, a drink of water and the chance for your dog to stretch its legs.
• Don't let your dog ride with his or her head out the car window - however much he may want to! This could cause eye irritations and other ailments. Plus, there is also the very real possibility that your dog could jump out or be hit. Open the window enough, however, so that your dog gets adequate ventilation.
• Never leave your dog in the car during the summer. Even with the windows down, cars can heat up very quickly, causing heatstroke, brain damage or even death.
• If your dog gets anxious on car trips, try some lavender spray (spray it around your car) or some veterinary remedies from your vet.
• Many pups who suffer from car sickness grow out of this so be patient and always associate the car trip with a pleasant experience such as a run in the park at the end of it.