ROAD SAFETY Champion GEM Motoring Assist (formerly the Guild of Experienced Motorists) concerns itself with the well being of all road users and it has just turned its attention to giving worthwhile advice for dogs on the move.

A dog that is uncomfortable in a car and persistently sick can be a real distraction and as a result a threat to safe driving explains GEM Chief Executive David Williams who has sought some clear veterinary advice on the subject.

David explained: ‘Many people would like to take their dog in a car more often but are put off by the prospect of it being sick or showing signs of discomfort and ‘feeling poorly.’ Help is now at hand because an effective travel sickness pill has been developed and is becoming available under the guidance and direction of vets’.

About one in six dogs suffer from travel sickness and European market research has shown that 47% of owners said they would travel more with their pet if it didn’t suffer.

Vomiting is the most obvious sign that a pet is suffering from travel sickness.  Other signs that it may be feeling uncomfortable are hyper salivation and drooling, panting and licking its lips, trembling, restless behaviour and retching.

For further detailed information and advice on this common problem visit our motoring advice section on the informative GEM website www.motoringassist.com.

David reminds drivers that dogs should always be protected in a vehicle by a proper dog guard or harness. ‘A dog hurtling from the back of the car in an accident can cause serious injury to the driver and passenger and an unsecured dog in a car may resist allowing the emergency services getting to you,’ he said.

End

October 2008

Press Information: David Williams MBE, Chief Executive of GEM Motoring Assist on 01342 825676 (office) or 07711 450560 (mobile). For downloadable images and more information go to www.motoringassist.com and visit the Press Centre.