Škoda recently collaborated with Veterinary Surgeon, Dog Expert and This Morning’s resident vet, Dr Scott Miller, to produce a study on dogs travelling in cars. The investigation found that canines are ‘more relaxed’ when travelling in an electric vehicle compared to a fuel powered car.
Carrying out the research involved monitoring a one-year-old Cocker Spaniel’s heart rate when travelling in three cars with different fuel types – electric, diesel and petrol. Mango was driven around a private track (the former Top Gear test track in Surrey) in the three different Škoda models, reaching speeds of up to 70mph.
Mango’s resting heart rate of 80 beats per minute (bpm) only rose to 100bpm in the new all-electric Elroq, whereas it surged to 120bpm and 125bpm in the petrol and diesel cars, respectively, indicating high stress levels. Mango also appeared more relaxed in the Elroq, lying down and almost falling asleep. In the petrol and diesel car journeys, he appeared more distracted and less settled.
The experiment was conducted to mark Škoda’s continued sponsorship of Crufts, the world’s largest dog show.
“The experiment clearly shows the health and psychological benefits of travelling in an EV for dogs. Observing Mango’s reactions while travelling at the same speed on the same track, but in different vehicles, made it clear that the EV provided a smoother and more calming experience.
“The quiet mechanics, absence of gear changes, and the spacious interiors of electric cars create a soothing environment for dogs, ensuring a more relaxed and happy travel experience for our furry companions.”
- Dr Scott Miller
Škoda further supported the experiment by conducting a survey of 1,500 dog-owning drivers, which revealed some interesting results. 32% of owners admitted to worrying about their dog’s anxiety during car journeys, along with concerns about safety (38%), lack of space (7%) and difficulty securing their dog safely (7%). 53% of dog owners drive with their pets at least once a week, whilst 54% avoid driving with their dogs altogether.
The biggest deal-breaker drives include long motorway or A-road trips (50%), journeys over 30 miles (46%), and navigating busy urban areas (40%). Almost half (41%) of dog owners say they would factor their furry friend’s comfort into choosing their next car, with 31% believing an electric vehicle would offer a quieter and more comfortable ride.
“Mango’s body language clearly showed his preference for travelling in an EV where he’s lying down on the back seat, relaxed, with soft semi-closed brown eyes. Whereas in the traditional fuel powered cars, he’s sitting bolt upright and tense. Turning his head dramatically with rapid wide eye movement, showing the whites of his eyes all clear physical signs of stress.
“As dogs’ hearing is four times more acute than ours, they pick up on sound frequencies of the traditional engine noises that are inaudible to people. Similarly, the vibrations of the petrol and diesel cars can cause ‘motion sickness’, raising Mango’s heart rate by feeling nauseous.”
- Anna Web, Dog Behaviourist Expert
Whilst switching to an electric vehicle is one of the best ways for owners to keep their dogs happy, there are many other ways to help keep them calm whilst on the move, including using pet carriers to help them feel safe and slowly easing into travel. Ensure the vehicle has plenty of ventilation and monitor the temperature to make sure your dog feels comfortable, whilst always carrying water with you. If you can, travel at a time that avoids rush hour traffic or the midday heat, factoring in regular breaks so your pooch can stretch their legs and have a break. Overall, it is important to listen to spot signs of stress, including barking, whining, panting, drooling, vocal queues and chewing.
Discover the Škoda electric range today or contact Caffyns Škoda for more information.