Hi Leah,

I think thqat the best way to help your young boy is to help him learn that the car is a good thing!

You didn't say in your post how often you put your dog in the car or where you take him when he does go in the cat - this can affect the way he reacts to the car.

I would start by making the car a good place to go be, put your dog into the car and give him a treat then take him straight out again. Next time put him in the car give him a treat wait a little while then give another treat then take him out. Gradually build up the time you leave him in the car to a couple of minutes.
Now you can start closing the door; put him in the car, treat, and close the door, open the door straight away then treat and take him out. Next time wait a little while before you open the door. Gradually build up the time you can leave him in the car with the door closed.
The next step is for you to get into the car, again build up the time you sit in the car before getting out and getting your dog out.
The next step is to run the car, but not drive anywhere and then finally start taking little drives.
When you take him for a drive take him somewhere he likes to go - like the park to play, or to a friends where he will get a big fuss.

Note the above should take a week to 10 days - don't rush it! Also don't be afraid to go back a step it you need to.

Maggie maid a good point your dog needs to feel safe when in the car and the use of a crate is a good idea. I don't think that dogs should be loose in cars and should be either in a crate or fixed to one of the seat belts using a harness.

If none of this works you can try on of the off the shelf herbal remedies to calm your dog down or for car sickness.

If you are still having problems take advice from your vet. They will be able to suggest medication for his nervousness or recommend a face-to-face trainer/ behaviourist. If recommended by your vet you should be able to claim this back on your insurance.

Hope this helps

Keith