Many dog owners enjoy bringing their pets along in the car when they travel, whether it\u2019s a short trip to the store or a cross-country adventure. But driving around with your dog can sometimes be dangerous for both of you. A loose animal inside the passenger compartment can distract your eyes from the road, causing an accident. Small dogs roaming around on the floor can disrupt your ability to operate the foot pedals, and larger animals can inadvertently knock your shifter out of gear or interfere with your steering. And then you have the issue of keeping your loveable pet safe when the vehicle\u2019s moving, or if you need to leave them unattended for a while when it\u2019s not. Traveling with a dog in your car can be complicated at times- especially on longer trips- and the key is careful planning before you hit the road. In an effort to make it a safer experience for you both, here are some reliable driving tips to use when traveling with a dog.<\/p>\n
Before heading out, the first thing you should do is ensure that your furry friend has a safe and comfortable area to ride in which will also keep them from interfering with your driving, and protect your dog in an accident. Here are some pet restraining methods to use:<\/p>\n
Make sure it has enough room for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around. Secure the crate itself so that it won\u2019t slide around if you turn sharply or stop abruptly. Crates also work well for cats.<\/p>\n
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These are basically seat belts for dogs, and are designed to attach to the ones in your car. Always harness your pooch to a back seat, as air bag deployments can cause serious injury- or even worse- to an animal.<\/p>\n
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These can be purchased at pet stores or online, and are adjustable gates that fit most all vehicle types. Commercially-sold pet barriers also allow your dog to still see you so that they won\u2019t panic. <\/strong><\/p>\n Now that you\u2019ve figured out how to transport your dog safely so that you can focus your attention on the road, it\u2019s time to consider their wellbeing throughout the trip. To keep your pet safer, remember to follow these tips:<\/p>\n <\/strong>We\u2019ve all seen a dog with its head sticking out of a moving vehicle, ears and tongue flapping in the wind. But that\u2019s simply not safe for them, as their face could violently impact a solid object. Riding in a pickup truck bed is also not safe, and thousands of dogs are injured annually from falls when doing so.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Especially on longer road trips, bring along a bowl, leash, food, pooper scooper, disposal bags, bottled water, their medications, grooming supplies, and any vaccination records if traveling across state lines. Having your dog\u2019s favorite toy, blanket or pillow along will also calm them down. <\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Summertime temperatures inside your car can exceed 120 degrees, and during the winter your vehicle\u2019s interior can become an icebox within minutes. Leaving your dog in these conditions can cause serious harm and even death. If you have to leave your pet in the car for just a few minutes, keep it running and have someone you trust stay with them. Unattended dogs are also targets for pet thieves and walk-by harassers.<\/p>\n <\/p>\nEnsure Your Pet\u2019s Wellbeing <\/strong><\/h2>\n
Keep their heads inside the car<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Pack a travel kit for your pet<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Don\u2019t leave your dog in the car very long<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Beware of \u201ccar phobia\u201d<\/strong><\/h3>\n