10 Tips for Pet Safety in the Car

Many Coloradoans love taking their pets with them, wherever they go. Whether it’s a trip to the grocery store, a drive to the mountains, or a longer road trip, you’ll see a number of furry faces peeping out car windows in traffic.

Because our pets are so valuable to us, it’s important that we take time to consider pet car safety during car road trips, whether long or short.

1. Buckle Up

We already know the serious consequences that can result in the event of a car accident where a person neglected to wear a seatbelt. Just the same, not restraining your pet in the car could mean serious injury or even death in the case of an accident. Not only that but leaving your pet free to roam in the car could be a serious distraction for the driver.

Secured Crate

When considering pet car safety, the best way to secure your pet in the car is in a pet carrier or crate. This is probably also the best method to transport a pet that gets carsick easily, especially when looking out the window. Make sure you secure the crate or carrier and leave space around it so that it is well ventilated. The crate should be big enough for your pet to be comfortable and able to move around but not big enough for your pet to be thrown around if something were to happen.

Harness

If your pet enjoys looking out the window a harness that buckles into your seatbelt is a great option. Again, especially if your pet gets carsick easily, a harness could actually make the ride a worse experience.

Booster seat

They’re not just for kids! You can find a number of different booster-type seats for your pets, ideal for smaller pets who need a little lift to help them see out the window. These should also provide for you to buckle them in.

2. Riding Shotgun is not for Your Dog

There’s something sweet about rambling down the road with your best friend sitting shotgun. But if you love your dog, you’ll find it sweeter still to think about her safety first. The Passenger side is not an ideal spot for your pet to ride. Not only does this provide more opportunity for you to get distracted, but it could be fatal in the event of a car accident. The airbags and hard plastic could result in serious injury or worse. The back seat or all the way in the back in an SUV are the best spots.

3. No Ears Blowing in the Wind

They always look like they are having so much fun, ears flapping in the wind as you truck down the road. However, most people don’t allow their children to stick their arms out the window, much less their heads! Your pet could be seriously injured by unexpected flying debris. Think safety first. If you want a little extra airflow, open the window just a few inches so they can get the breeze.

4. Test with Short Trips First

If you are planning a longer road trip and hope to take your pet with you, make sure you prep them with shorter trips first. Ensure that you have the proper, comfortable things they need to keep them safe. If you are finding your dog is having a hard time with a harness in a short trip, you’ll want to figure out a different solution! Get your pets used to the travel set up before taking your trip.

5. Pack a Travel Kit

Especially for longer trips, it’s important to pack a kit of things for your pet’s comfort and safety. Make sure to bring bottled water, food, a bowl, a leash, medication, a first aid kit, etc.

6. Take Breaks and Don’t Feed Your Pet While Driving

Especially for pets who struggle with car sickness, it’s better to feed your pets a little while before the drive. If you are on a longer trip, take plenty of breaks and feed small portions during your breaks, not while driving. Take your pet out to stretch their legs and get some fresh air.

7. Don’t Leave Your Pet in a Hot Car

This is a huge issue concerning pet car safety, and we can hardly emphasize this enough. In the warmer months, your car can heat up really quickly, even when we might think it’s not even that hot outside. If you cannot take your dog inside with you, it’s better that your dog stays at home.

8. The Bed of the Truck Is not for Your Pet

This has been a common way to transport pets. Unfortunately, this has also commonly been a way people have lost their beloved pets. Allowing your pets to ride in the bed of the truck could result in serious injury or even death. It could also pose a danger to other people.

Another thing to keep in mind is in the summer, the metal bed of a truck could end up burning your pet’s paws because of the heat.

9. Keep ID Tags Updated

Always keep your pet’s ID tags updated. You don’t want to risk losing them in case of separation during a road trip.

10. Take Vaccination Records with You

Especially for longer trips, it is important that you take any necessary medical records and your pet’s vaccination records with you. You never know if you may need them.

 

At Royal Vista Vets, we care about your pets and their safety. For more information about pet car safety or any other questions you may have concerning pet health, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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