Among the precious cargo we transport with our vehicles – children, loved ones, and ourselves – our pets are some of the most defenseless.
In the event of a vehicle collision, what will keep your cat, dog, or ring-tailed lemur safe from harm? Understanding how to take proper safety precautions to protect your pooch is important for drivers who regularly bring their animals along for the ride.
Is your pet ready for the ride?
Some pets experience car sickness or anxiety. To prepare for an upcoming trip, visit your local veterinarian to get advice and medications to help your dog handle the road. Cats are often skeptical of crates, so getting out the crate a few days in advance for them to examine is wise. Decrease their anxiety by giving them time to make sure they approve of their mobile carrier before spending several hours inside of it.
Pack the necessities from waste bags, food, water, and leash to favorite toys, pillows, and soft blankets. Offering your pet pieces of home will help him or her relax and enjoy the ride.
Make your pet secure
Keeping your pet restrained in the car is one of the most important aspects of safe car travel. Although it’s tempting to leave dogs, especially when they’re well behaved, loose and unsecured in the back or front seat, consider the fact we all wear seat belts to keep ourselves safe in the car.
It’s important to give your pet the same respect and safety. Most of us consider our pets part of the family, which is why we should take time to keep them as safe as possible.
Restraint systems come in a wide variety on designs. Smaller dogs and cats can usually travel in a carrier in the car. Ensuring the crate’s security is essential. When you slam on the breaks, make sure it doesn’t come loose or tip over. Other larger dogs will need a harness system to stay secure. Most of these restraint systems consist of a harness attached to either the seat belt or the ceiling. These are often the most reliable methods of restraint for most dogs.
Make Plans with Your Pet
Don’t go places with your dogs or cats if you know you’ll need to leave them in the car. Both heat and cold can have tragic effects on animals left in the car unattended. Cracked windows won’t help your car’s internal temperature when it’s warm outside, and your car can become colder inside than out during long winter months.
Do your travel with your pet? What’s your best tip for traveling out of town with them?
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