Car Safety for pets

June 13, 2016

You probably have a trip plan and like most people, the furry family member is a companion. That has always given most people a challenge, considering they want to be cautious not to cause any harm to themselves, car users as well as the pet.

Here are some tips you can follow to maintain car safety for pets.

Use the right ride

The very first thing is to be sure you are using the right car, minivan or SUV. Use something that is reliable, has a good rating for pets and got good scores in the crash tests by the industry and the government.

Smaller pets will be great in a small wagon or a hatchback. Room is provided for an extra gear or carrier and the pets get enough space to stand up and do some leg stretching activities. Larger dogs have the tendency of liking bigger vehicles, more so if the family is large. In this case, SUVs will be perfect.

Whichever size that you opt to go with, always remember that vehicles that have tie downs in the cargo part allow for safe crate securing. Most minivans, SUVs and wagons include this feature. It will be wise for you to not let the pets have the seats, especially clothed ones. There are car makers like Volvo and Subaru that let you to have plastic liners and pet barriers. Get access to most of these via the internet and pet stores.

Aftermarket goodies

Don’t worry if you are not willing or not in the position of acquiring a new car that meets the car safety for pets. Many companies are in existence whose job is to make travelling with pets easier. They offer products that you can use to meet the different goals.

Pet barrier

A pet barrier lets your pets to move swiftly but keeping them safely contained in the rear seat. They come in varied sizes for SUVs, wagons and minivans.

Mat/travel bed

If your pet has a home, carrying along with you the house will be a way of making them comfortable while maintaining security. You may opt for beds in the cargo area.

Water bowl

It is fine to have a reseal-able container but would be great if you have spill-proof, collapsible or both.

Loading ramp

Having a loading ramp makes it easy for smaller and older dogs to get in and out. Models of varied sizes are available in the market.

Make an earlier plan

It is always wise to have a prior detailed plan if you have the intension of moving along with any animal. If you will stay in a hotel, be sure that the place is pet friendly before you can book. Always bear in mind that certain hotels will tell you they allow pets but have limits of their own.

As you are travelling

· Regularly stop after some few hours so that your pet gets to take a break and drink some water

· Do not ride while the pet’s head is out of the window – injuries are bound to occur

· It is a big mistake to leave your pet unattended while the car windows are not a few inches open

SOURCE:

http://www.petmd.com/dog/slideshows/care/top-ten-ways-to-restrain-and-travel-safely-with-pets

https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/travel/safe-ways-to-transport-your-dog-in-your-car

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2011/05/safe-road-tripping-with-pets/index.htm