Pet owners who travel with their dogs must take good care of themselves, their pets, and others. Therefore, they should plan and prepare well to ensure they enjoy the journey and avoid risking their furry friend’s life or causing trouble to other people.
Since pets cannot express themselves effectively, the owner should provide a safe and comfortable space in the car and address any challenges when traveling. This article will share a few time-tested tips to remember when traveling with a dog in a car.
Use Relevant Restraint for Safety
Many pet owners want their furry friend seated in the back seat, but pet safety should come first. That is why they need a crash-tested safety restraint to protect the dog and ensure they are comfortable.
If the dog is not restrained, it might be thrown around and die or sustain injuries. However, the safety harness functions like a safety belt, which reduces the impact during a sudden stop or a collision.
The rear seats should have quality 4Knines seat covers to protect them from pet damage and fur. This ensures the driver does not have to worry about seat damage or keep checking on the dog, causing distracted driving. Restraining the dog also reduces issues such as the dog trying to open the door, blocking the rearview, disturbing passengers, or climbing on the driver.
Keep the Head in the Car
Watching dogs traveling with their head out of the car window is cool. The dogs also enjoy the unobstructed view and a breeze from the outside, but having their heads out of the window could compromise safety. One of the risks is that debris and stones could hit the dog in the eyes. Sudden stops or swerves could also cause the dog to hit parts of the car or be thrown out in extreme situations.
In some cases, the dogs might see something interesting outside and decide to jump out, confusing the driver. However, keeping the dog inside does not mean all car windows should be closed. Opening the window partially helps manage temperature and supply fresh air.
Take Brakes Every Few Hours
Drivers should take short breaks to let the dog stretch and relieve themselves when covering vast distances. Confining the dog in the car for many hours can cause discomfort and stress.
However, small breaks help the dog exercise and reduce anxiety associated with long-distance travel. Dogs might need water to stay hydrated and avoid overheating or travel sickness.
Another reason to take breaks is for mental stimulation and adaptation to changing environments. The short breaks keep the dog engaged and happy throughout the journey.
Carry a Travel Kit for the Dog
Dogs are familiar with certain things they use at home daily. Using new ones might make the dog feel disoriented. That is why pet owners should have a travel kit with everything they need for their pets. The kit should contain food, water, treats, and a harness to keep the pet safe and secure.
Waste bags are also crucial for disposing of pet waste. If the dog is under medication, the owner should carry the drugs to meet the health needs. When traveling for long hours, a few toys help keep the pet engaged and manage anxiety.
Traveling with a pet involves preparing effectively and considering the pet’s needs and safety. Following these tips ensures the dog and other road users are safe and comfortable. They also keep the dog emotionally stable and safe from injuries.