Many dogs can’t wait to go for a joyride, while others suffer from vehicle anxiety. But no matter what side of the spectrum your pup falls on, you want them to be as safe and comfortable as possible anytime they are in the car.
There are many potential dangers to consider. Your dog could jump out of an open window from excitement or anxiety, get injured from an airbag in the front seat, or even become a projectile during a collision, to name a few. But your furry family member can also distract you from safe driving, whether it’s by incessant barking, leaping into your lap, or bustling around the cabin and blocking your sight.
By taking some precautions and making a purchase or two, you can provide an extra level of protection for Fido. Below, Mount Airy Toyota discusses how you can keep your dog safe and secure during car trips.
Safety Precautions
First of all, dogs should always ride in the backseat of a moving vehicle. Sure, it might be cute when your pup plops down in your lap (or even the passenger’s lap), but this can prove dangerous for you and your dog. It not only can cause distractions for the driver, but if your dog gets excited or anxious, they could even hit the steering wheel unintentionally. And whether or not your dog is in a carrier, they could be crushed if an airbag in the front seat is deployed.
Another common hazard for dogs in vehicles is when the owner allows them to hang their head out the window. While this can be exhilarating for canines, it can also result in sand, dirt, and other debris flying into their eyes and ears. Plus, a window that is open too far can tempt dogs to jump out of the vehicle. Furthermore, your dog will be the safest during car trips if they are contained via a crate, carrier, seat belt, or barrier.
Crates and Carriers
Perhaps the most practical way to ensure your dog is secure in your vehicle is to invest in a crate or carrier. There are many quality products by PetSafe, Petmate, Diggs, Sleepypod, Sherpa, and other manufacturers that will do the trick.
Make sure your dog’s crate or carrier is the right size; you want your pup not to feel too restricted, but you also don’t want them to be able to stand up and turn around too easily. Plus, you’ll need to be able to get the crate or carrier in and out of your car without issue. And choose a product that is made of quality materials and provides adequate ventilation.
Seat Belts
Yes, you read that correctly! These days, there are seat belts designed specifically for our four-legged companions. Just like with the human versions, these seat belts can go a long way in restraining your pup and protecting them from harm.
Consider your dog’s size and breed, and research the market for the best product you can find. Vastar, Kurgo, Pawaboo, Bwogue, and Mighty Paw manufacture some of the best-reviewed safety belts, harnesses, and tethers for canines.
Barriers
Another option for securing Fido while on the road is to install a barrier between the front and rear seats. There are a lot of different barrier styles on the market—the perfect option for your dog will depend on your dog’s size and tenacity, as well as what kind of vehicle you have.
You can find metal or mesh barriers that stretch across the front seats. You can find barriers that fit between the two front seats, or hammocks that encompass the entire backseat. There are even barriers that are tailored to fit either sedans, SUVs, or trucks. Look to brands like PetSafe, Starroad-Tim, Dykeson, Bushwacker, and Frisco for quality products.
Ramps
Let’s not forget about getting your pup in and out of your car! Some dogs can benefit from a ramp, especially those that are older, have joint problems, or deal with other limitations.
Similar to barriers, there are ramps specifically designed for sedans, SUVs, or trucks. But there are also products, such as telescoping and collapsible ramps, that can work with a wide range of vehicles. Petstep, Pet Gear, Titan, and PetSafe manufacture some of the best dog ramps available.
Conclusion
Your furry friend means the world to you, which is why it’s critical to ensure their safety on the road. Consider the precautions and products above as you look to keep your dog secure during car trips. Visit us at Mount Airy Toyota to find the perfect vehicle for you and your furry friend. You’ll have more peace of mind knowing you are minimizing distractions and other dangers!
