When heading to the dog park or traveling with your dog, it’s important to make sure your four-legged co-pilot stays safe during the car ride. Whether you’re preparing for your first time driving with your dog or just looking to brush up on the best practices, these tips will help make car rides safer for both of you. Before bringing Fido along on your next car ride, check out these tips for driving safely with your furry friend!
Keep Your Pup Buckled
Just like humans, dogs need to be properly restrained in the car. Letting them roam freely might seem harmless, but it can be dangerous in the event of a sudden stop or car accident. A secure dog seatbelt or travel harness is a must-have for safe driving with pets. And if you drive a truck, never let your dog ride in the truck bed.
Keep Your Pup in the Backseat
As tempting as it may be to let your dog ride up front, the backseat is much safer. Airbags can cause serious injuries to pets in the front, even during minor collisions. By keeping your dog in the back, you reduce the risk of distraction and injury. For added safety, use a harness or crate that secures your pup to the rear seatbelts. Another option is to invest in a dog-friendly booster seat to keep your furry friend safely in the backseat.
Get a Dog-Friendly Car Barrier
Some dogs are curious and love trying to climb into the front seat mid-drive. If that sounds like your pup, a dog-friendly car barrier might be a good investment. These mesh or metal dividers create a safe boundary between the front and back seats, helping you focus on the road while still being able to see your dog and check in on them.
Keep a First Aid Kit on Hand
Emergencies can happen anywhere, including on the road. Having a doggy first aid kit in your car is a smart move. You can buy a pre-made kit or build your own with essentials like gauze, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any medications your dog may need. You’ll hopefully never need it, but you’ll be glad it’s there if you do.
Keep Your Furry Friend Cool
Cars heat up quickly, especially on warm or sunny days. Even on a mild day, the inside of a car can quickly reach dangerous temperatures for pets. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked. During the drive, make sure your car’s climate control is keeping things comfortable. If you’re going on a longer trip, pack water and a portable bowl to keep your pup hydrated.
Keep Fido’s Head and Paws Inside the Car
While it might be adorable to see your furry friend stick their head outside the car window, this is risky business. Flying debris, dust, or insects can injure your dog’s eyes, nose, or mouth. Not to mention, your dog may even fall out of the vehicle if the window is open too far. To be safe, keep the windows rolled up or only slightly cracked when your furry friend is in the car.
Stop for Potty Breaks
Just like us, dogs need breaks on long car rides. Plan to stop every couple of hours so your dog can stretch their legs, go to the bathroom, and have some water. Choose pet-friendly rest stops or parks when you can, and always use a leash when getting out of the car to prevent any escape attempts.
Get a Travel Toy
To help your dog stay calm and content on the road, bring along a favorite toy. A chew toy or stuffed animal can provide comfort and entertainment while you focus on driving. If your dog gets anxious in the car, try a toy that you can stuff with treats or peanut butter to keep them occupied. A puzzle toy is another great way to keep them entertained, since it will provide them with mental stimulation during the car ride.
Bring Doggy Identification
Before you hit the road, double-check that your dog has proper identification. A secure collar with up-to-date tags and an accurate phone number is essential. If your pet is microchipped, make sure your contact info is current. If something unexpected happens and your dog gets loose, this small step can make a big difference in getting them back home safely.
Being prepared is the best way to make car travel with your dog enjoyable and safe. With just a bit of planning, your road trips with Fido will be smooth sailing!
Check Out These Posts for More Doggy Travel Tips!
The Best Travel Bags for Dog Owners