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How to Drive Safely with Your Pet in the Car

14 July 2023


Are you ready for a fantastic adventure with your four legged companion?

Travelling by car with your pet can be an enjoyable experience, but it's essential to ensure their safety during the journey. Whether you're heading to the vet for a quick check-up or embarking on an exciting road trip, it's crucial to take necessary precautions to keep your pets secure and comfortable. Following these guidelines we'll explore some safe ways to travel with pets in the car.

Before hitting the road, make sure your pet is safely secured inside the vehicle. Use a pet carrier, crate, or a pet seat belt harness to restrain your furry friend. This helps prevent them from roaming around the car, causing distractions, or getting injured in case of sudden braking or accidents.

Preparing for the journey

Some pets aren't so used to traveling in cars so its only fair to prepare in advance for the journey ahead by familiarising Your Pet with the Car: It's important to acclimate your pet to the car gradually. Begin by allowing them to explore the vehicle while it's stationary, providing treats and positive reinforcement. Once they're comfortable, take short practice drives to familiarize them with the sensation of movement.

Ensure your pet wears a collar with an identification tag containing your contact details. Additionally, consider microchipping them as an added precaution in case they accidentally escape during the journey.

Bring a travel kit with your pet's essentials, including food, water, medication (if required), waste disposal bags, a leash, and their favorite toys or bedding. These familiar items will provide comfort and help ease anxiety during the trip.

Avoid Motion Sickness: If your pet experiences motion sickness, consult your veterinarian for advice on appropriate medication or natural remedies. Feeding them a light meal a few hours before the journey can also help prevent nausea.

Schedule a visit to your local vet before any long trip. Ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, and discuss any specific concerns or requirements for travel.


Securing your pet in the car:

Safety Measures for Pet Travel: Implementing safety measures will help protect both your pet and other passengers in the vehicle. Consider the following guidelines:

For their safety, never allow your pet to roam freely in the car. Use appropriate restraints such as pet seat belts, pet carriers, or pet travel crates. These help prevent injuries during sudden stops or accidents and keep them secure in case of unexpected vehicle movement.

When using a carrier or crate, select one that is well-ventilated and properly sized for your pet. Ensure it's sturdy, secure, and comfortable, with sufficient room for your pet to sit, stand, and lie down. Familiarize your pet with the carrier or crate before the journey to minimize anxiety.

If its a large dog ensure you have a dog guard in place, you may even want to consider a protective floor mat (just in case they have any accidents!)

Leaving a pet alone in a parked car, even for a few minutes, can lead to severe health risks such as heatstroke. Temperatures inside a vehicle can quickly rise to dangerous levels, even on mild days. If you must leave the car, ensure someone remains with your pet or consider alternative arrangements.

Make Frequent Stops: Allow your pet to stretch their legs, hydrate, and relieve themselves during breaks. Regular stops every two to three hours are recommended, providing an opportunity for exercise and a chance to reduce travel stress.


Dogs die in hot cars.

Many individuals hold the belief that such a situation will never occur in their lives. However, every year, people take risks with the lives of their beloved dogs, and tragically, dogs perish in hot cars during the summer.

Even if a car is parked in a shaded area with its windows open, it can rapidly transform into an oven-like environment. When the outdoor temperature is 22°C, it takes merely an hour for the temperature inside a car to escalate to an intolerable and lethal 47°C. If a dog's internal body temperature exceeds 41°C, it can result in a fatality.

During the summer, if it's probable that you will need to leave your pooch unattended in the car, it is advisable not to bring them along with you. Seek out dog-friendly activities or arrange alternative care for your furry companion. Even if you're only running a quick errand or making a brief stop at a shop, any delay or unforeseen circumstance could have devastating consequences for your dog. The potential risks involved are simply not worth taking.

 

Before embarking on a journey, especially any long travels its highly recommended that you ensure your pet is chipped and the chip data is up to date matching your current details this is a just in case, should anything unfortunate occur.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your pet during car travel. Remember to plan ahead, secure your pet properly, and make the journey as comfortable as possible. If you have any concerns or questions, consult your veterinarian for further advice and assistance.

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