Summer is the time when most families go on vacation and traveling with your dog can add to the fun. While bringing them along for a road trip seems like a relatively easy option, it’s important that you ensure their safety and comfort for the whole journey. Whether you plan to road trip across state lines or just enjoy a day trip to a local park, here are some essential safety tips to follow when traveling with your dog in the car.
Restrain your dog using a harness or seat belt
Just as you buckle up each time you get into the car, your dog should be properly and securely restrained to not only keep them safe for the ride, but to also prevent them from becoming a distraction for you during sudden stops. Whether you’re choosing a special harness that integrates with your car’s seat belt or specific seat belts designed to restrain dogs, it’s important you choose a product that keeps your pet secure for the entire ride. If you have a smaller dog breed, booster seats with harness attachments might be a better option for you.
Keep heads and paws inside the vehicle
It’s common to see dogs sticking their heads out the window when people are cruising around, but did you know this can actually be incredibly dangerous for your pup? Flying debris, sudden stops, and passing cars that get too close can all cause injury. Similar to how you wouldn’t let your child hang their arms or head outside while driving, the same rule should apply to your dog. Closed windows or slightly open windows are fine as long as heads and paws remain inside the vehicle.
Don’t allow them to stay in the vehicle alone
According to the AVMA, every year, hundreds of pets die from heat exhaustion because they are left in parked vehicles. There is no good reason to leave your dog inside a car by themselves, even for a short period of time. Even on mild days, temperatures can rise quickly inside a car, putting your dog at risk for heat stroke and cold weather can quickly turn the interior of a car frigid.
Schedule breaks throughout your trip
For longer trips, it’s important that you plan regular pit stops for your pup to stretch, get fresh air, eat, and relieve themselves, similar to how we plan these for ourselves. Since these stops are new environments close to roadways, it’s important that your dog remains on leash during these breaks.
Pack appropriate supplies
Having a travel kit for your pup for road trips can not only make the journey smoother but can also make them more comfortable and give you peace of mind you have what you need if/when you need it. A few good things to bring along include food and water (and a water bowl) for the pit stops, leash and collar with an ID tag that has your correct information, blanket or bed that is familiar, favorite toys, and waste bags.
Ensuring your dog’s safety while traveling in the car is essential for a stress-free and comfortable journey for all. If you have any concerns about your dog's travel habits or need advice on pet safety, don't hesitate to consult our team at Bregman Veterinary Group. Our veterinarians can provide personalized recommendations and ensure your dog is ready for any adventure. To schedule an appointment, click here to get started. Safe travels!
