Drivers who are dog owners often like to take their dogs with them on short and long trips. Untethered, they can potentially be injured or cause injury to other passengers. Unexpected stops can make the dog fly forward into the dash, seat ahead or the floor. They can injure their sensitive noses, limbs or other body parts. Why not consider putting your dog in a seat belt or another means of restraint? There are a number of products available now on market. Choose the one that works best for your situation.
Reasons Why You Should Restrain Your Dog In the Car
At the website for Pet Auto Safety, they list some good reasons to consider regarding restraining your dog in the car.
- Unexpected Stops - Injury can result as previously mentioned. Don't make your dog a projectile in the event of an accident.
- Dogs can be a distraction for you while driving and can cause an accident
- Prevents dog from getting injured from open windows. Some people want their dog to be able to put head out of window for fresh air. Even a small bit of flying debris can injure a dog's eye or nose when hit. While restrained, open the window near him and he can still get fresh air.
- Restraining a pet prevents him from getting out of the car to chase another animal.
- Avoid dog bites if in an accident. Sometimes loose pets inside cars get bewildered at the scene of an accident. When someone tries to help them, they want to bite out of fear. Tethered animals may feel more secure, and can't lunge at someone to bite them. In addition, they probably will survive the crash!
- Safely Belts show others you are a caring and responsible pet owner. They may in turn do this for their own pets. Perhaps you could be the one to save another pet's life.
Dog Restraint Product Options
Large Dogs:
Pickup Truck Tethers or Seatbelts: If your dog is traveling in a pickup or flatbed truck, please keep it safe too. If the dog can't ride beside you in the cab wearing a seatbelt, consider a tether if the dog is to ride in the bed of the truck. So many dogs are catapulted and killed each year from riding in the back of pickup trucks.
Auto Barriers: These allow your dog to ride safely behind you in the back seat or cargo area of your vehicle. Barriers are available for all different vehicle make and models and come in a variety of materials including metal, mesh and fabric.
Safety Belts: These look like a harness and typically have two straps; one that wraps around the dog at the chest and another one that runs under front two legs. Another pair of straps connects to the car's seat buckles.
Small or Medium Dogs:
Travel Carriers or Booster Chairs are available for small dogs as well as some of the above items. Check out the website at Pet Auto Safety.com for a complete listing.
How to Get A Pet Used to Using a Safety Device
Before you try to put the pet in the safety device, it is a good idea to get it acclimated to it first. Some animals will get nervous when they are forced into something new. Pet Auto Safety.com also has some good recommendations for you to help your dog get used to using a safety belt, travel carrier or booster chair.
- Get your pet used to the safety device in or around the house. Safety belts for pets are actually a harness and can be used while walking the dog or it can get used to wearing it around the house while under your supervision. Carriers and chairs can be used indoors first like a bed. Have the dog get used to being in it first before trying to get them to use it inside the car.
- Once your dog has gotten used to the device, start taking it on short trips. Make sure the trip is something fun for it like going to the beach, park or a place to run and play. Then the dog will associate using the device with something positive and fun. Even trips through the drive - through or to see a friend can be beneficial. Be sure not to leave a dog in a car while running an errand. In the summer, many dogs die each year from heat stroke in a very short time, especially small breeds. Other dogs may get very scared and anxious while you are away and may urinate or chew.
- Make the car ride as pleasant as possible. Some dogs who are nervous need to be assured that this is a good experience. Try taking along a familiar toy or playing music, or just talking to them will help.
Using safety devices can help make yours and your pet's driving experience a safer and more enjoyable experience.
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