Pets are a big part of many families. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), more than 43 million households own a dog. That means, as the holidays approach, many dogs will be going on road trips. Depending on where you travel, allowing your dog to sit on your lap while driving may be illegal. Some states consider this a form of distracted driving and require pets to be in proper car restraints.
While you and your family may enjoy Fido moving around the cabin, showing their affection and excitement, this can be very dangerous. A sudden stop or accident with another vehicle can send them flying. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway safety, a driver should be at least 10 inches away from the center of an airbag to help prevent injury from the airbag itself. If your pet is on your lap, it’s likely you’ll both be injured.
Before you head out on holiday travel, consider these different options for restraining your dog, as well as additional safety tips.
- Use an adequate-sized crate or carrier.If you have a van or SUV a pet crate or carrier is a nice option. Your pet and the carrier can be loaded through the tailgate. In addition, the carrier will sit on a relatively flat surface and it can be secured. Make sure your carrier is the right size to allow your pet to stand, sit, turn around, and lie down.
- Consider other options.If a pet carrier won’t fit in your vehicle, consider these other options to restrain your pet. The restraint that will work best for you depends on the size of your dog.
- Bergan Auto Harness. This system fits dogs from 10 to 150 pounds.
- Kurgo Pet Travel Back Seat Barrier. This system closes the gap between the front seats and keeps your dog from walking or flying into the front seat or windshield. Another option is the Wander Cargo barrier which can be used in the back of an SUV.
- EzyDog CLICK Adjustable Car Restraint. This system allows your dog to sit anywhere there’s a seat belt buckle.
- Kurgo Pet Travel Canine Leash and Zip Combo.This system allows your pet to move around in the backseat.
- Pull out the shades.This may not be as much of an issue during the winter months, but if the sun is shining in on your pet, it may make them uncomfortable.
- If you welcomed a new dog into your family, consider taking it for a test drive. Never assume your new pet enjoys car rides. Watch for signs of anxiousness and car sickness.
- Allow plenty of travel time.If you have a long drive ahead, make sure you allow for pit stops along the way. The American Veterinary Association recommends a stop every two to three hours.
- Do your research.If your travel requires an overnight stay at a hotel, make sure you know ahead of time if they accept pets. You should never leave your pet alone in a car.
- Take plenty of water.Make sure you and your family, as well as your pet, stay hydrated. Avoid giving your pet tap water on the trip as this may upset its stomach.
Source:
http://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/airbags/qanda
http://www.petmd.com/dog/slideshows/care/top-ten-ways-to-restrain-and-travel-safely-with-pets
SOURCE: West Bend, Posted by Scott Stueber on Dec 15, 2015 11:00:00 AM
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