Car Safety for Your Pets

Pet Safety in the Car 

For the majority of pet parents, taking trips without them doesn’t seem right, as they are more than just pets – they are part of the family. With that being said, taking trips with them can be stressful if you aren’t properly prepared. Take a look at these travel safety tips for your four-legged family members to ensure that they are comfortable and most of all safe during your trip.  

It’s always a great idea to have your pet microchipped and wear a collar with an identification tag attached. This tag should have your name and contact information on it. You could also include a ‘travel tag’ with your cell phone and destination contact information on it. There is no such thing as too many ways to contact you if you lose a pet.  

When planning a road trip with your pet, it is a great idea to take a few short drives prior to your actual trip to be sure everyone is comfortable while driving, especially your pet! Start with short drives and increase the distance each time. This will ensure your four-legged friend is used to their travel situation when the time comes to head out on your full-length journey.  

The most ideal way for your pet to travel is in a crate. Be sure the crate is well-ventilated and is large enough from your pet to stand up, sit and lie down, and turn around in. Be sure the crate is secure so it does not slide or shift during your trip. If not using a crate, don’t allow your pet to wander around the vehicle or hang outside of the window. Always keep him/her in the backseat in a harness attached to a seat buckle. The front seat is unsafe for a pet, just as it’s unsafe for a child. Also, always turn off power windows and engage child safety locks so they can’t accidentally roll windows up or down or open the door.  

Just like traveling with children, you want to be prepared. It is wise to assemble a pet travel kit. Things that should be in this kit are food, water, a bowl, leash, pooper scooper, plastic bags, medications (if needed), and any necessary travel documents. Some states require proof of rabies vaccination, to cross state lines. If traveling with a cat, be sure they have a small litter box that can be easily cleaned to avoid bigger messes. A few other things that you might want to bring along include treats, a favorite toy, and a favorite blanket. These things will create a sense of ‘home’ for your pet and likely make them feel more comfortable while on the move.  

No matter the length of your trip, please never leave your pet unattended in a hot vehicle. Even with windows open slightly, the inside of your vehicle becomes an oven in no time which can easily cause heat stroke. In freezing temperatures, a vehicle holds cold air in like a refrigerator and can cause your pet to freeze to death if left alone too long. You also would never want to put your pet in a situation where they could be stolen. The last thing you would want to happen on a fun trip, is for something bad to happen to your beloved pet.  

Here at Dave Arbogast we love our pets dearly and we know the majority of our customers’ have pets, too. This is why we are sharing this very important pet travel safety information on National Love Your Pet Day!