If you are a pet lover just like us, then most likely, these beloved companions will accompany you in your vehicle from time to time. Whether it is a short ride for a visit to the vet or a long road trip, safety for you and your pets while traveling in your vehicle should always be a priority.
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Pets can distract you while driving and regularly are the cause of accidents. In addition, pets can lose their lives if not properly secured in your vehicle. For the safety of your pet, you should follow these tips while they are in your vehicle:
Use Seatbelts or a Well-Ventilated Carrier
Using seatbelts for your pets is as important as for yourself. There are harnesses available that secure your pet utilizing the buckle of your vehicle’s seatbelts. Often, research is needed as these harnesses come in different shapes and sizes to fit different pets. Some of these allow only one position, like sitting, while others offer a variety of movements and positions like turning around and sleeping.
You can also secure your pet in a well-ventilated carrier as it provides safety and allows little movement. There are versions that also allow you to secure the carrier in place utilizing your vehicle’s car seats.
Always Use the Backseats
A big mistake most of us make is letting our pets into the front seats. This is a mistake because airbags in vehicles are made for humans, not pets. Airbags that deploy can result in serious injury to our pets. Keeping them in a carrier in the front seat is also not a good idea as airbags can even damage these carriers, thus harming your pet.
Therefore, it is advisable to always keep your pet in the backseat. Even in the backseat, you should always keep them restrained as accidents can still harm them.
Never Leave Your Pet Alone in the Vehicle
If you think leaving your pet unattended for only a moment in the vehicle will do no harm, think again, as the inside of vehicles can get hot very quickly, even in mild temperatures with windows rolled down, causing damage to your pet’s vital organs. Thus, you should never leave your pet on its own.
Prepare Your Pet for Long Trips
Before leaving for a long trip, it is wise to prepare your pet first by taking it on multiple short trips in your neighborhood for a few days to get them used to travel. Moreover, bring along your favorite toys or blanket to remain comfortable and busy during the ride.
Have Identification for the Pet
A lot of animals do not find traveling a pleasing experience so they may try to escape. Thus, you should always have identification on your pet, which makes identifying them and reuniting you with them much easier.
Microchips are the best way to track them; your vet can easily perform this simple microchipping process. Your pet should also always have an ID tag with their name and your contact details around their neck.
Conclusion
We hope you found these tips & tricks for pet safety helpful and that they keep you and your pets safe when traveling with them in your vehicle.
