The article has been updated successfully.Last Updated 13th of August, 2010
What are some car safety devices for dogs?
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Traveling with dogs can be fun (and oftentimes, necessary), but without the proper dog safety devices, it can be dangerous for both you and your pooch. Below are five common car safety items for dogs, but keep in mind several of them will work well for other pets, too.
Before you hit the road with your dog, make sure you have:
Common Car Safety Devices for Dogs
- Crates or sturdy carriers. These car safety devices won’t work for all dogs (especially big dogs, and especially if you don’t have a vehicle large enough to accommodate them), but securing a smaller dog in a crate or carrier is a great way to keep him relaxed and safe. Be sure to secure the crate so it can’t slide around. Many pet supply stores sell restraint strap systems specifically for crates and carriers.
- Seat belts. Take your time shopping for a dog seat belt; don’t just “eyeball” your dog’s size. Because seat belts are available in different sizes, you’ll want to measure your dog according to the seat belt manufacturer’s specifications to get the best fit.
- Pet travel seats. Travel seats work best for small dogs, so these might be an option for you if your pooch is a small breed and you’re not thrilled about crates, carriers, or seat belts. You can find travel seats designed to be opened or closed, and you can even find them with food and water trays.
- Auto barriers. These work well in large vehicles such as SUVs, though you can find models designed for regular cars. An auto barrier keeps your dog in the back seat – and away from your lap – but these car safety devices should be used as back up and not sole safety devices.
- Goggles. Dog goggles provide eye protection during any situation in which bugs or debris could fly into your dog’s eyes, such as during a convertible ride or while your dog’s head is close to an open window.
Additional Dog Safety Items to Remember
Keep in mind that pet safety isn’t just about making sure your pooch doesn’t fly through the windshield should you have to make a sudden stop.Before you hit the road with your dog, make sure you have:
- His favorite toys or a bone to keep him from getting bored.
- An ample supply of food and water, and containers designed for travel.
- A properly fitting leash and collar. Make sure the collar has an ID tag that includes not only your dog’s name, but also your name and current contact information.
- A first-aid kit. You can find pre-packaged kits made specifically for dogs. Too, if your dog takes any medications, this is a good place to pack them.
- Car seat covers. More about peace of mind than safety, these covers protect your seats in the event your dog becomes sick.
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