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Travel Tips

Car safety travel tips for pets

Any pet owner will tell you their furry companion is part of the family, so it’s no surprise that pets are increasingly joining in on family holidays. If you’re travelling by car, though, it’s not as simple as loading your pet into the vehicle. Car safety is just as important to animals as it is to us humans. Here are some tips to ensure you have a safe and smooth car tip with your pet.

Familiarise them

If you’re planning a long car trip and your pet has never been in a car, take them on short rides before the getaway. This will familiarise them with a moving vehicles as well as the sounds of an engine. It will also let you see how your pet copes. While most animals are fine, some do suffer from anxiety or motion sickness. If that is the case, talk to your veterinarian.

Secure your pet

Just like us, animals need to be restrained in cars. Keep your pooch in the backseat and make sure they are secured with a harness that attaches to the seatbelt. Don’t restrain the collar, though, as it could injure your dog in the event of an accident. For cats, keep them in a well-ventilated carrier or crate secured to the seat.

No windows

While your pooch might love the feeling of whipping air, letting their face hang outside the window can be very dangerous. Flying road debris can be caught up in ears, eyes and mouth.

Don’t leave your pet alone

Never ever leave your pet alone in the car. The temperature on a hot or cold day can skyrocket or plummet dramatically.

Bring ID

Animals are excitable in unknown surroundings so make sure your dog or cat is wearing their ID and an extra tag with your contact information. No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen so make sure you are prepared. 

Keep hydrated

Bring along a fresh supply of water to keep your pet hydrated on long car trips.

No food

Don’t feed your pet during the car ride as it can upset their tummies, and you wouldn’t want any unpleasantness during a car trip! As a general rule, feed them a light meal around three hours before the car ride.

Entertain them

Bringing along their favourite toy or blanket will not only comfort them but keep them busy and distracted.

Image credits: Getty Images

Tags:
travel tips, pets, vehicles, dogs