Driving with Doggie: Safety Advice

Some safety measures are essential if you want to fully enjoy a car ride with your dog. Whether taking your dog to the neighbourhood dog park or along on a road trip, it is important to ensure you and your furry friend are well protected and comfortable.

Before leaving
Although many dogs enjoy riding in a car, some dogs will get sick even on a short trip. Excessive drooling, nausea and vomiting are unpleasant for the dog and can be distracting for the driver. To minimize car sickness discomfort, you should get your dog used to driving in a car when he is still a puppy. Start with small trips ending with an activity your dog will enjoy, such as running in the park, for example. This will help your dog make a positive association with riding in the car. Whatever the distance you have to travel, do not feed your dog within 2 to 3 hours of a car trip and don’t forget to let him eliminate before getting in the car. If your dog still feels queasy when driving in a car, ask your vet to suggest appropriate medication.

While driving
To ensure the safety of both you and your dog, it is essential to place your dog in the backseat and more importantly, to not let him roam around the vehicle. An excited dog jumping from the backseat to the front seat and back again is a major source of distraction for the driver and can cause an accident. Your dog should be restrained in a crate or a pet carrier fastened to the seat, or in a harness attached to the safety belt. Booster seats are also available for small dogs so they can look outside.

If you will be on a long trip, remember to stop every two hours to let your dog stretch his legs and take the opportunity to give him some water because dehydration is a major hazard for dogs traveling in a car. Then don’t forget to allow him to relieve himself.

For more comfort
Pet stores abound with products that are designed to make traveling with your dog easier. From car sunshades to quilted seat covers, through travel bowls and first-aid kits for pets, you and your dog can travel safely and in maximum comfort. Consider installing a washable backseat cover: it’ll help keep dog hair off the seats and you’ll be able to remove if your dog makes a mess.