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Saturday, December 5, 2009

Safe Car Travel For Pets - 7 Tips




 By Tim Lambert

Don't Let Them Put Their Head Out The Window: Even though it looks harmless, it just isn't safe to let your pet stick their head out the window while you are driving. This leaves your pet vulnerable to anything that might be flying along in the road, debris, bugs, even things from the cars in front of you. You should also never put your pet in the back of a pickup truck. It is so dangerous (especially on long trips) that the majority of states actually have laws against this type of animal transport!

Stop Frequently: You should take frequent stops to let your pet walk around for a few minutes and use the bathroom. Most rest stops and travel assistance areas will have specific areas for you to take your pet. Always pickup after your pet and try to stay in the designated "pet zone" when walking your pet. Always keep your pet on a lease and make sure that they have proper identification on their collar whenever they are outside of the car.

Keep Them Hydrated: During your rest stops make sure to provide your pet with some fresh water so that they can re-hydrate themselves. Occasionally, traveling in a car can upset your pet's stomach and keeping them hydrated will work to help prevent any 'accidents.' Another trick is to bring ice cubes for your pet as it's easier than having to bring large amounts of water (plus by the time you're done with the trip it IS just water).

Dont Feed Them Extra: You should keep the snacks to a minimum on any long road trip. Fast-food and any other traveler-friendly eateries should not be seen as food sources for your pet. That means no feeding them leftovers as well! That type of food will typically result in poor bowel movement or worse, end up with a sick pet.

No Leaving Your Pet Alone In The Car: Don't ever leave your car with your pets still inside. On your typical warm days, the temperature in your car could rise up to 120 degrees in minutes, even if you have the windows open for them.

Restrain Your Pets: While in your car, keep your pets restrained. Properly using a pet safety-harness or travel kennel are the fastest ways to keep your pet safe. Either method will keep your pet safe from harm as well as keep them from distracting the driver. A pet safety harness is similar to a regular seatbelt, just made to restrain your four legged friend. It's a safe bet to let your pet try on any pet harness before any road-trip, this way they will also get use to the way it feels. Make sure any dog kennels that you use are well ventilated, as air circulation might be poorer in the back. If you have a large pet, look into using a pet barrier in your car. These are best used with large cars and SUVs. One of the most important travel tips to remember is that they should not be traveling in the passenger seat, no matter how cute they might look.

Comfortable and Secure: The number one thing to focus on should be your pets comfort. If your pet is comfortable then the ride will go smoothly. Their comfort is as important as your own. Imagine having to drive on a long-trip sitting in a seat that hurts or is uncomfortable. It'd make for a pretty un-fun trip! Same goes for your pet. An easy trick to put your pet at ease is to bring along their favorite toy or blanket.

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