Pet Care Tips and Articles

Car Safety For Your Dog

Car safety for your dog is up to you. Keep your best friend safe when traveling. With a little bit of planning before you head out, you and your dog can enjoy a safe and pleasant trip! Here are some things to keep in mind before you head out for a ride in the car.

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  • A dog's head hanging out the car window, tongue flapping in the breeze, ears pinned back, is a common sight, especially in the summer time. Granted, it may feel good to your dog to have the wind in her face, but there are some potential dangers to letting your dog do this. The most common mishap from heads hanging out the window is your dog getting foreign objects lodged in the eyes, nose and/or ears. This sometimes results, not only in discomfort for your dog, but a hefty vet bill to remove the foreign objects. Dogs can also get hit with flying rocks from other vehicles or hit with tree branches or even road signs.

  • Restrain your dog in the car. You never know when you will have to stop quickly and this can send your dog flying around the car like a projectile. This can be hazardous to you and the dog. Dog seat belts work well. Also crating your dog in the car. Make sure the crate is secure so it doesn't become a projectile with the dog inside.

  • Riding in the back of a pick up truck is very dangerous. Enough dogs have been killed this way that in some cities it is illegal to transport your dog unsecured in the back of an open pickup truck. If you must transport your dog this way, have your dog in a kennel and have the kennel secured. Also, people don't realize how hot the metal bottom of the truck bed can get when in direct sun and it can actually burn your dog's paws.

  • Car sickness. Excessive drooling may indicate car sickness leading to vomiting. Make sure your dog has adequate ventilation. Start out with short trips in the car to get your dog used to it. If necessary, seek anti-nausea remedies from your vet. Sometimes dogs are just nervous about traveling in the car. This is where many short trips with lots of rewards when you get back will help your dog associate the car with good things.

  • Know where you dog is when you open the car door. Some dogs will bolt out of the door before you can grab them. If your dog is a door dasher, leash him before opening your car door.

Please make car safety a priority when traveling with your dog.

Article courtesy of Dog Hiking Canada