Pet car travel safety can be both exciting and stressful – for you and your pet. Many pets are naturally curious animals, and they will likely enjoy the trip as much as you will. Safety is, of course, of paramount importance when traveling with your pet. Ensure you have taken all necessary precautions to keep your pet from becoming lost or injured while you are traveling.
Most pets require some form of carrier when they travel. This is often one of the most important aspects of pet car travel safety. The size and type will depend on your species of pet. Obviously, traveling with your pet kitten is much different than traveling with your pet Great Dane. Your pet carrier needs to be large enough to allow your companion animal room to move.
Before you embark on your travels, it is very useful to get your pet accustomed to her carrier. When introducing your pet to her carrier, allow her plenty of time to explore it and become acclimated on her own. Do not rush her into the unfamiliar carrier! Instead, leave the door open and allow her to hop in and out at will. Be sure the carrier is large enough to comfortably fit your pet, and make appropriate plans to allow her out of the carrier for scheduled "breaks." If you will be taking your pet on a long trip and he is not used to traveling, start by making short trips around town. Get him used to not only being in the carrier, but having the carrier loaded into a moving vehicle.
The absolute most important rule of pet car travel safety is never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. Even if you think it will only be a short stop, bring the pet out of the car in her carrier or on a leash. Another important aspect of pet car travel safety is that the carrier should always be secured in the back seat if your car has front seat air bags. As with small children, the force of an inflating airbag can harm or kill your pet. The safest place for traveling with your pet in the car is in the middle of the backseat, securely tethered. Never hang swinging toys from the top of the carrier, since they could harm your pet during travel.
Traveling with your pet can be entertaining and enlightening for both of you. And, as with any shared experience, it is a great opportunity for bonding with your pet. Practicing good pet car travel safety ensures you both arrive at your destination ready for your next adventure. Be sure to plan well and prepare early for traveling with your pet. The planning will pay off when you enjoy a relaxing trip together.
