A recent poll taken by the American Pet Products Manufacturers (APPMA) revealed that almost 50% of those surveyed regularly take their dog with them when they travel in the car. But the bad news is that almost all of them failed to safely buckle up their dogs to prevent the animal from being injured in case there was an accident.

It’s difficult to say why so many loving dog owners take such a nonchalant attitude towards safety when traveling with their canine companions. However, it’s never too late to change your habits. So along with ensuring that your dog stays in one piece in the event of a crash, there are additional safety tips that can help keep him alive and well to enjoy the ride.

Buckle Up Your Dog Just Like You Do

Every dog enjoys being able to run loose inside of a moving vehicle, but it’s not a smart choice for you to allow this to happen. Should an accident occur he could be thrown through the windshield and cut up into a million pieces. And any dog that is naturally over-excited could jump on your lap and make you lose control of the steering wheel.

The easiest solution to this problem is to purchase a dog seat belt. These products are very comfortable for your pet and allow the animal to lie down, sit, and change positions of necessary. And should an accident occur, the dog seat belt will prevent him from being injured. They also come in various styles and sizes to fit any breed.

If you have to wait for your dog seat belt to be delivered, and you would like an alternative option, you can also buckle up your dog in the back seat by using the middle seat belt. Simply fasten it up and loop your dog’s leash through it. Just be sure he is comfortable enough and that the leash is attached to a harness and not a collar, as this could choke him.

Keep Your Dog’s Head Inside

Living near a dog park, I see at least a dozen people drive by with their dog’s head excitedly poking out of the window, not to mention dogs being allowed to walk around the bed of a moving truck. While this may seem suitable, it is also quite dangerous.

Just because your dog loves having the wind in his face that does not mean that it is responsible or safe for you to permit this. Flying debris, dust, and rocks have been known to blind dogs and cause severe trauma to the skull. Infections often occur as well. And of course the worst case scenario is that your dog could jump out, getting smashed by a vehicle behind you in traffic.

All you have to do is keep your pet inside of the vehicle at all times while moving. If the temperature is hot, simply turn the air conditioning on. You may also crack the windows a bit to help with more airflow, but only several inches. A window shade is another good idea to help keep your dog cool.

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Originally posted 2009-02-25 02:02:50.

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