Dog Safety in Cars

Significance

• According to Bark-Buckle UP, a collision involving a car traveling at 30 mph can result in a 60-pound dog's crashing into the windshield, a seat or a passenger with an impact of 2,700 pounds. This can result in severe injury and even death for the dog and other passengers. Seat belts for humans are an important safety measure to prevent injury. Dogs also should be properly secured in the vehicle.

  Auto manufacturers are slowly beginning to offer dog-friendly features on some models. Volvo offers an optional factory-installed cage on certain models, and Subaru has a gate that prevents dogs from getting into the main passenger area. Sport utility vehicles are popular among owners of larger dogs, as the dogs' crates can fit into the cargo area.

  The Travel Industry Association reported in a 2001 survey that more than 29 million U.S. adults had traveled more than 50 miles one way with their pets from 1998 to 2000. The majority of that travel was by automobiles and trucks.

Restraints

• Dogs should never be allowed to wander around loose in a car. Not only can they cause an accident, they can be injured if air bags are deployed. There are many doggy seat belts on the market that can secure your pet. They can be found at pet specialty stores and online. Some may require a special collar or harness.

  Another safe option is a crate or pet carrier. Smaller crates can be secured on the seat, while larger dogs can ride in a crate in the back of an SUV or station wagon. Always be sure that seat belt restraints are used properly. Failure to do so can result in injury or death.

Doors and Windows

• Lock the window button to be sure dogs cannot accidentally roll down automatic windows. Avoid riding with the windows down; instead, use air conditioning or open just a crack for air circulation. Don't let your dog ride with his head hanging out the window. Road debris or grit can blow into his eyes and injure them.

  When getting in and out of the car, watch the dog to be sure he does not bolt out the open door. Keep the dog on a leash when loading and unloading to eliminate the escape risk. Avoid leaving the car running when you get out, especially if the dog is loose inside. Many dogs have locked their owners out by stepping on door lock buttons.

Plan Ahead

• Bring a dish and fresh water, and food if needed, for longer car rides. Allow the dog a chance to relieve himself before riding in the car. On long trips, frequent stops will let your dog run and exercise (on a leash) and take a potty break. You may need to feed your dog, but avoid heavy feeding so he does not become car-sick. Small, frequent meals or snacks are better.

  Bring any medications, supplies such as potty pads, food, toys and a blanket or his bed if traveling overnight. Pack a bag just for your dog. If traveling to an unfamiliar area, get the name of a veterinarian or after-hours pet emergency clinic.

  Be sure the dog's collar has your name and phone number on it, as well as a current rabies tag. Pack an extra leash. It's better to be prepared than to have to find a store that carries what you need. In high-tourism areas, you would probably end up paying a lot more than you would at home.

Warning

• Never let your dog ride loose in the open bed of a truck. If your dog must ride in a truck, she should be in a sturdy carrier that is secured inside the truck bed. Remember that she will still be exposed to the heat, sun, and flying debris and grit.

  Never leave your dog unattended in a car, even with the windows cracked on a cooler day. Your dog can become too hot or suffer injury, or be stolen. If you must leave her, take her leash off to avoid accidental strangulation.