Whether you’re transporting your pet to a nearby dog park or preparing for a long road trip across the state, safety should always be a priority. Read on to learn some helpful tips to ensure safe driving with your furry friends.
Safe Driving Tips:
Avoid Allowing your Dog to put its Head out the Window
Dogs love sticking their head out of the car window while driving, but this can be potentially quite dangerous. Remember, debris kicked up from the road could potentially hit your dog in sensitive areas like the eyes or nose, not to mention the hazards presented by obstructions along the side of the road such as mailboxes, road signs, trees, or other vehicles.
Purchase a Crate to Ensure Safe Driving with your Pet
Pets can present a dangerous distraction to drivers, and in the event of an accident, an unrestrained pet could become injured or potentially collide with other passengers in the vehicle. You can prevent this from happening by purchasing a comfortable and spacious crate or carrier to keep your pet secure for the duration of the trip. Buying a seat belt harness made specifically for dogs is another effective solution.
Never Leave Pets in a Vehicle Unattended, Even for a Few Minutes
As most pet owners know, leaving a pet alone in a vehicle for any amount of time is never a good idea, especially during warmer months. If there is no other option, park the car in an area protected from the sun and leave the engine running with the AC on so your dog won’t get overheated. If you’re making a pit stop with another human passenger, have him or her take your pet for a brief walk around the area until it’s time to hit the road again.
Acclimate your Pet to Being in a Vehicle before Taking a Long Road Trip
Not all animals are completely comfortable with riding in a vehicle and it may take time for your pet to get used to the unusual sensation of being in motion while seemingly remaining stationary inside the car. Bring your pet with you on short drives to a nearby convenience store or around the block until they no longer experience fear or anxiety.
Make Sure Your Pet’s Identification Tags are Up-to-Date
Dogs can be very curious creatures and it’s not uncommon for them to wander off or get lost when in unfamiliar surroundings. This is why it’s so important to ensure your pet’s identification tags or microchip implants reflect your current contact information, including phone number and address.
Find Your Next Vehicle at Valley Automall
Are you looking for a better vehicle for accommodating your beloved pets? At Valley Automall, we maintain a vast inventory of today’s most popular models. Our friendly associates will help you find the perfect car to meet your needs and we may even be able to recommend certain options that are ideal for your four-legged companion. Visit Valley Automall to explore our wide selection of quality vehicles today.