Travelling with your dog will not only give you funny vibes about taking a holiday, but you will also have someone to play with and spin around on the beach. Most individuals take their dogs in a car to a particular spot, whether a leisurely ride to the vet or a visit to the beach. Though cars can be unsafe or challenging for your pets, they can feel itchy, edgy, hot, or even sick if necessary precautions and sense are not applied.
You can enjoy and satisfy your car trip with your four-legged friend with meticulous planning and the right equipment selection. Keep in mind that motorists require dogs to be reserved during your journey. We have described a couple of dos and don’ts while taking your pet on the journey.
What Are the Instructions for Dogs in Cars?
According to the Highway code, pets must be controlled appropriately when travelling inside the car. The dog will not engage people to you as the driver, and it will not injure you or the other passengers inside the car if sudden breaks happen.
A puppy can be restrained using a seat belt, dog cage, pet carrier, or boot gate. It is driver’s duty to provide safety during the journey. You can lose your car insurance if you get in an accident and do not appropriately restrain your dog.
Carry Your Dog in Car While Driving – Dos
Restrain Your Dog
To ensure your dog's safety, you must have an excellent crate or guard. There is a huge variety of these things on the market so that you can get expert help from Super Pet Travel for your vet.
Use Window Shades
Window shades are planned for newborns or youngsters; your pet can use them. They can help control the car's temperature and avoid direct sunlight.
Help Your Dog Relax
There is nothing inferior than going on a ride with a nervous puppy. Do everything possible to keep your doggy relaxed and happy in your car. No matter the length of the journey, you can put their favourite toy or blanket to keep them entertained.
Always Carry Water
Make your journey convenient with your dog by carrying plenty of water. You also need water in hot weather, as your dog can become dehydrated on long journeys when the temperature inside the car can quickly rise.
Drive to Fun Places
Start with small journeys and prefer to go places where your dog likes to go. If your puppy only travels to visit the vet, it can cause distress instead of entertainment.
Be Mindful of Motion Sickness
If your pet has motion sickness, you should go to your vet and get detailed prescriptions and medications.
Take Breaks on Long Rides
If you are going on a long journey, then you need to take breaks so your dog can exercise and drink while you are doing your business. Your pet will appreciate stretching its legs, relishing a drink, and going to the toilet.
Take Your Dog to Car Travel – Don’ts
Avoid Opening Windows
It is best to avoid opening windows, even though it looks cute. However, it can cause severe accidents. Your pet may try to go out and suffer from serious injuries. So, prevent your dog from hanging out of the window.
Don’t Forget to Switch Off Airbags
If you are accompanying your pet in the front seat, you do not need to pull forward your seat. Take the seat back as easily as possible and switch airbags, as this can cause more damage than good in case of any unforeseen situation.
Open Windows Entirely
It is crucial to keep your dog cool during car travels, and this can be accomplished by opening windows. Air conditioning through the window ensures your pet is appropriately ventilated. Do not open them entirely; your dog will try to jump out of the car.
Take Dogs Anywhere Without ID tags or Microchips
It is prohibited to take your dog outside without microchips. You must insert these chips when your pet is eight weeks old and have the owner’s identity on the cooler.
Feed Your Pet Before Journey
You do not need to feed your pet less than 2 hours before the trip because this can cause distress to the dog’s tummy and motion sickness.
Leave Dog Alone in Your Vehicle
It is risky to leave your four-legged friend alone in your car during warm days. They can overheat quickly, causing heat exhaustion.
Forget to Take Food
Taking your pet food with you is necessary to go a long journey. It can help in emergencies like heavy traffic or car breakdowns.