Why we are passionate about Pet Travel Safety

I have grown up with pets the majority of my life. Even though I have had pets for most of my life there is still so much to learn. One of the biggest lesson I learned had to do with Pet Car Safety. I never had an issue travelling with my dogs before. My dogs were all well behaved and travelled well in the car. We even travelled by car cross country to move.

Early one morning I loaded the car with my Miniature Schnauzer Louis and my fairly new Yorkie Puppy Hugo - we were headed to the beach to meet some friends. It was a beautiful sunny, warm morning. I had the windows rolled down and the dogs were sharing the passenger seat.

Hugo the pup refused to sit still and preferred to sit on my lap as I was driving ( a very dangerous thing for so many reasons). Pulled up to a redlight adjacent to the local coffee shop where another dog was waiting patiently for his/her owner and all of a sudden out of nowhere Hugo decided to jump out the window.

Luckily it was early in the morning and there not many cars on the road. My heart jumped - Hugo jumped right out of my lap - out the fully rolled down window. I reacted quickly and put the car in park, open the driver's door and jumped out quickly to retrieve Hugo.

This situation could have been worse and gone wrong in so many ways. Thankfully it didn't. I learned a huge lesson that morning.

Pet car safety is an important consideration for anyone who travels with their pets in a vehicle. Ensuring the safety of your pet while driving can prevent injuries to both your furry friend and other passengers.

I learned the important lesson of restraining my pets when I am driving. Here are some key reasons why pet restraint is crucial:

1. Safety for the Pet: An unrestrained pet in a moving vehicle can be a significant distraction for the driver. It can also become a hazard in the event of sudden stops or accidents. In a collision, an unrestrained pet can be thrown around the vehicle, leading to severe injuries or even death.

2. Safety for Humans: An unrestrained pet can turn into a projectile during a crash, potentially causing harm to human occupants. In the event of a sudden stop or collision, the pet could be propelled forward with substantial force, causing injury to both the pet and the passengers. Airbags deploying in a collision can also be dangerous for unrestrained pets.

3. Driver Distraction: An unrestrained pet can easily distract the driver by climbing onto the driver's lap, obstructing the view, or trying to move around the car. Distractions like these can lead to accidents or unsafe driving conditions.

4. Legal Considerations: Many places have laws or regulations that require pets to be properly restrained while in a moving vehicle. Failing to comply with these laws could result in fines or penalties.

5. Emergency Situations: In case of emergencies or sudden stops, a restrained pet is less likely to escape from the vehicle, preventing them from getting lost or injured in a high-stress situation.

6. Preventing Escapes: An excited or frightened pet may attempt to jump out of an open window or an open door, putting themselves in danger. A restraint prevents such risky behaviors.

Like I said Hugo jumping out of the car window could have gone so wrong in so many ways!

There are several types of pet restraints available for use in cars:

1. Seat Belts and Harnesses: Specialized pet seat belts or harnesses are designed to attach to the car's existing seat belt system. These harnesses help keep the pet secure and in place during travel.

2. Crates and Carriers: A sturdy and appropriately sized crate or carrier can confine the pet safely during travel. Make sure the crate is secured and won't move around in the event of sudden stops.

3. Pet Barriers: If you have a larger vehicle like an SUV, a pet barrier can be installed to create a designated area for the pet in the back of the vehicle.

4. Booster Seats and Pet Hammocks: These are designed for smaller pets and help elevate them to a height where they can see out the window while being safely secured.

Choosing the right restraint for your pet's size and behavior is crucial. It's also essential to acclimate your pet to the restraint gradually, making it a positive and comfortable experience for them.

Pet restraint in cars is a responsible and caring practice that helps ensure the safety and well-being of both your pet and everyone else in the vehicle.