Is Your Dog Safe In Your Car?

Dogs and Car Travel

Keeping pets safe is a priority at UniqueDogHouses.net, so read the next article for safety tips.

Unless you are lucky enough to live out in the countryside with lots of private grounds you will have to travel to get your dog to a space open enough to give it a good run. Of course if you are in walking distance of a dog friendly park you can simply pop on a lead and go, but for many dog owners living in a busy town centre or city, a daily car journey is a necessity.

It is important that your dog is safe and comfortable during any length of car journey. This is a list of car accessories for dogs

Dog Safety

Dog travel cages or cages specially adapted for cars not only makes your car journey safer for you but also for your dog, it also helps the dog feel more secure. Imagine how frightening it might be to your dog looking out the windows of a moving car!

It could be there is no room for a travel cage or that maybe your dog is taken out in more than one car, in which case a dog harness with seat belt adaptor is a good alternative. This is a highly recommended multi purpose accessory for your dog!

Word of warning: For those who think these are extreme, imagine what would happen if you were to have a car accident. Your frightened dog if unsecured will instinctively want to get out of the car and possibly run right onto a busy road.

Dog Comfort

A car boot isn't designed to be comfortable so if your pet has to travel in the boot dog beds are much nicer to sleep on.

It is also a good idea to keep a dog blanket in your car especially if you are planning a long journey in the colder months. (Keep a blanket for yourself too in case of break downs!)

Food and Water

Your dog will get hungry and thirsty during a long car journey and will certainly need to quench his or her thirst after a long run. It is essental to keep water handy and for the bowl, consider disposable or re-usable material travel bowls that fold up neatly instead of the standard bowls that are bulky and take up more space.

Handy hint: The car engine might need water too! Keep a supply of water in your car for both dog and car engine especially during the hotter months. Large plastic milk or juice bottles are ideal for this. If you are out in the country you can re-fill at a fresh water river or stream.

Shade from the sun

Drivers and human passengers have visors to protect them from the glare of the sun so don't forget your dog and fit a car window shade where appropriate.

Tip: If you also have children you may already have car window shades that are just as suitable for your pet!

Dog Ramps

A dog car ramp can be a godsend! You can lift smaller dogs into the car but what if you have had a particularly muddy run or if you have an older heavier dog that can't jump up? A number of dog ramps for cars are available that fold away neatly when not in use.

Pet First Aid

As exciting as running in the countryside can be for your dog, there can also hazards including barbed wire, broken glass and sharp sticks. The first aid you apply to your dog if it gets a nasty cut will be vital in its recovery and if you are out in the middle of nowhere it could be a while before you can get your dog to a vet. Pet travel first aid kits often come complete with gauzes, wipes and bandages and fit in most glove compartments.

For more dog and pet products please visit swellpets.co.uk

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