If you’re a new dog owner, you may be wondering how to best keep your furry friend as safe as possible at all times. This might include traveling in your car or other vehicles. Would it be a good idea to get a dog carrier? What about a car seat or seat belt specifically made for your pup? If you’re having these kinds of questions, you are not alone.
Many new pet owners are worried about keeping their puppies and other furry friends safe, and they might be looking into getting a dog carrier or other safety devices for their travel purposes. If you need help, allow me to break down a few things you might find helpful.
Get a Dog Carrier
If you’re considering getting a dog carrier for your pup, your head is in the right place. A dog carrier, especially one with hard sides and a way to effectively strap the carrier into your car, may be one of the best ways to keep your pup safe. This is because it allows you to keep your furry friend strapped into his or her seat, restraining your dog from moving around in a way that might be considered unsafe.
A dog carrier may also be helpful if you plan on traveling with your pup in other ways as well, as this is typically one of the safest ways to travel with a furry friend and follow transportation standards for many companies. This may be especially useful if you want to fly to another location with your puppy, whether they travel in alternate cargo or in the cabin by your side. Whether your pup is small enough to travel in the cabin or not, a dog carrier is going to be required by most airlines if you want your pooch to fly.
Find a Dog Car Seat
There are also car seats made especially for our furry friends, which you might also find useful in certain situations. If a dog carrier is too cumbersome for you to use in your car, like if your pet is particularly large, a car seat might be helpful for most of your road trips. Make sure your car seat can be strapped into your vehicle, as well as allow your dog to be sitting in a way that will not be harmful to them after long periods of time.
Some dogs may not be able to appreciate certain styles of car seats made for pets, especially if they are placed in a position that makes them feel uncomfortable. Some car seats do not work for certain dog body times, such as Italian greyhounds who are particularly slender in their builds. Because of this, some pups may be able to slide out of their seats, which is certainly not safe. As a result of these circumstances being possibilities, be sure to test your dog’s car seat effectiveness before heading out on your next trip.
Purchase a Dog Seat Belt
Some companies also manufacture seat belts made especially for our furry friends. If you’re running into issues with your dog carrier or car seat, you may want to consider a dog seat belt for your pup. This allows your dog to sit more comfortably and naturally than many dog car seats, and these are also easier to transfer between vehicles. These are very convenient and useful for many pet owners, allowing them to utilize the seat belt mechanisms built into many cars.
Many styles of dog seat belts also come with the option to connect to your dog’s collar or harness, making it extraordinarily difficult for your pup to get out of the car restraint and get into trouble. If you’re unsure of what option might be best for your furry friend, this choice is one of the most universally successful at keeping pups safe while you’re driving your car.
Additional Safety Tips
If you’re worried about keeping your furry friend safe and want to do more than just strap them in for a ride, you might be interested in reading up on a few additional safety tips.
Travel With a Trusted Friend or Family Member
If you’re worried about keeping your furry friend safe while you’re driving in the car, especially if your pup is known for being anxious, you may want to bring another human with you. This might allow you to keep an eye on your furry friend, take driving shifts during long road trips, and give you a little bit of general flexibility while you’re traveling.
Always Give Your Pup Access to Water
Especially if you’re going on a long road trip with your puppy, you’re going to want to make sure they have access to water as much as possible. If you’re traveling with a friend or family member, they may be able to hold a bowl up to your pup or keep the water from spilling or sliding around.
In the case you’re traveling alone, you may want to choose an option that allows your dog to drink at will. Alternatively, you might want to take a break every half hour or so and allow your dog to drink. This will allow your furry friend to stay hydrated and healthy on the journey ahead.
