Dogs in particular love to ride in the car with their owners. If you’re planning to take a trip over the road with your dog, there are some safety tips you might not have considered. Your Buddy Steve’s Garage is here to make sure you have a safe and fun trip with your favorite doggo.
Pet-Proof the Car
If you’re traveling with your dog, you need to make sure that the car is prepped for your pooch. That means using a safety harness that connects to the seatbelt and that you’ve got a large crate or at least a dog barrier. This is all vital because your dog isn’t able to brace himself in your car and doesn’t need to be tossed around. If your dog is the type to get all affectionate while you’re driving, that’s a problem, too. Keeping your dog safely in one spot is going to be safer for everybody.
Make Sure You’re Prepared
You packed for yourself, but did you pack for your dog, too? You’re going to need all of the stuff your dog would need at home, like a food dish and food, water and a water dish, and a leash and collar. You may also want to make sure you’ve got vaccination records and your vet’s contact information, any medications your pet takes, and anything else that you might possibly need for your dog. It’s better to overpack than to be underprepared for your pooch.
Keep Heads and Tails Inside at All Times
Lots of folks love to open the window and let Fido hang his head out in the wind, but that’s dangerous. Dogs can escape through even a slightly opened window, depending on the dog’s size. Then there’s the risk of your dog’s head running into another solid object as you’re driving. That could be catastrophic, so it’s something you want to avoid at all costs.
Talk to Your Vet About Possible Problems
Let your dog’s vet know that you’re planning a road trip and that you’re taking your dog. There may be some specific advice that pertains to your dog’s health or personality that you might not have considered. Your vet can make sure you’re prepared for any need your dog might have while you’re on the road.
If you and your dog do run into car trouble while you’re out and about, Your Buddy Steve’s Garage in Croydon, PA, is there for you. Give us a call at 267-214-2970 so we can get you road tripping again.
