Safety Tips when travelling with your dog!
Safety tips when travelling in the car
If a family driving trip is on your agenda this summer, it’s important to consider how to keep yourself and your dog safe both when travelling in general and in the car.
According to a study carried out by Volvo in the USA in 2019, drivers are more 2.6 times more likely to become distracted from driving by an unrestrained dog than a restrained dog in the car. The risk that this poses to both yourself, your dog and third parties is serious.
Appropriate harnesses and restraints
Not only do harnesses and restraints protect your pup in the event of an accident, but they also prevent him/her from becoming a distraction or potentially the cause of an accident whilst you’re driving.
The UK Highway code states that ‘When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars’ (Rule 57). Failure to ensure the above can result in an on-the-spot fine of up to £5000.
There are many options for keeping your dog safely restrained in a car, dependent on its size, temperament, and your preference. You can fit a crate into the boot, invest in a boot guard, use seatbelts/harnesses designed for dogs, or use pet carriers for smaller dogs. Whatever method you choose, ensure that it is capable of restraining your dog in a safe and effective manner. They should not be able to freely roam around the vehicle.
If you’re travelling abroad, it is imperative that you check the local laws with regards to what is expected of you when travelling in a vehicle with a dog.
Planning is essential
Especially when it comes to longer journeys, a good plan is well worth spending time on. Consider where you might be able to stop on your route for a toilet break or leg stretch, and time meals well to ensure that your dog doesn’t become travel sick or nauseous.
Consider calming aids
For dogs that are susceptible to stress and anxiety, you may wish to consider an additional calming aid to make the journey more bearable for both you and your four-legged friend. You can stock up on our hemp treats, for temporary relief of anxiety and stress, or explore natural, topical products such as sprays and ointments, that are proven to have calming and relaxing effects on dogs.
Keep an eye on the temperature
Ensure the internal temperature of the car is appropriate to keep your dog cool and safe. This can include the use of air conditioning, or the opening of a window. Please remember to be mindful of your dog’s safety when opening windows.
Never, ever leave your dog unattended in a car in warmer temperatures. Cars can become as hot as ovens in an incredibly quick time, causing dehydration and risking the development of potentially fatal heat stroke. Even parked in the shade, a dog should never be left in a car that is at risk of becoming hot quickly.
Going on a road trip this summer? We’d love to see your pups safely enjoying their travels. Share your family holidays with us on our social channels! @NutrimentRaw
