If you’re a pet parent, at some point, either by necessity or desire, you’ll be traveling with your pet in a car. If you plan to bring your pets along for the ride, it is important to note that car travel can be incredibly stressful for your pets, not to mention stressful for human companions. When you’re traveling with your pet, always make sure to drive defensively and employ your normal driving safety strategies. Yet, there are some additional precautions you can take to keep your pet safe. Here are a few pet car safety tips:
- Make sure your pet has a microchip or is wearing a collar with your contact information. According to the ASPCA, regardless of where you’re going, you should make sure that your pet is carrying proper identification. In the event of a car accident or other incident that results in your pet being lost, these identification tools can facilitate a reunion and help you find your furry friend.
- Use a well-ventilated container for car travel. The container should be large enough that your pet can stand, sit, turn around, and comfortably lie down. It is safest if you can secure the crate to keep it steady as you travel. Whatever you do, pets should never be allowed to stick their heads out of windows or ride in the front seat.
- Bring food and water. If you’re traveling long distances, many pets won’t eat due to stress. Even so, you should always provide your pet with food and water.
- Don’t leave your pet in a parked car. Many pets die each year because they are left in parked vehicles. Heat can build up to deadly levels on a hot summer day, especially if the windows are up. Even on cold days, leaving your pet in a car can be a terrible mistake. After the heater is turned off, the car can become freezing cold, leading to death.
- If you plan to travel quite a bit with your pet, or plan to bring your pet to the park in your car, consider buying a product designed to make your car safer for pet travel. Consumer Reports lists a range of products designed for different vehicles, and sized to ensure your pet’s optimal safety. Some companies even design restraints to protect your pet in the event of an accident. A 60-pound dog traveling at speeds as low as 35 miles per hour can become a 2,700 pound hazard in an accident.
With just a few simple preventative measures pet owners can do quite a bit to keep their pets safe while riding in a car. Unfortunately, every year, countless accidents affect Minneapolis citizens and their loved ones. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the personal injury lawyers at the Law Office of Martin T. Montilino may be able to assist you in collecting money for your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages.