7 Safety Tips

 

You have a lucky dog! If you’re considering a Dog Seatbelt, then you’re already well aware of the dangers of traveling with your dog loose in your car.

From avoiding driver distraction to the harm and pain a simple hard stop can cause any size dog (and you, if your dog is thrown into you), using Dog Seatbelt for your dog is a wise idea. After all, you wouldn’t dream of traveling with a child unsecured, right?

      

7 Safety Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe While Traveling by Car

  1. When traveling by car, buckle up the pooch! A seatbelt restraint system, like Doggie Seatbelt for small dogs and Roadie & Bergan for larger dogs, will help protect your dog from being thrown against the inside of the car in the event of a fast stop or unexpected accident. Your dog should sit comfortably and not be able to stand up.
  2. Check your canine seatbelt system for quality. Be sure your buckling parts are metal, not plastic, and the belt is sewn, not glued. Also check the package for strength testing. A small dog needs at least 350 pounds of seatbelt strength to be safe while traveling at freeway speeds. Doggie Seatbelt is tested at 450 pounds of strength by an independent third party testing service.
  3. Be consistent. Use your Dog Seatbelt every time you travel, even short trips, and even if your dog resists at first. Your little one will get used to it over time and feel more secure. It helps to install Dog Seatbelt in each car your dog travels in -- including your pet-sitter’s.
  4. Overcome resistance. If your dog is not happy about being strapped in, or is especially hyper like a miniature pincer or terrier, don’t worry. It takes only 3-5 trips before your dog will relax. For especially anxious dogs, consider using RescueⓇ Remedy Pet, a natural stress reliever, before buckling up your dog the first couple drives while secured.
  5. Make your dog comfortable. This may go without saying, but be aware of seatbelt buckles that your dog might be forced to lean on. A cozy sweatshirt that smells like home will soften any bulky plastic and might also be a calming presence.
  6. Use the backseat only! The safest place for your dog is also the safest place for a baby: backseat, center. If you don’t have a backseat or your dog can’t sit in the center, be aware of where your airbags are located in the car. An airbag deploys with powerful force, and you want to be sure your dog is out of range. 
  7. For small dogs, use a harness, not a collar, everywhere you go. Half of you already have this covered. A collar can damage the delicate neck bones of a small dog -- a harness is a safer option. We recommend Puppia & Gooby. Doggie Seatbelt is designed to clip to the harness your dog already loves.

Do you have more practical safety tips about traveling by car with your dog? We want to know! Email us at info@zerimax.com or share with us on Facebook.