Safest Ways to Travel with Pets in a Vehicle
Bringing your pet along for a car ride can be enjoyable, but without the right precautions, it can also be dangerous. Ensuring pet safety in vehicles is essential not only for their well-being but also for the safety of all passengers. Here's what every pet owner should know about traveling safely with pets.
Why Restraint Matters
Pets riding unrestrained in vehicles can be seriously injured or cause harm in the event of an accident. A 60-pound dog, for example, can become a 2,700-pound projectile in a crash at just 35 mph. Such force is potentially fatal to the pet and others in the car.
- Unrestrained pets increase the risk of distraction for drivers.
- They can interfere with car controls or block a driver's view.
- In an accident, loose pets may flee the scene, become injured, or hinder emergency response.
Preferred Restraint Methods
To prevent injury and distractions, always secure pets using one of the following crash-tested safety options:
- Crash-Tested Harnesses: Designed to integrate with seat belts to keep the pet securely seated and prevent projectiles.
- Certified Crates: Hard-sided crates bolted to the car frame or crash-tested by organizations like the Center for Pet Safety (CPS).
- Proper Carriers: For small pets, use carriers that allow the animal to stand, turn, and lie down but limit excessive movement.
Ensure all restraint systems fit properly. A harness should allow about two fingers of space, and crates should minimize movement while still providing comfort.
Backseat is Best
Restrain pets in the backseat, not the front, to avoid airbag injuries. Airbags deploy with significant force and can be fatal to pets seated in front. If front travel is unavoidable, deactivate the passenger airbag if possible and use a certified safety device.
Don’t Leave Pets Unattended
- Hot Weather: Temperatures inside a car can rise 20°F in just 10 minutes, putting pets at risk of heatstroke or death.
- Cold Weather: Cars offer little insulation, and pets can suffer hypothermia, especially those who are young, old, or ill.
- Window Cracks Don’t Help: Slightly open windows do not effectively regulate temperature or ensure airflow.
Never leave a pet alone in a vehicle. It’s dangerous and often illegal.
Pickup Truck Risks
Allowing dogs to ride in the bed of a pickup truck is hazardous. They risk being thrown out, jumping, or being struck by debris. Even tethers can cause strangulation or severe injuries. This practice is illegal in many states without proper restraint.
Don’t Let Pets Hang Out the Window
While many dogs enjoy sticking their heads out of car windows, it's unsafe. Flying debris and bugs can damage eyes and ears. There's also the risk of the animal jumping or being thrown from the vehicle. Protect their eyes with safety goggles if you must travel with open windows.
Training and Comfort
- Acclimate slowly: Let your pet get used to their crate or harness with short trips.
- Exercise beforehand: A tiring walk can help reduce restlessness during the ride.
- Provide familiar items: Blankets and toys can soothe anxiety and create a calming environment.
Preparation Tips
- Don’t feed just before the trip: To avoid motion sickness, feed your pet a few hours in advance.
- Hydration: Bring water for long trips and take breaks to hydrate your pet properly.
- Bathroom breaks: Plan regular stops so pets can relieve themselves comfortably.
Choose Trusted Products
Not all pet safety products are created equal. Look for independently crash-tested gear from reputable sources like the Center for Pet Safety. Recommended items include:
- Sleepypod Clickit Sport harness
- Gunner G1 Kennel
- Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed (for small dogs and cats)
Avoid booster seats or dog car seats that lack safety certification. These may not provide protection in a crash, despite marketing claims.
Legal Considerations
Pet travel laws vary by state. Some explicitly require restraints, while others prohibit actions that endanger your pet or the public. Stay informed about your area's laws—and follow best practices regardless of legal requirements.
Summary of Best Practices
- Use crash-tested harnesses, crates, or carriers.
- Keep pets in the backseat.
- Never allow pets to ride loose or stick their heads out windows.
- Do not transport pets in open truck beds without secure, enclosed options.
- Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle.
- Train pets to adjust to restraint systems.
- Bring food, water, and comfort items.
- Use only safety items tested and certified by independent bodies.
- Know and follow your region’s pet transport laws.
With preparation and proper equipment, pet travel can be safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone involved.
