4 minute read
Keep your dogs safe in the car
The Highway Code, Rule 57, states:
In the event of a collision, a small dog could be hurled at the head of someone sitting in the front of the car like a canine cannonball, and a large breed, such as a Labrador, would hurtle towards you with the force of a baby elephant. In both cases it is unlikely that the dog, or the human occupants, would survive such a violent impact.
Also, how many times have you seen a news story about a dog who has got lost or injured after a car accident, because they ran from the scene, often right into traffic, and dogs who are free to roam in the car can even be the cause of the crash in the first place, so invest in a pet carrier, dog guard, pet seatbelt or travel crate.
A crate is the safest option, especially for larger dogs, but it does depend on the type and size of your car. Remember a crate should be fixed down, not be left unrestrained on the rear seat.
A dog guard works best in hatchbacks, but must be securely fitted in order to protect your pets and passengers.
Pet seatbelts can be used in any car, but it may take your dog a bit of time to get used to. Make sure to use it in the back seat, as passenger air bags present the same risk to dogs as they do to small children.If your dog hates car journeys, get them used to short trips that concludes with a tasty treat or a fun walk as a reward, then they'll start to associate the car with something good and anxiety levels should recede.
It’s important to do your best to ignore any barking while you’re driving. Shouting at them to "be quiet" or "calm down" may actually be rewarding the behaviour as it tells the dog they've got your attention.
While it may require the patience of a saint to keep the dog in the car do not let them out of the car if they’re barking, wait until the barking has ended, so that you are rewarding silence. This is so important, and absolutely worth the ear-splitting effort on your part. If you are consistent with this rule you will get amazing results.
Finally, I know I just said leave your dog in the car if they are barking, but leaving dogs alone in a car in warm temperatures is a definite no no. Dogs standard body temperature is about 101.5º F, but when exposed to a hot environment, their temperature can quickly rise; even a short period in a hot car can make your dog seriously ill or prove fatal.
Even during winter days any sun on your car can heat up the inside like a greenhouse, so always remember, if you really have to leave your pet in your car for a couple of minutes, make sure to park in the shade and crack open windows.
