How to Keep Your Pet Safe and Comfortable in the Car – Especially on Road Trips
For almost all of us, pets are a part of the family – which means they’re coming along for everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways. But while we buckle up ourselves and make sure we have gas before a trip, we often forget about the safety and comfort for our pets. Whether you’re taking a short drive around Calgary or heading out on a long summer road trip, here are some tips to keep your pet safe and happy on the road.
Use a Restraint or Carrier
Just like people, pets need to be properly secured while driving. In the event of a sudden stop or accident, an unrestrained pet can become seriously injured – or injure others in the car.
A few safer alternatives:
Harness with seatbelt clip: Great for dogs who like sitting up to look around
Crate or kennel: ideal for smaller pets or longer trips
Backseat pet barrier: Useful if your dog roams in the back of an SUV Tip: Avoid letting pets ride in the front seat or hang their head out the window when driving at high speeds. It may look cute but abrupt stops can make it dangerous.
2. Never Leave Pets Alone in the Car
Even with the windows cracked, your car can become dangerously hot within minutes. During a 20 degree Celsius day in Calgary, the interior can get up to 40 degrees Celsius in about 10-20 minutes – leading to heatstroke or worse.
Important: If you’re going out and can’t take your pet with you when you get out of the car, leave them at home or have someone stay with them in the car with the windows down.
3. Plan for Regular Breaks
Just like us, our pets need time to stretch, use the bathroom, and hydrate. On road trips, try to take a short break every 2-3 hours.
What to bring:
Leash and waste bags
Water bowl
Dog food and treats
Toys and blankets Most highways have pet friendly green areas where you’re able to walk your dog around for a stretch or bathroom break.
4. Keep the Car Pet-Ready
Travelling with pets means you should be ready for messes. Hair, drool, muddy or snowy paws, and accidents can happen – even with the best-behaved animals.
A simple pet travel kit can include:
Seat cover or blanket
Towels or pet wipes
Paper towels and waste bags
Lint roller
You’ll end up being happy you brought these with you on the trip.
5. Get Your Car Ready, Too
Long road trips put extra stress on your vehicle, especially if you’re carrying extra weight like crates, gear and extra passengers.
Before you leave:
Check your tire pressure
Inspect your tire treads to make sure your tires are safe for highway and long distance driving
Make sure the A/C system works and that the back of the car is getting airflow
Check that oil and other fluids are full
If you need any help just swing by Harper’s Tire, and we’ll make sure everything is good to go, so you, and your pet, can travel worry-free.
Travelling with pets is one of the best parts of summer – but only if everyone is safe and comfortable. Preparing beforehand can go a long way and will help avoid unwanted stress.